Christmas is over and the New Year has begun! Along with the New Year, I have a new team! I am now on Team Overflow. We picked this name for our team because we want the focus of our team to be on the overflow of Jesus’ love to everyone we come into contact with. We know that when we are filled with the love of Jesus, we can change lives simply by showing people love. Although, I am sad to no longer be with Team Illumination, I know God has knitted our new team together and I am so excited to continue this journey alongside these amazing people.
God has taught me so much in the first four months of the Race, so I want to take the time to share my top 11 highlights of 2013 (well, September through December)!
1. Meeting Judee in South Africa.
This boy was the cutest little boy who stole my heart the first time I saw him. Through meeting him, God taught me to move upon feeling His spirit leading me. It was only the start of Him teaching me how to love through actions and to let my heart be my guide instead of my insecurities.
2. Running a 10k in South Africa
At our first debrief in Nelspruit, South Africa, some of our squad decided to run a 10k. Although, I was not in great shape and the first half of the race was uphill, it was so much fun! My now best friend on the squad, Kristin and I ran together and it had the most beautiful scenery. We got to look out over the mountainside and it was the greatest reminder of how great of a creator God is. I think God gives us such amazing views, not only for our joy, but as a constant reminder of His greatness.
3. Being filled with the spirit in Swaziland
Swaziland was a tough month for me spiritually and I was dealing with a lot of insecurities, but one night during worship with the squad, I had one of the most real experiences with the Lord. It was the first time in my life where I felt like Jesus was standing right in front of me, where I felt free to worship however I wanted. Let’s just say it was pretty amazing!
4. Conquering the treacherous hill in Swaziland
Roar by Katy Perry became my jam during this month. And there was this horrific hill we would have to run up during our runs. It was only when listening to this song that I could actually make it up the hill! One evening I must have had a lot of stress built up or something, but I kicked that run in the butt! And on top of that, God revealed to me that I can conquer anything, and that He is here with me through everything! You’re gonna hear me ROAR!
5. Tomas and friends for dinner in Ethiopia
I fell in love with a boy named Tomas in Ethiopia. The first time I saw him was during our night outreach, he stuck out because he had a cold and I could not get him out of my mind! So the night before my birthday, Kristin and I went and took him and two of his friends out to dinner. It was an amazing experience and so much fun! We just got to watch these three boys pig out on some firfir (a traditional Ethiopian dish). I would not have wanted to spend my Birthday any other way.
6. Thanksgiving dinner in Ethiopia
I loved this night. I seriously could not have imagined being anywhere else on Thanksgiving besides the Rest Center. We shared the word, chili, dancing, singing and laughter. The boys in Ethiopia became my family and God reminded me that we are all brothers and sisters, no matter if we are Ethiopian or American.
7. Running 10k in Ethiopia
Although, I was sick and probably had a fever, the Great Ethiopian Run was one of the most fun races I have ever been a part of! We had a random Ethiopian run with us for most of the race. And there were random dance parties and water fights throughout. It was an amazing time of just being able to celebrate with the local people and feel like we were emerged in the culture!
8. Last day Ethiopia adventures
The last day in Ethiopia was a crazy day of running all over the city with all of our friends and the Rest Center. We played soccer, climbed and mountain and ate pizza! It was so much fun to spend the day with our friends and simply enjoy each other’s company. So many laughs and tears on this day! Ethiopia will forever be in my heart… I may just have to go back one day ;).
9. Waterfall adventure in Philippines
One day, we were able to take all of the boys living at our ministry (Children’s Garden) to a beautiful waterfall. After getting over my fear, I jumped in! It was so fun seeing all of the boys enjoying themselves. Also, my teammate Evan got baptized! Another reminder of God and His glory.
10. Christmas in Philippines
Have you ever stayed up until 2am on Christmas Eve singing karaoke and going caroling in a random Filipino neighborhood on Christmas? I hadn’t either. But it was SO FUN! We also got to spend it with the some of the boys at Children’s Garden and see them open gifts! Another reminder of how we have family all over the world. And, look out Klang family we have some new traditions!
11. New Years Eve in Malaysia
3 holidays in 3 different countries! My whole squad brought in the new year on a rooftop in our hostel in Kuala Lumpur, with fireworks and all! And of top of that, the next day a girl on our squad was healed of pain in her neck! God is so good and has so much in store for 2014!
God is doing so much work all over the world! I hope these experiences help you understand more the journeys He is taking me on! Also, in the spirit of 11, I am having another $11 on 11 fundraiser this month! I need $5,000 in order to be fully funded and have 2 months to do it! Please consider donating $11 (or more) if you feel led to do so! I also want to say thank you to everyone who has supported me thus far. I am so blessed! If you want to hear more about my experiences or have questions, feel free to email me at [email protected]!
Megan 🙂
