When preparing for a big life transition, there is a natural and necessary reflective process that happens for me, and I assume for most people. I have returned to the Northeast from my nearly three year residency in Texas, and am preparing to leave for an 11 month mission trip to share the Gospel of Jesus in unreached regions of the world. This may be the biggest transition I have prepared for in my life! I am sitting at the dining room table, with a quiet and empty house for the first time, able to put pen to paper (or fingertips to keyboard), and share what God has been doing in my life these last few weeks. Currently, the top question I am asked in conversations with friends and strangers is, “Are you ready?”.
Well, I am trying to be as ready as possible. More importantly, I am trying to listen, obey and spend quality time with the Lord, trusting that He is directing my steps. And while I am at the point where anxiety is trying to creep in, I combat fear with scripture and trust that what He has for me, is for me.
So what do the days leading up to launch for the World Race look like?
Goodbyes
Many, many goodbyes. I left my Texas family. In September of 2015, I moved down to central Texas where I did not know ANYONE. I had dreams and hopes that I would grow spiritually, personally, and professionally. God provided exceedingly above what I could have imagined. These beautiful strangers became more than coworkers, bible student peers, and fellow church members. We grew into friends and family. I am in tears as I type because I am so grateful for how they welcomed me, surrounded me, and loved me well. Thank you, to every Texas native and transplant who touched my life. I am different because I got to journey beside you. I love Jesus more, I have grown deeper in relationships, and I delight more in God’s daily picture of grace in the work that I get to do.
Resting
NAPS! I have not regularly taken those since college, but my body has fallen out on the couch 10/17 days I have been home. I must have needed it because my energy is back up-up-up! No coffee needed! Woohoo!!
In addition to physical rest, I am spending time studying and understanding what soul rest looks like. One of my prayers for these next 11 months is that I understand and practice true Sabbath rest. My heart and mind are longing for this.
Packing, Cleaning, Organizing, Reducing
This has been an interesting process, beyond the normal cleaning out papers and cabinets in the closets of my parents’ home. Rereading and filing my old documents and packing away clothes from my past has allowed me to reflect on the girl I was. I have experienced God’s careful uprooting from the comforts that I had tethered myself to. What a kindness that He is gently pulling me from the things that I will be living without for almost a year: many material comforts, my structured routine, and even certain foods. He’s preparing me for greater dependence on Him in both spiritual and the natural. WOAH, this is getting real.
Fellowship
I have had some sweet fellowship with family! We have danced in ballrooms and living rooms, laughed under beach umbrellas, indulged in paleo desserts and keto cocktails, and lounged on the “man cave” couches while watching soccer and Netflix movies. The experiences are good, the time with family is better.
Praise Reports
- My body is rested and refreshed. Amen!
- I am over 83% funded!! Thank you, thank you, thank you! Thank you for your generosity. Thank you for allowing God to use you in this way. I am praying that the Lord blesses you, and praying that you take joy in your participation in bringing the Gospel to the people I meet and serve! Amen!
- My safe return after a drive from Texas to Maryland, and being able to hug my family. It has been over six months, and these hugs were needed!
Prayer Requests
- For me to be fully funded! We are quickly approaching Launch on August 3rd. Money is not the goal, BUT it is an important part of how God moves His mission forward. If you are looking to give generously in advancing God’s Kingdom, would you prayerfully consider supporting me with a financial gift?
- For my squadmates to be fully funded. Learn about these amazing people, pray for them with me, and consider supporting them financially as well! Meet my squad here → https://www.worldrace.org/?tab=participants&group=18W08EX
- For the Lord to surround me with His peace.
- That I learn to practice healthier rhythms of work and rest.
- All logistical and financial concerns are taken care of while I am away.
