It’s taken me a long time to write this blog post. I think this is due in part to not having adequate words to describe these six women I am spending every minute of every day with. How can I explain the ways that they have enriched my life in a few short weeks? Nevertheless, I’ll try. Although we complement one another well, our team isn’t perfect. We are, however, committed to growth and loving each other even when it’s hard. Let me introduce you to the members of team Poiema (God’s poetry or masterpiece).
P.S. I included a verse that reminds me of each person. The italicized word in each description is the meaning of that person’s name.
Shondra – This shining star was added to our squad at the last minute before training camp. When I think that we may not have been on the same squad and team, I seriously feel like crying. Shon adds so much to my life. We have a lot of similarities, and she describes herself as a louder version of me. Shon is hilarious. We make fun of each other all the time. She is dependable and I know she will always have my back. She is a servant and inspires me in the way she cares for others. She carries herself with confidence and speaks from the overflow of her good heart. The most admirable thing about Shon is that she doesn’t let fear stop her.
Colossians 1:9-10 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God.
Valerie – I didn’t know what was missing in my life until I met Val. We can talk about anything. Her relationship with the Lord challenges me every day. As a child, Val prayed for wisdom and it shows. She speaks so much truth into the lives of everyone around her. I feel sad when I think about not having her around 24/7. She is so encouraging. Val just gets me. We are both a 5 on the enneagram (personality test). She laughs at my sarcasm and I laugh when she does boujee things. Valerie is our team’s strength and constant rock. I think she is learning that her opinions and thoughts matter, and that everyone benefits from hearing them. God is using Valerie in amazing ways this year simply because she is willing to be used.
James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.
Maci – Maci is a gift from God. My life would be boring without Maci. She has the best sense of humor and has us laughing all day long. She is competitive and athletic. Mace has many gifts and inspires me in the way she lives out her convictions. She calls me higher by rebuking lies from the enemy. I think Mace is learning a lot about herself on the Race, especially as she keeps choosing vulnerability. I love seeing her embrace growth even when it’s painful. Maci is also a 5 on the enneagram. No wonder we just seem to click.
Ephesians 4:32 Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.
Nikki – Nikki helps me see the world in a different way. She challenges me to look at things from other perspectives. This girl has so many gifts, including her skill as a worship leader. She is mighty and victorious. Nik sees people. She recognizes emotions, which is great because I never know what I’m feeling. She can tell when I’m stressed and brings it to my attention. Nik holds power in her ability to set the mood of the team. When she is in “rare form” we are sure to have a great time. Nik lifts our spirits with her funny attitude and servant heart.
Isaiah 12:2 Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid; for the Lord God is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation.
Laurie – Our team leader Laurie is a free spirit. She can’t be put in a box. Her love for people shows, and every day I see her leaving the 99 and going after the one. She holds herself with honor because she knows her worth. Laurie is pure in her worship and strong in her relationship with the Lord. She calls us higher and is obedient to the convictions God has given her. She is fiercely loyal, truthful and sincere, fun, and a bit of a rebel. Laurie reminds me that God created our hearts to be beautifully wild.
Ephesians 3:12 In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.
Shelby – Okay, let me tell you about Shelbs. She has so many gifts and I’m learning so much from her. Shelby walks in joy and peace that can only come from her relationship with Jesus. She has a passion for meeting and getting to know people. She does not let language barriers stop her from talking to people. I see the gift of bold evangelism in her. Shelby cares deeply for those around her. She is a great listener. I admire her openness and willingness to share her testimony. She knows how powerful God’s grace in her life has been, and she is obedient in sharing it with others. I see so much growth, liveliness, and balance in Shelby as she embraces who our Father created her to be.
James 5:13 Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise.
