a haven for rest

What is needed in order for something, some place, or even an idea to be considered a haven? Some of the definitions that I came up with is a place of safety, or refuge. One source describes a haven as a part of a body of water protected and deep enough to be a place of safety for ships. Maybe it’s security or space? Or quietness and tranquility? For me, when I think I’ve reached a haven I think, now I can rest, or think and even dream.. During this month I experienced (or took part in creating) two types of havens. First was the MMP crew at their annual family retreat. I had a chance to serve the missionaries & their families in organizing activities & events for them. Most of the missionaries had been looking forward to this retreat all year long. Their work takes a lot out of them, but they’d never admit it if you asked. It was a lot of fun to see the pastors & missionaries let loose & unwind. For me, it was honoring to be among them, I felt distinguished and lucky to enter this rest, and it kind of felt like this was the rest granted to the faithful and deserving servant.
Second, I was asked to be a counselor at MMP’s youth camp. Youth from all the slum communities gathered for 3 days away from their lives and together we worshipped and celebrated Jesus. Eighty-seven teenagers were present; almost half of them were baptized in the river and many decided to follow Jesus for the first time. This camp was a haven for the youth. It was a safe place for them to just be; to be an individual, to think & care for themselves, to laugh, cry, think, discover, learn, share their thoughts, etc. I learned prior to the camp that many of the youth had come from difficult and painful situations and this camp may really be the only break they have from their lives, so we (the staff) were desperate for Jesus to reveal his love to them. I feel in love with the youth. On the first day Jennifer was led to talk to a girl who thought the Lord was her enemy but won her back by telling her the truth of His love for her. Many left with tears, wanting to stay forever, some were worried about what home would be like now that they’re coming back changed, different. I know that this weekend had been a haven for them, but they’re having to leave the place of safety and for some, will head to unsafe darkness. Please pray for the youth of the MMP sites. I took as many pictures as I could of them in an attempt to keep my promise to never forget them.