For five mornings from July 17-21, every space in the church overflowed with the sounds of children as Bethany was transformed into a tropical island filled with God’s love. Vacation Bible School (VBS) took 130 children, 45 youth helpers, and over 100 adult volunteers on a journey to Son Treasure Island, where the 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 themes of love were evident in many ways.

“Love is patient, love is kind.” We heard it recited in the halls as the 5 year olds marched to assembly. We saw it acted out by four youth in a humorous skit about friendship, forgiveness, and the real treasure of God’s love and the Bible. We observed it lived out by the students and teachers who invited and embraced many children and neighbors new to Bethany. Teachers and youth experienced love in the generous food contributions donated by the broader Bethany community that bountifully supplied the “Tiki Hut,” our teacher’s lounge.

“Love is not self-seeking.” A spirit of service was demonstrated by the teachers and youth helpers in the classrooms, on the lawn and playground at recreation time, during Thursday’s carnival, and in the many volunteers preparing delicious snacks and creative crafts for the children. In addition, for their mission project, the children donated $788—much of it earned through extra chores— to support crops and the Youth Mission Trip to Agros Uno in Honduras. And, on the Sunday after VBS week, the children dressed in their bright green t-shirts to share two favorite songs with the congregation.

“Love rejoices with the truth.” Each morning at assembly on the “beach” in the Fellowship Hall, a 9-person musical ensemble joyfully led everyone in catchy songs celebrating God’s love. While in the classrooms, many teachers rejoiced and were touched by the deep knowledge of the Lord and scripture possessed by their students, even the 3 and 4 year olds. The week was also lifted to the Lord and bathed in prayer by many people, including 17 dedicated prayer warriors praying for each class. Teachers and youth gathered to pray before VBS started each morning, and multiple volunteers came together mid-morning to pray in the prayer room.

“Love never fails.” During worship time in the sanctuary on Thursday morning, Pastor Dan shared a wonderful story about his dog that illustrated how God simply wants to be close to each one of us. We are very grateful that God was clearly present. Through the incredible success of the week, the new friendships, the expanded knowledge of Him and the fun had by all, we experienced the greatest treasure of all: God’s great love for us.