On Wednesday, June 16th at 8:30am, I was in the car and headed to the airport. I cannot even begin to describe all the thoughts and feelings going through my head as I not only prepare to fly by myself for the first time, but touch down in Atlanta to begin “Boot Camp”. Now where do I begin? I have so much to share!
At 12:02pm I landed in Atlanta and made my way to baggage claim. I was worried, anxious and somewhat afraid that I was lost or was going to be lost. That was until I reached out to God to calm my mind and that no matter what happens, I will be fine. As I kept walking, that was when I recognized someone down the hallway. He ended up being one of the members on my squad! Praise Jesus! Oh the comfort I felt to find a familiar face. Once we hopped on multiple trains to finally get to our baggage, a couple other members of my squad found us and took us back to where everyone else has been waiting. Typically when I meet a large group of new individuals, I would expect it to be somewhat awkward. But this time was different. I felt such peace and surreal relief that I was here after so much anticipation. Each and every single person I met that day instantly became family. I have never met so many strangers at once that I felt like I have been close friends with for years! That was the start to an amazing 4 days in Gainesville, Georgia.
Between amazing worship, sleeping in hammocks, laughing so hard I cry, playing countless card games, profound sermons, and even bucket showers, I cannot choose my favorite moment(s) from Boot Camp. I have not felt so overfilled with the Holy Spirit in so long, its safe to say my 6 week training camp in September is going to be so memorable. Over the short 4 days I was in Gainesville, I was reminded of my purpose as a believer and what the costs are for discipleship. My purpose as a believer is to share the Gospel and give all the Glory to The Lord. I need to pick up my cross daily and remind myself that Jesus says to come as you are. Discipleship is not easy and when, living in the kingdom, I have to acknowledge that it will cost me everything. Discipleship is not as much a commitment but a surrender and I have to be prepared to lay my entire life down. Discipleship is giving up my whole life to love someone else. God never said following him would be easy, but he does say how rewarding it will be.
The Gospel is worth it.
2 Corinthians 9:6-8
What an awesome experience. Jesus will continue to pursue you and ask a lot of you. But it is sooo worth it. It is encourages me to hear how the Spirit and the message of Kingdom living impacted you in such a short time.
Looking forward to meeting you September!
It was great to meet you Evelyn and I’m excited to get to know you better in September!!