The week of July 9–13 found the outdoor VBS program at Moses Lake (Wash.) Church colliding with an unexpected heat wave, with temperatures soaring above 100 degrees. Prayers for clouds or breeze were answered on several nights, and that, coupled with extra shade canopies, water misters and drinking water, enabled the children and staff to enjoy Daniel's Courage in Captivity program.
"Using the story of Daniel was really great," says Bonnie Trammel, one of the group leaders. "There are many parts of the story that kids can identify with, and I had a lot of very personal prayer requests." Throughout the week children learned that when they are afraid, need help, or are lonely or thankful, God is with them.
Favorite crafts included making fresh barley loaves with dried cranberries, glow globes from papier-mâché, and Babylonian hanging gardens with real, sprouting grass seed. In the Palace Playground kids enjoyed making catapults and ox cart tags.
During daily skits, the character of Ashpenaz (played by Matt Roberts) spent the week watching Daniel and learning about his faith. During the Sabbath morning closing program, Roberts gave a sermonette encouraging people to live so that others see God in their lives.
The Moses Lake Church VBS leaders hope that people remember when things change God is with them, so they can pull together and continue in faith.
The outdoor VBS is enjoyed despite the heat.
Moses Lake Church outdoor VBS was a true success in spite of a heat wave that sent temperatures soaring into triple digits.
