I apologized for going so long without an update.  A lot has happened in two weeks.  Two weekends ago, we all met with our parents and several squads in Atlanta for Parent Launch, which was an orientation for our parents.  Then, we said goodbye to them and loaded up for a van ride to Gainesville, Georgia, for training.  It was something to see that many people setting up their own tents and moving in to what will be our homes for the next four weeks (by the way it has rained a lot). 

I cannot tell you how amazing this experience has been so far.  It is crazy how quickly I have grown close to members of my team, squad, and our leaders.  I think its because I am right where God wants me and and with the very people God has chosen to put in my life.  This doesn't mean there aren't struggles already.  The first week I wrestled with the question of whether I am "good enough" to do this. I have been a Christian for a while; however, I have thoughts that my usefulness on a long mission trip may be limited because I still have so much to learn and am far from perfect.  As I began to pray about this and talk with my team and leaders, I quickly learned that a lot of my squad members struggle with the same thoughts.  One of my leaders reminded me that Jesus' disciple Paul actually persecuted Christians before his conversion--and look at what Paul did for the Kingdom.  Ephesians 2:10 says that "For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."  WOW, let that sink in! Through our life experiences--good and bad--God is preparing us to carry out His purpose and plan.  Even Moses questioned his abilities.  Exodus 3:11-13a: "But Moses said to God, 'Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?' And God said, "I will be with you..."  Yesterday, some of us went to the local Walmart in Gainesville to share the good news of Jesus.  This was extremely scary to me...talking to total strangers. However, the more that I did it, the easier it became. 

In three weeks or so, the plan (which is subject to change) is for my squad to go and assist in Kentucky (for a couple of weeks) where people are still recovering from the severe flooding. Then, we will head overseas.  

My prayer requests:

Please pray that: (1) I continue to overcome my fears and hesitations and boldly share Jesus; (2) I continue to listen to God's Word and grow as I prepare to go on mission; and (3) all of the members of my team/squad meet their funding goals.

Finally, I want to say thank you to my supporters for helping me reach my funding goal and for your continued prayers.  God is good.

Here are some pictures from the past two weeks:

Cheers, Sasha

Acts 2:42-47:  "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.  Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles.  All the believers were together and had everything in common.  They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had  need.  Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts.  They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people.  And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved."