The further I get into this fundraising process, the more I realize how much it’s not about the money and so much more about the relationships I’m able to strengthen, renew, and create. Now obviously I need the $16,255 to go on this 11 month mission trip around the world; that’s just a fact. But that number does not determine my vision or direct my journey. Nope. That would be my relationship with God and my relationships with my friends and family that do that. God has been blessing me through every single person in my life, time and time again, and I have never felt more supported in my life. Just this past week alone has been so wonderful and encouraging.
People who I never would’ve expected to be able to donate any money at all have offered generous donations.
Old friends and family have given so much of their time and effort to help make my fundraising goals succeed.
Multiple friends have reached out to me to ask for advice about their relationship with God or simply for prayer.
Distant neighbors, friends of friends, and random passerby who were all once strangers have reached out to ask about my story and support me.
Countless people have contacted me to offer prayers and words of encouragement.
My World Race squad has already become an amazing family.
Acquaintances from all over the place have shown up big, giving me the chance to catch up with them and renew those old friendships.
My family has put up with my constant questions and sass these three weeks I’ve been home and responded with nothing but love and support.
I believe that one of the most central teachings of the Gospel is the importance of relationships. Jesus invested the majority of his time on Earth in a small group of friends, and they advanced the Gospel by sharing their faith with others. His grand master plan is the same today as it was then. You all have been a humbling testimony of Christ-like love in my life, and I am so overjoyed to have the opportunity to minister to friends and family before I even leave for the World Race!
This season of fundraising has tested my faith and challenged me in so many ways. It has also blessed me in infinitely more ways. I’ve been praying that God would surprise me, and He indeed has – through the people in my life.
This one’s for all of you. Y’all rock.
Love in Christ,
Ronny
