I just got back from a 10 day training camp in good ole Gainesville, Georgia. I can’t put into words all the feelings, thoughts and emotions that keep running through my head about training camp. But I do know that in just 10 days 42 strangers found a permanent place in my heart as brothers and sisters in Christ. These 42 people are some of the most amazing people I have ever met, and I hope one day you have the opportunity to know them as well as I do. In 10 days I realized what the power of prayer and worship can do for my relationship with Jesus. In 10 days I learned just how awesome it is to abandon everything, meet strangers in an airport, and start living life with them. If you want to read more about how awesome training camp was make sure to check out some of my squad mates blogs (they are seriously amazing, and their writing skills are crazy good).
After 10 days I finally realized my purpose for going on this mission’s trip. I now know why God has called me to go around the world and follow him, and the answer hit me when I came home.
After an unwanted goodbye to all my friends at the Atlantic airport, I got on my plane and was soon headed to MSP. I got off the plane and an instant smile hit my face, which was probably weird to many onlookers. But for some reason I just couldn’t control it, I was just happy. When I got to baggage claim I finally found my Dad. His smile matched mine and he immediately wrapped me in a huge hug. That’s when it hit me. That’s when I knew. I finally had answers. God called me to go on this mission’s trip to bring His children home.
“Return to the Lord your God, for He is merciful and compassionate, slow to anger and filled with unfailing love. He is eager to forgive, and not punish.” Joel 2:13
I was called to go, to go and proclaim the gospel so His children would know that they are never too far. They need to know that no amount of sin could keep God from loving them. I need to go and let all who I encounter know that they are never alone- God is with them forever and always. Whether they have turned their back to Him, or have never heard of Him, God is good, God is there, and God wants them to run to Him. He wants them to be searching for Him, because He’s waiting for them. His smile is huge and His arms are opened wide.
So, to summarize:
Training camp was awesome
The people were awesomer
Finding purpose is awesomest
Jesus is most awesomest times a million quadrillion, to the moon and back.
P.S. Here is a picture of my team “Wildflowers”!! They’re the most loving people I have ever met, and I cannot wait to go on this race with them!
