“But how are they to call on one in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in one of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone to proclaim him? And how are they to proclaim him unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” Romans 10:14-15
WOW!! God is so amazing!! The World Race is an experience and adventure that I had only dreamed about. And now I am leaving in only a few short months!! I am so excited and slighty overwhelmed!! Traveling overseas and sharing the love and hope of Jesus Christ has been and is my biggest passion in life!!
I was blessed to have been raised by an amazing Christian family and parents that expected me to attend church each week as well as be submersed in church activites. Although I considered myself a Christian, I didn’t understand or surrender my life to Jesus Christ until I was about 11 years old.
As I think back over the years, I realize that God has been preparing me for such a trip as the World Race. My earliest memory for wanting to travel begins in 8th grade. Focus on the Family (Brio) was taking a mission trip to Brazil and I desperately wanted to go, but my parents said I was too young. I believe that another huge reason was the fact that we didn’t hardly travel outside Missouri, much less fly in airplanes to other countries. Then finally the summer of my junior year, I was allowed to go to Focus on the Family’s (Brio) mission trip to Ecuador. While in Ecuador, I recommitted myself to God and to follow Him whenever, wherever, however, and doing whatever He leads me to. The following summer, I participated in Brio’s mission trip to Panama. That August I was enrolled at College of the Ozarks in Branson, MO. My college experience had a huge impact on my life and faith journey and led to several mission trips to Bali, Indonesia, Belize, and Mexico. God has also enabled me to travel to India and Burkina Faso, Africa all within the past few years.
“For mortals it is impossible, but not for God; for God all things are possible.” Mark 10:27
God has proven this verse true over and over again throughout my life especially dealing with missions and traveling. Raised on a 1500 acre farm with cattle, crops, big machinery, and a family who perfers to “stay put” working than travel anywhere, my life hasn’t quite followed the typical farmgirl sterotype. God has placed so many opportunities in my life that wouldn’t of ever been possible for me to try alone, especially when it came to funding. I have found that all I have to do is let God use me for His purposes and my dreams will seem like nothing compared to the plans He has for my life!!
Along with traveling, sharing about Jesus, and agriculture, my favorite activities are hanging out with family and friends, dancing (free-style if you know what I mean!!), reading, working out in the gym, cooking, and eating!! I love learning about cultures and making new friends! I love to laugh especially at myself and make people smile. I love being outside and admiring this beautiful creation God has designed. All in all, I love God, people, and having fun!
