If I were to try to describe training camp in words and include all of the details, it would take forever. The Race doesn’t start in January, it started as soon as I arrived at Training Camp. Training Camp imitated boot camp physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. It crushed me physically (especially having to eat on $4/day), solidified my love for Christ, taught me the beauty of vulnerability, and prepared me mentally (with different sleeping scenarios each night). Jesus introduced me to a new family – brothers and sisters with whom I will have the honor of ministering to the lost and the broken around the world. For one year, we will be living out the Gospel and spreading it to the nations.
So why on earth would I leave my comfortable possessions, my hip city with its amazing coffee and food, my friends and family, my job, my bed, hot showers, chocolate?
Because I want MORE!
More of the Holy Spirit – to be stretched, to be broken, to be molded into a vessel of “honorable use.” I want the opportunity to pray for emotional and physical healing, I want to see God perform miracles through me and my team, I want to experience the power of the Holy Spirit who lives in me. Most importantly, this trip provides an opportunity for me to develop unwavering trust in my Father, spending every day leaning into Him. God is calling me to set aside the American dream because it’s not big enough! He’s given me bigger dreams – ones that will bring His kingdom to earth – namely, to speak Truth to those made in his image and to take part in the Great Commission of making disciples of all nations and bringing light into the dark places of this world.
All because He’s a “good, good Father.”
I heard Him say GO.
Immediately, the question arises in my mind, “How?” I get discouraged when it comes to fundraising. Deadlines are approaching, and I’m so many digits away still. Anxiety and fear replace faith and trust. I decided to put things under my own control by working three jobs. Finally, I broke down and cried out to God for help. One of my squad leaders spoke truth into my heart during the training camp. She reminded me of the miracle when Jesus broke five loaves of bread and two fish to feed 5,000. Those 5,000 people sat down in FAITH knowing this small meal would feed them and they would be full.
The Spirit made it clear to me that I need to SIT DOWN and lean on God in faith.
I need to believe that this small meal can multiply, that God can and WILL provide.
