Coordinators of Vacation Bible School programs hold a special place in my heart. Having coordinated a Fine Arts Camp with a similar feel to a VBS, I understand the investment of energy and time poured into making the week special for the attendees.

Receiving Gratitude in Action

Being a previous coordinator, I remember the early mornings and late nights prior to and during the week of camp. The highlight of my week was when a lady in our church showed up on Thursday with a meal for my family. She simply said, “I could not help with the week, so I decided to do what I could for you.”

I cannot begin to tell you what her gift meant to me. At the time of camp, I was 8 months pregnant with my second child, my feet were swollen, my son sought constant attention when I arrived home, and dinner was the last thing on my mind. Seeing this lady’s gratitude in action for my investment of time, met my family’s physical need and gave me a time of rest with my feet up.

Knowing the huge blessing of receiving a meal during a week of service, I enjoy sharing that same gratitude with others. The Lord gave me this blessing years ago to teach me how to better serve others, who are actively giving of themselves.

Planning Gratitude in Action

As my children attended a wonderful VBS last week, I was honored to put my gratitude in action by bringing a meal to the coordinator. Now, I had planned to do this, so we entertained on Tuesday evening.

I made a large pan of lasagna to serve that evening. Then I packaged up the leftovers for the coordinator’s family, made a loaf of bread, added a side, and included the remaining 6 brownies from our dessert.

With a little advanced planning, our meal blessed our family, our guests on Tuesday evening, and a VBS coordinator and her husband. Having been the recipient of a blessing, I was honored to pass along my gratitude in action.

If you have a child attending a VBS and/or camp or if your church is hosting a VBS, consider putting your gratitude in action by making a meal for a coordinator who is investing time and energy for others. If you choose to do so, plan a double batch of a weeknight meal or make a large meal to entertain guests with enough to share.

In using time wisely, you must make the best choices that fit with your schedule. I’m only sharing this option as it was such a blessing to me, and I know it is a blessing to those who serve.  Happy meting out gratitude in action!

Question: What acts of gratitude have you received or granted to others?