This is Steve pitching in a parental update on our time in Atlanta. As launch approaches and travel begins for Claire, our contact with her will be minimal for a while. This is a collection of thoughts while in Atlanta.
Hopefully Claire will catch up with blogging once they settled in, but she has perhaps dangerously asked me to also provide some updates.
As we began our trip to Atlanta for this launch weekend, there was lots of excitement, and a fair amount of anxiety. When we checked in for the parent presentations, we were seated with the parents of Claire’s teammates. Having the opportunity to meet some of these parents literally as we sat down was an awesome opportunity to build a bond, as we were all sharing similar feelings. Sunday night, we were part of a worship service with parents and racers, that was so powerful to experience. Knowing what these young adults are going to be a part of is very challenging, yet very humbling to see them willing to step well beyond their comfort zone, all in faith. It is hard to explain, but the worship and prayer time brought an incredible feeling of peace, helping to know that this feels right. We were blessed to hear some powerful Scripture based testimony from leaders, challenging us all to expand our faith. During worship I was able to have my arm around Claire while we sang, and as that peace came, I was able to put my arm down, which was a peaceful feeling of me being able to “let go.” Tears will still come, but this just seems so right.
As we now sit at the airport waiting for our flight back home, it is still a bit mind numbing to think about what we are a part of, but how amazing! One of the parents this morning said she prayed for us, and was searching for a word to describe these racers, and what came was “world changers.” So true. These young adults are about to set the world on fire for Jesus, and they are going to expand our comfort zone while they are at it. And it is so exciting to be a part of the experience! As we said “see ya later” to Claire, we blessed her for this journey.
We ask that you keep Claire and all of her squad in your prayers.
Stay tuned!
Blessings!
Steve
