Have you ever felt like you were called to do more? Had a feeling inside that you have a bigger purpose in this world and as much as you ignore it or try to follow a different path, that feeling keeps resurfacing? A feeling that is both exciting and overwhelming?
I have had these feelings a long time. It has been noticeable since I became a Follower of Jesus but honestly I think God has been tugging at me even before I knew it.
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Since the death of my Fiancé Dan, as well as the end of my Army enlistment in 2014, I have been searching to fulfill this passion I felt inside my heart. The problem is, I was trying to plan my future without trusting that God has the plans for me. Because of this, I have changed my direction many times throughout the last 3 1/2 years, trying to figure out what the heck I was supposed to do with my life. (Sorry friends and family for all the times I changed my mind and got us excited about certain dreams or big plans-and Thank you for always being there for me!)
Moving home a year 1/2 ago I knew that I NEEDED to finish school. I am so close to the finish line and I personally wanted to graduate with a Bachelors degree in Sociology to then be able to be free of that stress and free to just Go.
Along with focusing on school, I have been growing deeper and deeper in my faith. My relationship with Jesus has become stronger and will always continue to grow. Things were not always easy this past year 1/2 but there is this: I have realized that my faith is who I am. I am a child of God and I know I am meant for more and want to do what God has called me to be.
Before January of 2017, I had no idea what that was. I have always had a passion about other cultures and working with people internationally, I have a strong passion of seeing the world and really embracing the way other people live. In January, I realized I wanted to be apart of missions, serving others and showing the love of Jesus just like He has shown me. Jesus has brought me out of the darkness and into light. He has been my Savior, the one who has brought me peace, comfort, happiness and joy. I want to share His Amazingness with others around the world!
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How I actually found out about the World Race:
Shoutout to my dear friend Michelle who first introduced me to the World Race (an 11 month, 11 country mission trip to share the love of Jesus and serve others around the world) a year ago. I thought it was an awesome experience but I just moved home and started school so I kind of pushed the idea to the side.
Then in January, I read The Lipstick Gospel by Stephanie May Wilson (a must read!). This book was not only inspiring but planted The World Race in my heart. I felt that exciting but overwhelming feeling in my heart. I just wanted to go and already be on The World Race. I knew this is what I had to do! At this point, my heart was set on leaving after graduating in 2018 but I had to wait to apply in Oct 2017 for the Oct 2018 route.
With a little bit of ups and downs, lots of prayer and paying attention to what my heart was feeling and what God was trying to tell me, I committed to The World Race through Adventures In Missions! I have never felt more at peace with a big decision. God is amazing and I trust Him in this journey.
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. ” Philippians 4:6-7
I am beyond blessed for your support and that you took the time to read my Why.
–Throughout this year I will be preparing myself physically, mentally, spiritually and emotionally. I ask for your prayers in the preparation stage as well as my time spent on The World Race.
I will also face many challenges all throughout the World Race, but as I prepare for departure, one of my greatest challenges is my financial support! Look out for the many fundraisers I will be hosting and if feeling led to do so, click on the Donate button on my page.
You are all awesome!!
Thanks again 
Love,
Kristen
