Training camp could be described in a variety of ways: terrific, hard, life changing, and challenging. Plenty of things at camp were designed to test us and give us a glimpse into what it looks like to go on the race. One point that got across to everyone pretty quickly was that it wasn’t going to be easy.
World Race training camp was located in Gainesville, GA. A perfect place to be secluded in order to grow closer to God and my squad. I started out in a tent but after tearing down and setting up so many times and growing tired of it, I found myself sleeping on the ground. I always went to bed really hot but woke up during the middle of the night freezing. The only bathrooms I had access to were Porta Potties, and the woods. The only way to bathe was a bucket shower. I was given a five gallon bucket filled with cold water and a little scooping cup, which I used to pour the water on myself. When it was time to eat, we would sit at tables of eight. We then ration and split one plate of food (usually rice and beans). While I brought a spork, many didn’t have utensils, so they ended up eating with their hands. Through these trials, my team and I had to rely on each other and look out for each other. I also found myself praying and reading my Bible because that’s all I could do. I began to go to God for everything! God revealed to me that it is necessary for me to leave everything I love in this world behind for the next nine months, take up my cross and follow Him!
While training camp was challenging, it was also amazing! I have never worshipped so passionately in my life! People were getting healed left and right, hearts of stone were being turned to flesh, and every heart was humbled and forced to surrender all we had to God. I am so fortunate to have such amazing team mates and coaches…, oh the coaches! Mr. Chris and Mrs. Darla are true blessings from God, along with the rest of the leadership team that will be guiding us on this journey! I had the chance to get poured into by Mr. Chris, Miles, Drew, and Matt (leaders) on the man hike (eighteen mile hike on the Appalachian Trail). They are all so wise and surprised our team with KRISPY KREME during camp! I am stoked to be spending nine months with these men and woman of God. This world is about get caught in the river of Jesus’ overflowing love!
Thank you for all your prayers and support! God hears you and is making it evident!
