It has been roughly three months since I committed to the World Race. In this time I have been able to raise just over half of the funds that I need. Without the incredible support that I have received I wouldn’t be where I am today, so I would like to say thank you again to all of those that have been so generous. Over that same course of time I have had a lot of time to think about the decision and wonder if it was the right one. What I decided is that I don’t know exactly what journey lies ahead of me, but answering Gods call is always the right answer. I have so much peace of mind about this experience when I feel like I should be super scared or nervous. Don’t get me wrong I know it won’t be smooth sailing. I’ve heard stories of culture shock, and loneliness and all sorts of hardships that missionaries face. Plus there will be days when I just want to go home, but knowing that God is with me and that he’ll be guiding my through makes me know that I will be ok.
That being said, it was the icing on the cake when I was able to meet about a third of my squad this past week. I met them at a retreat just outside of Grand Junction, Colorado. I was able to hammock, worship, hike, fish, stargaze, and so much more. This was like taking the traditional ‘camp high’ to the next level. Doing all of these things and strengthening my relationship with the Lord was very similar to a summer camp experience. The saddest part about those camps is that it always has an end. There is always the end of the week, when everyone goes home and you oftentimes never see those people again. You end up going back into your normal life That is what is so cool and different about the retreat we went on is that I made relationships with these people that will last as I’ll live with them for 9 months. These incredible 12 people that I met further encouraged me, and I am so excited to work along such incredible godly individuals. The coolest part is that just like my supporters, everyone comes from a unique background. Backgrounds that have various financial situations, family dynamics, and stories on how they got here, but every single one of them has a huge heart and love for God. This is what I am so excited to see in the communities I get to see and reach is that we are all so different, yet we all have a heart for the same God. From the people I will be traveling with to the people I meet along the way I am so stoked to see God work in the lives of all of these amazing people.
It is great to hear how excited you are to go on this adventure. ??
The first and last couple of weeks will be easiest. You’ll be on the “camp high” at first and it will be exciting, the last couple of weeks will be easy because you’ll be looking forward to you homecoming. The 8 months in between will be tough at times. But from my experiences deployed to austere conditions in the military, I can only offer the advice to keep yourself as busy as possible. Do that and you won’t have time to be homesick or lonely. If you’re like your parents and grandparents, success is built into your DNA, you’ll do just fine. Good luck out there!
Great to meet you this past weekend, Derek! Praying for you and all of the K-1 Team!
What an amazing way to worship our God and meet new Jesus-loving friends 🙂 Cannot wait to meet the rest of our squad and have the BEST 9 months!!
The journey will be one you will ponder and share for the rest of your life. God’s plan for you is unfolding in an amazing way. Thank you for including us in this and allowing us to support you through prayer and monetarily.
So glad you are excited about where God is leading you on this journey. There will be hard times but with God ALL things are possible. He has great things in store for you. PRAYING for you.