This summer has been one of the most stretching and rewarding seasons of my life. For the past few months, I’ve been living in Raleigh, NC, serving as a camp counselor. When I first said yes, I knew it would be fun and challenging, but I didn’t realize just how much God would use this time to grow me, shape me, and teach me what it really means to live out the Great Commission.
Camp life is busy, full, and, at times, exhausting. The days start early and end late, packed with activities, conversations, and moments where campers are watching how you respond to everything, whether it’s a game that didn’t go as planned or a tough question about faith. But in the middle of the chaos, I’ve seen God show up again and again. He’s reminded me that ministry isn’t just about the big moments; it’s about the everyday ones, the talks over lunch, the late-night prayers, the laughter during games, and the quiet encouragement when someone is struggling.
Being a counselor has shown me the beauty of pouring into others. It’s not always easy to give when you’re tired or stretched thin, but I’ve learned that when I pour out what I have, God is faithful to refill me. Watching campers grow in confidence, take steps in their faith, and experience God’s love in real ways has been one of the greatest joys of my life.
Most of all, this summer has reminded me that the Great Commission isn’t just about going across the world, it starts right where we are. Whether it’s in Raleigh at camp or later this fall in Italy, the call is the same: to love people, share the Good News, and make disciples. And honestly, getting to live that out here at camp has been the sweetest preparation for what’s to come.
At the same time, God has been preparing my heart for what comes next! In just a few short days, I’ll be heading to Italy for Journey School, and this season has been one of trusting Him with every detail. Fundraising, starting classes, and even wondering what life will look like when I come back, can all feel overwhelming if I try to carry it on my own. But prayer has been my anchor.
Through prayer, God keeps reminding me that He’s already gone before me. He’s teaching me to lean on Him for provision, to trust His timing, and to believe that He will take care of the unknowns. The same God who opened this door for me is the same God who will provide every step of the way.
I don’t know every detail of what’s ahead, but I do know this: He is faithful. And as I prepare for Italy, I’m learning that saying “yes” to God doesn’t mean having it all figured out, it means trusting the One who does.
As I prepare for this next chapter, I know I can’t do it alone, and honestly, I wouldn’t want to. One of the most beautiful parts of following Jesus is that we get to do it together, as the Body of Christ. Every prayer, every word of encouragement, and every gift of support is part of what makes this journey possible. You’re not just helping me get to Italy, you’re coming with me, in a very real way, as part of the work God is doing there.
If you feel led, I would love to invite you to partner with me. That could look like committing to pray for me regularly, sending encouragement along the way, or supporting me financially as I continue fundraising for my trip. Every bit helps, and I can’t tell you how much it means to know I’m surrounded by a team of people who believe in what God is doing through this journey.
I’d also love for you to follow along with me! By subscribing to my blog, you’ll get updates, stories, and little glimpses of how God is moving not just in my life, but in the lives of the people I’ll get to serve. My hope is that this blog doesn’t just share my story but encourages your faith, too!
Ciao for now!
Kodi
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