Okay, I lied, it hasn’t actually been a week, but I have some free time and thought I should seize the moment! I’m just going to walk through a traditional (and I use the word lightly) day, then talk about some changes to the “normal” schedule, and some of the things God’s been showing me!
So, a normal day starts at 7:45. We should be awake and ready for the day by this point. This time will be followed by personal time with God until 8:30, when we have to go down to the dining deck for breakfast, which is mandatory (like anyone would dare skip it. I’ll explain in a bit)
Breakfast is followed by worship, which can be either joyful or weighty, and session, which often goes until lunch (anywhere between 1:00-2:00)
Lunch is before team prayer, and then free time, where we mostly crash at our campsite for an hour or so, then head back down for more sessions.
Usually a debrief with our whole squad will take place at our SMP (Squad Meeting Point), and then it’s dinner time! After dinner is Campus Clean Up (everyone takes turns cleaning up different areas of our “home”), and sometimes we have one more thing added on before quiet time at 10:00 and everyone needs to be in their tents at 11:00.
Okay, you’ve all got a good picture in your head of how the day goes, right? Throw it out the window.
We get about 3 major plan changes a day, most of our schedule alternates day in, day out, and there’s always special scenarios to prepare us for on field experiences! (Half of my Squad had to have their bags stolen for a full 24 hours, which ended up meaning sleep overs–ahem, tent overs–and sharing basic necessities)
We get showers twice a week, and laundry (which is all hand washed) once a week, so my tent smells pretty ripe right now. Food is served to about 100 people at a time, so it’s usually stretched pretty thin. And socializing all day long is way more exhausting than I’d expected it to be.
But I love Training Camp!!!!!
You’re exhausted, you’re smelly, you’re hungry, you’re wondering how on earth you’re going to sit through another hour of teaching, but through it all, I have this peace and a knowing that I am meant to be here.
It’s the weirdest, but the best!!!
God’s been teaching me to depend on Him fully! He keeps calling scripture to mind when I’m stressed and again and again His peace keeps coming to rest on me! He’s showing me how He can be a God of order but still bring beauty out of unorganized chaos!! He’s proving He’s a God of miracles and healing! He’s reminding me that I don’t have to stress over what I’ll eat or when I’ll sleep, because He’s the ultimate provider!
I might post again tomorrow or Sunday. It depends on how much time they give us! Until then, missing all of you and so excited to see what God has in store!!
Proud of you Sofia! Gods already using this time. I’ll be praying regularly for you
This is pretty incredible stuff!! I’m enjoying following your journey. God Bless
Love this! So interesting to hear about your days and what God is teaching you! Reading this feels like you’re home, because it sounds just like you!
I love hearing about your day and what God is showing you through your everyday living. When I read your blogs it helps me feel more connected with you, Sofia! So good to hear from you. We miss you❤️
Love seeing your infectious smile! And that plate of Mac & cheese 🤯 😮 Keep leaning into that peace that you know. I’m positive it will get you through every scenario yet ahead. Praying for safety, health and much growth 💕
Sofia, I t sounds like your having a blast! Also, it also sounds like your exactly where God wants you to be! Love you! Aunt Mona
We are so enjoying your blog Sophia! It’s such a unique experience that neither Duane or I have ever done! You are such a great writer too. It’s like we can share the experience with you! Thank you so much for doing this blog! We look forward to your next one already!
So proud of you Sofia!! GOD is teaching you so much. Love ya 😘
It’s so fun to hear how your journey is going, Sofia. Thanks for the update. You’ll be in my prayers.
Sofia I enjoy reading your blog. This blog stuff is kind of new to me and I really am enjoying your experiences and perspective on things I’m glad they have food you like and are keeping busy. Can you receive a care pact while you are there? If so is there anything you are really craving or would like? You’re in my thoughts and prayers kiddo! ❤️G Auntie Kim
Thanks so much! Unfortunately, we cannot receive care packages, but your prayers are so much more valuable!!!!!