What does it mean to abide?
This was a reoccurring question at project, as a result of our summer theme, Abide. Throughout the past eight weeks, we have gained a deeper understanding of this word and why it’s an important part of our faith. Remaining, dwelling, continuing, obeying, and treasuring are all words that reflect what it means to abide in the Lord. To remain in Christ, we must be present and rest in him, making his word our home. When we treasure Jesus and are truly satisfied in him, God is most glorified. This satisfaction isn’t based on our feelings alone but on knowing and believing in God’s love. “God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.” 1 John 4:16. This is an intertwined relationship that follows through in itself. Abiding in the Lord is key to developing a strong relationship with God.
This week was full of fun, excitement, and reflection as staff came back. The buzz of it being our last week filled the grounds of project. The excitement kept us energized to appreciate every minute we had together. We had plenty of time with our campus groups as we talked about how we grew during project, ways we want to continue to grow, and how we are going to keep this momentum going back on campus.
This week was focused a lot on return training. During this time students have a unique opportunity to invite friends who are thinking about going to project next summer, to get a taste of what everyday life is like in SC. My best friend Abbey, from back at school came to visit. It was such a blessing to be able to show her around Garden City and introduce her to people I have grown so close to as she decides if project is the right thing for her next summer.
Our final social of the summer was very timely as it was the Olympics. We split up into our Peg Leg and Sea Dawg teams one last time for a bunch of fun events! The Sea dawgs took home the win, and we all finished the night with a pool party.
Reflections from Ethnee and Sabrina
My decision to attend STP will continue to be one of the most monumental I’ve ever made. While at project, I experienced God’s transformative power in many ways, including in my own heart. I have many takeaways from this summer, but one that stands out is how the Lord taught me the true essence of fellowship and why it is a vital part of our lives as Christians. Before STP, I kept the more vulnerable parts of my faith private, not fully appreciating how essential it is to be in fellowship with other believers and not fully grasping the importance of it. My time at project has been the most precious gift, showing me how to openly share all aspects of my faith. The friendships I formed and the spiritual growth I experienced have reshaped my understanding of the Christian community. I am so grateful to have spent two months connecting and growing with fellow believers who not only fill my cup but also challenge me.
Throughout the summer, a key thought has remained with me: I’ve been blessed so I may be a blessing to others. This perspective gives me a deeper commitment to live out my faith actively. As the school year approaches, I look forward to sharing what I’ve learned through discipleship and intentional time spent with others. Pouring into them as I have been poured into, loving them as Christ has loved me. -E
As I reflect on my time as a whole at STP, I can’t help but praise God for how He has prepared a way for each one of us to be here. Knowing how He had a different path for each one of the fifty some students that attended, some who did not plan on it and others who had wanted to attend for years, is beautiful to see how He intertwined our stories together. I was told about STP in March, and then went to Project for spring break with our campus. My first thought while I was down there was that there was simply no way I would spend my whole summer down here. I had so many “bigger and better” things to do; get an internship, work a lot, have fun with my friends, go to the cabin etc. But by the end of my spring break, I knew that I would be down here again for the summer. Seeing and feeling God change and prepare my heart and mind for this summer is a beautiful experience that has grown me so much. The change in where I had placed my time and value from grades, status and money to only wanting to know our God more and share His never-ending love with others has been the most freeing feeling.
This whole summer one big thing that has been on my mind is how great and perfect God’s timing is. We often think that we have so much control over how things happen, but when you take a step back and see how everything has all worked out, it is so clear how God has had a hand in everything. He is such a great father who is for us and cares so much about our wellbeing. He shows his Agape, never-ending love for us through so many things, and it leaves me in awe of Him constantly. -S
This past summer in South Carolina brought about growth, challenges, and most importantly a deeper closeness to the Lord. It was a blessing to fully immerse ourselves in this enriching and transformative experience. Committing two months to learn more about our savior, without distraction, is a gift I encourage all students to take advantage of.
We want to express our deepest gratitude for your prayers and support throughout the summer. Thank you for following along and staying tuned!
- Ethnee and Sabrina
