My first country on the race was Albania, after several changes from the original country. It didn't phase us as a squad though, we were just full of excitement and joy to get the adventure started. The month really flew by and was different than I anticipated, however God did teach me a few things. Here's a couple things I picked up from month one of the race:
1. It's about YOU! Although this may be contrary to the norm, God really does care alot about us! He cares how we are feeling, what we are needing and that we are growing. He showed me His love in new ways this month and His adoration for me as an individual.
2. Squatty fear no more! Finally I faced my fears of the squatty potty. With being gone for 11 months, holding it in is no longer an option. So, I had to woman-up and hit embrace it. Honestly, it wasn't as bad as I thought and I think I will fit in really good in the world.
3. LOVE WINS! No matter which country I go to, this becomes more true to me. People just want to be loved. Extending a loving hang, a hug, a note or even a smile can brighten someone's day and show them Christ without you even having to open up your mouth. I met some wonderful people and I will miss them dearly. Loving people for a living? Man, I really am living the dream.
4. Gwen stepped out! There were many foods that I had this past month that were new and interesting. It's amazing how when you decide to embrace whatever lies before you (Except the cheese – props to Casey), how you can begin to like things you never thought you would. Who knew goat could taste so yummy. 🙂
5. Give up to go up! Often I want all things that God has to offer (blessings, promises, healing, unity, love, etc) but I don't want to take the steps necessary to get that. To receive all God has for you, it requires being willing to give it all up. Whether that is in a big or small way, be prepared to let it all loose to get more than you could even imagine from the Father.
6. Spoonful of sugar! Like sugar is to a bitter cup of coffee, is the tenderness of a kind heart on a hard day. The sweetness of the kids, kitchen ladies or our sweet Earta really made it easy to keep a light heart and happy attitude all week long. They were so loving and giving. Whether it was hugs and kisses, or clothes or cold drinks on a hot day, they went out of their way to love us. How precious are the people God created all over this beautiful planet.
7. WE ARE FAMILY! I've said it before and I'll keep saying it, but I love my teammates. They are five incredible people and I consider it an honor to serve with them. Their attitudes, character, sense of humor, conviction and heart is unmatched. They taught me so much this month and I loved the time we spent together as a team. I am so looking forward to getting to know them better. But the love and community we already share sure makes it feel like home here out on the field.
8. BOOM! Prayer works yall. There was sickness spreading through our squad like a wild fire. There was a precious family from England serving at the camp with us and the mom and son were sick. My Alaskan buddy, Jody, suggested we go pray for them. (Sad that sometimes that isn't our first option), but we did. Nothing happened immediately, but we prayed in faith for sure. The next day, she stopped me on the way to breakfast and said that right after we prayed for her she felt better and they were not sick anymore! PRAISE HIM. God is a healer and prayer works. Whether you see it manifest instantly or it takes time, step out in faith still and pray for the sick. At the end of the day, that's all we are called to do is lay hands and pray for them, God is the healer.
9. We go together! Unity! Something I realized this month was the power that comes in numbers. I'm reminded of the scripture, "If one can put 1,000 to flight, two can put 10,000 to flight". Man, that sure is true and we aren't the only ones who know it. Satan knows it too. Division is right up his ally. I learned this month the importance of being open and honest with each other, keeping the gossip at zero and remembering we are all fighting the same fight. We are stronger together. We were made to be together. We won't finish this race unless we come together. Unity. So powerful.
There are more things, but these are just a few that stuck out to me. As always, thank you for reading this. Thank you for your prayers and support. They are felt and greatly needed. You are making a difference around the world.
