Whenever someone would ask me about my plans after high school my answer was always, “probably IU.” That was my plan for as long as I can remember, but God had something different in mind, as He usually does. I started looking into the World Race-Gap Year in September, but mostly for fun without the intent of actually doing it. Yet, the more I researched, the more God put it on my heart, and I could not stop thinking about it. A friend eventually had had enough of my obsession and asked, “Why don’t you just apply and see what happens?” So, I applied. I got accepted. And I fearfully and excitingly said yes.
In September of 2019, when I thought I would be settling in at college, I’ll be leaving for nine months to do mission work, with only a backpack and a bunch of strangers who will soon become my family. I will be doing this through a Christian organization called Adventures in Missions in which the World Race exists. I’ll be going to South Africa, Ecuador and Cambodia for three months each, and I’m stoked. What I’ll be doing for these nine months will vary between countries and could change day to day based off of the needs of the communities and people we will be serving, but the main goal is to share the good news to everyone we meet.
My squad and I’s Gap Year journey will start in the large and diverse nation of South Africa. This nation is incredibly multicultural and it is still healing from its dark and painful history of racism and segregation. We will focus a lot of time on evangelism through the school systems. We could be discipling middle and high school students through sports ministry, teaching life skills or assisting with academic classes.
Next my team and I will be traveling to Ecuador (South America). Most of us will be serving alongside Inca Link, in the capital- Quito. We will have the opportunity to serve in a lot of ways including, ministering to children living on the streets, serving in hospitals for people with special needs, spending time in elderly homes, working with feeding programs, and teaching English. Overall we are focusing on building relationships and sharing our hope and joy in Christ with everyone we meet along the way.
The last stop is Cambodia (Southeast Asia) for three months. Cambodia is still struggling to recover from a genocide in the 1970’s which has left the country with large amounts of poverty and human trafficking. Our mission for Cambodia is to reach children through teaching them English and the Bible. English is critical for the younger generations to find sustainable jobs and therefore move forward.
I have always loved a good adventure, but I have never even dreamed of one this big. I am terrified and ecstatic about it, but mostly I am trusting the plans the Lord has called me to. I would love for you all to be a part of this journey with me by following my blog to hear updates and stories, praying, and donating if you feel called. I need $16,600 to complete the entire race which is a big and intimidating number (trust me I know), but I also know our God is far bigger and far greater, and He will provide.
He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.” Mark 16:15
Thank you for the love and support in advance. I hope the new year brings you everything you hope for.
