A question I have often been asked since returning home: “Was the world race all that you thought it would be?” My reply: “Well, yes and no. We were actually warned to begin the race with only one expectation – ‘to expect the unexpected’, and that happened every day!”
I feel this question highlights why so many of us racers experience some level of post-race depression…I’ll try to explain.
Over this past year, what did I place my hope in? Did I think that I would be transformed in Christ alone? Or in the World Race alone? Did I find my identity in Christ alone? Or in the World Race alone? I don’t think it was either of those extremes, though it should have been. It should have been in Christ alone.
That’s where the danger lies. When we start to place hope and identity in a program or ministry, what will happen when that ‘platform’ is removed? Someone shared this with me the other day, “the better the program, the harder the fall once it is removed from everyday existence”. Wow! This is a bold statement.
After much reflection, I see the downfall lies more in a mindset than a program. The flaw lies less in the World Race, and more in me – the participant. I want you to see this – especially if you are doing the race or thinking about joining. It’s about a mindset.
The World Race is not IT! It does not have secret powers that are going to change you into a superhero – or even a super Christian! It does, however, provide an ingenious avenue – or better yet, opportunity – to be transformed. But that transforming power comes from CHRIST ALONE!
The more hope I put in a program, and the less intimacy I pursue with my Maker, I will not be as radically transformed as I had expected. Thus, I will be disappointed, and maybe even become frustrated with the program itself for not delivering the expected outcome…
In Jesus alone, is not only where transformation takes place, but sustainable, life-long transformation. A transformation that stands the test of time. A transformation that perseveres once the program has finished. A transformation that rejoices in the ordinary days because they can see Christ in all and through all.
The World Race does provides a unique opportunity. I promise you will come face to face with Jesus everyday – and He will leave you forever changed because of these powerful encounters. But then again, it’s all about Jesus. He will be staring at you with each gaze of an orphan, reaching out to you through the hug of a widow, or dancing with you through the steps of a refugee…
So, do I recommend the World Race? YES – WITHOUT A DOUBT! WATCH THIS VIDEO, SIGN-UP AND GO – DO NOT DELAY! But first, a word for the wise…
BE TRANSFORMED BY THE POWER OF JESUS SO THAT HIS POWER CAN TRANSFORM THE WORLD! WE FIRST HAVE TO BE THE CHANGE THAT WE WANT TO SEE IN THE WORLD.
