ADVANCE | Page 10

BLC Youth Outreach

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The next day, the boy came outside in a colored t-shirt and a smile. The unhappy boy in black got to be a happy, carefree kid again. He left his troubles behind him as the glory of God shone around him that weekend.

This is Berry Lake Camps, INC. and for 22 years they've been Believing in Eternal Radical Redemption for Youth. Kids camp, swim, fish, water-ski, tube, hike, play horse shoes & volleyball, and roast s’mores over a campfire. They see stars in the sky that they’ve never seen in the city. The spend quality time with Godly men and women. They learn responsibility as they help set and clean up each activity. They get to exchange the stress of urban life for the peace and tranquility of the country. Life slows down, allowing time for youth and adults to slow down and reflect on the majesty and wonder of God our creator. by Sandra Yarbrough

Berry and Sandra Yarbrough started BLC Youth Outreach to give inner city children a rural experience through camping, hiking, boating and skiing. When asked to share a story of God reaching the heart of a youth, through their ministry, they have hundreds of stories to choose from. This is one they shared with me.

A group arrived and with excitement the kids got out of the church van and headed in to the cabin for orientation. One boy lagged behind the rest. He was dressed in black, his hair was dyed jet black, his fingernails were painted black, he wore black bracelets up both arms, and a black frown on his unhappy face. He looked lonely and lost.

The following morning we were getting ready to go swimming and waterskiing. The boy had changed his black pants for a black swimsuit, but still wore a black T-shirt, black bracelets, and a black frown. To keep with the trend, we gave him a black ski-vest as we headed out onto the water. They got out the tube and everyone was eager to take a turn; everyone except the boy in black. After all the other kids had taken a turn, they convinced him to take a ride. With his frown firmly in place, he reluctantly climbed on the tube. We took off and gave the boy the frowning boy in black our signature “wild” ride. When the boat stopped, the boy rose to his knees on that tube and threw his hands in the air. And his frown disappeared behind a smile that lit up his whole face.

Learn more about BLC Youth Outreach here!