march.

In just two days I board a plane headed to Rwanda, and for the first time in an entire year, I feel totally unprepared. It is a ridiculous statement because at this particular moment in time - I am more ready than I have ever been. My suitcase is packed. My team is trained. Lessons are written, crafts are planned, games are waiting to be played. I have absolutely no doubt that Love has been calling me “home” since I flew back to California last year. My heart has not wavered for one moment. I know THIS is His very best for me. This is the Kingdom work He planted in my soul before the dawn of time. Even still…right now in this moment… I feel small and a bit overwhelmed. 

I keep thinking about Joshua and the Israelites marching around Jericho. Our theme verse for camp this year is Joshua 1:9 - Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified, do not be discouraged for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. Together, they marched around Jericho for days. The command made no sense, and yet they walked with obedience. If they had stopped early, absolutely nothing would have come of their endeavor. TOTAL COMMITMENT was required. Sometimes we don’t fully understand the outcome, we just have to choose steadfast endurance. That might be the story of my life - run the race marked out for you even if you don’t know where you’re going - even if your heart feels weak - even if you appear to be alone in the arena. 

Right now I feel small and incapable, there is some pain, and there is some loneliness. I have worked hard in anticipation of this departure and now that the time to go has come, I am trembling. Every ounce of my heart is ready to take those campers in my arms and yet my heart breaks simultaneously. A joy so great coupled with a sorrow so deep. EVEN STILL, I know I have been called to GO and I know my God will be with me. I can put on my armor and trust in the King who has overcome, I can march forward with steadfast faith in the very God who singlehandedly took down the wall of Jericho so that the Israelites could defeat their enemy. HE HAS OVERCOME.