11 Moments in America
Served in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
1-Walk on the beach: Seeing the Atlantic Ocean reminded me of home, but also reminded me of God’s goodness. Being able to see so many oceans this year is humbling. The Lord power and strength is evident in the waves, and His creativity in the colors throughout the water, the sand and the shells.
2-Trick or Treat: Our group was able to chaperone a group of kids around a neighborhood to Trick or Treat. Personally, I had never celebrated Halloween, but it was fun to hang out with the kids and also meet many families around the neighborhood. I absolutely loved having a “cop” with us who “secured every location” we visited.
3-Picnic in the park: Our team picnicked in the park one day. We brought sandwiches, chips, fruit and brownies. We played football and threw the Frisbee as well. Although we were working on scheduling and tackling tasks for the week at church, we were able to relax and have fun.
4-Eating at Chick-fil-a for the first time in 11 months: Silly, I know. But very important to my taste buds! I loved enjoying a grilled chicken sandwich and those special waffle fries, and of course I couldn’t forget the sweet tea.
5-Senior Adult Activities: I absolutely loved sitting with these adults during lunch to hear and share about life. I sat with Anne-Marie, Barbara, Elaine and Doris. They encouraged me to get up and dance with them (this included strutting around the fellowship hall with a small umbrella, and learning how to jitterbug with Mr. Art).
6-Boating with our host family: One afternoon our host family asked us to go out on the boat with them to see around the Ft. Lauderdale area. It was so relaxing, and then we watched a fantastic sunset as we rode to dinner. It was an amazing blessing.
7-Middle School Bible Study: Students are so honest and comical. They aren’t afraid to do silly tasks like eating donuts off of a string, but they are capable of serious discussion about the Lord’s Word too. I loved their openness and willingness to be ask questions.
8-Prayer Walk: One night our team joined some others to prayer walk around the church campus. I learned on the race that I absolutely love praying, so I was excited to see how the night would go. It was neat to allow the Father to bring up areas that He wanted prayer for. The main thing that He showed me was discipleship. He desires his church (not just this specific church, but the entire body) to pour into making disciples. To mentor others and seek mentorship as well. We were built for community and we need each other to help carry each other’s burdens. We have wisdom to share and understanding to gain.
9-Thanksgiving Meal with the team: Although it wasn’t a full meal, we were able to make green bean casserole, dressing and have turkey on our sandwiches. I have grown to see my race community as family. I was so thankful to celebrate the year, the growth, the hardships, the fun—the journey alongside of my team.
10-Mission Possible Kids: This service project program touched my heart. To encourage the children in the church to be outward focused. To look for ways to reach outside of their needs to make an impact in the community and the nations for the glory of God’s kingdom. Their footprint might be small, but the Father’s heart is well pleased.
11-Beach Baptisms: This day has to be one of my favorite days of the race. To be surrounded by the majesty of the Lord at the beach, then to celebrate lives that have been forever changed by the Lord’s salvation—it couldn’t get better. I loved seeing the church family support those being baptized, and also the joy that overflowed from everyone as each person was baptized in the water.
