So I'm leaving the country. For 11 months. To visit 11 different countries. Come again? Yeah, that's what I've thought to myself so many times over the past week. Truth be told, I still haven't completely wrapped my head around this one yet. Two weeks ago, I was trying to figure out what to do with the next year and a half of my life. Then, I became a World Racer. Ready or not, here I come.
Vaccines, gear, medications, clothing… where to begin? I have spent countless hours researching such things, yet all I have concluded is that I can never be completely materially prepared for such a journey. I will not know exactly what to pack, will overlook potentially useful items, and will pack things I will never use. Moreover, I have realized those "things" don't really matter. I have a heart that wants to serve and faith that is unyielding. I am not traveling to these countries to boast the American dream- money, clothing, and privilege. I am going there to get down and dirty with the locals, meet them where they are at, and love on them. That is all. Nothing in my backpack will prepare me for that (except maybe my Bible!).
More and more, this journey is becoming one of faith. Heading into all things unknown and unexpected, all one really can do is trust. Trust that you have enough in your pack, that you have been prepared to take on everything coming your way, and that your needs will be met by a faithful and mighty God. So, what next? Take a deep breath, quit overthinking, work on the practicalities, and say some prayers because we never really know what is coming our way, only that we have each day to make the best of it for ourselves and those around us.
"She is clothed in strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future." Proverbs 31:25
