In the last few days, I have seen a beautiful new person emerging. She is full of peace and joy, and possesses a graceful beauty that radiates the heart of the Lord. She is my fellow World Racer, Leah Anderson.
Leah grew up in Danville, Kentucky. Her town was conservative, as was her church. She was surrounded by the safety of her Christian family and friends. After high school, her adventurous spirit led her on a path of discovery.
She moved to Georgia to study biology at Berry College. After spending some time as a camp leader at High Adventure Camp in Maine, Leah took a job on the fishing boats in Alaska. She put her biology degree to use doing research on the fishing vessels.
She loved being in Alaska, and enjoyed exploring the many ports. The social environment was harsh, and it was a lonely lifestyle. The community of seasonal workers spent a lot of time drinking and partying. It was heartbreaking for Leah to see the emptiness in their lives, but it was also a temptation.
Seven months in the Alaska fishing communities, taught Leah a lot about herself and God. She came to depend on Him in her loneliness, and saw place her with safe people she could talk to. She learned His grace when she messed up and made bad decisions.
Many times, Leah struggled to accept and understand the grace God offered her. She did not feel she deserved it. But God consistently offered it. Through it, she learned more about His love.
Those seven months played a big role in preparing Leah for The World Race. It was the first time that she had spent a lot of time with non-Christians. She was intimidated, and sometimes judgmental. Working through that has given her a new perspective on others. She recognized there deep longing for something more, but they were seeking in all of the wrong places. They needed guidance.
Leah was recently reviewing her journals from Alaska, and found a prophetic statement.
“I have a heart for traveling and I am a big dreamer. Hopefully soon it will take me around the world.” It was soon after that, when the Lord lead her to The World Race through the internet.
She has embraced the training with full dedication, and is looking forward to going into the nations. Her arms long to hold little orphaned babies, just love them.
Looking ahead, Leah does feel like missions will continue to be in her future but maybe not right away. I am confident that God will continue to lead her on the great adventure He has placed in her heart.
