I have a special, special place in my heart for Africa. Throughout my life I have always had a longing to come here, and when I finally did come I had a strong longing to return. Now here I am in South Africa for my last two and half weeks of the race, and I'm struggling. I'm struggling because I constantly find myself longing to be home.
It's funny the way life works, isn't it? We always want what we don't have. Before launching for China last September, I was in a constant state of longing for the race to begin. I was excited, passionate, ready. Now in month 11 I have to fight to stay present on the race. The excitement, passion, and readiness doesn't come as easily anymore.
A dear friend and teammate of mine recently reminded me that, in many ways, this year is a fast. It is a fast from our friends, our family, from holiday celebrations, and often comfort. It is a year of learning, growth, dedication, and community. This same friend and I recently did a food fast together as well. During the fast, I really wasn't struggling too much. Each meal missed seemed to be a fairly standard meal. But then one night for dinner, Mexican food was served- guacamole included. You've got to be kidding me. Mexican food has been the way to my heart this year, since it has been so lacking. As silly as it sounds, that is when the struggle started for me. That is when I started questioning the fast. But that was also when the growth really started; when the reliance on my Creator really set in.
I see month 11 in the same way- it is the Mexican food served during a food fast. It's the month that is so easy to try to run on your own strength. But running the race on your own strength will only last for so long. If you don't turn your reliance to the Lord you'll end up with a mouth full of guac – and as wonderful as guacamole is, I promise you Christ is always better.
Through the strength of our God I finished that fast strong, and in the end I was so glad to have experienced sacrifice in it. Yes, I missed out on something delicious, but it caused me to turn to Jesus that much more.
So I am choosing to now embrace the struggle, the sacrifice of month 11. I am choosing to rely on God to finish this fast strong. I know that the sacrifice and the struggles will result in more growth if I allow them to; if I turn to Jesus for strength instead of myself.
Love,
Kara
