The Becomers
Myself, Emily Turner, Tanner Wilburn, Alexander Hogue, Maddie Hunt, and Jewel Mann
On the matter of food, there are certain things that make up a Training camp diet. There is the Banana, the one fruit that seems to be found in thefar out lands of Gainesville, Georgia, that which is the remedy for sweat-breaking hikes and all things wrong with the world, that which can be also complimented by the classic Apple, another fine fruit that is spotted among other things. There is also the legendary Hardboiled Egg, a fine delicacy in such lands, that which is versatile in all scenarios and a staple food for a training missionary. Lastly there is the rice and beans, another fine selection used for the rigorous training and preparation for World Racers, that which unveils the truths of missions and all to come. These are just some of the things a happy-go-lucky racer will encounter when going through their Training Camp.
I for one found my quantum of solace in the scavenging of Trail mix and dried beef strips from other racers, as we all fight for our very survival in the humid, red-rocked, and ill-odered air of the Adventures in Missions campsite.
Though it was an up-hill battle through the stretch of 11 days, I did manage to keep my wits and strength about me. It all started with the packing phase, or as many racers know it, the buy-everything-the-last-minute-and-throw-stuff-in-a-bag phase. I did not succumb to the procrastination, as some of my other kind may have, but it was hard no matter. How much of this? Should I bring that? Would that make me look weird? Do I have enough space? Is that thing really worth bringing? Oh the questions go on! For those looking for a decent break down of what to pack for Training Camp, follow this very simple advice:
Pack some GRIT, because you’re going to have to embrace the struggles, smells, and uncomfortable feeling for 10 days, that which is only a simulation of the next 9-months.
I will post more later regarding specifics to packing, but that’s the best advice I’d give for now.
NOW WHERE WERE WE?
Training camp was an experience, as I tried different foods, such as fried crickets, and learned customs of different regions while eating. I showered with buckets of cold water, slept in a tent that was all too warm (except for the mornings), ate in community, really did everything in community, went to many sessions of learning how to be a missionary such as writing sermons on the go. My team and I went on 2 long and sweaty hikes through the Georgia hills, where we learned how to truly work and encourage together. I learned to tell my story, how to listen to others’ stories, and worshiped like I never had before.
Never have I ever broken down to the Lord to my knees in a worship session, and never have I truly danced during a worships session. I cried out his name, and gave him glory through it all. I won’t say that the camp completely changed me, but it did have quite the impact. Through it I also discovered more of which I really believe and how I differ from others in certain aspects, while also learning how to live in harmony with those who do differ with me. What was really important is the fact that all of us came together in harmony under One God, as we collectively worshiped Him, our Father, our Savior. My heart is now racing (no pun intended) to share the gospel with those in need, as I find theGreat Commission so powerful, that which tells me to make disciples of all nations. Blessed be the name of the Lord.
I found a beautiful definition of community, as I grew to love my team, The Becomers, so much as we invested in each other’s stories and battles. It’s a group of thinkers, lovers, and leaders, all with a beautiful diversity and unity in Christ Jesus. The first thing that comes to mind when I think of my squad as a whole would be diverse and beautiful, as they are all such amazing people with different problems and passions, that, which makes this squad so so lovable. Through training camp I discovered just how incredible the church is, and what the church should be. My focus on the Lord was aligned while training, as I dwelled in the word, learned to love the Spirit, and found myself pursuing Christ even more. What an amazing God we worship.
Of course, there was struggle, as I second guessed my calling a few times, thinking that this wasn’t the path for me, or that I simply just couldn’t do all this for nine months. Doubts occur, but my constant faith in God’s provision and guidance is stronger, and due to the encouraging team I am in, I see more of what God has in store for me. Easier said than done of course, as it is hard to maintain a discipline in reading and praying, but I am doing O.K. for now. Prayer is the best thing to ask for at the moment, as the nature of my flesh and the temptations of the Snake will come attacking through it all. My dependence and reliance on God is crucial, and such is possible with great prayer from my brothers and sisters in Christ, the Church.
I read a neat passage from the Bible, 1 Corinthians 13, which talked about the Love of the Lord and how we are to define it and act on it. The greek word Agape is used for the word Love, that which is unconditional and active. i was encouraged by such a passage and had a vision from this as to what my journey is to be about: Agape, an active love of the people and the Lord. Paul talks about things that will fail, gifts and words, but Love never fails, and I do plan to spread that Agape love to those I serve and to those in need. My thanks for those supporting me along the way, and again, all I ask is a prayer for my journey.
With Christ, with Love, Garrett Stoecker
