As I sat down to write this blog, I felt extremely overwhelmed with everything I was feeling. While the past month has been the biggest roller coaster that I have ever been on emotionally, spiritually and physically, it was also the most rewarding. At the beginning of the month I asked God to blow my mind and, as always, He sure did deliver.
Looking back on the past month, I can think of so many stories and lessons I have learned that I could share with you. Everything from the hours and hours and hours in the car with my dear friends, to the storm that turned our camping trip into a car sleepover and the room filled with 300 young adults all worshipping an Almighty God. The past month has been full of adventure, hardships, laughter, and memories that I will cherish forever. Abba has taught me some pretty cool things including what authentic friendships look like, how to shower with a bucket of water, and the importance of praising Him even when I don’t feel like it. However, the biggest thing that has affected me this past month is the people that He has placed in my life.
I have fallen in love with so many people over the past few weeks. Every single amazing story that I am reminded of as I sit here reminiscing is made amazing by the friends that were a part of it. I have never felt so loved, cared about and fought for as I have on this adventure. Every person I have come in contact with over the past month has been a huge inspiration for the next phase in my life, and I would like to take a minute to thank the sweet people that have poured into me through this challenging time.
So, thank you to the families that welcomed me into their home and loved me as their own. To the stranger in the gas station bathroom, leaving her life of comfort in search of something better. To my squad mates who make all situations more enjoyable and are a true inspiration when they blindly trust what the Lord is doing in their life, even if it’s terrifying. To the leaders who have stepped up to walk alongside me on this journey and guide me in what God is doing in my life. And lastly, to my team who loves boldly and fiercely and are the funniest people I have ever met (y’all are the realest!!!) I have learned so much from the people that God has placed in my life simply by opening my eyes to seek what He has placed in each and every one of them.
Stepping into this adventure feeling alone was challenging, but Abba promised me that I wouldn’t feel that way for long. After being home and having some time to process, I have discovered that He used this adventure to show me the true importance of community and how sweet authentic friendships really are. He’s taught me that no matter how difficult a situation is or what challenges pop up, being surrounded by the right people can make all the difference. I pray that everyone finds the same type of sweet community that I have the privilege to be a part of.
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another-and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” Hebrews 10:24-25
so much love,
ash
