My mom used to say her “quiver was full." We would smile because we knew what she meant. She was saying that her heart was full of joy. Her family was together, and the moments were just right. Treasured.
I got that same “quiver full” feeling last night — the first night of Vacation Bible School.
Our director had worked tirelessly for months. Decorations had been painted. An enormous ship filled the stage. Painted and built off-site, I still don’t know how they got it to the church. Food had been planned, kids and adults had pre-registered, prayers had been prayed.
I’ve been to VBS since I was a kid. One sip of strawberry Kool-Aid takes me straight back to Belfry Baptist Church where we had a small cup of the red stuff — no refills — and two cheap cookies. As an adult, being involved in this “bestest week ever” for churches was my jam. The story was the gig I loved for a long time. I was even the director for a few years at McVeigh Baptist where my beloved was the pastor. We were fully immersed in the work of reaching kids and their parents in the crazy and wonderful chaos of VBS. It was all glorious.
And then we moved.
My first VBS at Fitzpatrick found me hiding in my beloved’s office. (He was the new pastor.) This church already had VBS in hand. It seemed that they didn’t need me. I just hadn’t found my place. Yet.
This week is my 20th Vacation Bible School at Fitzpatrick. I’ve served in many spots over the past two decades. One year as a guide, I was puked on, peed on, and then lost a kid, but for only 45 minutes. My last stint was in preschool music, which turned out to be my most favorite place.
Last night, I was an assistant to the director, trouble shooter, and pastor’s wife. After everyone was in class and on schedule, I got to mingle and work the crowd.
Eating a delicious cheeseburger with some ladies in the adult class, I scanned the fellowship hall. Tables on one side were filled with seventh and eighth graders. Kindergartners were on the other with volunteers and parents scattered throughout. Kids were laughing and talking with their mouths full. New friends had been made right here in the church. We could hear squeals of delight from the recreation station outside.
My eyes filled with tears. This was it. This was the perfect moment. My mother’s words flashed into my mind. My quiver was certainly full.
At VBS, boys and girls get a great taste of Jesus and church life. What’s not to love? Fun games that usually involve water, exciting stories straight from the Word of God, peppy music with a Biblical theme (and dancing for everyone), a full meal, and throw in a craft. Bible school is the time when the church rolls up its sleeves and becomes a beautiful example of the body of Christ.
In case you didn’t know, or if you’ve never been to VBS, all the fun stuff sets up the main thing: the plan of salvation. On the last night, the pastor and lay leaders will share with each group about Who Jesus is, what He did for us, and how He longs to be our Savior. It’s the reason for the games, the food, the crafts, and the songs. VBS is the greatest evangelist tool of the church. We are excited about what happens on that final evening. Forevers will be changed.
Each night finishes with The Chicken Dance. I don’t have words. I don’t understand. It’s just a thing. We all lose our minds for a few minutes and then see pictures of it later on the internet.
I suddenly remember David dancing in 2 Samuel 6. Yeah, it’s just like that. VBS is the best.
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Dawn Reed is a pastor's wife and newspaper columnist. Reach her at preacherswife7@yahoo.com.
