This whole experience has been one of the most interesting journeys I have ever been on. From trusting the Lord with finances, to contemplating the fact that I will spend my 22nd birthday (I believe) in Madagascar…everyday the World Race becomes more real, and everyday I feel more excited.
Whenever I tell others about the World Race, usually the first question is, “Which country are you the most excited for?”
Followed by usually this as a second question, “How are you preparing yourself?”
So for this blog, I will give you my top five questions from other people, and answer them on here.
1. “Which of the 11 countries are you the most excited for?”
-Madagascar! And no, not because of the movie. When I was a little I had a lot of animal and wilderness books that I would carry around in a backpack. A lot of those books were Madagascar wilderness books.
Madagascar has always fascinated me with it’s untouched beauty, and untamed wild. It is filled with amphibians and tropical beauty. If I do spend my 22nd birthday in Madagascar, then very few things in life could make me happier.
2. “How are you preparing?”
-I have given this question a lot of thought. When I read blogs of others who are on the World Race right now, I only have a glimpse of how they are affected by their daily surroundings. From how the orphan broke their heart by their unquestionable joy, how the prostitute on the corner was so receptive of the Good News, how living in a community of 40 something young adults, who love Jesus, is so wonderful…and yet unbearable all at the same time.
Honestly. There is no way I can prepare myself, except through lots of prayer. Prayer from you guys, and in my personal prayer time.
3. “Are you afraid?”
-Of being a missionary for a year? No.
-After hearing about the bombing in Thailand? No.
-Knowing that the world is a dangerous place? And especially dangerous by being a woman in certain places? No. I am not afraid. Being a woman here can be dangerous. Anything can happen wherever you are at. The safest place to be is in the center of the Lord’s Will. Wherever that may place you on a geographical map.
Because wherever the Lord places me I know that He has me under the shadow of His Wing. And He has not called me to live in fear or timidity, but in power, love, and a sound mind.
Will I be cautious? And aware? Will I be asking for prayer for protection for myself, and my team? Yes. These things will always be on my mind and heart. Living without fear does NOT mean that you abandon wisdom. Instead you allow the Holy Spirit to lead you and guide you, and you do not fear because you know you can trust the Lord.
(World Race is an organization that sends you prepared to be safe, and to love others well in their culture.)
4. “What are a couple of things you are the most excited for?”
Um…haha…honestly-THE FOOD! I am so excited to try all kinds of different food! From tarantulas in Cambodia, to super spicy food in Thailand and Vietnam, to African game in South Africa…oh man. I’m pumped! I plan on totally immersing myself in the experience of it all.
Obviously that is not what I am the MOST excited for, but I am definitely excited about the food. I am the most excited for the experience of it all. To see others touched by the Word of God, to allow Him to transform me through this.
My mindset is not, “How am I going to affect others?”
Instead my mindset is, “Am I prepared for how the people that I meet will affect me?” and, “God, simply shine Your light through me.”
I am also very excited about the community! I will be serving with some incredible men and women who love Jesus! Seriously…what more could I ask for? I realize at times it may be difficult. But I also realize that I will gain a lot more brothers and sisters in Christ.
Brothers and sisters fight. They argue. They love well. They challenge each other. They support each other. They encourage one another. They worship the Lord together. Even thinking about it now, I am so excited and grateful for this opportunity.
5. “What is it that you need the most?”
Prayer. Financial blessings. And more job opportunities.
Pray for me always! Pray for me now. Keep me on your prayer list.
If you are reading this, and would like to donate, the you can do so on my blog page, or if you see me day to day, you can give then. ANYTHING you give is accepted humbly and graciously. I give thanks for all amounts, and I ask you consider giving to help me reach my financial deadline of $3,500 by September 25, and $10,000 by December!
I am so blessed by how many have already given. It means so much to me that so many of you support me, and bless me on this journey.
I am working at Trader Joe’s fulltime, and then at night I babysit, or do work for others. Please pray for more opportunities to work and earn money for my trip.
If you live in KC and need your house cleaned, or organized I can help you out!
Or if you need a date night with your significant other, but do not have a babysitter, (or pet sitter) then I am your gal!
Blessings and peace to all of you. Thank you so much for your support, prayers, encouragement, and love. It means so much to me.
Love you all.
-Ariana
