Hi, I’m Taylor. I am a 21 year-old college senior. I am studying Business Marketing, heavily involved on campus in student ministries and extra circulars organizations, I work more than I study, I get great grades and most people would consider me to be pretty successful. But it’s funny how all those “achievements” do not satisfy. Therefore, pushing it all aside, let me be raw: My name is Taylor Lauren Schmidt and I am a beloved child of God.
I am originally from Southern Illinois, but currently live and study in Austin, Texas at Concordia University. I am blessed with a wonderful family and amazing friends. God has used the past three and half years of school and working at a summer camp to grow and shape me in the most challenging ways. I was raised in a home where I heard the name of Jesus everyday. However, my relationship with Him did not really take hold until when I left home. On my own I realized the important truth: that I… suck, for lack of a better word.
I am sinful, disgusting and broken. No matter how hard I work in school, how much money I earn, how nice I am or how successful I am, I am not worth it on my own. The Gospel took root in my heart when I gripped this pride-destroying truth. Because of Jesus, I am made beautiful and valuable. Through experiencing the greatest love story, my heart began a journey of softening. This is where my callling to missions began.
I first heard about the World Race after a mission trip to Botswana. I was 18 and ready to drop all my college credits, pack my bags and go. Wise professors told me to be patient (something I quite often struggle with) and wait. Thankfully, their words got through and here I am: Soon to graduate and ready to embark on this beautiful, God-ordained adventure. I am at peace, but nervous. Every adventure He has called me to so far has been continuing the process of stripping away who I try to make myself to be in this world. And I left vulnerable, raw and loved. These have been the greatest adventures, and better than any adventure I could have chosen or planned myself. I am made strong in Christ as I continue to learn about my depravity and His righteousness. Therefore, I will approach The World Race with bold confidence, knowing that the King leads me by His hand. I pray that this messy truth takes hold in your heart too.
My name is Taylor Schmidt, I am broken and loved and this is where my next journey begins.
