It’s hard to believe my time in Europe has come to an end and that I’m already here in Africa. The first four months of this journey flew by and I can confidently say they changed me in ways far beyond what I was expecting.
Coming into the “race” I had expectations for myself, and ways in which I wanted to grow and mature. As I look back on the first four months, I see that God had plans far different, and greater, than my own when it came to growth. He has placed me in positions that pushed me further than anything ever has before and He has constantly called me to live a higher life.
In the Bible Jeremiah received a message from God when he saw a potter working on a “pot, shaping it as seemed best to him. The word of the Lord came to him and said – … can I not do with you as the potter does? … Like clay in the hand of the potter, so you are in my hand” (Jeremiah 18: 4-6). I’m experiencing this shaping in my own life. God is turning his wheel, and forming me more and more into whom He wants me to be.
The race has been a unique opportunity for me to eliminate distractions that I would typically experience in my daily life in America. When you take away a formal job, all bills, relationship pressures, and other daily obligations, you begin to see more than the erosion that is visible on the outside and more of the meat that is under the skin.
The situations I have encountered so far have created emotions ranging from fear and worry, anxiety and panic, grief and anger, and joy and excitement. But as I reflect on each one of those situations I understand that each one was placed in my path on this journey for me to grow and become more of who God intends for me to become from this journey.
Early on in the race I have already experienced a diverse set of situations. These experiences include door to door evangelism, teaching the congregation on Sunday, leading worship (Yes, seriously… and regularly), sharing my life stories and struggles with strangers, playing with orphans, assisting in the renovation of churches, putting shoes and clothes on under dressed children involved in the refugee crisis, to even playing the role of Santa Clause for a kids’ Christmas party.
Experiencing all these situations first hand has shown me the Lord is working in the world in so many ways. The extent of this would be unfathomable if I had never embarked on this journey and it has really begun to show me how big our God really is. While I’m super thankful and blessed to be apart of Gods mission in the places I’ve already been, I look forward to seeing the work He is doing around the rest of the world. And, just as much so, the work He plans on doing in me.
As I learn more and more about God, I begin to learn even more about myself. Spending time in scripture, prayer, and silence have all worked at developing my understanding of what I am, who I am, and the type of life I am supposed to live. I can sense the presence of the Spirit actively tilling and planting in my soul.
Everyday there are new personal battles and celebrations inside of me, and new ways I see I can grow. The “race” brings changing circumstances daily, each one with its own set of challenges and lessons.
If it were absolutely necessary to provide a concise answer on my change so far –
I am learning to trust in God more and more everyday and in EVERY situation. I have peace I unknowingly longed for, and vision to see things I was blind too: externally and internally. I’m learning forgiveness, not just of others but also of myself. And I’m experiencing Gods love in ways I never have before.
Prior to leaving on this journey my mind was in several races with the world. While these battles with the world are seemingly inevitable, our reaction to them is for us to decide. When I experienced these types of events previously in my life, I was eager to control the situation to ensure a proper outcome as a result of my own will. But as my time on this adventure moves forward, I find myself giving more of these races to God and his sovereignty.
We are all faced with circumstances in life for certain reasons and for specific transformations as the Lord sees fit. There are no accidents or unwarranted scenarios in our lives, and in that we can find joy, peace, comfort, and refuge in whatever it is we are dealing with. Our God is an awesome God, and He “works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will.” (Ephesians 1:11)
To date I have had nearly $14,000 in donations for this trip. Back in June when I signed up for this journey, I remember viewing the $16,257 fundraising mark as an unobtainable goal. God has blessed me with a support system far beyond my wildest dreams, and I’m so thankful for all of you who are journeying with me through this experience. With around $2,500 to go, I am confident that God will provide.
