To Live is Christ and To Die is Gain

Before I left for the World Race I had received many different responses from people as I told them what I would be doing this next year of my life. Most people would say they were happy I am doing what I love with my life or encourage me that they would be praying for me or that God is going to do great things this year as I walk with Him in this journey to 11 countries in 11 months. Truly I appreciate all those kind words and have no doubt God will show up in amazing ways this year. Besides all these things said there was one other thing many people would say to me when I told them about my leaving for the World Race. That being, “Well, just don’t die” or something along those lines. Anyone who said this to me said it in a somewhat humorous manner as if they were only joking, but I could still sense a little bit of serious concern for my life when they did. In any case, I always appreciate when anyone cares about my life, however, I feel like I have something I want those people who do to know.

 

Every time I go on a mission trip with the Lord the reality is that there is always a chance something could happen that could potentially harm me or even end my life. In some places more so than others, but that’s ok. It’s ok because I go for the glory of God that those who are in need may know the love God has for them in His Son Jesus Christ. And it’s ok because I go with the Lord, the Everlasting God, the Creator of heaven and earth and all that is within them. God is sovereign over all things and especially the lives of His children so I know I’m in the best hands. Until it is my time to leave this earth I know He will take care of my life in the everlasting lovingkindness He has for me. And even still I am confident in this one thing, that whether I live or die my life will glorify my God who alone is worthy of all praise. For if I die I died following Christ to do His will for His Kingdom and will then be with Him who is the King of kings and Lord of lords in glory. And all the more if I live I will continue to follow Christ to do His will for His Kingdom to make His glory known to the ends of the earth.

 

So don’t be worried about my life as to whether I will live or die. Rather rejoice with me that I have the honor and privilege to serve the Lord my God in this way of being an ambassador of peace to the nations on His behalf. I’d urge you all the more to do this because as long as I live I will follow the Lord to the places He wants me to go to do the work He has for me to do. You’d only be worrying your entire life haha. 

 

Please know I always appreciate the concern but do not let it be something that worries or saddens you whatever the outcome of this adventure or the next may be.