Ready for What’s Next?

Galatians 3:23–29

“So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith… There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” – Galatians 3:26, 28

This week I’ve been at Scout Summer Camp—sleeping in a tent, navigating the muggy Texas heat, brushing off mosquitoes, and eating what can only generously be called “camp food.” And while that may not sound like a dream vacation, I wouldn’t trade this time for anything.

Why?

Because every day I’ve watched young people learn. Not just how to tie knots, build fires, or shoot arrows—but how to live with integrity, courage, and service. They’re learning what it means to be trustworthy, loyal, helpful, brave, and reverent. These are more than badges; they are building blocks for life. Every skill learned and challenge faced is shaping them into the kind of people we all hope will lead the next generation.

And behind every scout is a group of adults—leaders and volunteers—who gave up a week of their own lives to make this experience possible. These men and women could have been on a beach or at home in air conditioning, but they chose to be here. Why? Because they believe in what’s next. They believe in investing in young lives now so that tomorrow is stronger, kinder, and more faithful.

That’s the very heart of Galatians 3:23–29. Paul tells us that in Christ, we are all children of God—united by grace and called to live into our inheritance as people of faith. We’ve been given freedom in Christ not just to rest in salvation, but to be ready for what’s next. To step into our identity and to help others do the same.

In a world full of excuses and distractions, God calls us to get uncomfortable, step up, and live with intention. Just like those adult leaders sweating in tents and sacrificing their comfort, we too are called to make investments now that shape the future.

So whether you’re at a summer camp, in a church classroom, mentoring a teenager, or leading a new ministry, remember: God is preparing you—and others—for what’s next. Let’s be ready.

In God’s grip,

Pastor Chuck Church

Reflection Question:
What “excuse” have you been using to avoid the uncomfortable work of investing in others? What step can you take this week to help someone live into their identity in Christ?

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for calling us Your children and for trusting us with the future. Help us live into our identity in Christ and guide others to do the same. Give us courage to invest, to serve, and to believe in what’s next. Amen.