My previous experience of training camp was a great precursor to what my life may be on the road traveling to third world countries. I slept in a tent, froze in 30 deg. Georgia weather in April!, used wet wipes as an ongoing necessity, avoided using cold outside showers (at least for me :)), and became a shade or two darker due to the red clay! However, this return trip, since Aug. 31st to the familiar red clay has been a nice hidden blessing. I now have felt that I been staying at the Hilton versus the training camp that is to prepare me for the roughing life. First the welcoming weather of 85+ deg. has been quite a change from the average 30-50 deg. previously. I was expecting to pitch my personal 2 man tent on the rough grounds of the camp but was amazed at the lovely cabins. With the colorful doors, real windows and bunks to hold 30 peeps it has been quite a welcomed sight. Even the showers haven’t created too much of a shrill shrieking effect due to the coldness. It has been a bearable and enjoyable time getting clean and not freezing! I felt as if I had been moved up into first class living.
As I was reflecting a thought came to surface about “moving on up”. For the past six days I have had the pleasure to be on the serving team for the beginning part of the training time. I have made food, filled water jugs, served food, washed off tables, raked rocks, cleaned bathrooms, including outhouses :0, and have tried to offer an encouraging word and smile. This time has filled up my spirit so much and has spoken to the way that I connect with God. I think about the improved weather, housing, and showers and those seem to fade in the background on making this an upscale time. I realized that what really made this a Hilton experience is that it wasn’t about me! I really “moved up” the moment I stepped out of myself. It has been for me a pleasure to be behind the scenes, making things the best for others, and having my thoughts and actions turned toward others and not myself. My prayer is that this whole year will hold this “moving up” mentality that will display a life that enjoys this type of mind and sacrificial living attitude. Not that I won’t mind an occasional “real” mattress bed and warm shower, but I have come to realize that “things” don’t complete the concept of a “rich” life. A “rich” life is living within my gifting, giving and serving, and letting God utilize me to the fullest even though I fail plenty of times. I love that just being with Him and in His presence is the truest meaning of “moving on up”.
