If someone had told me that I would be here, about to embark on this adventure, three months ago, I would've laughed. But God has a funny way of flipping things upside down when we least expect it. I think He likes surprising us, keeping us on our toes.
I have always loved experiencing other cultures. Travel is a huge part of my life. It wasn't until high school that I discovered my heart for missions, but once I did, I was always trying to find trips to go on.
In college, I studied psychology. I found it so interesting, and I see counseling as a means to help others. My degree was always a means to do missions work. However, most jobs available require at least a master's degree in the field of psychology. My senior year at Harding University was consumed with grad school applications, personal statements, and interviews. It had been my plan for quite some time to attend grad school.
This summer, I moved back home and began preparing to start my master's program at the University of Denver. Although somewhat apprehensive, I was excited to continue my education and start doing actual work in my field of study. However, as the summer continued, the excitement began to wear off. The idea of more school seemed tedious and unappealing. More and more I felt as though God was leading me in a different direction, I just didn't know where.
In May I heard about the Race. The second I heard about it I wanted to go, but I had committed to grad school. I couldn't just not get my degree, right? I always stick to the plan. Grad school was the plan. Taking a year off to travel to 11 countries and minister to people there was not. So I tucked the World Race aside, thinking of it as something I might do after finishing up my master's.
In July, I traveled with my college group at church to Belize for a missions trip. While we were there we did some painting work, put on a VBS, and set up a youth conference for the Mennonite community where we stayed. While there, I experienced a supernatural peace that I haven't felt in a long time. Though sweaty and exhausted, I was doing exactly what I was designed to do and I loved it.
The day after we returned, I was talking with one of my friends, Sarah, about the Race, and how I really wanted to put off school and everything back here, and just go. Go? You think I should just….go? Why not? As Sarah spoke life over me, God began to piece together things that He has been placing on my heart for years – all of it pointing towards joining the race.
So after time in prayer, counsel from others, and a step of faith, I applied.
Now I'm here, and the idea of ministering in each of these countries is surreal. I am so incredibly thankful to have this experience, to serve, to love, to bring God glory. What seemed like a major detour has led me to what I believe is God's path for my life. Here's to one great adventure
