So I realized today that I haven’t been introducing you guys to many current racers on the field like I originally planned. I do believe in this program and the generation that they are calling out, but it’s tough. Last year was one of the greatest, but most difficult years of my life and I needed the constant encouragement from home, but also, the random notes from strangers were just as powerful and meaningful. If you have the chance, check out these two after you hear their story.
Dan and Woody (Stephanie) were two of the first people I met at training camp back in May. I have to admit, I’m a little fond of tattoos, so that’s one of the huge reasons I was attracted to these two. Before even knowing their stories or how closely connected they were, I bonded with both of them individually. Come to find out, these two have been dating for quite some time, but before they made their lifelong commitment, they felt God calling them both on an individual journey.
Out of the obedience God has called them too, these two took a step of faith and decided to put their future plans on hold to go on this crazy journey and adventure called the World Race… separately. Dan left on the June squad and launched out of the Ukraine, while Woody left a few weeks later on the July squad that launched from the Dominican Republic. We had a couple of married couples on our squad that were pretty open with the challenges they were facing while on the Race, but doing it this way would have to be tough. These two know their next step together, and to be apart for a year on such separate challenges would have to be so difficult.
Communication is hard on the Race, yet that is the one thing that makes or breaks couples. I pray for them often that they are able to go on this individual journey and have the intimate journey with God, but that they would also grow closer together, despite the miles, as they serve the Lord and truly give up their own plans. God has a way of blessing those that lay down their lives and plans for Him, and this is truly a sacrifice for them to do this now. Check out their blogs by just clicking on their name and read their stories as they travel the world with the message of the Gospel. They are both excellent writers.
These two are an incredible encouragement to me, and my biggest prayer is that God blesses their ministry, but also strengthens their relationship as the miles fly by. God is already giving them great stories and testimonies in their first several weeks. I’m a little excited about celebrating their return with them…
