Preacher David's Corner

“VBS Launches in the Blue Ridge Mountains ”

As the warm days of summer settle over the Blue Ridge Mountains of Ashe County, North Carolina, something special is stirring in the hearts of local churches and communities. Vacation Bible School (VBS) season is right around the corner, and the Ashe Baptist Association is ready to help churches across the county launch their most exciting and spiritually impactful outreach of the year.

This year’s VBS theme is “Magnified: Discovering the Bigness of God in the Smallest of Things,” based on Psalm 34:3 — “Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together!” It’s a powerful reminder that even in the smallest details of life, God's greatness shines through.

But this isn’t your typical summer program. This year, kids will embark on an immersive time travel adventure that transports them to key moments in biblical history. Throughvivid storytelling, interactive activities, and dramatic reenactments they’ll witness firsthand how God has revealed His gospel plan through the ages — from the Garden of Eden to the empty tomb. Each “time jump” is carefully designed to bring the truth of Scripture to life and help children see God’s greatness in new and exciting ways.

The Ashe Baptist Association Office is fully stocked with Lifeway’s VBS material, including the Director’s Kit, samples, and guides available now for churches to preview and schedule. These resources are designed to equip churches of every size to host engaging, Christ-centered VBS experiences. Whether your church has hosted VBS for decades or is considering it for the first time, the Association Office is here to support your efforts.

VBS isn’t just another summer event — it’s one of the most significant discipleship and outreach tools a church can offer. For many children, VBS is their first introduction to the gospel. For others, it’s a time to grow deeper in their understanding of faith and community. And it’s not just the children who benefit. Teens, parents, and volunteers all find their faith enriched as they come together to serve, teach, and learn.

“Vacation Bible School has always been one of the highlights of our church’s year,” says one local VBS director. “It’s amazing to watch kids light up as they discover how big and wonderful God is — often in ways they’ve never imagined.”

Churches throughout Ashe County are encouraged to begin planning now. The earlier you get materials, the more time your team will have to prepare and pray for the impact this summer’s VBS will make. Whether your setting is a fellowship hall, a sanctuary, or the great outdoors of the Blue Ridge, the theme of “Magnified” is sure to connect hearts with the majesty of God.

Stop by the Ashe Baptist Association Office today to view the materials and get equipped. Let’s come together as a community to help the next generation discover the greatness of our God — one child, one story, one time-traveling adventure at a time. For more information or to reserve your VBS kit, contact the Ashe Baptist Association Office or visit during regular hours. Because Vacation Bible School isn’t just a program — it’s a mission.

Your Servant, David