I look around every day and often have to step back to take it all in. I realize this is my life right now. I walk into my backyard and see a volcano in the distance… I teach math to a group of kids that I love… I scrape paint off floors of a school… I sound silly when I speak Spanish to the taxi driver… I do all of these things and so much more, all while living in an unfamiliar country.
Life on the world race is wonderfully wild. Each day brings a new, exciting adventure. Life is no longer a mundane routine of getting things done. It’s about embracing each moment and being ready for what God has up His sleeve. I want to share a few words that I am choosing to live by for the rest of my days. As long as I commit to living by them, my life will be forever changed.
Keep your eyes, heart and mind open to every opportunity God puts before you. This has become my theme during this season of my life. As we go out each day into ministry, I see different opportunities to share God’s love. Whether it’s a tug on my heart to speak to an elderly woman about her day or to go give that dirty kid a big hug. By doing the things that just feel right, we can be lead into great conversation and shine the Lord’s light.
I have found it’s important to be prepared for these moments. God works in mysterious ways. He wants to work in and through us. We just need to be willing to let him do His Kingdom work. If you feel a stirring in your heart to share with someone how beautiful they are or you love their jewelry, speak it out. You never know where your willingness to follow God’s lead can take you. He is in control… remember that.
Be present. Such a simple statement, yet it carries so much weight. Stay present, look around, and fully take pleasure in what this moment has to offer. Be grateful for things like your hearing, your vision, the air conditioning in your home, the food on your table, the iPhone in your hand. Don’t constantly look forward to the next chapter in your life. Enjoy this one!
For the first time in my life, I have been completely satisfied not having a plan for what’s next. I have not one clue what I’d like to do in December when I come home from the race. And I am okay with that. In fact, I shouldn’t have plans. I don’t want distractions from the work God wants me to do. I am grateful that God is stretching me in the area of staying present-minded.
Choose Joy. Look at every moment as an opportunity to be joyful. When I see people that exude joyfulness, I can see Jesus in them. To experience true joy is a beautiful gift that God has blessed us with. Find your happy place in every situation you enter into and exude joy. You will live a much healthier and happier life if you commit to choosing joy. Plus, joyful people are always more fun to be around.
All of the things I’ve mentioned shouldn’t be words to live by just for world racers. Apply these truths to your own life. Don’t miss any opportunities God places in your path; be ready for them… with an open heart and open mind. You will be extraordinarily delighted in how He transforms your life through each experience.
In Christ,
-Cortney
