Heading into training camp, it was difficult to know exactly what to expect. Any information on camp was scant and every alumni we talked to simply told us to “wait and see.” In the tradition of the World Race, we won’t reveal many secrets from camp, but simply share what the Lord taught us in those ten days.
A New Family
Under normal circumstances, I am terrified of meeting new groups of people. I feel overwhelmed around a large group of strangers, but this group of people, my squad, my new family, welcomed me in with open arms. It was such a blessing to listen to stories, laugh, cry, and experience the Lord with this group of people. We were taught during camp that authentic community is birthed from intentionally seeking relationships with one another and by being vulnerable.
I cannot wait to love these people even more throughout this journey and to experience life alongside of this new family.
A New Willpower
During camp, the men had the opportunity to venture into the wilderness and hike 18 miles of the Appalachian Trail. The Lord challenged me in two ways on this expedition. The first was to not complain, and the second was to not give anything away for others to carry.
Having never hiked anywhere close to 18 miles, much less with a weighted pack, I was nervous. I didn’t do it alone as the 10 other men on my squad hiked it with me.
The Lord spoke with many of them during the hike, but all the Lord gave me was my next step forward, because He knew that is what I needed most.
If anything, this hike taught me that the Lord is intimately acquainted with our most basic needs and He works to provide those. However, we must be willing to put in the effort. I am thankful for that long walk through nature, even if I have no desire to do it again!
A New Identity
During one of the sessions, I felt a huge breakthrough in the area of my identity in Christ. The teaching was about the story of the Prodigal Son, in it, I took the step from simply understanding my son-ship with God, to actualizing it and walking in that identity.
God showed me that I am not a long suffering servant for His Kingdom, but rather a son, redeemed and given the keys to the Kingdom.
I am partner with the Holy Spirit, not a beggar simply asking for His presence. As this realization came crashing down upon me, it brought with it a great thankfulness for all the amazing things the Father in His grace has given me. I feel a renewed intimacy and connection with God, one which I cannot wait to bring to the nations and spread my Father’s Kingdom to all corners of the Earth.
