CCY Connect july edition 2025

The following is an excerpt from a paper I wrote on biblical leadership themes in the New Testament. As we work through our Wednesday night study on “Lead Like Jesus,” this seems like an applicable discussion to share. If you haven’t joined us for the class, I encourage you to give it a try. We are focusing on developing a leadership pipeline that can impact the church now and in the future. Biblical leadership is essential, yet it is often misunderstood. I hope this sheds some light on the difference between cultural and biblical leadership.

Servant Leadership

Jesus made it clear to the disciples throughout their time together that leadership in the worldly sense was insufficient for kingdom work, and he often demonstrated and discussed the importance of servant leadership. Being a servant in ancient Rome, as in current times, was usually viewed as demeaning or having a lower social or power status. Those leaders who would serve would do so in a false humility to create a perception of themselves. Jesus, on the other hand, said at the last supper, “I am among you as one who serves” (Luke 22:27), and Robert Stacy suggests he demonstrated that “in the kingdom of God leaders are servants who also happen to lead." (See note 1). It was their service to others that brought people to God through their evangelism, discipleship, and acceptance.

Another example of this aspect of Christ’s leadership is found in the story of Jesus washing the disciples' feet in the Gospel of John. Jesus tells them after the washing, “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you” (John 13:15). The act of washing feet was culturally humiliating and reserved for the lowest of servants. Still, Jesus challenged the disciples, and those who would become leaders in the church, that humility through service was valued more in the kingdom than exaltation. For, in his mentoring, how could Jesus perform the greatest act of service on the cross if he was not willing to serve in the minor things? W. Hall Harris suggests, “The example Jesus has given is not just an example of humble service, but of humble service to the point of death.” (See note 2) Servant leadership is crucial in the kingdom of God because it is through this service that relationships are formed, and people are welcomed into the family of God.

This theme of servant leadership is just as valuable for today's leaders. As Christ’s service pointed others toward the kingdom, service by leaders today will point others toward Christ. If Jesus is the ultimate example of leadership rooted in service to others, then leaders today must also embody these same characteristics by demonstrating his love. The early Christian leaders understood this, and Peter Davids states that they “Lived The Way as well as described The Way.” (See Note 3) Leaders today must understand and reflect this; otherwise, self-centered ministry will surface, replacing relational ministry.

Sources:

1. Robert Wayne Stacy, “Following Jesus in the Kingdom of God: Leadership in the Synoptic Gospels,” in Biblical Leadership: Theology for the Everyday Leader, ed. Benjamin K. Forrest and Chet Roden (Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Academic, 2017), pp. 316-33, 329.
2. W. Hall Harris III, “Leading Through Weakness, Vulnerability, and Self-Sacrifice: Leadership in the Gospel of John,” in Biblical Leadership: Theology for the Everyday Leader, ed. Benjamin K. Forrest and Chet Roden (Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Academic, 2017), pp. 349-62, 357.
3. Peter H. Davids, “The Christo-Centric Ideal: Leadership in the Petrine Epistles,” in Biblical Leadership: Theology for the Everyday Leader, ed. Benjamin K. Forrest and Chet Roden (Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Academic, 2017), pp. 452-66, 457.

Bibliography

Davids, Peter H. “The Christo-Centric Ideal: Leadership in the Petrine Epistles.” In Biblical Leadership: Theology for the Everyday Leader, ed. Benjamin K. Forrest and Chet Roden, 452-66. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Academic, 2017.

Harris, W. Hall, III. “Leading Through Weakness, Vulnerability, and Self-Sacrifice: Leadership in the Gospel of John.” In Biblical Leadership: Theology for the Everyday Leader, ed. Benjamin K. Forrest and Chet Roden, 349-62. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Academic, 2017.

Stacy, Robert Wayne. “Following Jesus in the Kingdom of God: Leadership in the Synoptic Gospels.” In Biblical Leadership: Theology for the Everyday Leader, ed. Benjamin K. Forrest and Chet Roden, 316-33. Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Academic, 2017.

Each summer, kids from all over Oklahoma get the opportunity to take a break, unplug, and get close to God at Camp Sooner.

What is Camp Sooner?

Established in 1981 and owned by Oklahoma Independent Christian Churches, Camp Sooner is more than just a summer getaway. It’s a place where kids can unplug from the distractions of daily life and plug into meaningful friendships, high-energy fun, and spiritual growth. The moment I stepped foot onto the campgrounds I felt like I was back at the camp I grew up going to (except here there is air conditioning haha). It is quiet and relaxing.

Where is it?

Camp Sooner is located in Pink, Oklahoma, just about an hour’s drive from Yukon. Surrounded by trees, it offers a peaceful setting for kids to hear God’s voice and experience His presence in a unique and powerful way.

A Day in the Life at Camp Sooner

A typical day starts with breakfast and quiet time with God—either on a peaceful prayer walk led by Children’s Pastors or through guided personal devotions. From there, it’s time for fun! Campers take part in recreation activities like climbing the rock wall, playing outdoor games, doing crafts, or participating in Bible-based challenges.

Morning and evening sessions are led by pastors from partner churches. These times include worship, Bible teaching, and prayer, followed by small group discussions with kids from their home church to dive deeper into the message.

Afternoons bring even more recreation—including swimming (with certified lifeguards always on duty!). The day wraps up with dinner, another worship session, small groups, and a camp-wide evening activity like a campfire or game night.

I asked each of the kids to tell me something they learned while they were at camp. Mason told me that he learned that sinning is way worse than he thought it was, and Carina told me she enjoyed learning new Bible verses during our Bible memory time.

One of the most powerful moments of the week for me, and I think several other adults as well was watching the children worship. If you ask Bella this was her favorite part of camp. I will never forget the last day of camp, we were doing our final session and during praise and worship the energy in the room was so powerful. To witness 60 plus kids all lifting their voices and their hands to praise God was so incredible.

Home Away From Home

Camp Sooner has 15 cabins, each sleeping between 12 and 16 campers. While cabins 1–6 are for boys and 7–14 for girls, the Nurse’s Cabin offers extra comfort for kiddos with a tummy ache, coming with its own bathroom. Two bathhouses provide showers and restrooms, and all cabins are equipped with window A/C units to keep everyone cool.

All of our kids really enjoyed growing closer to one another and making new friends. Carina even told me that one day she hopes to be a CIT (counselor in training), at Camp Sooner. It is a place where everyone treats you like they have known you forever and the moment you step off the church van you are part of their family. We laugh, cry, pray, and play together all week long.

Why It Matters

Camp Sooner isn’t just about fun—it’s about faith. It’s a safe, Christ-centered environment where kids can grow spiritually, build lasting friendships, and develop a deeper relationship with Jesus. Ethan Meeks told me that Camp Sooner was better than Disney World. I of course needed to know why, and he said because you get to have fun AND grow closer to God.

I am so grateful for this incredible place and all the adults who pour into our kids’ lives each summer. I want to give a special thank you to Kyle & Amanda Meeks and Matt Smith. I would not have been able to do camp without them this year. And the moments of watching them help their own children in their walk with Christ were so very special.

If you’ve never experienced Camp Sooner, we invite you to pray for our campers and leaders—and maybe even consider joining the adventure next year!

“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16

CCY family, our community needs us more than ever. With Good Fight Church’s giveaway canceled, hundreds of Yukon students risk starting school without the basic, unless we step in. This is our moment to Be the Church and let God’s love be unmistakable.

Saturday, August 2 - Christ's Closet

• 11 AM–2 PM – Christ’s Closet open for free clothing (no backpacks yet). Please consider volunteering.
• 1:30 PM – Volunteer Training for Sunday's event, meet in the Warehouse area. We’ll walk the spaces, learn the flow, and pray together.

Sunday, August 3 – Back to School Bash

• 8:30 AM – Volunteer Debrief with donuts and coffee. Get last-minute instructions, pray, and fuel up!
• 9 AM – Outdoor Worship and Communion in the new Gathering Area.
• 10 AM–2 PM – Back to School Bash featuring backpack pick-up, undies, school supplies, free haircuts, prayer stations, games, and lunch.

Backpack registration opens Saturday, July 5, at 11 AM at www.ccyok.com/backpacks. Every child who needs supplies - including CCY kids - must register. No internet? Call the church office and we’ll sign you up. A confirmation email will arrive, show it at check-in for quick pickup.

What We Still Need

• Undies for every child – all sizes and genders, new in package.
• $2,900 more to reach our $3,500 goal. One $10 gift fills one backpack.
• Professional hairdressers – CCY supplies chairs; stylists bring capes, clippers, and talent. Know someone who cuts hair? Invite them!
• 75 volunteers – greeters, runners, food servers, prayer partners, activity leaders, and cleanup crew. Shifts available if you can’t serve the whole day (sign-up link coming soon).

How You Can Shine

• Donate – Give online at ccyok.com/donate (choose “Backpacks”) or note it on your check.
• Collect – Drop undies in the collection bins in the Gathering Area each Sunday.
• Volunteer – Watch your email for the sign-up link or visit the lobby area at church..
• Recruit a Stylist – Personally invite any professional hairdresser you know, then email kathy@ccyok.com to connect them.
• Pray – Ask God to prepare hearts, provide resources, and draw families to Him.
• Invite – Tell every family you know. Need qualifies, no church ties required.

Flow on Sunday

• Warehouse – Backpack and school-supply pick-up.
• Middle Room – Haircut stations.
• Gym – Games, lunch, and fellowship.
• Outdoor Gathering Area – Morning worship.

Bilingual (English / Spanish) signage and volunteers will be on hand to welcome every guest.

Why It Matters

A backpack, fresh supplies, and a haircut do more than tick a list; they tell a child, “You matter, and God loves you.” Let’s meet this need with such generosity and joy that Yukon sees Christ shining through us and glorifies our Father in heaven.

Be the Church. Be the Light. Be There.

Imagine yourself in the heat of July, barely getting by, when your air conditioner breaks. With high temperatures of one hundred and one degrees, you have no choice but to spend money you don’t have to get it fixed. Because of this, you fall behind on your car payments, and before you know it, your car gets repossessed. With no car, you have no way to get to work, you lose your job. Quickly, everything spirals out of control - you lose your phone line, your house, and your possessions. To make matters worse, you have no family willing to help you out of this hole.

Eventually, you're at your lowest. It’s winter now, and temperatures are well below freezing. Before, your biggest worry was where to park your car. Now, you worry about where you'll sleep and what you’ll eat. In Canadian County alone, it is estimated that 19,152 people are homeless or experiencing an extreme housing crisis.

While there are many reasons people end up in these situations, our knee-jerk reaction is usually to blame them for their position in life. But God does not ask how they got there. His love provides a way out. God gives indiscriminately and generously, just as we have been called to do.

Proverbs 11:24 (NLT) says: “Give freely and become more wealthy; be stingy and lose everything.”

Of course, we are not God; our resources have limitations. We have to care for ourselves and our families, and that is Godly work. But how often are we making excuses not to give financially? I don’t mean giving more than you can afford. I mean, how often do you say you have no money to spare, then turn around and buy a new shirt for your full closet, smart light bulbs you can control from your phone, coffee from your favorite shop, or that cute home décor item you passed in the value section?

I know I do it. I make every excuse to justify it: “I need it,” or “I shouldn’t feel bad about treating myself.” Five dollars here, ten there - one would think it’s not enough to make a difference, not in this economy.

However, to put it into perspective: twenty dollars can buy a homeless person one reusable water bottle, a three-pack of instant noodles, a protein-filled snack, a sweet snack, a drink, body lotion, soap, toothpaste and toothbrush, and wet wipes. This is enough to be life-changing. It’s a day’s worth of food, weeks of hygiene, and a consistent source of water.

With over half a million Americans suffering from homelessness, even when we do spare some money to give, it can feel like a momentous task to decide how to use it best. To start, giving something is better than nothing.

I spoke with a representative from the Canadian County branch of The Salvation Army. When asked what resources they lack most, she said, “Shelter. Most people need a dry place to stay.”

That answer devastated me because that isn’t something our church can currently provide. However, as I spoke with her more, she shared a few top-priority items that are always needed:

• Feminine hygiene products
• Baby wipes (often called “the homeless man’s bath” for their many hygiene uses)
• Food – unsurprisingly. Even with pantries and government aid, food goes quickly.

These were just the top three, the list goes on. We, as individuals or as a church, cannot solve the housing crisis, but we can bridge the gap between hunger and hope, and it starts here, in our church.

My hope is to see our Blessing Box Ministry given new life through the generosity of people like us. If you’re unaware, the Blessing Box is the metal box attached to the outside wall next to the church office doors. (New and improved box is coming soon!) The first official collection for donations will begin shortly in July, with more information to come about specific items needed and drop-off instructions.

Consider, for a moment, skipping your next unnecessary purchase if it leaves you stuck between giving freely or not giving at all. Giving a little could mean a lot to someone who has nothing.

Join me this July in giving abundantly and growing our Blessing Box Ministry.