Movement, travel, journeying: these are central motifs in the Bible, as they are in Christian life. One reason is that these things jolt us out of what is comfortable, requiring us to step out in faith into the unknown and uncomfortable.
And OH WOW have I been jolted these past 7 weeks. I came to Global Challenge with ALOT of preconceived ideas. About myself, about my walk with Jesus, about my future etc etc. I had Marié in a nice little box and all figured out.
I thought I was taking a journey to Africa. This changed to South America. Which then actually changed to incorporate a journey inside Marié (pioneering in its rawest form). A journey I am still journeying on and will probably journey on for a while. I found Him showing me walls and storms I wasn't even aware of. But what peace it brings to know Jesus is in the wall-breaking and storm-calming business!
The highlight of training for me - complete strangers that turned into friends and then (very unexpectedly) turned into family. What an immense privilege to be surrounded by +-40 people that have the same heart as you and are constantly speaking truth into your life.
So if I had to summarise training 2015 in 5 words I would say: Jesus is the Winner Man!
The winning team will be leaving for Kenya on Wednesday. I am still journeying on what word to use for my feelings at this point in time. Until then I will say this is as unreal and exciting as it gets.
“God is pursuing with omnipotent passion a worldwide purpose of gathering joyful worshipers for Himself from every tribe and tongue and people and nation. He has an inexhaustible enthusiasm for the supremacy of His name among the nations. Therefore, let us bring our affections into line with His, and, for the sake of His name, let us renounce the quest for worldly comforts and join His global purpose.” ― John Piper