If you knew me before I left for the Race you know I tend to be the type of person to lead things or at least attempt to. Sports teams, clubs, group projects, if there was a way I would find it. Since arriving in Gainesville at AIM’s base my posture regarding that has changed. I think as a person who has struggled to be a follower when it’s needed the Lord is already moving in me, teaching me patience and kindness even when I want to scream because I feel like I could lead the team-builder better or it seems like the Lord was just playing a funny game by sending me here. Yesterday as I was walking to play volleyball with some people a girl on my squad stopped me and said she had something for me. When she opened her hand she had a bracelet with the word ‘Follow’ written on it. People who don’t believe in Jesus would call that mere coincidence but the reality of it is that the Lord put that word on her heart for me because He knew that I need to allow myself to follow Him and to follow others over the next 9 months. Walking the path the Lord puts in front of us is tough sometimes and I would be lying to you if I told you the past week was anything but mentally, physically, and spiritually hard. I have been challenged in so many ways and my faith and personal salvation have been tested more times than once. There have been moments when I’ve fallen to my knees crying out to the Lord asking why He put me here. I am the least equipped person to spread the Gospel to world and yet I’m about to do it. Everyday I wake up in a damp tent, on the ground because my sleeping pad is lumpy, and continue to walk the path He has chosen for me the best that I can. That doesn’t mean that when I’m eating rice and beans for breakfast again or washing stains out of my clothes in a bucket that I’m not wishing I was at home in my comfortable bed with plenty of snacks. It means that I’m choosing to trust God even when it seems like He is just really good at pranks. So as my squad and I grow together as a family through the laughs, fights, hugs, and jokes we continue to step out in faith, trusting that something beautiful will come from our mess. And as I push through fears and homesickness and everything else that comes from this lifestyle I get to learn more about God and His character every single day, and I get to learn how to follow Him blindly into anything He sends me to.
In other news, I’m FULLY FUNDED!!! It is such a weight lifted off my shoulders to head onto the field knowing I’m supported in love and prayers and also financially. Thank you for your constant support and prayers, each and every one of you have made an impact on me and I wouldn’t be here without you. Continue to pray for my squad and I and the people we will be meeting very soon! And reach out, I’d love to tell you more about the past 12 days here in Georgia. The Lord is already doing amazing things here.
Love,
Grace
We love and are proud of you Ms. Grace!! I love hearing how you’re doing. May the Lord Bless you and Keep You safe!! Luv ya!!
Grace
It was so great to hear from you. I have no doubt but that you will succeed in this adventure as you have in so many things in your young life. God is for sure watching & guiding so you’re in good hands. My love & continued prayers are with you. I’ll look forward to the next update. Love, hugs, prayers always…Aunt Joyce
Wow. This brought me to tears. What an experience you are already having. Thank you for sharing it with us!!
Grace, I’m so proud of you! You are living the perfect example of positivity that this world needs… Continuing to keep you in prayer!
Hugs, Leisa
Go get’em Grace! Can’t wait to follow your mission ??
I am so unbelievably proud of you Grace! I can’t wait to watch you on this wonderful journey. God is going to do such big things with you and I’m so proud to call you family. I love you big and am missing you already.
All my love, prayers, and tears 😉
MaKayla
John 16:33 tells us that we can expect tribulation in this world but to remain peaceful and of good cheer because He has overcome the world! I love & appreciate your candor. Remember that the rainy season won’t last (in GA or in life), I want to encourage you while acknowledging the challenge that you’re facing…the only animals that enjoy lots of water are fish (& maybe ducks ??). And we all know the only camping I enjoy is in a camper (it’s questionable then!). Strength is not always revealed in a dramatic display; at times, it’s demonstrated in determined quiet endurance (not mine but I loved it)??…Always But God! I am so proud of you & pray for you daily!! I Love You MOST??
Grace, it sounds like you are well on your way to being where God wants and needs you to be. We look so forward to watching your journey and will pray for you and your squad as you embark on this mission. We love you! Isaiah 40:31
Thanks for truly sharing your story! We continue to pray for you and are inspired by your willingness to jump in!
Grace,
LOVED reading your blog. Lot’s of truth, but you did make a mistake! You are NOT the least equipped person to spread the gospel of the Lord! Are you kidding me…the Lord shines through you! YOU are a light! Thanks for sharing it with so many others. Go and be YOU!
Love you BIG Grace! I will always listen or read anything you share. Learning from the hard- that’s how we grow. Can not wait to watch your journey unfold- xoxo