I thought I would start off my first blog by taking it back to elementary school and running through the basics! Hopefully this will give you better look into the who, what, where, when, why and how of my journey.
Who?
Me, yep, that’s right!
What?
The World Race! It is a journey into 11 countries in 11 months to serve “the least of these” while amongst real and raw community. One of the unique things about the World Race is that it’s not only a mission trip, but also an intensive discipleship program designed to launch my generation into our specific kingdom calling. Through the World Race, my team and I will serve in partnership with churches and ministries in local communities to preach the Gospel, plant churches, work in orphanages, minister to women and children trapped in human trafficking, and bring the restorative hope of the Father’s love to many nations.
Where?
EVERYWHERE! Not, but really…India, Nepal, Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia, Botswana, Swaziland, South Africa, Jamaica, Haiti, Dominican Republic
When?
This year and some of next. My squad launches this June and will return May 2016!
Why?
God told me to…really, He did. To start off, I’ve always had a heart and passion for mission. It’s something I’ve seen myself doing since way back when. This passion, combined with a whole bunch of other things led me to a point last fall when God was practically screaming, “GO!” It all started when He began closing doors at unexpected, but now I know, perfect times. It was initially devastating and hard to understand, but God works in mysterious ways. A lot of the time we are not able to comprehend all of the things God has in store for us and because of that we experience temporary disappointments. It’s important to remain obedient and faithful in these times, knowing God will provide. The reward and joy on the other side is so much greater than present pain. God really really loves us and has our best interests in mind. He’s pretty neat. So, basically, a bunch of closed doors and unexpected turns led me to one big open door, the World Race. It has never been so clear to me, this is the time. God told me to go and now I’m going!
How?
For the journey, my team and I will be backpacking, meaning everything I’m taking with me will be on my back. Pretty crazy, huh? We will be traveling by many forms of transportation and from what I hear, eating lots of mystery meat. Lodging will look different depending on location, so we are just to be prepared. I can definitely say this next year is going to be a challenge for me, but I am super excited and ready to see where God will lead.
Finally, I’d like to give a huge shout out to you, those reading this, those praying for my journey, those who have so generously donated to me, those who’ve encouraged me and those who have asked the hard questions! Y’all are the best….THANK YOU! The outpouring of love and encouragement I’ve received has been overwhelming in the best sense of the word! I’m forever grateful. Thank you, thank you.
