Now, before you freak out and demand your donations back… humor me and read 🙂
Throughout my preparation and fundraising for the World Race, God has opened many doors of conversation with people that I have not talked to in years and many with complete strangers. Somehow, every conversation hits on at least one of four things. So, here is a list of 4 reasons that I am NOT going on the World Race.
#1 ) I am not going on the Race to travel the world, site see, and fill all the pages of my passport with cool little stamps.
While I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t SUPER EXCITED to travel the world, indulge in new cultures and new places – and lets be honest, every time immigration stamps my passport – I get a little giddy.. but, this is NOT the reason I am going on the race! This is not a trip that is just for fun. In fact, this will probably be the hardest, most uncomfortable and challenging year of my entire life. The purpose of this trip is simple. Its JESUS. He is coming back so soon guys! The sole purpose of going on the race is to share His love and shine His light in the darkest corners of the world.
With that being said..
#2 ) I am not going on the Race to cram my “religion” down people’s throats.
This is my favorite. I have been challenged by so many people wondering why on earth I would travel overseas to help when I have people in my own back yard that are hurting.
Valid.
Here is why: We live in America. Everyone here has at least heard of Jesus & has the means to research and discover what he is about and decide whether you believe it or not, right? Overseas – there are villages so remote that they have never even heard the name of Jesus before.
God calls us all to be a witness to & help the people in our own back yards. We ALL have the means to help each other out but only few will travel overseas to make a difference where they do not have the means to help themselves.
I am not going on this trip to try and convert everyone we see. But, I AM going to tell them about who Jesus is & how much He LOVES them. At least then, they can decide for themselves if they believe in him or not. Everyone deserves the opportunity to be able to make that choice of eternal life if they want it!
#3 ) Im not going on the Race to run away from responsibility and reality.
I’m not a runaway kind of gal. I’m more of a “once I’ve made a commitment, you won’t be able to shake me” kind of gal.
This is true for my job, my relationships, my family, serving in ministry etc. So much so that I was using them all as an excuse NOT to do what I knew God was calling me to. I love my job, my super close knit family, and loved my ministry roles. I felt like my life was pretty established and it was very comfortable. God literally had to close doors in ministry and some relationships and tear me away so I would LISTEN. Not having all my responsibilities and not being a part of home reality is going to be a challenge. But I am excited to have an entire year to focus on Jesus & his people and not have to worry about all the extra busy distractions that come with every day life at home.
Last but not least…
#4 ) I am not going on the Race to find my husband!
I can sense you chuckling right now! Man, this is a popular one!
I know, I know, Im 29 and not getting any younger. I’ve officially entered the land of everyone feeling sorry for me. LOL
Many of you have shared your hopes of me coming back home married & with babies or at least engaged. If I had it my way, I’d adopt and bring home as many children (not husbands) as I possibly could.
I’m sure there is someone out there for me somewhere & (oh Jesus please) it will happen -in God’s timing but, this mission is not the right time. As much as I appreciate all my prayer warriors that have been BEGGING God to send him my way (dad) – this is not the time to be focused on finding a guy. Instead, be praying with me that God uses this year to show me what he has for my life and what I still need to grow in as a single. I will never be able to get this season of my life back and I fully intend to take advantage of every second of my Jesus & me time 🙂
You guys are AMAZING – Thank you for all of the love and support!
Denae’
