A week ago, we were six strangers trekking around the world feeling some sort of call. Now we are shifting into a community of brothers and sisters who are chasing after the footsteps of our Father, wherever they may lead. Something that I didn’t really consider before the race was how impactful the people I would travel with would be on my life. I expected the people I serve to change me, God to change me, and the love and encouragement of my supporters back home to impact me. But the guys and gals on my team? Nah. I thought we’d just venture through this together, maybe becoming good buddies but nothing too much more. Little did I know that the words and prayers spoken over our team would be so powerful. We are Umoja – Unity. We prayed for unity amongst our team, and God took us very seriously. The spiritual depths that we are entering together are amazing. And at the same time, a tad nerve racking. I’m not one to open up my deepest feelings to many people, but for some reason, it’s just coming out. I was completely troubled by that at first and didn’t want to let down my guard, at least not that quickly. But living in community is such a blessed thing. I’m still learning and trying to allow myself to be completely who God wants me to be, both for this team, and for Him. For me, nightly feedback has been difficult to get in the groove of, but so rewarding. It’s such a privilege to be able to pray over these wonderful people each night. Alissa has repeated numerous times how we are each Divinely appointed to be a part of this group. What an encouragement to me – especially because a lot of times I wonder why on earth I’m here and how I got to this place.