Who is Gap 23?

     I have had many questions about what my squad dynamics look like, what our name means, and who really is this squad… so here it is. The squad, Gap 23, consists of 32 racers some of which are leaders. How did we get our name? Before we were even really a squad, we had Psalms 23 spoken over us and it was decided that would be like our team motto. The particular trip we are on (based off of the duration of the trip) is called Gap Year. That is how the name, Gap 23 was established. Throughout this trip, we are reading a book together called “A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23.” In this book, we have learned a lot about what it means to fully rely on the Lord and trust that he is the ultimate shepherd. We are also getting to personally dissect this chapter and discover what the verses mean in each of our lives. Our squad is split up into several teams, my team consists of 5 girls, including our team leader. My team’s name is “Hearth” because it means home but also a place of gathering in front of a fireplace. We want to be a team that fosters vulnerability for each other to create a safe space that feels like home. We also want to gather together around the fire of the Lord in community throughout all this season of life brings. Thus far, I think our team has done a wonderful job of creating that safe space to be open for not only our own team but for others as well. There are times when our team fails at staying near the fire with each other like anyone but thankfully, even when we stray the Holy Spirit draws us back into the fire. I hope to continue even after I return to the States, to be a Hearth for many. I want to show them the warmth that comes from the fire of the Holy Spirit and how it glows brighter the more we tend to it. I also want to bring others into the safe place I have found with the Lord and into community where they know they are welcomed. Part of that safe place, is knowing they can bring anything to the hearth in confidence. If need be, we will give over our anxieties and lies from the enemy to the Lord by throwing them into the fire. You can all be a hearth for your community and a safe space for others no matter where in the world you are. If you haven’t found that hearth, I encourage you to find that in order to press into the Lord and draw near to his fiery presence. Once you get close to that warm and cozy fire, I can promise you will not want to leave. You will want to bring others to the same fire you have experienced. Find your hearth or create your own for others to draw near to the flames. Thank you for your prayers and support. I pray abundant blessings on each and every soul who reads this, and may you draw near to the hearth to experience the fire.

                      Much love,
                           Erika Talley