Originally published March 23, 2011.
A former employee was working with me on a current CCCA project when I asked him about his recent trip to Uganda. His reply characterized an observation I had made, but I hadn’t put it into words as well as he did. He said, “In developing countries, it’s as if God speaks loudly and clearly, without hindrance. It’s amazing to see Him move so obviously in those areas. In the U.S., it’s as if He has His hand over His mouth and His speech is muffled, so it’s easier to miss; harder to hear what He’s saying.”
My only trip to a developing country was to Kenya two years ago, and I would agree that God’s voice is much easier to hear there than in the U.S.; His actions more obvious.
But could it be that it’s not His hand that’s blocking the sound of His voice? Is it more accurate to say that we have our hand over His mouth, and that’s why we miss His attempts to communicate with us? Or is it simpler than that? In the developing world, there’s not a whole lot to muffle the voice of God. In the western world, with all of our wealth, gadgets, technology, entertainment and media options, we’re always plugged in, tuned in or aware of the many voices calling out for our attention.
This is one of the reasons camp is so effective at changing lives, isn’t it? The daily grind, expectations, pressures, and entertainment options are turned off, in essence, and the environment serves to amplify the call of God. Campers young and old separate from the noise for a few days, get away from their peer group, habits and responsibilities and are given an opportunity to listen to God unencumbered. To hear His voice, loudly and clearly.