One semester of school stands between me and officially getting ready for the missions field. People ask all the time, “Are you ready for World Race?” I say yes, but don’t really give it much thought when I answer. I assume that since other people have said that World Race is the trip of a lifetime, that I’ll also enjoy one of the most exciting rides of my lifetime. But ever so slowly, the reality of life is beginning to settle in, and I’m starting to realize that I do in fact have a little ways to go before I’m both mentally and spiritually ready to take on the challenges of 11 months in 11 different countries.
I had a talk with my father the other day about almost anything and everything pertaining to theology, World Race, and spiritual practices. If you know my dad, you know that discussing and debating is nothing new. Usually, our talks will end up in two ways; either we both strongly agree on the given issue, or we end up in a grudge match with neither of us wanting to give up our side because both of us were born with the most stubborn bones God could put on a man. There’s usually no in between ground between the dad and son showdown. However, I noticed something during the discussion that hasn’t really happened before. Instead of completely agreeing or butting heads, I found myself desiring to know more about God and how he pertains to my life, regardless on how my dad and I’s discussion took its form.
This doesn’t happen in the life of Nick. I’m beginning to wonder if this desiring to know more is the first step in becoming ready to take on this challenge. I feel like much of it is due to something bigger than myself. When I first made the decision to go on the World Race, I felt an undeniable movement by God in my heart. There was no doubt in my mind that this is the right thing to do. This past month, however, reality has begun to set in, and I’ve began wondering if in fact I’ll be able to make it to $20,000 needed for the trip, if I’ll be spiritually ready to begin the trip when the time comes, or if I’ll even find my role while on the trip. Just last night, however, I felt that all of those doubts took a back seat to the very idea of getting to know God more and to pursue a more Godly lifestyle.
I ask that you continue to pray as the time of departure draws nearer and nearer. It’s hard to believe that college graduation is five months away and that the trip is a mere eight months away. For those of you who have been praying, I firmly believe that these prayers are slowly getting answered. Pray that I may continue to grow in the ways I need to, and that I continue to desire to know more about God, theology, and my role in this complex plan God has for us all.
Lastly, please pray about the fundraising for the trip. I know God’s going to do something huge in so many lives through the course of the trip, and so I ask that you pray that I as well as my squad can each raise the money needed to attend. I would be very grateful for any donation, whether big or small. Love you guys with all my heart.
Oh, and Happy New Year 🙂
Your brother,
N.J. Shear
