Ecclesiastes 3:1 For everything there is a season, a time for everything under heaven.
On the first full day of training camp, we talked about grieving the past seasons of our lives in order to move on to the next one. Let’s be real–I’ve built amazing relationships here in Kalamazoo the past two years that I don’t want to leave. Maybe I’ll be back here later and maybe I won’t, but I know I need to come to terms with leaving. This season is almost over. I need to say goodbye and let go, so I can focus on where I’ll be. We are asked to be disciples; right now, it’s here in Kalamazoo but in two months, it’ll be in each of those 11 countries.
God knows it’s okay to not be okay, but there are days that I cry at the thought of leaving. My mind keeps telling me that I still have time here, but it’s already in the process of grieving. Thinking back, I remembered how I didn’t want to leave Ann Arbor and all of the relationships I fostered in those 6 years of college. When I decided to let go and cut down on weekends spent there, I was able to embrace the place that I was inhabiting. I was able to serve and love and deepen relationships in a new place, and God used this season to mature me. Every season has its purpose, and I’m trusting Him with that.
After spending the week at training camp, I know my transition will be easier. My squad and team are so passionate and on fire for Jesus, and I can’t wait to learn and grow with them. I’m awed by the intimacy and depth we were able to get to in just a week. I can’t even begin to imagine what the year will bring. These last two months might be difficult as my world’s split in two.
The mantra at the moment: Be present in where you are.
Stay tuned as the saga continues. Dun dun duuuuun. Tomorrow: Training Camp, Pt 3 – Preparations of the Body
