This has been a whirlwind of a week dealing with last-minute fundraising. And while I have had my fair share of stress about that, I left it mostly in God’s hands as I pushed forward with my efforts to have conversations and follow-ups with donors.
But I’ve had a much harder time dealing with the doubt and pain that my family seems to have about this journey I’m getting ready to go on. There have been a lot of conversations about the Race being a bad idea, because of the state of the world, from disease to war to terrorism. And then there’s the basic fear that my parents can’t get to me if something happens. And no matter how hard I’ve tried to explain it to my family, or asked them to just leave it in God’s hands, I’ve still ended up with multiple references to “Taken” and “Rambo.”
But on Tuesday, I was sitting at the bar where my mom works, having a conversation with a gentleman named Shane.
We started with small talk, but eventually ended up talking about my mission. As I explained everything, he listened intently.
Once I was done, he paused for a moment, then spoke about what an inspiring thing it was for such a young person to be taking on God’s calling to serve His kingdom. He knows very few people in America, and particularly young people and people in our community who would be willing to do that.
His sincerity and passion brought me a peace about this journey that I hadn’t felt for weeks. It had been so disheartening having to deal with my family’s concerns, that Shane was the breath of fresh air that I needed.
I know that God sent Shane to me, to give me the pep talk I needed. I have not doubted that this journey is mine to take. But when it feels like everyone you love and respect is fighting against something you’re doing, it can be rather hard.
My conversation with Shane has brought me some peace over my family’s feelings. I have faith that God will hold me and my teammates as we embark on this journey with Him. I know that whatever happens is a part of God’s plan, and while I might not understand it at the time, it will all work out for His will.
Last week, as I was grappling with the idea of not meeting my fundraising goals, my mother simply said to me that it was in God’s hands, and that He would provide. I told her I hoped so. My faith had been shaken. Hers had not.
But the Race isn’t just going to test my faith, though. It will also test my family’s faith. And while that’s an unintended consequence of my decision to follow God’s calling, I firmly believe that we’ll all come out on the other side better for it.
“And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.” -Hebrews 11:6
