I have typed and deleted many words in this box since my return from my training camp nearly three weeks ago, and have attempted to describe with zero success the events that took place during those 10 days. I could try to force words, but instead here are a few pictures that still don’t tell you much about anything that happened..
Super quality photo #1 of my squad (plus a few of our trainers!) where everyone is looking and no one is about to fall off of anyone else’s shoulders (ahem.. Nathan):
And there’s my bright orange tent at our campsite at training camp:
The lovely women on my squad and our inspiring trainers:
I stole all of those pics, so special thanks to Jordan and Alysa if you’re reading this!
While I am finding it hard to put into words how my heart was affected by training camp, I do in fact know how my packing strategy was affected..
Me at the airport on the way to Training Camp:
the backpack I plan on bringing now that I’ve hauled all of that stuff around for 10 days:
Just kidding mom. I’m going to bring everything I need! but also nothing I don’t need..
So here is the quick update on my preparation for launch, and where I am at in the fundraising process.
This week I had my first round of vaccines that I need! Whoop whoop. I had two pokes in each arm and two days later I can still feel it. I’ll be going back for more in the coming weeks, and I’m beyond thankful that my parents have allowed me to stay on their health insurance the past several years. All of my vaccines are covered by our insurance company since they are considered preventative care. Praise God! He is providing!
My next fundraising deadline is DECEMBER 16th guys!! I’m currently sitting at just over $4,000 on my way to my next goal of $10,000. To all of you beautiful people who have given, Thank You! I encourage all of you who are considering donating to spend time with the Lord in prayer, and in scripture. God speaks to us in all kinds of ways about the ways he wants us to give and serve. Hey- that’s something I learned (or relearned) at Training Camp!
The past several weeks (and months) have been filled with hours and hours of research about gear, countries, medical information, possible fundraisers, figuring out finances, etc. While I have acquired some pretty sweet gear and information about logistics for the coming year, I have yet to feel truly prepared for what the journey will bring.
And that is what’s most beautiful about what I am doing.
I am not prepared, and no matter what I do and how many books I read, I still won’t be. No one is qualified to go on this, or any kind of “mission trip.” My flesh is weak, but God created me to glorify Him. He created me, he has called me, and He is also the one who equips me. At times, I may be terrified, under-qualified, and lacking in enthusiasm, but that is why I turn to Him. He is my strength. He makes up for my faults, forgives my wrongdoings, and fills my cup to overflow so I may share Him with others. I am stepping into that Sonship and letting God work in me and through me not just for this year of service, but for this whole journey that is life. God doesn’t call the qualified, He qualifies the called.
I am currently working on my SERMON (talk about unqualified!!) for worship this Sunday at Salem Lutheran Church in Deerwood! I will be sharing more about my call to this ministry/mission that is The World Race, and how God has equipped me to spread His love to the nations. Nothing would make me happier than seeing as many of your faces there as possible. 
8:15 and 10:00, this Sunday November 20th!
Watch for my next blog post, I may even be able to share a link to my message!
Blessings on this snowy MN evening!
