A year ago I took a step of faith and obedience and embarked on the World Race. I had an expectant heart and God sent me out with His joy and peace.
Two weeks ago I was sitting at a believer’s table in China eating traditional Uzbekistan plov and almost started crying over sweet carrots. I was reminded of eating cous cous with sweet carrots in Morocco at our neighbour’s table and got really sentimental and sad that this journey was fast approaching the end.
Words and pictures can never sum up this whole year and all the Lord did. I will never be the same again and I am so thankful.
I’ve crossed many borders and been privileged to go to 14 countries, traveling many hours by plane, bus, train and foot. We’ve interacted with numerous cultures, nationalities and languages.
I’ve seen so much beauty throughout these countries, things I hope my memory never forgets. I’ve seen the stark contrast between rich and poor, tensions between nations and had my perspective stretched and changed through traveling.
We’ve met many people who have shared their stories and homes with us. I’ve been welcomed in, fed, loved and treated like a daughter by people of all different nationalities. We’ve interacted and shared with people of differing religious views and been frequently challenged by their generosity and hospitality. I’ve experienced hospitality like never before. We have consumed numerous cups of tea, biscuits and potatoes. There is so much significance in eating together. I have been touched by the people we have met along the way, each with a story and a purpose. I am thankful that God enabled me to cross paths with each one, even if just for a short time.
I’ve been greatly encouraged by the body at work around the world and the growing number of believers in all these countries. Where persecution is high, God makes a way where there seems to be none. I’ve seen the simple gospel proclaimed and lived out boldly and wisely. I’ve seen people come into the Kingdom, healings and the spirit released.
I’ve traveled consistently with a squad and grown with these sisters and brothers of mine. We have shared, laughed, danced and cried together. I’ve been encouraged, loved and challenged by each one of them. I have seen different characteristics of the Father through them, experienced true community and have developed life long friendships.
I have grown out of my comfort zone, been challenged, inspired and criticised. The Lord has grown my faith, cultivated deeper intimacy with Himself and with others. He has helped cement my identity as a child of God, given me greater measures of confidence, rid me of lies and washed over me with truth and grace, helped me value and use my voice, highlighted my giftings and taught me numerous things. God is continuing to transform more of my heart and that is the greatest gift.
To those who have supported me on this journey, prayed for and given so generously- thank you! You have helped my personal growth and grown the Kingdom in more ways than you’ll ever know. I’ll be eternally grateful.
I just returned home and I know that this is just the beginning. Even greater things are yet to come and I get to live a life of passionate pursuit of the One who has been pursuing me my whole life. I have returned to Toowoomba and am unsure what the next season will look like. However, I surrender my will for His and trust His guidance in whatever comes next and I have a peace about it all.
Tals World Race Journey from Talia Stoddart on Vimeo.
