Hello friends! I want to share something that has been on my heart recently and explain why I chose to go on this journey. Joining the World Race Gap Year program was a very difficult decision. I am well aware of the commitment required, but I’m trying to hold onto the hope God gave me. The hope is tethered to the belief that God is calling me to step out in faith and give Him my best for the next nine months, regardless of how scared or uncomfortable I may feel. I believe this is something I am meant to do and I will excel in it.
Senior year was a struggle for me since I didn’t know exactly which path I wanted to take in college. All of my friends were committed to their universities, while I was stuck feeling hopeless and confused. I know I want to go to college, but no decision I made felt right.
About two years ago my friend told me about the World Race. I was immediately fascinated with the idea but wasn’t sure it was for me. In the midst of my confusion, I started investigating the World Race Gap Year. I came across Route 4 and broke down into tears. I felt everything in my life slowly start to line up and somewhat make sense. I want to return to Africa. I want to spend my time helping people. I want to shine God’s light in the world.
I have always been interested in missions, I just wasn’t sure it was the right decision for me. Attending Valley Christian High School gave me the opportunity to go on a mission and pushed me to consider this idea further. Through the school’s ENGAGE program I went on a two week mission trip to Kenya in March of this year. I stayed at Huruma Children’s Home, where I immediately fell in love with the people and the culture. Our days consisted of soccer and volleyball games, braiding hair, learning Swahili, bible studies and church services. Every moment of those ten days I spent at Huruma we would worship together and sing and dance for the Lord. The children’s sweet faces would light up whenever they saw one of us. I was able to serve them by doing something I loved, and it left me feeling calm and complete.
While I took it for granted at the time, my four years at Valley provided me with an education that forced me to make my own decisions and taught me how to defend my beliefs. The relationships and experiences I had while attending VCHS made me who I am today, and I can confidently say that I am well equipped for the next nine months.
For the first time in my life, I feel God telling me to GO. I have a desire in my heart and feel this route is perfect for me. Most importantly I will make a difference; for the people I will serve and for the kingdom of God. I can’t wait to meet my squad, grow in community with them, and see how God uses us to bring Him glory. Thank you for taking the time to read this, I hope it helped you understand my heart for this mission. Please follow me throughout this journey and if you have any questions just ask!
Blessings,
Amanda
