Well, it’s finally come to that point. At the beginning of the Race, our trip was split into four different legs: South America, Eastern Europe, Africa, and Southeast Asia. And after 8 months we are about to embark on the last leg of our journey: Southeast Asia!! It’s kind of a bittersweet moment as I am excited for the next stage, but I also know it’s the beginning of the end of our journey. And I’m not ready for the end to come yet. Granted, I know there is still 3 months left, but they are going to fly by. I know it! But I know God has great plans for me after the Race as well, so I know this season in my life has to come to an end at some point.
We fly out for Thailand tonight. It’s crazy to think that we won’t be in Africa anymore. I still remember flying into Johannesburg 3 months ago and staring down at the brownish-red dirt that covered the landscape. I remember the feelings of excitement rush in, as I’ve always wanted to come to Africa. And Africa did not disappoint! I was unsure as to whether I would like Africa or not because everyone said that Africa would either be amazing or a real struggle. Fortunately, it was amazing!
I realize that my Africa experience maybe wasn’t as intense as it could have been. Southern Africa is a lot different than central Africa and I didn’t get to experience first-hand many of the stories I’ve heard about Africa from previous Racers. But I’m grateful for the experience that I did get and they will be memories I take with me for the rest of my life. I love the African people!! I love African children!! I love African culture!! There’s just a lively spirit in everyone here and a joy that is unparalleled to any place I’ve been even despite the hardships of life here. It’s a beautiful thing to experience and I hope to come back to Africa again someday.
God also grew me a lot these last couple months and I want to take some time and reflect on the work He’s done in me. Like every month so far, each one had a different theme to it.
South Africa:
- Surrender everything to the Lord
- Particularly in my relationships with my teammates
- Ministry work that we partner with
- Be a man of action
- Be a voice in the team
Mozambique:
- Becoming a man of discipline
- Guarding my heart and mind
- Spending time in prayer and in the Word
- Ministry is a lifestyle
- It’s not just something I do
- Want to give my whole being to the ministries we work with
Swaziland:
- Awareness of spiritual warfare
- The Enemy is real and we need to be mindful of his ways
- We need not fear cause our God is greater and stronger!
- Walking in my spiritual gifts more
- Particularly the gift of healing
So yea, Africa was amazing!! I love it here and would love to come back (Lord willing!) But I want to be in the present so good-bye Africa! Hello Asia!!
