Training camp was a long, exhausting week (7/14-7/21) in Toccoa Falls, Georgia. But it was absolutely incredible. And of course, in a lot of ways it was not what people wanted or expected, but certainly what God knew we each needed. For me, it was a spiritual, physical, and emotional roller coaster, an intense but necessary one.
I definitely experienced sensory overload, from the somewhat awkward, freshman-like greetings at ATL airport to a bustling cafeteria of 300 Racers eating African ugali. At the start of camp, I felt both insecure and excited, and I had to kind of push myself to be outgoing and intentional with people around me. But I always found myself having awesome, genuine conversations with these strangers. God had prepared me for real talk with these inspiring, eager people I can now lovingly call my family. Such passionate, crazy, gifted people!! We were brought together not only by Christ, but more specifically by our divinely inspired decision to embark on this ridiculous, life-changing journey. We shared joys and struggles regarding discernment, fundraising, and support from loved ones. It’s amazing how much we have in common, yet how beautifully unique each of our stories is.
Throughout camp, the Lord truly revealed Himself to me and literally made me speechless… As Father: the best Daddy a daughter could ever need, disciplining me but showering me with endless grace, arms always wide open for a comforting embrace. As Son: the undeniable power in the name of Jesus to break chains, to crucify the flesh and bring about new, resurrected life through Christ. As Holy Spirit: the tangible presence and convicting guidance of the wonderful Counselor, both a gentle dove and a mighty, electric force. And as the Trinity: the body of Christ, many but one, reflected in the wildly sacrificial love I witnessed in squadmates and leaders.
What did some of this look like, manifested? Tearful laments, joyful praises, cathartic groans, uninhibited dances, unceasing prayers. Breaking and remaking. Emotional and physical healing. Awesome revelation. Miracles. Freedom.
I left training camp with a confidence of being made new, drinking of the richness that lies in brokenness and refinement. God gave me renewed hope and increasing desperation for Jesus!
I found freedom in desperation.
Desperation -> greater intimacy and humility -> Spirit’s freedom!
I LOVE L Squad and my team so much, and it’s evident that the Lord has carved out spaces for each and every member to both give and receive amazing things. I’m blessed to have five amazing sisters and brothers with me on TEAM TUMBLER! (To clarify, my squad = 62 of us on Route 4, going to the same countries, my team = 6 of us living and doing ministry together.) Check out their blogs below! 🙂
+ Erin Beekhuis (our team leader!)
+ Michelle Close
+ Christopher Courtney
+ Laura Johnson
+ Ed Olivett
[***Side note: Please visit my HOME page for my fundraising update. Currently, I’m holding a 50/50 RAFFLE until August 12 to meet my upcoming deadline! Click HERE to enter the raffle by buying one or more $11 ticket(s)!]
