My U-Squad family,
I have loved getting to call you family for now over one year. We have laughed together, cried together, worshiped together, travelled and served together, been used by the Lord to heal, bring freedom, teach, and speak life. We’ve put each other first above ourselves and we’ve learned what real love looks like. I never knew that in October of 2010 I would meet 42 (including Sage and Julie) people who would challenge me, love me, and honor me. Each one of you has touched my heart and life, and I give God all the glory for the relationships He’s formed. I’m blessed to call each one of you FAMILY! Thank you for sticking with me through all the hard times and encouraging me to go deeper with people and the Lord. He’s rocked our WORLD’S this year guys, and just think….This is the BEGINNING! We don’t stop here U-Squad. Now, we’ve been given the chance to take this year of experiences and reliance and adoration with our beautiful Savior, and live even more passionately and wholeheartedly in LOVE with Him back home. We’re at the perfect place, U-Squad, to live out loud. Now let’s do this. We were commissioned in Phuket, Thailand at launch to reach the world and bring Heaven to earth. Well, now, we are entering a new season…….for some it might be continuing to show His love to the NATIONS, and for some it will be doing that at home. All of us, though, will be worshiping with NEW abandon, we will be FULL of His grace and mercy, we will be SELFLESS, pure, confident, joy bringers, lovers, WE will bring freedom where there is bondage, we will spread the GOOD NEWS, and we will HEAL! We’ve learned these things this year, now let’s spread it EVERYWHERE! U-Squad, thank you for giving God your whole self, you aren’t only a blessing to me…you’re a blessing to HIS HEART!
“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent me to heal the broken hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn, to console those who mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified…But you shall be named the priests of the Lord, they shall call you the servants of our God.” Isaiah 61:1-6
I want to take the opportunity to speak out what I see, what God sees in each one of you. I’ve had the privilege of living beside you this year and I have seen EVERY SINGLE ONE OF YOU change. You are not the same as a year ago. Like Hughes says, “I’m freer today than I was yesterday!” And I see SO many Christ-like qualities in you! I’m so glad that the Lord has drawn you closer to Him this year in OBVIOUS ways! These things that I’m saying about you are TRUTH, they are things that I have SEEN this year and love about each of you You’re awesome!
Each of these roles is needed to create the Body of Christ! There’s no coincidence that U-Squad didn’t have anyone go home, it’s because every single person was needed to do God’s work. He required YOU, ME, US, to transform this world. YOU are in His plan, His will…he chose YOU. Blessed are the faithful. An anthem of our squad will ring out as we enter into this new journey, “I lean not on my own understanding. My life is in the HANDS of the MAKER OF HEAVEN. I give it all to YOU, God, trusting that you’ll make something BEAUTIFUL out of me. I will climb this mountain with my HANDS WIDE OPEN. There’s NOTHING I HOLD ON TO! There’s NOTHING I HOLD ON TO!!!!” I love you guys!
THIS is who you are…
Kelsey Sage– Sage, you have a way with people that blows my mind. There is so much courage and fight inside of you and other people are set on fire by the flame God has given you. You’re a joy bringer, and a life giver! You are so free to be USED by Him! I see so much selflessness in you! You’re WILD Sage
Julie Lortz– You carry with you the Lord’s gentleness and lovingkindness. I see Christ honored through the way you speak soft words that carry so much weight. You embrace the idea of being quick to listen and slow to speak. But when you speak girl, you move something inside of others and push them towards greatness. Jesus is SO pleased to sit with you as you worship Him and loves it when you encourage others!
Chelsea Hughes– Radiant Wind of Laughter! You light up a room with the Spirit inside of you! Your freedom frees others to enter into greatness Chels! As you twirl your ribbon, and sing will all you have, you usher in the Holy Spirit and He pours Himself out on us JOY, Boldness, Leadership, and a voice that calls out truths in other people! How refreshing it is to the Lord to be loved by you and also to pour out His love ON YOU! I Love it!
Courtney Buckner– There is such a gentle confidence about you. You’re the kind of leader who doesn’t even have to speak, people just follow! There is so much wisdom in you and your encouragement is straight from the Lord! God has blessed you with strength that comes so softly…it soothes and comforts. You’re beautiful Court, from the inside to the outside! And people feel comfortable with you because there is no judgment. You trust people and always see the GOOD inside of them!
Jake Morris– Anointed! You have this boldness and excitement in you for the Lord! It pumps me up!!! God takes delight in your devotion and also your rest and reliance in Him. Jake, you lead by example and that perseverance is fed by your TRUE love and devotion to the Lord. Everything you do and say reveals your love for Him and others, and He takes so much joy in seeing that love worked out in you on a daily basis! You’re a leader of revival for this generation! The Lord has chosen YOU for great things, and I mean GREAT! Keep it up “Favored Son of Promise.”
Chelsea Cordell– Encouragement, mercy and unconditional love. You have an ear for the Spirit. God speaks to you so clearly and you are so faithful in sharing those insights with others! You’re a steward of His words and truths! You have this knack for making people feel welcome and safe with you! You have the MIND of Christ and it shows as you keep stepping out in faith! Selfless and generous! Gift of art and prayer! I love you and thank you for loving me so well this year!
Chelsea Brunts– A gentle answer turns away wrath and that is YOU! You are a peacemaker! Your character is filled with peace! I love how you love on other people! You bring in an aura of happiness to anywhere you are! Chels, God has given you a great balance between goofiness and being serious and speaking encouraging words. But bold enough to tell the hard things in love as well! You make me so happy Chels, and God smiles when He thinks of you!
Hannah Bashor– Beauty! Inside and out. Hannah, you are a woman to be called blessed. The Lord has a BEAUTIFUL desire for your life and the purity you walk in daily is preparation for a life directed by the Lord. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness…You are being FILLED to the top by the Spirit and He is loving every minute of the way you make much of Him! You brag on Him with your life
Carrie Hokanson– God has given you so much energy. Your adventurous side makes people excited to be with you. And your gentle side helps others be able to relax with you. Both very important things you bring out in those who get the pleasure of being in your company. God has given you such desires so that you can reach so many people, and I’ve seen in you how you always choose to make life FUN! You bring others into that excitement and I love and He loves how it’s always directed back towards HIM!!!
Charles McCall– Cherished! Char-les, you make God proud. You care deeply about God first and you bring others to that place. You truly FEEL for others needs and I know that empathy brings gladness to His heart! He has huge plans for your life and I know He’s going to use your kind spirit and compassion to help others. You comfort and you encourage. And Charlesies, you have been an honor to be on a team with, you aren’t only a great leader, but an amazing friend! Love you!
Chelsea O’Leary– JOY. JOY. JOY. I love how your identity is rooted in the truth of what God says about you. When you love girl, you L.O.V.E. God has gifted you with emotions. You feel. God moves you from the inside out. And that moves ME! You are a TRUSTED friend and you’ve helped me get through some crazy times. You also have a gift of knowing other people’s feelings. You care so much for the happiness and comfort of others! I know during this next season that you will be that same encouragement you are to me! Thank you for your love Chels.
Alison Ingle– You Ali-son, have a voice that empowers angels when you sing! I’ve never known someone who has so much confidence but it is never a source of arrogance for you! You give God all the GLORY for your giftings and you have so many! Your voice, your words, your mind, your self-control, and patience. You’re a mercy giver! You break chains from hardened hearts. And God has blessed you with a supernatural mind. Intelligent and WISE! I love you and you are Beautiful!!
Jamie Campbell– You are a servant. I see so clearly the heart that the Lord has given you for children. You show real love and care to orphans, widows, and the poor. Even if that means ringworm, lice infected kids that hug on you, you see straight past that! Jesus even stresses His love for children, and you have that characteristic of His heart! The Lord delights in YOU!
Cole Campbell– Man, you are a hard worker. God reminds us to keep our selves busy with hard work but also to rest and rely on Him! You do that combination of things so well! You are a role model for young men and an example of the Lord’s gentleness and strength. And you and Jamie are amazing examples of how Christ loves us, his church! He loves your faithfulness in all areas of your life!
Michael Hall– Love and servanthood. You are a gentleman who loves your women well Mike! Each month I see you pick out a few people to pour into, and I know that God has put His love and childlike faith inside of you so you can share it with those people. He has exciting things in store for you and I can’t wait to see how He uses that LOVE to change people’s lives!! You have a heart for service and for others! Even above your own comfort. It’s a blessing! Thank you for serving me this year Michael “Russell” Hall 😉
Andrew Habermas– You are a BOLD man who knows God’s voice. I’ve loved seeing you grow into your freedom Andrew! I believe that He has used your musical talents to open up prison doors for yourself and for others. As you’ve brought our squad into true times and places of worship, each time He’s poured more giftings out on you because you use them for HIS GLORY! Spiritually gifted in Music. He’s given you your song this year. Your life is an example of love and freedom!
Lauren Black– Your heart for your family was used this year to make U-Squad a family. You care for and comfort and serve so well, I love your devotion to those you love. Lauren, you are going to make a wonderful mom, in the sense that you CARE deeply and unconditionally. You are someone who will ALWAYS stand up for and take care of those you love, and it’s not out of any sort of obligation or need of it, you just are made with the instinct to care. I love your heart and your service and am blessed to have you a part of my life. You’re also a gifted planner and LEADER! Love you bunches!
Rachel Ritsema– The Spirit fills you up and He overflows from you. I love how everything in your life points you to the Lord. You have this gift of seeing simple things and giving God credit, or really complex things and knowing God created it. How blessed is His heart to know that you see HIM in everything! It’s such a gift Rachel!! You help others see Him and smell His sweetness.
Tye Ritsema– You are trustworthy. You encourage, and you’re a counselor! The Lord has placed in you a desire to help people. Not just in trivial things, but in things that can lead them out of despair and hopelessness into the arms of our Father! What an honor you have in that, and what great responsibility! Thank you for your obedience to Him and your heart for others! Your approachable demeanor uplifts other people and it helps bring peace to people’s hearts
Nicole Pearson– Meek, Gentle, pure, bold, confident woman. I feel like I could look up all synonyms for “Good” and they would all fit you Nicole! You have this presence that makes other people want what you have! God’s given you the gift of prayer, gentleness, confidence, faithfulness, and I could keep naming for days things that He’s blessed you with. You will always follow the Lord even if times are tough! Gifted teacher and I see you changing lives all around the world, even after this year! You’re a prayer warrior who loves and shows constant passion for His name to be glorified and the Kingdom to come down to earth!
Mark Norris– Peacemaker. You’re intentional and selfless. Your generous spirit makes others fell special and blessed! Mark, you always look out for other people’s best interests and truly care to ask someone how their day is going. You desire to see other people happy and that sometimes comes at the cost of you being uncomfortable, but you never care! I love how God has placed a desire in you to care for people and it to always be after HIM! You are an example of loving God first and loving others above yourself!
Julie Malament– Firecracker! You’re excitement for life brings joy to your surroundings. When you speak out, words of life pour forth. And I just love to see how much happiness you have in the midst of any circumstance you’re put in. God loves your excitement for LIFE and for HIM and I love being around that! You spur people on to do the same! You’re eagerness is contagious! I know He’s going to use that as you step into what’s next. It’s bigger and better than you could even imagine. He has great plans for you Julie!
Ben Gagne– We joke about the “test-a-message” but it’s true! Your walk with God testifies to His goodness and love. And when you speak what He tells you, lives are radically changed. You live out evangelism even when no words are needed. Ben, I can’t even explain how honored I am to be able to call you friend, and how proud God is of the man you are. I can just see Him looking at you and having that look on His face of a proud Father! You get it Ben. You have wisdom beyond your years and I know…KNOW, that your life is being used by Him for HIS glory.
Trey Genser– Dang. Your excitement is infectious! And when you worship in that joy, you release others to freedom in bringing Him glory. Whatever that looks like! Trey, you let nothing hold you back or get you down. Jesus is standing there and you are running, sprinting even so you can get closer to Him! He’s changing everything inside of you and you are being refined. I see a solid piece of metal that is so strong but so radiant at the same time. That’s you T-rey! You’re solid, but you also know you’re worth and value to Him. You’re life is such a testimony to HIS LOVE, GRACE, and MERCY. What an honor to be able to show people that side of His character!
Kasey Brinson– Steadiness defines you. Your steadiness is settling for us! You have this constant passion for experiencing Jesus and your determination in life makes me desire more!! You have this consistency in following the Lord and I love how I know it will never waver. Kasey, you run the race well and Jesus loves your fight! You push people on towards Him with everything you are and I love your honesty and power when you speak. I see the sweet, soft side of you too and know that you seek my best interests. I love knowing that you CARE! You really do care for people SO well!!!
Crystal Adams– You have a confident wisdom. And a desire to see people, and yourself walk in what God has called you to. Crystal, you have this way of knowing what people need to hear. Whether it be constructive or comforting. It’s like you know exactly what to say at the right point in people’s lives to push them into greater dependence and excitement for the Lord. Because you so carefully but confidently share what the Lord has put on your heart, I TRUST you completely. He has entrusted you with such wisdom Crystal, and I’m so happy I got to be close to you and experience that wisdom. I know it will be a blessing to people back at home too. He’s got such great plans for you!
Beka Fritz– You are SO creative! Your time and energy are focused on helping in whatever you can! You make art a way of showing other people God’s greatness and power! Beka, you also are so conscious of pouring your time into relationships. You have a gift of conversation! That sounds not so great, but trust me it IS!! You welcome people and invest TIME into them. That speaks so much that you would care so much to give people your attention and affection! You pour into others no matter how long it takes, so sacrificing of yourself. I love it and Jesus takes joy in your selflessness!
Justin Hanes– You lead so well! Like I’ve told you before, your life is evidence of the fruit of the Spirit! People naturally follow you. Justin, God’s just given you the ability to be awesome! Haha, I’m serious though! You’re just an all around guy who give God the glory. You’re so blessed Justin and I’m so blessed by you! The way you love us and the way you love your wife, it inspires me to love with that same unconditional love! Great steward of His blessings on your life! You love, you give, you’re funny, handsome, a great husband, a great friend and brother, and just blessed beyond measure! Thank you for using it to bring Him glory and to help people!
Tiffany Hanes– You’re a lover, a planner, Biblical wife and friend! Tiff, you see what needs to be done when others can’t. You work HARD but aren’t afraid to FOCUS on Him You’re a caretaker and comforter. Generosity is in your bones! It’s so easy to open up to you because you are so transparent in your weaknesses and strengths! You aren’t afraid to be real with people and when you trust someone you pour yourself into it wholeheartedly. That makes you an amazing friend Tiff! You have LOVED me this year and you work hard for your relationships! Thank you for always being so dead set on me. You pursue the Lord and you pursued me this year. I love your friendship and will cherish it for my life!
Brittany Dunlap– Influence. People look at you and want to be like you. And you ALWAYS point that attention to the Lord. You help people see the Lord and experience Him like never before! “The God who see’s me,” He sees you and you point others to Him. What a cool way that all happens isn’t it? I think you have the gift of making people feel important. I know that ultimately it all goes back to the Lord, but there’s lots of power in influencing other people to know they are loved and cared for. You have a way of making other people know and experience the love of the Lord. WOW!
Cathy Callicut– When I think of you, I think of unconditional love. Not only do you love well, but Calli, you aren’t bound by expectations or by actions…your love comes with no exceptions! You do the little gestures that make other people feel so worthy to be loved! You love well, and ARE LOVED WELL! You have made me smile so many times this year by your lightheartedness. And you also pour out your love on children! Kids flock to you and it’s so sweet and special to see you hug them and them run up to you! You’re a bringer of love, joy and hope!
Jess Monfort– Lighthearted woman who knows who she is in Christ. When you reach out to people, they feel welcomed! You make people feel comfortable in themselves. Open and caring!!! I love to see your goofy side come out, and despite your maturity, you are so much FUN! I see in you such a hard worker, and an ambitious woman, but also just a fun lighthearted person as well! You know who you are and are confident in helping other people achieve that same confidence!
Jessie Kyarsgaard– Woman, YOU are confident and radiantly beautiful!! Women look up to you and desire not only your company, but your advice! There’s a certain vulnerability that you have that makes others feel comfortable to talk to you and wisdom from God that gives you insight and great advice. You lead and love well.
Sarah Knapp– You have such a tender spirit! There’s a real concern for how people are feeling and you can sympathize, comfort and console. Nurturer/comforter. You engage with people who are different than you with such ease and sweetness! You’re a translator with gifting to learn languages! I’ve enjoyed getting to know that sweet side of you this year
Steven Chun– Joy. Spirit. Fighter. You fight for those around you to live Christ filled! You’re a strong decision maker and you trust yourself and the Lord’s voice speaking to you. Your words carry a lot of weight. I believe that God has gifted you with prophesy and with intercession. This is going to be something that He keeps bringing out more and more in your life. Keep trusting the words that He gives you
Justin Warren– Steady. Constant. True worshiper. A man that won’t waver from his calling or the Lord. Justin, you are a man who seeks after the Lord with everything. You don’t doubt the Lord or make brash decisions, instead you live out patience, self-control and faith. I love seeing how you live your life in such desire for it to be pleasing to the Lord. With that though, there is so much freedom to follow Him. You don’t live under the law, but under GRACE! So cool!
Alicia Jones– You’re a planner. I love how helpful to all your teammates and contacts you are. You bring people together, Alicia. Keep speaking out those truths about others, you bring joy and hope to those around you and you really do have so much to say! Speak out!! You’re also a great listener…I feel so free to be me around you and that’s HUGE! I know it will be so great for the people in your life back home too. Share your heart and let others do the same woohoo!
Misty Anderson– Sweet Misty, kindness defines you! I have never seen you upset or mad and that kindness that you show EVERYBODY is a rare and special blessing to you and to those that get to be around you. I’ve seen so much growth in you this year, not only in how you care for others, but in how you care for yourself and for the Lord! You are such a gentle spirit and easy going! It’s a blessing to your team and to people back at home. You lead in a quiet way and you never fight against people unless it’s necessary! I love that gumption you have to be original! You are yourself Misty, and everyone loves you for that! You have a sweet, sweet spirit and presence about you! The Father loves loving on you!!!
Birdie Ephraim– You walk out your devotion and adoration for the Lord. There is so much in you to reach the nations for Him and not just reach but CHANGE! Prayers that change atmospheres! I see how you are so faithful and obedient in the small things that God has entrusted you with. I am excited and know He is going to use you to bring hope to nations, to preach the gospel, to pray for people and they are healed through His power. Girl, you are so consumed by Him and His presence radiates from you! I’m blessed to call you my friend and sister Birdie!
Bri Arnold– You have a Beautiful voice!! I know when you go home you’re going to have more and more opportunities to use that to bless our Father’s heart! You’re a Gifted teacher. God hasn’t given you that desire and talent for no reason, it’s just going to be realizing in His timing how that will be used in your life. You’re a Caretaker. You’re boldness to declare truths about yourself and others is infectious. Your Powerful prayers break off fear and oppression! Get it!
Katy Gurley– Katy, girl, you have a Sweet spirit. I love spending time with you because your joy and FUN makes peace wherever you are! You also have so much creativity inside of you. You have a Natural understanding of His beauty. And you’re a possessor of Childlike faith, which pleases the Lord that you can trust Him with your everything. Grace and Mercy are inside you and He’s growing them even more as we speak!
Kim Brown– When you speak, God’s words come out! He’s given you a gift for encouragement as well as exhortation! Kim, your identity this year has been moved from what others think and how you see yourself, to what the LORD says about you!! It’s so refreshing to be around you and for you to KNOW who you are As you go home, you’re going to be releasing more women into that same freedom you’ve come to realize this year. Set them free girl!!
U-Squad Men– Just a quick tidbit…You have LOVED the women of U-Squad well! Not only that, but you have each been used by the Lord to bring us (the women) into the place we are with Him now. You have honored us beyond anything we could ever imagine and have been the example to us of how Christ sees us. You have been God’s voice this year and have changed not only us, but the NATIONS! You are men of influence and for the rest of your lives and as you pass on these gifts to your children, people will be changed. As you seek out the Lord continually, you will help others come to know HIM and it’s ALLLLLL for His glory! I love you, Men of U-Squad. You’ve set the bar pretty high
U-Squad Women– WOW! I seriously have never been surrounded by such BEAUTIFUL women! You are all beautiful on the outside, but the hearts inside are so pure and sweet. At the India debrief, Michael Hindes said we were a “sweet” squad…well, I believe that’s because of the heart God put inside of our women. You care so much about honoring each other and LOVING and serving. You each have given up physical comfort and expectations this year and you have set free so many other women along the way! This year, God has replaced our hearts for His own, and you have each used that to bless this WORLD! He has prepared you for honoring and serving your future family and has SUCH good things planned for you!!! You are not women who will SETTLE any longer! You are FIGHTERS! You are LOVERS! You are RADIANT!!! I love you and am honored to work beside you and be loved by you. I’m so glad that I’ll have you all for the rest of my life! <3
I LOVE YOU ALL!
GOD BLESS,
Genae <3
