Hi family and friends!
So much has happened in the past 2 years since I have moved back to Austin from LA. And, I contribute it all to God! I have a great job with incredible support from co-workers, I bought a 1 bedroom condo close to work, and have been given the most wonderful and supportive friends that I couldn’t have even imagined. Life is good. Within the past 8 months or so I have been feeling like God was calling me towards serving on a mission trip. After much prayer, research and advice from friends, I found it! The World Race. (theworldrace.org)
You guys are probably wondering, “The World Race??? What’s that??” It’s a year-long mission trip through AIM, Adventures In Missions, where I will be going to a different country each month and helping in a variety of different ways and people. We will feed the poor, build churches, care for orphans and give what we have to this hurting world. This is exactly what Jesus did. I will travel with teams of men & women (about 6 on a team) to serve others. This is a huge opportunity to give to others and grow in my faith at the same time.
The possibilities for this mission trip are amazing. To share love and supplies that the world has not seen is exactly what I will be doing. My goals are to give myself to people that need it, show God’s love and how each person is a son or daughter of His. This is also a year for me to be taught and grow in Christ. I can’t wait! It’s going to be Amazing!
Now that I have let everyone in on my plans for the next year………
If you are receiving this letter it is because I want you to be a part of this journey with me. If you are a praying Christian, I am asking for your prayers for safety, following God’s will, strength, growth and that I am able to touch these people and show God through my love and actions. In addition to prayer support I will need to raise financial support. My goal is $13,800 + travel to training, travel insurance and visa applications – to be raised before I leave (three months from now). This will cover the year I will be gone. This is a huge amount of money to be raised. I have started saving money myself but am asking for your help. The donations are tax deductible and you are even able to donate online at JoyNicol.TheWorldRace.org. If a monthly pledge instead of a one time gift is more your style, do that! No gift is too small (or too large for that matter J ). I ask that you pray about this and don’t do it out of perceived obligation.
This trip and the experiences and memories that will be created in me, the other team members and those that we touch will be a blessing on all. There is so much potential for change with everyone involved, and that includes you. Please accept my invitation to be a part of this journey.
Love you all,
Joy
