Two weeks ago I was making dinner with my family, packing my bag to go away for 11 months. My seemingly normal life during the time of quarantine was about to be rocked, I just didn’t know how. I let go of all expectations back in May when I realized my adventure on the World Race would be nothing like I could imagine, everything is “unprecedented” nowadays.
But my experience so far has been anything but unprecedented, the Lord has been preparing me for years for this ministry, these people and this way of life.
I crossed the threshold of our new-normal life to World Race training camp- this was a special place where Gods Presence was palpable, the community was undeniable and the leadership loved passionately.
The first couple nights of camping it was raining, constantly. As an Arizona girl I saw more rain in two days than we get for two years in Arizona. I learned about humidity- nothing is dry ever! I also learned about bugs. There are so many bugs- all the time, everywhere.
We practiced loosing our bags to learn how to work as a team. We took tornado cover to practice our adaptability. We ate food of the different continents we will travel to- on one particularly adventurous food day I tried both a century egg (look it up) and a cricket. I would recommend neither. We used port-a-potties, brushed our teeth in the forest and took showers using only a bucket of cold water.
There was no way for me to prepare for this time, but each challenge was a decision; Would I choose to put others before myself? Will I continue give God my “yes”?
I thought Training Camp was going to be hard, but it turned out to be one of the best experiences of my life. I did not expect for the Lord to meet me here in such beautiful and powerful ways. I was transported into a culture of people who love passionately, who listen to Gods voice before their own. Who are vulnerable, fun, real, humble, and who live their lives as ministry.
I am straining to comprehend His goodness to put into words.
Coming back into this new normal life I have a confidence like I have not known because of the love and provision of my Creator. Please join me in praying for the city of Chicago. There is so much beauty and brokenness here, I am excited to see how He moves!
Lauren, my friend, you have a gift with words, His words. I’m pumped to see you continue to give Him your yes and serve along side you in this season! ??
Lauren, I’m being thrilled, affirmed and grateful reading your blog post!! You indeed have a gift for words. I could imagine the connection with your team and feel the presence of God with you all! I’m so proud of you for tasting the unknown unfamiliar ‘food’!!!
My prayers for you every day are for God’s continued guidance, openness to what He shows you, protection, and courage and boldness to show others the saving grace of Jesus. You are in the middle of God’s plan for you _ no better place to be!! Love you??????
LAUREN such sweet answers to prayer! So encouraged to hear about your first couple of weeks and how the Lord is so faithfully meeting you and has blessed you with sweet community!
What a beautiful description of your “new-normal”, Lauren! I’m excited for you and your team. Congratulations on all that you’ve accomplished. Can’t wait to hear all that the Lord has planned. Love you. ??