Long-Expected
As we enter into this Christmas season, it seems as though it always takes a long time to come. The first few months of the year come and go, then spring comes and we celebrate Christ’s resurrection. Next, we’re greeted with hot summer days which feel never-ending. Then come the first glimpses of fall, which end up just being a tease here in Texas when another wave of summer appears. Finally, Thanksgiving comes and the holiday season is upon us. Christmas is long-awaited and long-expected.
Similar was the birth of our Savior. Mary’s first trimester is probably filled with unknowns and sickness as she and Joseph discover the plan that the Lord has brought into their lives. She’s low on energy, but somehow, expectant. Then comes the second trimester and she notices changes to her body, especially the discomfort that comes with stretching and growing a tiny human. This is all so new. Time goes so fast — the second trimester already? But still, she has weeks to go before meeting her promised baby boy. Then the last trimester hits. Her hips hurt and she is unable to hide the truth any longer. She is expecting. One long, bumpy donkey ride later, and it’s time. The long-expected Savior makes his debut into the world. The fulfillment of promises of hope and joy. All creation and all the heavens release a sigh of relief. The Messiah has come.
As we enter into the Christmas season here at SUMMIT, we look back over all the year has brought us — both the growing pains and the overwhelming joys. The year has been full of both and we wait with long expectations for where the Lord will guide us in the years to come. If you have in any way been a part of this ministry and the work that the Lord has done at SUMMIT, will you accept a huge thank you from us? We are so so grateful for your support, love, and prayers!
If you have yet to be involved this year, there is still time. Here are three ways you can still be involved with our SUMMIT family both before the year’s end and even into the new year:
1. PRAY - we pray regularly at 4:11 pm each day and invite you to join us. Text us when you're praying if you'd like specific things to pray for! Otherwise, you can always pray for team unity & endurance, direction & wisdom from the Lord, and provision for our families who are trying to transition into full-time ministry with SUMMIT.
Join us >
2. PROVIDE - God asks us to be good stewards of our time, talents, and treasures. If you can support us on a monthly basis, we gladly welcome it! Whether you can give $5 or $500 a month, we want to partner with you. And if you can’t support us financially, is there another way you can contribute to what we’re doing? If you have camping gear that’s never been used that you’d like to donate, or if you have a few hours a month to donate your time to assist us with a variety of needs, we want you!
Donate >
3. PARTICIPATE - come to one of our programs and see what we’re all about! We offer everything from single-day professional development courses to week-long expeditions and everything in between. Let us know what kind of program piques your interest the most and we will let you know what we can offer.
Upcoming Programs >
Another way to participate is through promotion. Even if our programs aren’t your cup of tea, chances are you know someone who would love them. Commit to follow us on social media (Insta: @summit.lead // Facebook: @summitoutdoorleader)
Then share, comment, like, and invite others. Then be sure to personally invite individuals who would enjoy attending a program of ours!
All in all, it has been an incredible year at SUMMIT and we wanted to share in those joys with you. As the Christmas season comes, may your heart be reminded of the birth and ultimately the long-expected return of our Savior.
God Bless & Merry Christmas,
-Leslie Johnson, Curriculum Specialist