September of 2019, I will be embarking on a nine month journey known as the World Race Gap Year, traveling across 3 different continents, Africa, Asia, and Central America. I will be immersed in many different cultures with opportunities to invest deeper into local communities while creating lasting relationships. From working with women rescued from sex trafficking and children within orphanages, to building homes and praying for the sick at hospitals; this trip allows the opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus.
My name is Matthew Rodriguez. I am 17 years old living in East Texas. Having just graduated from high school, I have often been asked what my plans were next. What I’ve learned is the importance of bringing God to the center of my life while making big decisions. As I take this season to seek after the Father’s heart and serve His people, my hope is He would use me to be a lasting impression on the people and places I encounter. Taking a gap year off from school allows me to discover the passions, gifts, and talents God has given me, equipping me for a successful future.
In the past year I have seen God move in incredible ways first hand. In the summer of 2017 I spent time in Germany reaching out to German refugees. This summer I spent a month in East Asia witnessing to a people of a more persecuted society. It was through these past trips that the Father has continued to give me a greater passion for the nations and to answer the call to go.
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
Matthew 28:19
