I had a conversation the other day with a friend and fellow former camp staff member. We discussed, albeit briefly, the situation concerning spiritual warfare on the camp grounds. Many Christians have called on the name of Jesus Christ to reclaim the land as a sanctuary, to cleanse it of the physical presence of evil. Time after time, it keeps coming back. I have heard some theories about why it returns, but none of the answers seemed to be sufficient. Yes, many people bring problems and habits with them to camp, both as campers, sometimes as staff, and as the general public that also uses the grounds. I would even go so far as to say that people have defiled the land; it's surprising and saddening what people do there. In various forms, as the argument goes, people are responsible for bringing it to camp.
Another argument is that the historical significance of the area, with respect to good and evil, leads to an unending battle. But if the place has been claimed by God the Sovereign, why then does this persist?
The only answer that has made sense to me is that God chooses to use this place, in light of its past circumstances and current position as a place of battle for the lost to receive salvation through Him. It's a training ground. God does not allow darkness to overcome any part of His kingdom. Everything that happens is because God allows it to happen. God is in control, but He allows such things to take place as fit within His plan. In His plans are times of our learning and training, that we would see and know that a spiritual battle still is taking place all around us, and that we have a part in that battle. His spiritual gifts are given to us in times of need for the glory of the Father. Fear not for the God of the universe, the Eternal Sovereign, is with you. May He guide and protect you all the days of your life.
