“How was training camp?” “Tell me all about it!”
Honestly it’s hard to put into words. I’m still processing and journaling everything so I don’t forget. And I don’t really know where to start, so I will try my best.
Meet my crazy, fun, God-fearing, loving, and one of a kind squad!!!
We slept in a tent every night in the freezing cold.
Packed and unpacked our gear almost every day.
I got 3-4 hours of sleep the first 4 nights.
We took freezing cold bucket showers and still felt and smelled dirty.
We ate weird food just about every day.
I was stretched outside my comfort zone and forced to trust those around me I just met.
We ate with our hands on a community plate among 7 other people at almost every meal.
I hiked 2.2 miles with a 35 pound hiking backpack in 30 minutes.
We were put in scenarios that we will most likely be in on the race.
I strategically learned how to use a porta potty without smelling things you’ll never unsmell.
I met the other 40 people I’ll be traveling with next year & my team I’ll be with for the first 4 months.
I didn’t wear makeup for the majority of the time (my comfort blanket) yet every day someone on my squad gave me a genuine compliment.
I saw 40 other people serve the Lord and others willingly and joyfully WITHOUT complaining.
I learned how powerful prayer is and to be obedient in the small things.
I was fully present and engaged with everyone around me because I didn’t have distractions!!!
I went evangelizing for the first time in the states.
We worshiped from the depths of our souls for hours each day.
I have experienced just a glimpse of how much the Father loves me.
I was forced into conversations I didn’t like or want to have but they. were. necessary.
I cried A LOT of healing tears I’ve held onto for so long.
But most of all I was saturated with the Word daily and I experienced new revelations from the Holy Spirit. Witnessed healings and prophesies for myself and others. Watched generational curses and chains be broken. And saw the Lord move in so many ways in so many people’s lives. My calling for this World Race Trip has been confirmed in more than one way. It has gotten SO real.
I have never been around a community of 40 people and felt so welcomed, accepted, and loved in 10 days. We are all so different, come from many different backgrounds, and stories, yet we just GET each other. Will there be rough times? Absolutely, I expect that. (Have you read the Gospels? Lol.) but at the end of the day we all have the same goal in mind, to share with the world what Christ has done for us and the love that changed our lives and eternity forever! I am so SO expectant for this upcoming year and all the Lord has in store not just for me, my team, or squad, but for those we will come in contact with! All fear has been removed and replaced with his perfect peace.
Now meet my team!!
(from left to right)
Tabitha Simmons
Our team leader! She has the patience of an angel and is wise beyond her years. She walks in the Spirit and doesn’t stray from it. I know that I will learn a lot from her by the way she leads confidently.
Julie Watson
We are very similar. She comes up and gives me a hug or will simply rub my back in moments where I need it without asking. I love being in her presence because she has such grace when she speaks.
McKenzie Murdock
Strong and bold. Sassy and fierce. She makes sure everyone feels included and creates a safe place with whoever comes in her presence. So wise and firmly secure in her relationship with God. She is so honest and true.
Aleesa Byrne
She is dedicated and determined. The kind of person who fights for you. She is hardworking and doesn’t stop until the job is done. She always means well and I can see her walls slowly coming down.
Ashley Smith
Loving and caring to all those around her. Knows where she is going. Doesn’t leave anyone behind, in the kind of way that she will be there with you so you’re not alone.
My team is made up of strong and bold women!! We are seeking God’s will and favor upon us as we continue each day. I truly believe we will encounter a deeper understanding of God’s love for us through each other. I look at these women and see Jesus. I cannot wait to serve them and with them!!! I would lay my life down for every one of them no hesitation. I can’t believe I’ve lived this long without knowing them. Just think, in less than 2 months our lives will be RADICALLY upside down and we thought these last 10 days changed us… I can only imagine what we will think a year from now.
Thank you every single person who has partnered with me in prayer, encouragement, and financially. I could not do this without you!
Thank you for reading,
–Lauren
