Let me start by saying that it’s crazy to me that I’m actually here, preparing for the World Race! It’s amazing to look back on the past few years and see how God has been leading me to this opportunity, and I want to share some things about myself and a few key things that have brought me here:
I am 17 and a senior in high school. I live in and absolutely love Colorado! I love exploring the Rocky Mountains, laughing, bike rides, good song lyrics (good songs in general), and finding beautiful things! I have a passion for Jesus, people, and building relationships that are centered around Christ. I love watching God do His thing: It’s never less than incredible. My parents are two of the most inspiring people I’ve ever met, I have 4 best friends who are also my siblings, and one of the best parts of my day is coming home to pet my dog.
For most of my life, I’ve been apart of a church that is very focused on ministry and overseas missions, so I’ve been able to witness so many others share the hope they’ve found in Christ. I found out about the World Race through people in my church, and it became a big dream of mine to go on the Gap Year trip over this past summer! I had the amazing opportunity to go to Haiti, and the ways God moved in my heart were incredible! He gave me a huge desire to continue to pursue missions and He began teaching me about the desires He has for His church and His people in every part of the world. After weeks of talking to people who had been on the World Race, watching so many videos, reading so many blogs, and praying constantly, I was sold. As soon as the routes for the Gap Year trips came out, I saw that I could have the opportunity to go back to Haiti and I applied right away! I was accepted for this route and now I’m here!
Two of my biggest prayers right now come from two of the verses that have challenged me the most:
Mark 9:24 The father instantly cried out, “I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!”
Ephesians 6:19 And also for me that words may be given me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel.
I am constantly praying for boldness and for a spirit of faith in preparation for this experience! I believe that God will do amazing things on this trip and I want to be bold and willing to follow the Holy Spirit. Boldness and Belief.
I’m so excited to go on this journey, knowing that Christ has gone before me, and I can’t wait to see how God uses me to put His glory on display.
Kate Paulson
