Jesus said, “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Matthew 11:28-30 (MSG)
Live free and Live Light: This is the theme of Vicky’s life. So much so that she has it tattooed onto her left arm.
Vicky is not your average girl. She doesn’t just do good things for the appearance nor slap on the badge of a religious Christian. She’s far from complacent or timid. Her life is marked by total surrender to what the Lord is calling her to do. In fact, she dropped her life back in the states to come on the mission field for 3 months to pour into us. To the world, this seemed absurd. Vicky had just come off the field from Fusion 2 and there was underlying expectations to “buckle down” and “start a job” and “rest” from her race. But nope. God called her back on the field, and she obeyed with reckless abandonment.
Her life taught me that in obedience to God, you find real rest.
Vicky was the SCM (Squad Content Manager) for Fusion 3. This leadership role was new to World Race, to promote storytelling for racers. AKA she encouraged us to blog, document our journey, and live a good story. However, to our squad Vicky was far more than a random leader position, she was a friend. It was like a giant breath of fresh air listening to her passion to live in step with Holy Spirit. She oozed of wisdom, creativity, and boldness. This girl is a firecracker. Vicky’s story embodies gospel freedom and shining His light.
Who are you and what’s your background?
My name is Vicky Murugi Kaniaru. I’m named Murugi after my grandmother and Kaniaru was my grandfather. I am Kenyan-American. I was born and lived in Kenya for almost 10 years before moving to the States in 1999. I’ve lived in the US since and I visit Kenya when I have the opportunity.
What was your life like before knowing Christ?
I’ve always known about Christ since I was raised in a Christian environment. I remember going to church as a child and being involved in Sunday school. I gave my life to Christ at a young age, but I definitely walked through the sanctification process as I was growing up. I knew I loved Jesus, but I understood His love for me as a concept rather than a reality. So, even though I knew about Him, I was still very lost in my understanding of the intimacy He desired between us.
How did you come to know Christ and what changed in your life?
I gave my life to Christ at 11 years old at Victory World Church in Atlanta. It was after a really intense drama at my church. However, when I look back now, I know God was pursuing my heart even before that. I was blessed to have youth pastors during my teenage years that taught us about intimacy with Jesus rather than just religion. Even in the midst of youthful mistakes, I remember God being a father to me. There were times I questioned Christianity as a religion, but I never doubted my love for Jesus from a young age. That was the anchor that I clung to when I didn’t understand my life. My personal relationship with Jesus is a constant foundation and because of that, God has continued to reveal Himself as I grow in Him.
What is your advice to others?
If they are believers, know Jesus intimately. If you don’t know Him and His character, your belief will always be shifted by the opinions of others, believers or unbelievers alike. Also, don’t minimize the work and authority of Holy Spirit. He’s our comfort, and confidant. If you listen, I promise you will hear Him speak. He’s never silent, and He’ll take you on an adventure. Trust me.
If they are unbelievers, Jesus is pursuing them with an extravagant love. When you encounter Him, you encounter love, peace, joy, and so much more. There is NOTHING than can separate you from His love.
What is your definition of hope?
Hope is pregnant expectation. Hope fuels faith, and faith see the impossible as a definite possibility.
What are your dreams?
My dream and desire is to be a woman marked by Jesus’ love. I want that to leak in every area of my life. I also want to keep writing, and publish. I want to travel more. I want to dance more. I want to be continuously creative, whether in writing, painting, photography, etc. I want to be a part of nurturing a young generation of women who are cemented in their identity in Christ. I want to marry a man who is in love with Jesus, and I want to raise little Kingdom warriors with him. I want to leave a legacy of love and faith that will continue to change generations after my children’s children.
What are some of your prayer requests?
After a year and half abroad, I’m back in the States. I’m ready for much needed rest, and also anticipating this new season. So, pray for me in the waiting. Pray that whatever job opportunity, or personal encounter, I would step in with a willing and obedient heart.
PS- These photos were taken in a random field in Thailand. Vicky and I were on the hunt to find beauty in the midst of a busy, dark, dirty city. Waaalaaaa. Thanks for leading us to this glowing field of freedom and light, Abba.
