I can’t believe Training Camp is just around the corner. It’s crazy!
I thought I’d let you into a little bit of what I’m doing to get prepared.
First off, gear. I can tell you that gear is not cheap. A pack alone can cost a Racer close to $300 depending on what they get and what kind of deals they can come across. When you add a tent $150, sleeping bag $80, sleeping pad $90, packing cubes $40, headlamp $30, pack cover $35, day pack $40, clothing and necessities, and the list goes on, you’ve gone far past breaking the bank. It can be overwhelming and daunting, especially alongside fundraising. However, God has been so good to me. In two months time, I had stocks that increased just enough to cover the cost of my pack and tent. On top of that, I was able to get full time at work which isn’t easy where I work, and that has helped pay for most of the other things. I can’t even believe it, but God is so good and provides for the things he calls us to.
Now comes the most daunting task of all. How am I supposed to fit everything I need into two bags? I’ll be gone for 11 months! Can I get a magic Mary Poppins purse for this trip, please!???
I’ve never been a light packer. I like to be prepared for everything, but that won’t be possible with the World Race. How do you prepare for something like this? I have a 65-liter big pack and a 30-liter daypack to hold everything I think I might need for 11 months. I am, however, so grateful to AIM (Adventures In Missions) for giving us a detailed packing list and to past racers for giving us advice through a Facebook buy and trade group (a great place to get used, affordable gear).
Last but not least, mental, emotional and spiritual preparation. I cannot express to you how important this is. I’ve had some experience with this before since back in 2016 I moved to Japan to do mission work for a year, but many of my squadmates are taking this big step for the first time in their lives. We will be leaving our families, friends, and our comforts to step out into the unknown to share God’s unfailing, unconditional love with those who have never experienced it. We will be experiencing so much excitement while at the same time experiencing sadness from leaving our loved ones and nervousness of the unknown. One thing I know for sure, no matter what my squad experiences, God will always be there every step of the way. We won’t have to face any of it alone. He will provide exactly what we need for the moment and will be there to hold us through any disappointment and there to rejoice with us through all of the laughter, love, and miracles. He’s such a good father.
Please keep me and my squad in your prayers as we step out into the unknown to be the hands and feet of Jesus.
Be sure to hit the subscribe button above for updates while I’m on the Race. Also, continue to pray for finances for me and my team. Thanks!
