Where did I get the idea to go on the World Race?
I simply googled "mission trips". The first thing that came up was the World Race. I was intrigued and researched the organization to find out more. I applied, paid the application fee, and waited to hear if I was accepted or not.
While I was waiting, I prayed continuously that the door to this mission trip be shut, otherwise, I would go.
I went through all the interview phases and as time went on, I realized more and more that I had signed on for something that was so much greater than myself. I continued to pray my prayer and asked for guidance. I was honestly, really hoping God would say, "You know what, Oralia? You don't have to go on this mission trip. You can continue living your life as you are. You can continue to live comfortably."
I was accepted into the race.
Why am I going on the race?
I cannot say that I am going on the race because I have a strong desire to just give a year of my life to the cause of the world. I can, however, say that I am going on the race because I want to give over a year of my life for the cause of the Gospel to be shared amongst the nations.
I want to make a difference in the world and I want the world to make a difference in me. I want to step forth in faith for and by Christ.
Am I ready?
Umm, I am as ready as I can be. Jeremiah always comes to mind:
The word of the Lord came to me, saying,
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you,
before you were born I set you apart;
I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”“Alas, Sovereign Lord,” I said, “I do not know how to speak; I am too young.”
But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am too young.’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you,” declares the Lord.
Then the Lord reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, “I have put my words in your mouth. See, today I appoint you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant.”
(Jeremiah 1: 4-10)
What do I want to get out of it?
I simply want to love God and love others on this trip. I want to walk in obedience and speak with wisdom. I want to learn who God is and I want to share who I know God to be. I acknowledge that I have many faults but I know that God works through them. I want to see God work through the broken to heal the lost. I want to live out the Great Commission.
How am I preparing?
Currently, I am filling out all the paperwork, getting my shots, and applying for my passport. I am researching the best tents and backpacks. And I keep praying.
How do I feel?
I will not lie, I sometimes feel overwhelmed thinking about being gone for a year and not knowing exactly what will happen. Things are not in my control and it freaks me out. I am vulnerable to God's plan and vulnerability is tough. However, I am at peace about everything when I remember who God is and Who I am made for, which reminds me of the calling to lay down my life in order to gain life.
What do I need?
Prayer. Lots and lots of prayer. I need prayer for courage to continue stepping forward. Prayer for the team I will be traveling with. Prayer for the people I will come across while on the trip. Prayer for health. Prayer for God's will to be done. Prayer for healing in the world.
Financial. I ask you to consider helping me financially in my ministry. I must raise $16,285 to go on the race. I believe full-heartedly that God will provide. I do not question that. I ask that you prayerfully consider supporting me in this new journey. Click the “Support Me” link in the upper left side of the page and complete your donation as instructed.
I want to thank you all for reading this and thank you in advance for believing in my ministry!
