When I signed up for the World Race I knew it would be a challenge. I knew the Lord would push my boundaries and ask me to do things that made me uncomfortable. I knew that I would face things and feel things that I never had before. I tried to begin this journey with no expectations, open and ready for anything the Lord would throw at me. But no amount of openness or preparation could have made me ready for the leaving.
Four days after Christmas, I was faced with one of the hardest things I have ever done. I had to say goodbye. Goodbye to the precious little children that have absolutely stolen my heart over the past two months. I never knew it was possible to love a child that is not mine like he was my own. But, on that morning, as I sat there holding this little boy, wondering how in the world I could ever let him go, I realized love like that was entirely possible. Having to look at his little face and say “Adios”, knowing I would never see him again shattered my heart. My chest literally ached as I walked away. But, I realized that God didnt call me to do the easy things, He called me to follow His leading and love like Jesus.
Psalm 82:3 “Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy.”
For me, leaving looked like tears and puffy red eyes. It looked like the forced smiles of teammates, and a four year old Ecuadorian boy named Jhostin with his arms wrapped around my neck.
Leaving looked like this. But it was worth every second.
