The past ten days saw me at Training Camp just outside of Gainesville, Georgia. Our squad of 32 met for the first time with a lot of “what’s your name”s and “where are you from”s. Similar to when I first met my collegiate small group, there was an air of anticipation of the time, experiences, and vulnerability to be experienced together. From there, it was full throttle for ten days straight.
Early on it was a social maelstrom. Fellowship, worship, team-building and eventually team-placement activities were the norm. We took a top-level journey over several talks through the Old Testament. The middle portion zeroed in on The Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20), developed our skills in evangelism, teaching, and growth (properly giving and receiving feedback). The last few days covered the bases of expected World Racer conduct, cultural awareness, and placement into squad roles. On this, I was called up to be on the logistics team—I’ll fill you in once I fully figure out what I’ve signed up for. I know I’ll be scheduling buses between some countries, and coordinating squad debrief every few months.
Very little was constant. Cuisine and cultural rules changed on the daily. Sleeping scenarios varied from “airport” (lights, ambient noise), to “lost baggage” (no main pack for 24h), to “community living” (it was cramped). One day we had to buy and barter for our meals in a market. The men took a day retreat and hiked 12 miles on the Appalachian Trail, thankfully the rain arrived after we pitched our tents.
The constants were pretty much reduced to using a port-a-potty, bucket-showers, and ever-increasing fellowship with my squad. What was originally that highly awkward and anticipatory environment was quickly transformed into an incredibly strong community of brothers and sisters in Christ.
Describing the K-Squad Community: We bonded through trial, during the late nights, worship, inane team challenges, and sleeping arrangements. We come from an incredible variety of backgrounds—differences in lifestyle, geography, denomination, home environment, and spiritual struggles. Yet we came together with a similar drive to serve around the world beyond our comfort zone.
I’ll try to look beyond the rose-tinted glasses. There will be points that we may fight against the feedback our teammates have for us. Times that we annoy the hell out of each other, and when tough conversations need to be had. We’ll disappoint one another, as tough as that is to consider. BUT I trust everyone to act in the best interests of their teammates. We have the “yes” in our hearts and we have entrusted one another with our growth.
To my squad-mates: I’m so stoked to go out and minister, challenge one another, and grow with you this coming year.
To those who ran Training Camp: Thank you for the laughs, the serious conversations, the memories, you know K-Squad loves and appreciates you. I’m 100% on board. I hope to see many of you at launch.
To everyone: Whether you’re an active donor, on board the prayer train, or just reading along for the first time, I just want to say thank you for the support. Wherever you are at, you are helping. Even reading along and perhaps challenging how you think, or taking that a step further and changing how you act is an extension of my ministry.
To those who haven’t donated: Many of the best and craziest things begin with a “why not?” It’s part of what drove me to pursue this trip. Not to lean on that logic too much, but I’d simply ask you to think/pray about what stands in the way of donating (1) nominally, (2) moderately, (3) significantly. Feel free to reach out and ask questions, no strings attached.
Countdown: 40 days
