The tension in the room was palpable, filled with the sound of erratic tapping as fingers hammered furiously across the keyboards. Some were thoughtfully perusing their Bibles. Some were intently gazing at their screen. A few were lost deep in thought. Others were…well, just lost. This was the one of the scenes of BTT – Bible Teacher Training, an opportunity for the staff and staff interns at Gracepoint to get trained up in teaching the Bible, as well as to enjoy some down time with Pastor Ed, Kelly and their family. I was a part of BTT 3 – 27 staff interns gathered together in our very own Sierra Lodge. Our 2-day stay was marked by periods of intense, often nerve-racking moments as we prepared and gave messages based on passages in the Bible; by Pastor Ed's invaluable lessons and tips on message-giving strategy; by good hard work as we helped put in the finishing touches on the house (like the lovely spiral staircase leading up to the loft); hearty meals and late-night snacks; a refreshing time of DT sharing; vigorous kayaking/boating on a glassy lake; and finally, we ended with an all-out raucous game of sisters-versus-brothers King Kong Shower (the sisters won by the way).
BTT was a memorable getaway full of good food, outdoor fun, and views of the breathtaking beauty of the Sierra, and through it I was able to glimpse Pastor Ed and Kelly's heart for us, and how seriously the leaders at our church take our spiritual training and growth. During our time there, I kept thinking, "They don't have to spend their summers like this; they could just get away by themselves and take a nice family vacation." Yet they opened up their lives to welcome us, spent their energy listening to so-so Bible studies (ahem, I mean so they could train us up in Bible teaching), and spent time with us. Even as we were leaving, they were preparing for yet another BTT group, and the sophomore discipleship retreat—it just seemed non-stop! (and I still haven't mentioned BTT 5 and 6, as well as the junior and senior discipleship retreats yet to come). I'm just really thankful to have leaders who truly give it their all, who are zealous to see us stretched and trained up so that we can make greater impact in doing God's work.