Training Camp!
One word to describe training camp: wow.
I had never been camping before this, and the first night I did I was tempted to get in my car and leave. I did not know what I got myself into. But, the Lord continued to confirm inside of me that this next step is for me. It’s more than just a trip. It’s an opportunity to be His vessel, and show the children and people of these countries His love.
So much has happened in me spiritually, mentally and also physically.
Spiritually: Coming home from these past 10 days has made me feel like a new woman. During camp, we practiced hearing the voice of God, and what it looks like to have him be our best friend! I’ve noticed alertness in myself to the things around me, and have adapted an ear for His voice inside of me. I would just start off with little questions, and learn to listen. I have a hard time listening to God, because I like to talk. We had a ladies day at camp, and the Lord gave me my very first vision. I had my eyes closed, and I pictured myself on a tall snowy mountain next to a flag (surrender). As I was looking at the beauty around me, I see my heavenly Father sprinting up the mountain to get to me, and then he tackled me like a bear, sending us rolling down the mountain to a stop. We both get up and start laughing our heads off! He pulls me into a warm embrace and says, “I love the nature of you.” In that moment of seeing all of that, I have never felt more loved by Him.
Mentally: Usually I would need a lot of time to myself to process things, but I didn’t desire that. I used to be an introvert, so therefore I would need time alone to recharge. I didn’t desire that during this trip. Although there was not a lot of time to process what was going on during each session, I was able to process through journaling. And therefore I was fully present in each situation. A couple months ago my friend had a word for me. He was seeing a fire whistle, which goes off to warn everyone that there is a fire. When the whistle goes off the fireman come together to put out the fire. He said that I wasn’t the one putting out fires, but the one rallying those who are equipped to. In the moment I had no idea what he was talking about. But now, coming back from training camp, I know exactly what it means.
Physically: I have a chiropractor appointment tonight. That being said, it was some tough stuff! Before coming into camp I was aware of a fitness hike, that consumed of only 1 hill. I definitely should’ve prepared myself more physically before camp. This hike could only be accomplished by running some of the duration. It consumed around 5 hills. I finished it under the time frame, which was amazing, but my body was unaware of what was happening! I do feel stronger! I also got to sleep in my tent for 10 nights as well, which was something.
My birthday was during camp, and it was day of Sabbath. I got to spend it with my heavenly Father, which was so rewarding. At night my team leaders surprised me with cake, cupcakes, and a homemade card with encouraging words. I love surprises more than anything, and it was a great 21st birthday! Along with all that goodness, I have the privilege of being the worship coordinator along side of my squad mate Bethany, for our whole squad! The Lord placed the desire for worship a couple months ago, and I thought He meant to go on stage and sing at church. I can’t sing, nor am I musically inclined, so I disregarded what He said. I felt impressed on my heart to go to the worship breakout session at camp, and still didn’t know why. The leaders were explaining all different ways to worship that didn’t include a good voice or instruments. That was confirmation, along with this amazing leadership role, that this is from God.
I also did not go hungry. I was blessed with food everyday from a different country! My taste buds have never been more satisfied!
And at the end of this camp I can say that it’s not as bad as Jesus dying on the cross. There were moments of pain, but the pain we endure will never compare to his blood that was shed for you and me. On my drive home I also realized that there’s no point in getting worked up over something. There’s no point in getting mad, worried, or anxious, because that ultimately will leave you feeling worse. So, next time those feelings come up, why not worship, why not praise. By doing so you will feel filled up, and it’s a sign of surrender, a sign of trust.
One last update! My first month is Honduras, and then Nicaragua! This country just got added onto my route. Therefore, it will be 12 countries in 11 months! It isn’t written in stone, as any of my countries could change at the last second, but I’m so excited!
Another blog post will be coming soon talking about my team, my squad and also what to bring to training camp!
