Hello! 

I am in Guatemala!!! 

Launch, the final missionary training days, was very different this year! I-Squad was housed in the same room. However, teams (4-6 people) needed to stay in separate, taped boxes rather than mingle with other teams. Other squads were also on site, but in different buildings or different areas of the industrial/office building!

The boxes were a beautiful reminder that even though we may need to be physically distanced, our God can move. The Lord is not boxed by tape, human understanding, government choices, or hardened hearts. Hardships do not not diminish the moving of Holy Spirit and God's desire for connection with us. 

I've realized my view of God has been boxed. Boxes with the labels of "I must stay busy to honor Him" "God is giving preference to others" "I cannot rely on God to be my strength." I'm looking forward to seeing how God moves in my life, community, and world around me as I release my expectations on His character and power.

January 8-12, 2021 my squad gathered for Launch! This video is from when my squad mates arrived in Atlanta and headed to Gainesville, Georgia. 

YouTube Video Link: https://youtu.be/NAa7-aGINVE

• Arriving at the Airport
• Heading to Gainesville, Georgia and carrying our packs to our squad's area. We were able to sleep inside this time :) It dropped below freezing several times during the week.
• Learning this year was different due to COVID. Teams and Squads would need to stay separate from each other.
• Paperwork, trainings, teachings, and worship together could still happen!
• Matt and Kathy Almeter are I-Squad's coaches. :) Matt shared great teachings helping to commission us for our missionary journey.  

Are there areas you have been putting God in a box? Thinking His power or love is diminished during COVID?  

Praising God for Internet and safe travels! Please join me in prayer as my team travels to our first ministry location tomorrow morning!

If you would like pictures or brief updates during the weeks, you are invited to be my Facebook friend or Instagram buddy!
Facebook: Rachel Preston
Instagram: rachelannpreston

{HUGS}

Rachel

Thank you for your prayers and financial support!

I am fundraising for personal expenses. Malaria and other field medicine, some meals, clothing, hygiene items, and a future flight home! If you would like to give to these personal expenses, the easiest way to give is through Venmo or Paypal.  

Venmo: rachelannpreston
Paypal: rachelannpreston@gmail.com