Well friends, Nepal is a go!
As our Squad Mentor, Stacy, stepped up front and told us this, an audible gasp was heard all over the room. A mix of emotions is felt throughout the squad. Some excitement, some anxiety, some shock. Initially, we were told it’s too soon to send a team to Kathmandu, as the devastation is so great. But this week, each contact from Nepal notified Adventure in Missions that our squad is needed. So this Tuesday (Monday evening for you in the US), we will fly to Nepal and begin working with the relief effort.
It’s interesting that it worked out for us to follow through with plans for Nepal. Just over a week ago, my friend Bailey asked me, “Chelsea, what made you want to be a nurse?” I explained my love of storms, but my dislike for math. As I finished up high school, I took an Anatomy & Physiology class and fell in love with the human body. And I thought, I like storms, but I don’t like the destruction they cause. Maybe I can be a help, after the storm is passed? I explained to my team, I would love to assist in disaster relief someday. Within a few days (2 days before we were scheduled to arrive in Nepal) the 7.8 earthquake hit Nepal. God has such a sense of humor.
There’s not much else to say other than, keep those prayers coming. Most likely ministry is going to include handing out care packages, and definitely praying with the people. Pray that the Lord prepares our hearts for what we are about to see. We received the cliff notes version from our Squad Coaches, who were in Kathmandu when the quake hit. We were originally planned to have our debrief there, and we praise God for keeping them safe and helping them get to us safely. Pray that we discern how to love these hurt and broken people well.
Also be praying for our teams. In a few short hours, we will be told the new teams. Pray for unity. Pray that there be no anxiety. That we continue to fix our eyes toward the cross. Pray for safety in traveling, and also safety while we’re on the ground in Nepal. P-Squad has already made the enemy angry, and this news probably has him fuming. But he’s already lost the battle, so we’re going to continue to fight.
