This Thanksgiving, our hearts are overflowing with gratitude for the many ways God has worked through our ministry this year. One story, in particular, reminds us that even in unexpected moments, God is faithful to redeem, restore, and bring about His goodness.
Gwen’s Story of Redemption
Gwen, a 13-year-old camper, came to camp this past summer not knowing how transformative the week would be. As the camp speaker unpacked Philippians 4:4-9 throughout the week, Gwen couldn’t have imagined how these words would become real in her life.
On Thursday, while brainstorming ideas for her team’s ultimate cheer, Gwen found herself in an accident. “I just so happened to be running alongside the person holding up the team banner, and the wind caused it to slip from her hand and hit me in the head,” Gwen shared. “I was so scared and a little bit confused when it happened. I got even more scared when I looked down to see blood flowing out of my head.”
As panic set in, Gwen found herself in the camp infirmary. Her youth leader prayed with her, bringing a moment of calm in the chaos. But it was in the ambulance, as she reflected on the key passage from the week, that the power of God’s peace washed over her.
“‘Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.’ (Philippians 4:6 ESV),” Gwen recited. “So I prayed to God that He’d take away the feelings I was having, and almost instantly, I was so at peace, and the war that was raging in my mind stopped.”
That moment was life-changing for Gwen. “If God hadn’t put me in that situation, I would’ve never learned that valuable lesson,” she reflected. “An accident at camp turned my life back in the right direction. JESUS. Thank God for Pondo.”
This Thanksgiving, we’re thankful for stories like Gwen’s that remind us of God’s unshakable goodness. Through her experience, Gwen not only discovered the peace of Christ but also learned to rely on Him in all circumstances. Her testimony is a powerful reminder that God can use even life’s unexpected challenges to reveal His presence and transform hearts.
As we gather with loved ones this season, let’s give thanks for the redemption God offers in every season. Let’s also pray for more opportunities to see lives like Gwen’s impacted by the gospel.
Do you have a story about how God moved during your time at Pondo?! If so we’d love to hear it! Please share it with us by clicking HERE!
P.S. As we approach Giving Tuesday and year-end giving, would you consider partnering with us to make stories like Gwen’s possible? Your support helps ensure that more young lives encounter the redemptive love of Jesus at camp. Donate Now!