When I was a young adventures boy of 12, I read a book about David Livingston. For those who don’t know, David Livingston was an explorer and missionary who traversed much of Africa in the 1800’s. The book was full of adventure, danger, and excitement; perfect for a young boy like me. That book was responsible for my dream to see Africa.
7 years later I would travel to Nigeria with my pastor and father. It was an eye opening trip and a few years after I got back, I felt a desire to travel the world and serve. Over the next 10 years I would go to college, get a real job, and get married; the entire time, the call to travel and serve steadily grew.
A year and a half ago, my wife and I separated, ultimately getting a divorce. It was a rough time for both her and I, but during those 18 months, God was able to do (and is still doing) some great things in both of our lives. Personally, I’m learned (and I am still learning) a lot about God, who I am, and how I wanted to live my life. I also realized that I was tired of putting off my dream to travel and serve so I started praying. Over the next few weeks God gently pushed me towards the World Race.
At first, I laughed at the idea of putting my career and life on hold for 11 months but the more I though and prayed about it, the more I realized that I wouldn’t be putting my life on hold, I would be enriching it. There are so many opportunities to grow, both spiritually and personally, on a trip like this. I remember the exact night I made my decision to go; I was laying in bed one night and I asked myself, “if this was your deathbed, would you regret not going?” My answer was “YES”, so I answered the call and this Saturday I will fly to Ecuador to start my 11 month adventure.
Am I nervous? Yes! Am I a little worried? Yes! But I have faith that something bigger (God) is calling me and that I will be ok.
I spent most of last week saying goodbye to friends and family. All of who I will miss very much. I have some amazing people in my life that are supporting me every step of the way through prayer, encouragement, love, and funding. Thanks to God and the people in my life, I have an opportunity of a lifetime. One that I won’t regret on my death bed.
