This is truly a unique time in our lives. As the Summit Social Media SUV begins the virtual road trip home, we want to take some time to reflect on Summit 2020.
This has been a unique experience for everyone and much can be learned. As I studied and recorded a message for the children in my local church, the key verse is John 3:30, “He must increase, but I must decrease”. While we celebrate the accomplishment of those who studied and prepared for quizzing, the accomplishment of those who earned their Citation, and the talents that God has given many through games, volleyball, and fine arts, the ultimate glory goes to God. Through it all God is glorified as we grow closer to Him. Throughout Summit, we see the fruit of the Spirit growing in one another.
There is disappointment from a human perspective. God gave us emotions and those emotions evoke sadness. We miss seeing one another, for some, the only time we can fellowship with people we see once a year at Summit. That time together cannot be recovered, but what we will realize is that fellowship is important. We see that from the beginning of creation when God noticed that it was not good for man to be alone (Genesis 2:18). He knew that we needed fellowship with other people. Yet even in this time of social distancing, Journey groups found a way to be together to watch the Summit Live event (which did not broadcast live) and be together for that celebration. We gained a new appreciation for being with people with the same desire to grow in the Lord.
We found that even in times of difficulty, that we can be resilient. Though there was disappointment, there were also great efforts made to minimize the total loss of that fellowship and recognition of the growth in the Lord that has been evidenced in you, the students and the leaders. Through all of this, God was glorified… He increased, and we decreased.
As we reflect on Summit 2020, may we not reflect on what we had not, but may we reflect on what we had and how God was glorified. How we individually grew in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and man (like Jesus in Luke 2:52). How we were resilient, trusting God, in difficult times and overcoming obstacles.
There is much to be thankful for during this time. We encourage you to share with one another how you saw, and experienced, God over the last few months of preparation for Summit, and this past week of Summit. As Paul writes in Romans 10:14, “How, then, can they call on Him they have not believed in? And how can they believe without hearing about Him?…”, people will not know how God works in lives today if we do not share it with others.
As you reflect upon Summit 2020, look for how you saw God move in your life, and the lives of others, and share it with others.
Looking forward to hearing how God has worked in your life this past year, and eager to see how He moves as we prepare for Summit 2021.
It is now time for the Summit Social Media SUV to “hit the road” and begin its journey home, reflect on how God moved during Summit 2020, and begin to plan for the Summit 2021 road trip.
Keep growing in Him and Lord willing we will see you in Washington, D.C. in 2021.
