It is Day 2 of World Race Launch! I have been getting some Story Telling training. We are learning how to be better encouragers for our team to help them along in writing, photography, and videography. Holly and I are both Story Telling Leaders for our teams. Here is our perspective about launching for the World Race.
Amber, 23, from Katy Texas, World Racer, Team Emunah
Holly, 22, from Gainesville Georgia, World Racer, Team Voyaging Daughters
What is Launch?
Launch is the 3-4 days before our squad leaves for the international mission field. We all meet up at a hotel in Atlanta, Ga and reconnect, recenter, and get some extra training before we leave.
What do you think of Launch so far?
A: It is surreal. I have been preparing for this for over a year, and now I am about to launch! It is crazy to think that I will be in Indonesia in less than a week. This process has been extremely emotional, but I know this is where the Lord wants me, so it is all worth it.
H: It’s better now. Getting here was emotional and hard, I was definitely in shock. I have been wanting to go on the Race for 3 years now, so being here is surreal. But walking in knowing my team and squad has been extremely helpful, they are all so supportive.
What are you hopeful for this year?
A: A lot. I guess I am hopeful and expectant to see God work in ways that I haven’t experienced yet. Then for that to be a new starting point for the rest of my life. Specifically, I hope to witness multiple miracles and to see people come to Christ. I’ve never been a part of that before, when someone accepts Christ. Also, to build lasting relationships with the squad.
H: I am looking forward to growing in accountability, for myself and others. I want to set goals for myself and see them through. I am also excited to see how my community back home grows from seeing me on the field.
What would you say to someone who is thinking of applying for the Race?
A: What’s holding you back? If it’s fear, it’s not from God. That’s the devil holding you back. If you have the opportunity to go but you are fearful, jump right in and have faith. It will be okay, and you will grow so much!
H: Why not? We are called to go and serve. Is is hard to give up a year of your life? In a way, but the World Race is an honor, and this isn’t something that you can do anytime in your life. So if you have the chance, go for it!
How did God call you to the Race?
A: Um… God called me to ministry when I was a freshman in college. It was very evident that his hand was lining everything up for this. I heard about it through my pastor and I was resistant at first. It was something I had done before. I’ve never been on a mission trip. I’ve never been out of the country. But it was obvious that this is what he wanted. Sometimes I’m still unsure, but I’m just being obedient. And I know God will show up, even though I feel unqualified. ( I actually wrote a more in depth blog about it, you can read it here if you are interested!)
H: The way the Lord brought me back into a relationship with Him was through a racer who had just returned home 3 years ago. By him sharing what God was doing in and through him, it made me realize that God was still pursuing me, and He wanted a personal relationship with me. That racer showed me what a personal relationship with the Lord looked like.
What’s one thing in your pack that’s not an essential?
A: One of my supporters wrote letters for every month, and that was really sweet. That and I brought a study bible, even though it’s so heavy.
H: My french press mug. It was a gift and I love it so much. Plus, who doesn’t want to try coffee all over the world?
Thanks for reading! Stay tuned for a launch vlog!
Love,
A
