In the Mountains

We are having a wonderful time of spiritual refreshing and also physical relaxation in the San Jacinta mountains. Tahquitz Pines conference center is a beautiful site for a week in the Word! It is quiet--and really dark at night! Stars shine brightly through the soring pine trees at 6K+ feet.

Dan Cobb has the session on PalTalk and there is a good group of P-Ters here. Some are meeting for the first time, putting faces to "names."

John Verstegen indicates he is feeling a bit better but still doesn't know exactly what his problem is. He still suffers the ongoing symptoms but is a testimony that II Cor. 4:7-18 is real in life. His preaching hasn't been adversely affected!

One interesting addition to camp this year is that we are sharing the facilities with a high school football camp from East L.A. Most of these young men have never been outside of the city environment and are having an exciting time. They are part of a ministry that works with teens and have a Christ-focused program. We interact with them mostly during meal times. They are noticeable by their politeness and orderliness. I've talked with their coach and the ministry leader several times and am impressed by what they are doing with these young men. Many of them have trusted Christ, several have shared clear testimonies with me, and have an interest in studying God's Word. We will share a camp-fire with them tonight (if the Forest Service allows the fire) and look forward to pointing them more fully toward grace. It is touching to see that God has His people even in a hot bed environment of inner city turmoil.

I'm only preaching once a day, which is like a vacation for me! Rick and John are doing some really good ministry. It is a wonderful expereince to be taking notes while my own son--and also my "beloved son in the faith"--are teaching! Good to know I'm not too far along to still learn somethings.

Maranatha!