One thing I thought I wanted to take away from the World Race was the ability to be content with having less materialistic things. In Luke 9:23, Jesus sends out his disciples and tells them, “Take nothing for the journey – no staff, no bag, no bread, no money, no extra tunic.”
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When I left Oz, my initial plan was to pack a limited amount of clothing so I could live out the calling Jesus had for His disciples and live like an impoverished person who somehow manages to survive on the same outfit every day. It was harder than I thought. I ended up bringing a FULL backpack of clothes that I realised I didn’t necessarily need, but was nice to have.
Travelling for the last four months in the Middle East, Europe, America, Canada and coming from the WR Training Camp, I have struggled to decide what I should bring with me on the WR trip. Asking my fellow racers, WR alumni and reading so many different blogs on the topic, I must admit, it has been super STRESSFUL listening to everyone’s opinions while trying to live out Jesus’ calling for His disciples in Luke.
Recently, I finished reading Seth Barnes, Kingdom Journeys – Rediscovering the Lost Spiritual Discipline and in Chapter 13, it mentions, “Many [short term] trips don’t resemble a Luke 10 experience. Bags packed to the brim. No faith is required.” Little did I know, my lesson was not about being content with having less, but my ability to obey Jesus’ calling and trust in His providence and Sovereignty.
So now, my backpack includes a limited amount of clothing which not only allows me to have a lighter pack, but also gives me opportunities to stress out to God when I complain and worry about not having my comfy clothes, extra warm thermals or having another outfit because it could fit the occasion better. Luke 22:35, “Jesus asked [his disciples]. “When I sent you without purse, bag or sandals, did you lack anything?” “Nothing,” they answered.”
My goal on the WR is for my faith to escalate as I obey His calling, seek His provision, see Him deliver and/or allow Him to change my perspective on what is truly important.
