Another year has gone by and another is about to be in full swing. However, this year has definitely been different than any other in the past. I started this year on a plane on my way to Australia with no plans and no idea what I was doing. I was on that plane for many reasons, some better than others. I wanted to see the beautiful country of Australia, desperately get away from my home country, and also find out who I am and what I’m doing with my life.
I started off this year traveling for selfish reasons, but I’m ending the year traveling for selfless reasons. In between a lot has happened; too much has happened actually. To even attempt to put it all in one blog is unrealistic, if I’m being honest. I’ve found so much wisdom and peace in the Father and what Jesus did for me to have that relationship with Dad. Here goes nothing though.
When I was in Australia and New Zealand I wanted to see this oceanic world, but I also wanted to escape mine. I was tired of the lifestyle I was living back home, the “deep” relationships I had, the popularity and acceptance I had at my microscopic, insignificant school. So, I bought a one way ticket to Australia ready to find a new world and leave the one I’d been a part of in the dust.
Oddly enough I found just that. It was different, lonesome at times, but beautiful altogether. Traveling by yourself you have a lot of time to think, which can be good or bad depending on who you ask. Fortunate for me, God was guiding every step of the way in AU and NZ. I was able to reflect about my inner self, love on the backpacking community, and see my (up to now) favorite part of His creation.
I came back home with a new perspective thinking I was in a good place, only to walk into a smack across the top of my head. At training camp for the World Race I got wrecked and my eyes were opened to see that there was still more to grow in and so much more of my relationship with my Heavenly Father to experience. It now came time for the world race to start and every day of this journey I learn something new, see a new side of the Father’s heart, and learn how to say no to myself more and more while saying yes to those around me.
What did I learn about myself this year?
I learned that I’m compassionate and merciful. I’ve always been a calm and collected person, but it wasn’t until this year that God has opened my eyes to how much I care for and surround myself with broken people in that. Whether in Australia or on the race, I’ve had so many opportunities to spend time loving on lost souls and pouring into people. Sometimes there have been breakthroughs and other times there’s no fruit seen, but I’ve always gravitated toward hurting people. I thank God for putting that passion in my heart.
What did I overcome in 2016?
Shame. I battled with shame from past relationships, decisions I had made but never really received healing in, shame in my past walk with Jesus. There were things in my life that had happened and were in the past, but I had never really forgiven myself or come to terms with them. God has definitely brought me to a place of healing in a lot of past hardships, and He is the only one to thank in that.
Favorite moment this year?
The first time God used me as a vessel to heal someone of their physical pain, and all the countless times the Holy Spirit has showed up in that way on the race since then.
Craziest moment this year?
A few nights ago Fabian and I went to help families out of their homes before they were flooded and swept away by the river. A storm came from no where and a lady was banging on the front door asking our host if he could help. The river kept rising and kept getting faster. After we crossed the river and helped some kids and families to higher ground, we saw that the water rose probably 20 feet and swept away part of the bridge. We ended up having to spend the rest of the night under a small covering watching the river rush by as large trees came crashing down and were swept away. So much went on I still haven’t wrapped my head around it all.
Favorite purchase this year?
A tattoo (sorry mom). Through that tattoo I made a good friend and we had the chance to share about Jesus with that friend; the dude was on a Jesus high all night. He received a glimpse of the hope we obtain when we live a life with the Father. The story alone was worth the ink.
Biggest lesson learned in 2016 to take into 2017?
Choose joy in every aspect of life and always invite others into that joy. A life without joy is a life not lived.
Another big thing I will take from this year is that you’ve never “made it.” Whether it’s worldly or spiritually in my relationship with Jesus, there is always so much more to learn. God can’t be put in a box; there are always ways to dive deeper with Him and His people. I’ve seen the benefit of living in community with like-minded people and I’ve seen the ways it can be hindering, if it’s not done properly. Regardless of the circumstances and people, there is always room for growth. I’m thankful for the ways God has opened my eyes to the constant growth I have the chance to tap into with Him.
Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this year. To my supporters: I am officially fully funded for the race! Thank you for joining me on this journey. To my squad mates and close family and friends back home: I’m so thankful for you continuing to challenge me and staying involved in my life. Each and everyone of you encourage me in different ways. We are currently working with a family in Ecuador going into the jungle to share the gospel with various villages. We’ll be leaving Monday to spend a few days in a village down south. Keep our team in your prayers for safe travels and Holy Spirit led conversations. Happy New Years everyone!!
