There is a story in Matthew 20 that talks of two blind men who come to Jesus to be healed. Verses 32-33 say, "And stopping, Jesus called them and said, “What do you want me to do for you?” They said to him, “Lord, let our eyes be opened.”" I love this image and it has become my prayer not only for this trip, but also for my life. 

Lord, let my eyes be opened.

I first heard about the World Race several years ago. Traveling to 11 countries in 11 months, serving and sharing the gospel sounded AMAZING! However, I was in college and felt like the timing just wasn't right. I forgot about it until last fall when my brother told me I should look into going on one of the trips. To be honest, my first response was still no. I currently work as an instructor and marketing director for a non-profit organization, The Right Path, which offers therapeutic equine-assisted programs, and leaving for that long would be tough. But thoughts of the World Race just wouldn't go away... 

I prayed about it for months, and still didn't have a clear direction. I finally felt led to just take the next step by applying. I was 100% fine with going or staying, and I had the full support of my friends and family either way. When I got the acceptance call, I knew that was my answer!

I chose the Expedition route for 2020 which will go to Australia, Indonesia, India, Nepal, China, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Turkey, Spain, and Morocco. These countries are considered in the 10/40 window. According to Google,

"The 10/40 Window identifies a section of the world map encompassing North Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. It extends from latitude 10 degrees N to 40 degrees N of the equator. In and around this rectangular area lives the world's least evangelized, most unreached people groups in terms of Christian missions."

I don't think I have the words to describe how I feel about the trip yet. Excited? Terrified? Exhilarated? Maybe a combination of all those, and yet, so much more. Most of all, I am peaceful and hopeful. I know that as long as I am following Jesus more closely each day, this time will be anything but wasted. Although I have a feeling God has way more in store for me and my team than I can even imagine, I do have 3 main goals/prayers for this trip:

1. My eyes will be opened to see the world as He sees it

2. My faith will be challenged, strengthened, and grown

3. My life will be a reflection of God's love and mercy to everyone I meet

I cannot wait to see how God chooses to work during the next 11 months leading up to my departure and the following 11 months while I am travelling! Thank you for partnering with me in this incredible journey through your prayers and support!