Order of the Rising Sun
Justus attended Camp Peniel a couple of weeks ago near Marble Falls, Texas. This was his fourth summer to attend the Christian camp. The name “Peniel” means “face of God” and comes from a curious passage in Genesis 32. It is the same name given by Jacob for the place he wrestled with God.
So Jacob called the place Peniel, saying, “It is because I saw God face to face, and yet my life was spared.”
— Genesis 32:30 (NIV)
This place certainly challenges and recharges our kids. Justus was busy from sun-up to sundown with swimming, games, fishing, photography and Tehas. Tehas is a young men’s development program, similar to Boy Scouts, except with emphasis on Colossians 3:12-14 and Ephesians 5:1, teaching young men to grow in Christ-likeness: faithful, humble, honest, selfless, caring, having integrity, inward strength and sacrificial. The Tehas program includes four progressive ranks: Pathfinder, Brave, Warrior and Chief. Each rank is based on the completion of quests in Bible memory, reading and study, outdoor skills, service, nature study, sports, crafts and leadership.
Each year Justus has received several Coup (pronounced “coo”) which are awards for accomplishing quests (similar to patches in Boy Scouts). One type of Coup that can only be granted by the collective agreement of all the Chiefs is a recommendation to the Order of the Rising Sun. According to the Tehas handbook, a camper is granted this recommendation by demonstrating “exceptional teachability, leadership, a servant attitude and a heart for God.” Upon receiving the third recommendation, the camper receives a Tehas (indian) name and is granted acceptance in the Order of the Rising Sun through a special ceremony at dawn.
Well, I’m proud to say Justus was granted his first recommendation to the Order of the Rising Sun this summer! This is a rare deal (only two were given all last summer). Below are pictures of the pow-wow where the Coup were announced. Justus received many glowing compliments from his cabin leaders, friends and chiefs. I was well-pleased.
