March Newsletter

In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

Matthew 5:16

Why do we do what we do?

At Kicking Bear, it’s easy to focus on the fun—archery, BB guns, throwing tomahawks, and time in the outdoors. But those things are not the true mission. They are simply the tools we use. The real mission is reaching the hearts of young people and showing them the love of Christ through a genuine caring relationship.

Scripture reminds us why this matters so much:

“Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.” — Proverbs 22:6

Many of the youth we encounter are searching for direction, belonging, and someone who simply cares enough to spend time with them. When a mentor takes a young person into the woods, sits beside them in a blind, or practices archery together, something deeper is happening. Trust is being built. Conversations open up. Hearts soften.

Jesus modeled this same approach. He spent time with people, walked with them, taught them, and showed them the Father’s love.

“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” — Luke 18:16

Recently, a young boy approached Ray to share the impact Kicking Bear had on his friend’s life. He explained that his friend only came around during the summer when he was visiting his dad. It was clear that his friend’s home environment wasn’t very positive, and often he would come over to the boy’s house because it felt like a safe place. The boy cared deeply about his friend and wanted him to know the love of Jesus. When he heard about a Kicking Bear camp, he became excited about the opportunity to invite his hurting friend. When he asked him to come, his friend said yes. The boy could hardly wait, believing it would be a special experience. He attended the camp alongside his friend and his family. The day was filled with fun and excitement, but something even more meaningful happened when the message was shared. The boy noticed his friend listening intently.

That day, his friend accepted Christ as his Savior and made the decision to publicly show his faith by being baptized. He left camp with a big smile on his face and a Bible in his hand.

So the bows, the camps, the marshmallows—they are tools. The real goal is evangelism and discipleship. It is walking alongside the next generation and pointing them to Jesus.

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations…” — Matthew 28:19

Every volunteer hour, every donated dollar, every message shared is a seed planted. Some seeds grow quickly. Others take years. But God promises that His Word never returns empty.

At Kicking Bear, we are simply faithful to plant the seeds and trust God with the rest!

Check out updates on our next events and catch pictures, videos and highlights of our past mission work on our social media platforms and website!!

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