Just like any other big life decision, the World Race seemed for so long to be just a wish – but now it is a reality. I am here in San Pedro, Costa Rica with my 6 beautiful teammates and we are working everyday alongside Conexion Ministries and our wonderful hosts Bryan and Beth Tatum.
I can already see the fruit in my teammates from living in community with each other, and it is only by the grace of Christ who has brought us all to himself! In our five days here we have already sorted through thousands of sweatshirts, taught Sunday School, visited a local school to play with kids, visited a local farmers market, hammocked in the park, eaten INCREDIBLE food (thanks Bryan!), and laughed uncontrollably.
My favorite thing about the women in my team is how well they speak life into one another. I feel so encouraged and affirmed by them every single day. We all have a good understanding of each others differences and weaknesses and are willing and able to push each other further into the greatness God has called us to. Doubts I had before departing have dissipated, because I trust now more than ever that we are walking in obedience to the calling of Christ. And if God is for us, who can be against us?
Life here is not perfect – don’t get me wrong. We have had a few little bumps in the road, but even those moments have been so sweet. I think we are all coming to a place of understanding and aren’t backing down from a bit of healthy confrontation. Confrontation is one of those words with a terrible connotation. As humans, I think we oftentimes equate confrontation with discord. But as believers of Christ, we really should move away from this sort of thinking. I have seen my team speak into each other with gentile authenticity. It’s that whole GRACE + TRUTH thing Jesus talked about – and I’m seriously so proud of them, I can’t help but beam with pride.
Thank you again to all who have supported this mission and who are praying for me and my team. I am overwhelmed with emotion just typing this. I am so blessed to have this opportunity to love people all over the world and show them the joyous life that comes only from Jesus. My prayer is that He will receive all the glory, and that I can continue to live as a testament to His faithfulness.
