Halfway through our time in Nicaragua, I heard talk of team changes. I knew it was a possibility, but I didn’t think it would actually happen at least until after month four. However, sure enough new squad leaders needed to be raised up, which meant that teams would change. I just didn’t expect it to be so drastic.
But seriously, Happy Feet? No way would we change. After two months of forcing ourselves to hang around each other, we were finally to a place where we actually liked each other. We just now started to enjoy each other’s presence, laugh together, and act like family. It’s not time for us to split but for us to be used in a powerful way for the Kingdom.
Then I realized that it’s not so much that I dread the challenges of working with a new team, but that I really would be sad to leave my old team!
I really love these people. We worked so hard through so much crap that we came out so much closer. If you would have told me in month one that I would be balling at the possibility of our team getting split up, there is no way I would have believed you. But here I was, after three months and I was on the verge of tears at the thought of our team getting split.
A few days later our entire squad met together in Granada, Nicaragua. I had gotten to a point where I had surrendered our new teams and new team leader to the Lord. I wasn’t going to try to reason it out in my head anymore or worry about the possibility of losing old teammates.
That’s when I got pulled aside by one of the squad leaders.
Weird, I don’t know why they need to talk to me.
“Trena, we have prayed about it and would like for you to be a team leader.”
“Papa, you know I just told you that I was so relieved not to have the responsibility of team leader. I just told you I am so glad that I am not one.”
So I had a decision to make. First of all I had NO idea that this team leader stuff was coming. No idea whatsoever. It scared me. My desperation for the Lord to show up multiplied by at least 100. I knew if I said “no” that it would be out of fear. Fear that I am not strong enough to lead a team. I may not be strong enough, but i know Father God definitely is.
So I said OKAY.
Announcing the new teams was a really difficult day for everyone. There were so many emotions. I cried saying goodbye to my old teammates, but I know our friendships will continue to grow. We are still all one big family of believers.
So here I am with a brand new team (except for Tabbs and Suzanne) and a brand new responsibility of being a team leader. Papa, you HAVE to show up. I can't do this alone.
We call ourselves team FREEDOM FIGHTERS. Here we come Thailand! Please fight for us in prayer!
