Yesterday I discovered that my route has changed. I knew that this was a possibility, but didn’t really consider it to be a factor. Originally we were planning to go to Puerto Rico and Vietnam, and those countries have been replaced with Colombia and Japan. Normally, this wouldn’t matter to me at all, I have a very easy going ‘go with the flow’ nature. But I found myself dwelling on the news. “This wasn’t the route I chose, how could it change?” were my first thoughts. Selfishly I couldn’t help but be bothered by the change.
The fact is, there will be changes everyday on the World Race. There will no longer be a comfort zone or place of refuge when my day feels defeated. I won’t be hopping in my car and running to the grocery store to see the familiar faces of my small town. If anything, there will be nothing but change in this experience. Change in the hearts of those that we encounter as we share the love Jesus. Change in our hearts as we travel across the world relying on God and one another. Everyday will be something that has never happened in my life before. This started to make me wonder if I am ready. Am I ready to pack my bag and travel across the world with people I haven’t met yet? These are the fears I started to let seep in and will probably battle from here on out.
God has a funny way of placing before me the assurance I need exactly when I need it. I was reminded of God’s guidance. He has a plan that is so much greater than any one of us can fathom. God is our strength. He assures us that we should not be afraid, because he is our right hand and help in times of need. He has reminded me to turn to Him when I am feeling afraid. He has also reminded me that He is constant. Jesus is the same, yesterday and tomorrow. So as I am experiencing change to remember that one thing will always remain the same, the love of our Lord Jesus Christ. His love will endure forever. He has called me to share His kingdom of love and that this season of change is for Him.
As I am preparing for this journey I ask that you pray for me (and anyone else on my team with similar thoughts) as I face my new fear of change. Help me to remember that Jesus is constant and my refuge in times of need. Pray for peace of mind as I encounter these emotions before my trip and during.
