“Together”

Philippians 2:4, “Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.” (NKJV)

The tribes lined up for Tribal Relays this morning, and it was chaos in the best way. Four teams, a string of challenges, and a whole lot of yelling.

But the thing that stuck had nothing to do with who crossed the line first. It was watching the tribes rally around each other. Every kid brought a different strength to the relays, and when someone struggled through their part, their team cheered them on anyway. Louder, if anything. No frustration, no eye-rolling. Just kids lifting up whoever was in front of them.

That turned out to be the whole point of the day. The teaching moved through Philippians in three steps, and they all landed on the same idea.

First, Paul’s call to “stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together,” and to “esteem others better than himself” (Philippians 1:27 and 2:3-4). In the afternoon, a session on missions and partnership in the gospel, the reminder that every one of us is in this together, not watching from the stands. And in the evening, the heart of it all: “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus” (2:5-11). Jesus did not cling to His status. He emptied Himself, took the humble road, and served all the way to the cross.

Real unity, Paul says, is not built on being the most impressive person in the room. It is built on humility, on looking out for each other. Which is exactly what the relays looked like.

The night wrapped with the “Answers for Christian Teens” panel, where the campers brought their honest questions straight to the pastors.

Standings after Tuesday

1. Humblebees (557)
2. United Stakes of Areté (540)
3. Joy Story (536)
4. Fellowship of the Phillies (508)

Just 49 points separate first place from last, and the Fellowship of the Phillies have stormed back into the hunt after a strong day. This race is wide open, with the biggest games still ahead.

Praises

• A servant spirit on full display, with kids cheering hardest for the teammates who were struggling.
• A full, active day of relays with everyone safe.

Petitions

• That the “mind of Christ” would take root, not just as a lesson but as a habit.
• Fresh energy and health for campers and staff as the week hits its midpoint.