Faithful followers,
I want to thank you for joining me on this incredible, year-long journey around much of the world. I have loved writing these blogs, in many ways they are snapshots of my race – Reminders of what God is doing.
I will continue to put out blog updates as I transition from the World Race into medical school. They may be fewer, they may be posted on a separate blog, but I will keep you posted.
Throughout this race I have been blessed with amazing community, contacts and SUPPORTERS.
When I sent out my support letters I wasn’t joking about needing prayers and support. I needed it deeply. This blog is for you, the faithful followers, who have supported me in prayers, finances or just shared the joy that I have had during this adventure with God.
You have been a HUGE blessing :). Here are a few of the examples of ways I have been blessed by YOU.
It’s the check that came in when I hadn’t received any money for weeks and started to get doubts. The ones who gave 10 bucks the ones who gave $1000. Every bit helps. Every bit is blessed. Thank you!
The buddies who reassured me before and throughout the race that I was made for the race, and it is EXACTLY where I need to be.
The blog comments and Facebook encouragement that was not only a huge lift, but let me know you care.
The letters I got to open from various people throughout the race were priceless. Many of which I keep in my bible.
The people that lent me most of my supplies for the year…(Ashley Bronkema)
To the parents that each sent 4 dozen cookies to our lay-over in LAX. I’ve never eaten so many cookies in my life. We may have had enough for each person on the squad to have 30, but when all you are going to eat is rice for 11 months, it’s worth it…Maybe not if you ask my plane neighbor on the flight to Honk Kong ;).
The FaceTime sessions at weird hours with family and friends that made me feel at home, apart of the world back home. Specifically to Jason Rich who poured me a glass of real orange juice, which is what I miss most. I almost tasted it. Thanks for fulfilling your duty…You’re a gem.
The great work my boys at MSU are continuing to do in the faith. It was inspiration I desperately needed in those dog-day middle months where every single day of ministry was HARD. What Paul says is true, your joy doubles my joy. 🙂
To my mom, who worked very hard to communicate with me, supported me in any way, prayed for me everyday, listened to my stories, gave me wonderful advice and loved me in ways she’ll never even realize. (In addition to flying to India just to spend four days with me :)) Thank you, I love you.
To my family, Luke, Emily and Holly. I loved the times we got to laugh over FaceTime, encourage each other in God and catch up. But what was most helpful was the simple “I love you!! Have an awesome day! I’m praying for you!” When I had five minutes of wifi, too short for a real talk. It kept me connected :). Also the hilarious letters you wrote are read every time I’ve hit my limit in four hour church services. I miss you guys the MOST. I’m glad our family sticks together like fat thighs.
*PS Thanks for including me in family events by replacing me with the “Wilson Ball”. *
To Haleigh, who had to leave the race early for health reasons, but STILL prayed for me everyday. I am as speechless now as I was then that you would do that for me :).
To my past World Racers, Kristi, Ashley, Rachel and Jacelyn, thank you for all the advice and inspiration. When you told me of your stories I could only dream of them one day being my own. My dreams have become reality. Thank you for getting me PUMPED for World Race.
To my future racers, I have loved talking with you, answering questions and telling stories of my own journey. Lines of communication will always be open on my end. I can’t say the world race is for every one, but I can say it’s most definitely for you :). Let the inspiration that God has laid on your heart soak in deep. Go for it!! No one ever regrets the World Race, unless they say “nah, I’m not going”.
To those who are continuing to stick by my side with support and prayers. Going into medical school is a whole new ball game, but one my God is very familiar with. Pray that I will still chase him whole heartedly, and be in a position to lead my fellow spartan doctors to encounters with Christ as well 🙂
Again I want to say one last BIG THANK YOU to you all, I could not have done this trip without you. Your impact will last a life time. This trip wasn’t a one-time event, it’s a lifestyle that you have poured into and are very blessed for. Let my blessings always be your blessings.
Love,
Jake
