Training camp is over and I’m back home sitting out in the yard reflecting back on a week that was awesome, unexpected, and challenging. I feel like I could go on forever about this past week but then I find it hard to put it in words.
The first day I got there and met my awesome B-squad in person. I figured we would have an awesome night of introduction and worship and continue on with my squad throughout the rest of the week.
As they began talking to us, they challenged us with several questions and statements:
“No matter your expectations, things will be different.”
“Sometimes your ministry might not be what you wanted.”
“Sometimes things won’t go your way.”
“Do you trust the Lord to know what’s best for you?”
My response was, Lord, I already know these things and I’m 100% in this for You no matter what. God was about to reveal to me just how much that wasn’t true.
Just 15 minutes later during the squad meeting I received a huge curve ball. The squad was too large and if they didn’t get any volunteers to switch to the new C Squad, they would draw names.
My name was the first name drawn. My heart dropped and I got up out of my seat to proceed to stand in front of the squad members that I had already grown to love.
It was a hard transition but I learned so much through it. God revealed to me that a big part of me was in it for myself and my own adventure. I was hanging on to the people I knew and the countries I would be going to.
God showed up right away and began pouring out His love and encouragement through the brothers and sisters around me. It only took a day to realize I was right where God wanted me. As much as I wish I had been the one to volunteer to take on the new route, I’m glad it happened the way it did because it changed my heart and outlook on what exactly God has called me to do.
Now can I just say how much I love my new squad mates? No, because words can’t describe it! After only a few days of getting to know them my heart was filled with joy and love for these brothers and sisters.
As the week went on, God continued to do tremendous work in my heart. We talked about past hurts that we may have not brought to surface to where we can begin the healing process and allow more room for God and reach our true potential. We had the opportunity to break into groups of guys to do just that. What happened during that time was one of the most freeing moments for each of us.
God has torn done walls and set fires in the hearts of those partnering on the World Race. I’m amazed that I’m one of those people; longing only to know Him more so that way others can also know Him. I feel a freedom and confidence that I’ve never felt before.
I’ll try to end with this… I’m blessed to serve with an awesome team, Cor Adamantis- meaning Hearts of Diamond in Latin. I know God has amazing plans for us and the people that we impact. May God give us boldness and confidence in Him; with eyes open to follow His path, ears open to hear his voice, and willing hearts to receive and pour out His Love to the Nations!
I would like to ask that you too join in prayer for my team and the works that God is about to perform in and through us!
In Christ,
Matthew
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