Traditionally in the Midwest, Fall is the time for hayrides and bonfires after the fields have been cleared of harvest. Campus Bible Fellowship at Iowa City enjoys this annual affair, which is especially meaningful to those students who have been raised in cities.
This year nearly 30 students gathered at a nearby farm. “Wow! Look at those big tires on that tractor” was one of many comments heard as the students explored the farm. It was quite an experience for them to be so up close and personal with the sheep, chickens, and calves on the farm. Of course they had to take pictures.
The students wandered around looking for clues on a hunt which led them to the treasure- boxes of candy and the right to be the first to cook their hot dogs over the fire (while trying to avoid the smoke). Besides the hot dogs, our hosts supplied a wonderful meal of macaroni salad, beans, veggies, chips, and hot drinks to warm us both inside and out.
After filling our tummies, it was time for that new adventure – a hayride. “Do we really have to walk through a pasture and climb a fence to get to the wagon?“ Yes, we did, but it was worth the journey. It was a wonderful night for a ride – cool, clear, with nearly a full moon. At one point our driver stopped so we could enjoy the peace and quiet of the country. As we looked at all the stars, we thought of the Creator who put them all there and keeps them in their places. We talked about how the Pleiades and Orion constellations, which were mentioned in the Bible at least 4000 years ago, are still moving together at the same speed.
Back around the campfire it was time for another new experience – making s’mores. The students were surprised at how quickly a marshmallow caught fire; many ate “burnt offerings”.
We enjoyed sitting on the bales of hay around the bonfire singing fun songs and choruses.
Our host shared a devotional from John 3:16 at the end of the evening. What a wonderful way to share the beauties of God’s creation and the treasures of God’s Word with our friends from around the world. We made enough memories to last until next Fall!
Elva Craig serves at University of Iowa