Camp David and Family Camp

(an in-house communiqué to the Life Action Staff)

Dear Staff,

Last week I had the privilege of hearing former President George W. Bush give his first major domestic speech since he left office. I have heard him speak on previous occasions, but for some reason his comments Thursday evening impacted me deeply.

During Q & A, someone asked, "What did you enjoy most about being president?" He jokingly quipped, "Eight years of never having to stop at a traffic light!"

On the more serious side, he mentioned Air Force One and Marine One, but then also added Camp David. I can only imagine how refreshing and strategic it must be, in facing the unique pressures associated with that office, to take time to retreat and refocus. He made 149 trips to Camp David and spent all or part of 487 days at the property. What was so special about going to Camp David?

Don't Miss the Connection

The answer may lie in his answer to another question, from a ten-year-old boy in the audience. "When did you decide you wanted to become president?" he asked. His reply has major ramifications for you and for me. "I love my dad, and I watched my dad go into politics and never lose the priority of his family."

We can safely assume that had former President Bush Sr. decided to put being leader of the most powerful nation on earth ahead of his family, his son would have had little interest to follow in his footsteps.

An appropriate name for Camp David might be Family Camp David, because President Bush valued this place of retreat for his family. (Interestingly, it was named "David" by President Eisenhower, not after some great political leader but after his grandson David.)

I really wonder how many kids don't want to go into their father's vocation because they watch their dad place his career ahead of family.

Think about it. Why relive the hurt? Why engender more hurt?

(By the way, I was impressed that President Obama spent time and money to take his wife out for a date night, which he does not want to eliminate just because he now has more responsibility. I don't mind him spending my taxpayer money to model the family as a priority. The picture of their two daughters on the White House balcony waving goodbye on date night is a picture, to me, of what it takes to be a successful parent.)

Family Camp Begins!

This week begins our family camp season. For the next eight weeks, over 1,200 individuals will be exposed to truths that can transform the most influential institution in our culture, the home. I am convinced that this is a powerful time for these families.

As I stood on our camp property yesterday, I imagined hearing voices of campers in my mind, and I began to pray for the Lord to move powerfully in the hearts of each one who steps foot onto the property this summer. Please join me in praying for:

1.  Our speaker team, for children, youth, and adult sessions.

2.  Our staff, that prayer and intercession will be their high priority.

3.  The families, to come prepared to obey the truth of God's Word.

The inquiry concerning what our former president enjoyed most didn't stop with the privileges of motorcades, elaborate travel, or even Camp David, but also serving as the Commander-in-Chief. "That is what I will miss the most, because I was inspired the most by the courage, sacrifice, and nobility of those who wear the uniform," he declared.

I realize that the price our soldiers pay is tangibly greater than what most of us will pay by serving in the various ministries of Life Action. But in my role as a leader in Life Action, I can honestly say that what I enjoy most is the courage, sacrifice, and nobility of our staff.

We are in a heavenly battle. The attacks of Satan are strong. The forces of the world, flesh, and devil are becoming deadlier. Yet you as a staff member are standing courageously in the battle. You are sacrificing time and resources to be in the army of God. You are seeking to be noble in your walk with God through the power of Christ and His gospel.

And I am inspired by you. Thank you.

Byron Paulus

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