One month until Launch. One month. How did this happen?! It just blows my mind. I remember the day when I had just heard of the World Race, and how amazing the opportunity sounded. I remember the day when I first applied for the Race, just praying I will get accepted. I remember the day I got accepted, and I was so ecstatic, thinking the day I would leave for launch would never get here. And here we are, one month out.
I am feeling so excited, and so hopeful for this next season of life. Truly shocked that this time is actually here, the time I have dreamt of for 2 years now. I really am in disbelief. But, goodness! I am so stoked. I just know that amazing things are going to happen, not only in South Africa, Ecuador, and Cambodia, but also here in the states, through my family, friends. The Lord is going to move! Boy, I am ready.
I’m really not sure when it’s going to “hit me” that I am leaving for 9 months to foreign countries, living out of a backpack, or that I will be away from all of my comforts here at home. Probably once the plane lands in South Africa, who knows. But, really, all I have are good emotions about this next journey. However, I did want to come on here and encourage you guys with this, stolen from a gal on Instagram, @hannahpauwels: “There’s a debilitating lie that Jesus only moves on mission trips and Holy Spirit can only be seen in the village in Africa and we must go so that we know Him. It hurts my heart. He’s here. I never want to portray traveling and living overseas through a lens of comfort. Traveling is a privilege. Jesus calls us into all the world to share the Gospel. But, I have found that the spirit I carry is what truly gives me life. He’s the same God in my car on the way to Walmart as He is in the prayer meeting in India. Let’s stop believing the “season of waiting” lie that allows us to cruise without disciple and consistency. That’s not Kingdom.” The truth in that! It’s beautiful. And I felt like it should be shared. That’s my heart, and I want you guys to know that!
Speaking of seasons, though! During this season of life, I feel the Lord is really teaching me and showing me to love people. Like genuinely and wholeheartedly love people. And just teaching me what Love truly does mean, and all it encompasses. I have grown a desire to be that Love I am learning about. That Love Jesus is. It’s a kind of love that is patient. Kind. Respectful. Humble. Genuine. And so much more. It means straying away from American/worldly culture, and following Biblical culture, and living like Jesus. It’s learning to discern what is American and who is Jesus. It’s been really beautiful. The transformation of my heart. But, it hasn’t been easy. I am human, we are all human. I am also learning to give my own self grace, as I am learning with others, because that’s also what Love means. Treating myself with the same kindness I would others. But, I slip up, as most people do. I sometimes get caught up in old ways of living, but it’s a journey- something I have to constantly remind myself. And I encourage you to do the same. Always strive to look like Jesus, and always call yourself higher, but also allow grace to yourself when we aren’t perfect. (P.s. I want to know what God is teaching YOU in this season! Text me if you wanna, and let me hear it!)
So with that being said! If you could be praying for me to continue growing in that area! For love to be everything I am! Also for financial favor. I am praying I can be fully funded by launch, on September 6, so I don’t have to worry or stress about fundraising while I am on the field! I have a photoshoot raffle taking place right now, that has done okay, but praying it becomes even more successful. But praying I can get in a few paid shoots before I leave to help me reach my goal, as well. I also still have t-shirts from my tie-dye party, that say “let it go”, for $15, if you want one! Along with me, I ask that you be praying for my squad as they are fundraising, too!
So! Yea! I only have a short time until I leave, so if you want to get coffee, grab lunch, or whatever, before I go, please let me know! I’d love to see you. As always, I am forever grateful for the love, support, and encouragement I am constantly receiving. Praying I am able to give, and pour into others the same way you guys have done with me.
