Dust in our path, laughter in the air, music filling our ears, I look around and I am genuinely happy, all the while, we are chasing the sunset. I find myself doing my deepest thinking when there is space to sit and listen to God. Many times this looks like being in the car.
We were given two days to explore Jordan after landing, so a group of us took advantage of this opportunity. Once we ventured through Petra, we made our way to Wadi Rum. In the moment of driving through the desert trying to beat the sun from settling in for the night, I realized how special this life is.
Life is not just special because of this season or chapter called the World Race, but because I am running after Christ wholeheartedly.
Here is a photo from our sunset chase at Wadi Rum. Bottom left corner I am pictured sitting with the Lord and soaking in every sweet moment.
I’m not sure if I have shared this with you before, but the World Race is the first mission trip I have ever been on. I really said “go big or go home” by signing up for this trip. I wouldn’t have it any other way if I am honest. This year has been FULL of ups and downs, good and bad, as well as challenges and persevering.
I made a list to share with you about all the things that I have learned while on the mission field, but it doesn’t seem to find an end. I have learned things about the world and different cultures, about myself and my identity in Christ, and about who God is.
This year God brought me through a ton. He brought me through healing and surrender. I was given a firm foundation in my identity in the Lord – He calls me new. God is steady, my refuge, my protector, my healer, and my comforter.
Pursuing Christ the way that I have this year has given me a passion for missions. How can I have something so good (a relationship with God) and not share with every person I meet? How can I experience God and not tell others that He speaks to them too if they are willing to listen?
Here we are exploring Petra! What an experience to not only explore Jordan but to create opportunities to share throughout our time there.
I think one of the more important things that I have learned this year is that my life is ministry. A saying that we were taught at the beginning of our time with the World Race is this… life is ministry, ministry is life. This. Is. My. Life.
The things that I have learned this year are things that I can carry back home and apply to my everyday life in America. God called me to the mission field and He has wrecked my life.
How can you step out and invite God into your daily life? How can you pursue each day with a missional mindset? Who should you share the gospel with? Ask God these questions. I want to encourage you that you don’t have to drop everything to go on a mission trip to change your life, but invite the Holy Spirit into your everyday life and see what He has for you.
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere – in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Acts 1:8
Amen Paula!! You are truly a blessing in every life you have touched and will touch. We are so proud of you, and we miss you! Love you!
What an amazing journey you have had and a wonderful testament to your strength and passion. We are so proud of you and look forward to seeing you soon. We love you.
Paula, I am proud of you for forsaking the self interests of the material world and focusing on Christ. Your story is inspirational for a man like me working in a youth group to know there is hope for each young person to pursue Christ in a mission oriented way. I pray the transition home brings you joy, peace and a continued passion for the gospel.
Forever proud of you, sis!!