Training Camp was, in a word, transformative. Every aspect was intentional and purposeful even in the smallest details! In preparing for camp, many of my thoughts were occupied by what I’d heard about the experience from other sources– exposure to strange foods and cultural norms, bucket showers, realistic travel/ministry scenarios, tenting, physical fitness tests, how on EARTH to fit everything into one bag, etc. And yes, all of this was part of the experience! I tasted a centennial egg and ate a cricket, poured freezing cold water down my back, jogged a few miles with my pack and learned a lot about camping! But honestly these things are now some of the last things I think of when asked about camp. The truths presented, love exemplified, relationships built and vision casted- THIS is what it was about. Gosh, I love this squad and it’s leadership. I know there’s going to be so much growth in community over this next year. And with a little (or a lot) of grace, I know we’re up for the challenge.
It would probably take me weeks to unpack every take away from Training Camp. (Hey, let’s get together and I’ll tell you all I can!) But as I was thinking about what I really wanted to say in this blog, a particular word came to mind.
CALL:
1. To name; to denominate or give a name. In a word? Identity. Intimacy with God was a theme throughout the entire duration of camp. Not only understanding, but taking ownership of and being obedient to who God has called me to be; his child, his follower and a partner in his Kingdom. I am loved by him and he calls me worthy because my worth is hidden in his infinite worthiness.
2. To convoke; to summon; to direct or order to meet; to invite or summon to come or be present. Jesus said to take the gospel to the nations. There are still people who haven’t heard. Ephesians 1, Isaiah 62 and Matthew 28 among others, all allow a glance into this reconciliation that God has for the nations and we get to be a part of it.
God says, “Rebuild the road!
Clear away the rocks and stones
so my people can return from captivity.” (Isa. 57:14)
Our mission- what we are called to- our hope, our joy is to clear away the barriers- the rocks and stones- whether they be physical, spiritual, political, or cultural to rebuild a road for people to truly know God. This is a lifelong mission that should consume every moment. Not just a year of our lives. As our leaders at AIM so diligently reminded us, “life is ministry and ministry is life”.
3. To utter a loud sound, or to address by name; to utter the name; sometimes with to. To address by name. One of the most valuable things that was emphasized at camp was the importance of calling something or someone by name. Being knowledgeable about a country, culture and ultimately a person. Be willing to get personal, to ask the uncomfortable questions. To take extra care to shower a person with respect, honor and love. To figure out with great care, the best way to communicate the hope of the Gospel to each individual. God gets personal, why shouldn’t we?
These things are just a peak into what we focused on during camp, all wrapped up in the practical knowledge of how to communicate effectively, take care physically, be wise culturally, be personally responsible and accountably and diligently share our experiences. More to come!!! Thank you for partnering with me and sharing my journey! Here’s some pics from camp!
Enjoy, and keep a look out for more updates coming soon!
P.S. To my most recent anonymous supporter, THANK YOU!!!!! I am now only $2,053 away from my 2nd goal of 10k before launch!!!! I am overwhelmed with your guys’ support. Thank you for sending me!
This is Expedition (M) Squad! So much love for these people.
Our “mighty mighty M squad”! Can you tell most were raised in the 90s?
Meeting some of our incredible leaders.
Some of the most impactful times were spent in prayer and speaking life over each other. I am forever grateful for the things spoken over me during these times.
Our home during camp! SO much fun learning this new skill. Lol
