So, at training camp, we were told to be intentional when choosing a team name because names can be prophetic. My teammates and I put a lot of thought and prayer into choosing the name RIse Up. We felt that God confirmed that when we went out for evangelism day and stopped at a gas station. Frank bought a tea and when he read the bottle, he said, "Hey guys, this says rise up on the bottle!" So, team Rise Up we became. Anyway, I have always been interested in the meanings of names so I decided to see what the names of my teammates mean.
Sarah Marie- God's beloved princess. There really is not a better way to describe Sarah. She radiates what it means to be a beloved daughter of the King…which also makes her a princess. She is a quiet woman, but when she does speak, you had better listen because she is full of wisdom.
Hannah Kay- Grace of God, one that rejoices. Hannah demonstrates God's grace to others daily. She feels called to fulltime missionary work and that is so evident when she talks to people. She is so loving to everyone and rejoices when they make a decision for Christ. Also, this woman knows her Bible like nobody's business.
Jill Lauren- Sweetheart that is Victorious. Jill truly truly is a sweetheart. She really has a gift for preferring others. She is our leader but always makes sure she listens to all of our opinions before making a decision. Jill walks in victory. She makes the decision daily to choose in and just go for it, no matter what others think or whether they choose in or out. She's really cool too.
Kelly Elizabeth- Bold, Worshipper of God. I have a lot to live up too.
Steven Jeffrey- Crowned One, Gift of Peace. Steve is amazing with kids, especially little boys. You can difinitely see his crown when he plays with the kiddos. He is so alive and peaceful with those kids. Here in India, he has been a hero to the 10 orphan boys we have.
Blake Colby- Pale, dark-haired. Blake's name is a contradiction and coincidentally, so is he. On one hand, he is a straightlaced, serious, accountant who grew up on a farm, and he has all these qualities. But Blake is funny, he knows how to play and have fun. He is great with people. He can talk to a brick wall. He blesses so many people through the words he says. God really speaks through him. Also, old ladies think he is super cute and the ladies in the Indian village keep asking if he is married.
Franklin Randall- Franklin means Free Man and Randall means shield rim, so Frank's parents gave him a really bold name. Frank has been walking in freedom recently and it is so beautiful. He is also helping others to discover their freedom. He is becoming quite the leader. He is our team's shield. He protects us. He is street savy and able to talk his way out of any situation…and trust me, even thouh he might deny it, he'd protect any of the women on the team with his life. He's a funny guy too.
Rise Up- To take part in a rebellion. Yeah, we are rebelling. We are rebelling against injustice, evil, hurt, complacency, and rising up to be the men and women that God created us to be.
