Words are funny little things that rarely make sense by themselves, but piecing them together creates ideas, questions, and testimonies that make communication possible, and can leave lasting impressions. You could say I have a passion for words and communication because I love languages. I am currently learning German and Spanish at the same time! But even though I have a vast vocabulary in three different languages, I can’t seem to find the right words; the words to share my decision, my adventure, my passion, and my mission that will be the World Race.
First of all, welcome to my blog everyone!! Thank you so much for being interested in, what I like to call, “my next great adventure.” I know the next step in my life seems to lead straight into a college or university, but I’ve chosen a more altruistic route instead. For the nine months between September 2018 and May 2019 I will be participating in the World Race Gap Year. The World Race works to spread the gospel and the love of God around the world through partnering with churches and ministries. The work will include planting churches, working in orphanages, and ministering to women and children trapped in human trafficking. This trip will stretch my limits and test my faith in ways I can’t imagine, and won’t be able to imagine until I am in the midst of it, but I hope that along the way I will keep the mentality of loving and giving like God loves and gives.
I don’t remember a certain moment that I decided to commit to the World Race, but I do remember mulling over it for a long time. I thought, “Am I in this for the adventure and the traveling that I love? Or am I in this because I genuinely want to help others, further God’s kingdom, and test my own faith?” There is such a big difference in wanting something with your mind, and wanting it with your heart. I think the decision became real for me on my long road trip home after Thanksgiving. I called one of my closest friends to tell her the news and just started crying out of joy and excitement. Telling someone other than my family made the decision all the more real. As I have continued to share the news of my “next great adventure”, my excitement has continued to grow! Through the peace I have felt over my decision, I know that God has placed the World Race in my path of life for a reason, and that this race will change me forever.
So there are all my words; in the most straightforward and sensible way I can put it. My words definitely don’t make sense all the time, and my plans are certainly not perfect, but Proverbs 30:5 reminds me: “As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless.” I hope that you will all join me in pursuing this great adventure with Christ through prayer and fundraising, and that you will follow me as I bear God’s fruit throughout the nations.
Au revoir for now!
-Gracie
P.S. Keep an eye out for updates on how you can support me on this endeavor! If you have any questions or want to know more, you can contact me through social media and email ([email protected])
