Moving Sideways - Kayak

This is a Kayak Stroke: Even though this stroke is shown in a kayak, the concept works reasonably well for all types of paddle powered watercraft from canoes to rafts.

There are two different strokes, or methods, to efficiently move the boat sideways, the Side Draw and Sculling Draw. Some people find the Side Draw easier to perform; others find the sculling motion easier. It is recommended to chose one method and stick with it. Both are valuable approaches to being able to move alongside others or reposition your boat in tight places. Click on each of the photos to watch a video of each stroke.

Side Draw

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Sculling Draw

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Acts 2:43-47
Ephesians 2:21-22
Philippians 1:27-30

You will notice early in your teaching, guiding career that it is important to be able to gather the group together for an instructional message from time to time. When the group is scattered around the lake it is hard to convey the message necessary to help them improve and have more fun on the water. There are many other reasons for the need to come along beside someone in a boat whether it is to share a story, a snack or for stability and comfort. If everyone understands how to move their boat sideways and be able to join their fellow paddlers, creating a “raft” of boats, your job of group management and teaching becomes much easier. Drawing your boat sideways, whether it is to join others or move away from something to have enough room to maneuver your boat or paddle away is always a useful tool to have in your stroke toolbox.

As God’s children, you find that the moments in which you gather together to share encouragement, a meal or just enjoy each other's company are the most valuable times in your life. Throughout his life, Jesus has moved up alongside many people that needed help. They needed healing, they needed some food (physical and spiritual) and he gave it to them. But he didn’t stop there; he encouraged all that might follow him to do the same. Through familiar stories such as the Good Samaritan in Luke 10:29-37 and the story of the sheep and goats in Matthew 25:31-46 it becomes clear that Jesus not only came up alongside others to bring grace through acts of service but expected all of his followers to do the same. As you gather together, either in an eddy, in your home or in a small group study, remember the greatest call is to come up alongside others reaching out to them and giving them the hope of Christ through acts of kindness.