*Just Breathe*
This is not a drill. This is the real thing. It’s not just a dream anymore, it’s not a rehearsal for an act… I’m actually doing this! Things are getting real! I keep glancing at the calendar in wonder at how fast time moves. All the important dates are getting closer. It’s crazy to think that back in August 2015 I had never even heard of the World Race, and now it’s April 2016 and I’m almost 30% funded! I can’t believe I’m actually on this journey. It’s surreal.
I want to give a HUGE thanks to all who have supported, prayed, and embarked on this journey with me so far. I couldn’t do this without you! Thank you, thank you!
*In case you missed my first blog post: I’m going to South America for an 11 month missions trip!*
Getting Things Done and Gathering My Gear
Before leaving though, there are so many things to get done! How’s that going?
Nevertheless…! I finally got a few things on the move! Got my passport renewed, got all those exotic (and some regular) vaccines (I had to dish out almost $700!), purchased my flight tickets for training camp in June, been working on my fitness, started hiking with my backpack, (God already has provided a tent, sleeping bag, backpack, and jacket), and I have begun purchasing necessary items and stuff.
Training Camp and My New “Family”
I’ve been getting to know some members from my squad (via Internet and apps), and I can’t wait to meet them in person! Seriously, they are so encouraging, and we’re always praying for one another. I will be going to Atlanta, Georgia, for training camp June 8th-18th. This will be a time of fitness testing, team building, and spiritual preparation. I will finally meet these awesome people in person, and then we’ll get split up into our respective teams. We might actually be launching July 29th instead of August, but that isn’t set in stone yet.
Chipping Away at My Heart
Man. When God describes His Word as a mirror or two edged sword, He wasn’t kidding. I don’t know about you, but when I look into a mirror while I’m at my worst, it’s almost depressing. However, that’s when you begin to see what you really should be working on.
You see, I’m “Martha” in the Bible story of Martha and Mary. Martha was so busy with serving and doing and projects, that she didn’t give any importance to slowing down and receiving directly from Jesus! Let’s not try to count all the times I’ve put projects as priority, instead of ministering to people and cultivating my heart for God. As someone who works in the ministry, I hate admitting this, but it’s the truth. I lack compassion, empathy, and love. It’s something I’ve always struggled with, but Jesus is still working on me, and He’ll never give up on me.
I’ve decided to begin letting go of the cumbersome burdens that keep me “busy” and inch my way toward the feet of Jesus… and just receive the best from Him. After all, how can I pour out and give to others (from a cup that should be “running over”), if I’m on empty?
Ask and Ye Shall Receive
Please pray for me and my squad.
Consider supporting me on this journey.
Consider helping me with specific gear or medication I may need.
Subscribe to my blog for updates (I promise they will be more frequent now).
Thanks for taking the time to read this and making it to the end!
