11 Things You Can't Leave Training Camp Without
T-Squad all decked out for Squad Wars
1. A new way to look at worship
When you bring together over 200 Christ followers from varying backgrounds, denominations, and regions of the US (and a few other countries!), you remember what a creative God we have. The diversity of ways World Racers worship can take some getting used to, but with an open mind this week I saw beauty in believers giving glory to the Lord in many unique ways.
2. An appreciation for your bed
One of our "hammock cities"
I was very grateful for the rest my sleeping bag and sleeping pad provided this week. However, I must admit I was happy to return to my bed at home at the end of the week!
3. A newfound love for the color orange
We call ourselves "T-Rex Squad"
My squad (T-Squad!) sported our squad color, orange, all week. Although orange is not exactly my favorite color, I found myself wearing giant orange dollar-store sunglasses and anything else I could find in support of my new family. I can never look at orange the same way again.
4. An understanding that home really is where the heart is
T-Squad's tents all set up for our first night at Training Camp
Inevitably, I will be spending part of my time on the World Race living in my Marmot Limelight 2 tent. This may not seem like thrilling news, but I have come to understand that anywhere can become home if you have the right perspective. (And it really is kind of cozy in there!)
5. A new skill
Our campsite for one night
No one left Camp this week without widening their skill set in some way. Whether it was digging a latrine, constructing a shelter, cooking over a fire, or stringing up a hammock inside a school bus, everyone learned something new. We even gained some training on how to write better blogs, work with translators, and lead worship with people who don't understand the words you're singing.
6. A feeling of being challenged
God doesn't want complacent acquaintances. He challenged me this week to dig deeper and love greater. He has plans He wants to accomplish through me this year, and that can only happen if I'm completely willing to serve in whatever capacity He reveals to me. Pray for a humbling of my heart to love as Jesus does.
7. A few less things than you started with
After plenty of practice this week, we're all much better at packing our backpacks efficiently!
Let's just say that after carrying around close to 40 pounds of stuff for a week, you realize you can do without quite a bit. My list of "absolutely necessary items" for the Race has shrunk by at least a few lines. I am already seeing how God truly provides for my needs, and that my wants become less important when I rely on Him.
Also, when you live in a close community of believers and someone needs an extra tent stake or a squirt of Purell, you don't think twice about digging into your pack to see how you can help.
8. A few more Facebook friends
My team: Team Impression (Kelsey, Dave, Rene, Logan, Becca, Hannah, and me)
I was so excited to meet the 55 people I will be traveling with this year. Let me assure you, they did not disappoint! I am thrilled with the body of believers God has called me to join on the World Race. It is amazing how one week stirred such a love in my heart for people I just met!
I loved stumbling upon groups of people spending time quietly with the Lord!
It was amazing to be in a place where everyone is in an active relationship with Christ. Sadly, it's not often we get a chance to be completely surrounded by brothers and sisters in Christ, much less by those who are called to be missionaries for His Kingdom. I feel honored to be a part of the World Race family!
9. A smaller stomach and an expanded palate
Eating meals in community
Sometimes on the Race, my teammates and I may be eating things we'd rather not eat. Sometimes we may eat and still be hungry. This week, we learned to rely more on the Lord for sustenance than what was on our plates. (If we had plates, that is!)
For one of our last meals, we got some American food: macaroni and cheese and French fries!
During Training Camp this week, I tried some new foods and experienced new customs and eating etiquettes. Although we don't know exactly what circumstances we may find ourselves in on the real Race, I can see already that God will not forsake us. Pray we'll be able to give up our norm with glad hearts and accept whatever God provides us with on the Race with gratitude.
10. A greater appreciation and love for Adventures In Missions
Here's Carly, one of the alumni Racers who helped train T-Squad
Before this week, I didn't feel like I knew very much about Adventures In Missions, the Christian organization that started the World Race. I was given the wonderful opportunity to get to know several AIM staff members and volunteers at Camp, including some alumni Racers. I was blown away by the evidence of the Holy Spirit in each of them. These people speak God's Truth boldly, worship Him freely, and pour out His love unconditionally. Every decision that had to be made and every part of our days' activities began with prayer. I am so assured of the Lord's presence in this organization! I know they will take good care of me this year!
11. A stronger love for the Lord
God showed up at Training Camp. He brought up painful pasts all around to replace them with His promises. God drew out hurts in the hearts of His children so He could mend them with His love. He revealed His glory in ways that left me in awe. What a marvelous God we serve!
Now that I have spent a week living on less with the incredible people of T- Squad, I am even more excited to begin this journey. Please continue to pray for me and my squadmates as we spend our last few weeks in the US preparing for a year away from the comforts of home. Thank you, each person who is reading this, for your part in serving Christ's Kingdom through the World Race!
