There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven! He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity
in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from
beginning to end. (Ecclesiastes 3:1, 11)
I received a glorious email last week from the World Race. It read, "I'm sending you this email to let you know that I've zeroed out your support account and am closing it with accounting." This means that after eight years of partnering with Adventures in Missions and The World Race I am done. Some have said its like being done with paying for student loans. Peacefully, I am completely ready for a new season in my life so this email couldn't have come at a more appropriate time.
First, I wanted to thank EVERYONE who has ever helped me in any way throughout the last eight years: prayers, support, encouragement, travel, hugs, housing, food and love. I am truly blessed and changed forever by my partnership with AIM and The World Race. Thank you for making it happen.
Second, though my support account and work with AIM has stopped it doesn't mean there aren't an abundance of world changers still out there living on pure faith and trust. Below are a few of my World Race K-squad kids and brief stories of where God is leading them. These friends have given up jobs, houses, family, friends, possessions and, really, their entire lives for something greater than themselves. Please pray about how you can continue supporting the furthering of God's Kingdom both locally and internationally.
Ashley Higgins Higgs is incredible. She came back to the states at the end of June and moved to Gainesville, Georgia a week ago to be a part of The World Race's apprenticeship program. As part of the six-month apprenticeship Ashley will be living in Gainesville and working 9-5 in the AIM office. The sound of "9-5" scares most World Racers. Trust me, I've run from it since college. But while working in the office under great leaders and mentors Ashley will get exposed to the ins and outs of the organization and programs run through AIM. This is a chance for exposure, community and Kingdom building all under one roof. And even with a marketing focus all she would really love to do is run back to Africa and hold babies.
Ashley's faith in God's timing is incredible. The apprenticeship program costs $10,000 for the full 6 months. Please consider is building up our generation - Click Here!!
Before returning home from The World Race Lauren was already committed to squad lead another crew this year. God had done some incredible things in and through her while she was on the Race and she was ready to share. A few weeks ago during our largest World Race training camp Lauren, along with Tim and another World Race alumni, came together to meet their October 2010 squad. Over 60 new World Racers will go under Lauren's authority, prayer and covering.
The cost of squad leading is $8000. This will cover everything on the field including travel for four months and two additional debriefs with her squad. She's walking in faith - click here to join her journey.
Tim Fizzell I got to know Tim as an incredible team leader throughout the 11 months he was on the K-squad. I believe from the beginning we knew there was greatness in store for this brother. The quality of his heart, the care he gives to people, the lengths he'll go to communicate effectively to the people he serves is all genuine and inspiring. In October Tim is joining Lauren and another World Race alumni to lead a new squad of Racers through Central America and then one month in Asia. This 60+ crew of Racers are ready to follow such a Christ-like team of leaders. I most excited that Tim will have a chance to disciple so many young men of God on this journey.
Ralph Kelley If I haven't already I know there's a chance that everyone involved in the K-squad has sometime bragged about this brother of ours. We were extremely blessed to know him. Ralph's humility and unconditional and consistent care for others inspires me greatly.
After coming home for 2-3 days after the World Race Ralph hopped another plane to Mijas, Spain. For the next 6 months Ralph enrolled in the G42 Leadership Academy. I don't know if I can explain this school adequately, but I know I've enjoyed hearing of Ralph's excitement to be empowered and led in his giftings while in Spain.
The school has some phenomenal mentors and teachers to serve and disciple our generation. The simple cost is only $1,000 a month. Ralph still needs $3,550. Click here to support Ralph in G42 Select Intern Support and enter "Ralph Kelley"
Tres Washington When the rest of the K-squad was flying back to LAX this June Tres had an alternate route to get him to G42 sooner. This man of God grew so much on the Race but it wasn't enough for him. His thirst for truth and an intimate love with His Saviour has carried him across the ocean for another 6 months, but the peace and excitement to be learning from powerful spiritual fathers is only igniting his faith more. Click here to help Tres become fully supported from the World Race. He still needs $800. And Tres also needs $4,800 for G42. Click here to support Tres in G42 Select Intern Support and enter "Tres Washington"
Birkleigh Foreman I love this crazy sister of mine. Short story: at World Race training camp over a year ago she scared us all. Now, Birk is a dramatically changed and beloved princess of God. And she knows it. There's endless truth and power and love in her. She's currently living in LA and will depart for G42 in October for 6 months.
Birk has all of her tuition payed for but is still in need or those extra expenses. Checks can by made out to here and mailed to: 1320 E. Court St. Flint, MI, 48503. Please check out her dreams and stories on her blog! You want to know this chick!
Martha Lemke This is a beautiful daughter of the King. Her radiance and joy in the Spirit kind of makes her floats as she walks. Martha has a great compassion for people in need around her. Her smile joined with the passionate assurance of her identity bring Kingdom.
She too will join Birkleigh in October and head to Spain for 6 months at G42. Help and follow this woman's journey - Click here to support for G42. Select Intern Support and enter "Martha Lemke"
Scott and Carol Pitts You've heard of them before. These two have given up more than I know. They love with every part of themselves. And as I've lived with them the last two months they've allowed me to join in all the ups and downs of following the Lord. They inspire me with faith to jump - whether I know the ending or not. The work Scott and Carol do in Jamaica and Vietnam is admirably selfless. They've seen a need to love in radical ways and that's the road they are determined to follow. Every bit of what they do is because God. Please pray for the work they are a part of and consider joining them financially. Click here to support! Scroll down to DONATE via PayPal.
>>My sister-in-law is one of the strongest people I know. I've bragged about her in the past and love having her beauty in my life. Last week she and my brother welcomed their first child, Jack Ryan Woodward. Her story shines with God's glory and provision. I figured it couldn't be shared more gracefully than from Jane herself, so she writes...
Here's my story: Having been raised in a home that was broken, I always knew that my own family would be different. After meeting Ryan and the Lord in 2005, my vision for our family was even more clear - I would have an unshakable marriage to a man who loves God and we would fill our home and our hearts with little Woodwards, who would know what it's like to feel love, support, and family. So after a not-so-fun upbringing, including a battle with cancer as a young adult, I felt like when the time came for me to start a family, it would be a piece of cake, like God was my own personal genie just waiting for me to make my wish so that He could grant it. Wrong. Way Wrong. Ryan and I struggled with infertility for nearly two years. We saw multiple doctors who found reproductive problems with both of us and who proposed expensive treatments way out of our budget (adoption, too was more than we could afford). As a nurse I saw a thirteen year old pregnant girl in the ER during a shift and Ryan, as a police officer handled many cases of child neglect and abuse. I (well, we) did not understand why children were born into those situations, yet we were unable to conceive. It sucked. I cried a lot. I became jealous of friends around me who were announcing pregnancies and births. I was miserable and angry. All I wanted was to be a mom and I just didn't understand God's timing and reasoning. I joined an infertility support group at my church, which changed my whole perspective in a very unexpected way. The women in the group were so bitter and angry at God, many had shut out their friends who were pregnant and having babies. Sitting in the meetings I was convicted by God on my own similar feelings - how could I be bitter and angry with a God who loves me and has already given me more than I deserve? One positive thing I gained from the meetings was a quote about God's timing:
God is never too late; He is never too early; He is always right on time; Even though His timing can be very different from our own.
(from Why: Trusting God When You Don't Understand by Anne Graham Lotz)
I made this quote a huge part of my struggle with infertility. I looked at it daily. I decided the meetings did not provide a good atmosphere for me, so I stopped going and tried to be as positive about the situation as possible. I reminded myself that God hadn't forgotten about me - He knew my heartache and He had a plan. It wasn't easy to be positive - I still cried myself to sleep once a month when a new menstrual cycle started, but through it all, I trusted that one day, somehow, I would be a mom and that the timing would be perfect. Then came November 8, 2009 - a day I will never forget - when the test finally said "Pregnant." I called Ryan into the room where we embraced and cried - we were going to be parents. The next week when intense morning (well actually all-day) sickness set in, I wondered if I was the only person rejoicing and praising God with my head in the toilet. So now fast forward 9 months and as I type this message, I am holding the most precious baby boy in the world. Born on July 23rd, Jack Ryan is absolutely perfect and being a mom is more special than I ever imagined. The vast lack of sleep is welcomed, mostly because the time I'm awake is spent holding and just staring at this amazing gift from God. So in the end, all the tears and frustrations were worth it, and I learned valuable lessons about timing, faithfulness, and understanding. And though I don't completely understand the timing, I trust that it is perfect. Thank you God for showing yourself to me in a whole new way, for challenging me, and for preparing me to be a mom. Thank you for an amazing husband and the vision of family that you have given us, and thank you for our son, Jack.
The August 2009 K-squad returned home last week. I just sent in my survey concerning the Final Debrief. The year they spent traveling around the world has brought them to month 12 - the rest of their lives...
They are ready and scattered. Sad my family isn't near. Overwhelmingly excited for the God-sized dreams they get to carry out all over the world.
A week ago we were all together again in Hua Hin, Thailand for Final Debrief. It was five days of fellowship, worship, team debrief meetings, food, fun, and loving.
Even that week I had to lay down my expectations. I had to be reminded to continue, continue, continue to give up everything for Christ and God's glory.
"My thoughts are completely different from yours," says the Lord. "And My ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts higher than your thoughts."
Isaiah 55: 8, 9
Seriously, I never expected this is where I would be a year ago. The thought of the squad's Final Debrief never crossed my mind. So, on the plane ride to Asia thought bubbles of what Debrief should look like came over me to make up for missed time. Experience. Selfish motives. Training. Habits. All tried to tell me what this week was going to look like.
I love Truth. Laying all of myself down before the Lord every morning allowed for His Spirit to move freely in my life and the lives of the Racers the few days we had left together.
And it was incredible!
I forgot I'm bad at good-byes. I remembered my World Race and my teammate buddy, Renee. We would kinda slip out the back whenever we had to make big emotional departures. And last week during the Debrief with the K-squad it hit me. We planned all the debrief meetings with each team back-to-back in one afternoon. By debrief #4 it hit me. Whoa. This is the end. This is the beginning.
I LOVE you all. So deeply and richly. I was honored to be with you last week. It was like Christmas to listen to all 40 hearts and stories of God's goodness during the team debriefs. So blessed to be a part of this.
God's outrageous. When you keep running, as you keep running - LOVE Him outrageously above EV-ER-Y-THING else.
How did I ever get picked to b a part of something SO good?? Guess, our God is that GREAT!
Hope to share more adventures and stories of what's to come...
People have "Daddy issues". I've seen and experienced it more times than I expected. I don't know why but ministry brings it out. Lots of people trying to serve their hearts out when its a broken and abandoned heart they're working with. Christian kids. Non-Christian kids. Believing and unbelieving parents.
There's a role of a father in a household and to his kids and wife that has gotten lost in translation with the noise of the world.
God disciplines. God disciples. God provides and protects. He leads and He loves.
Biblically, God tells us He is the Father and shares many words and demonstrations of this honored role. And whether its because of an emasculated church or fatherless homes... we don't get to see that on earth too much. We're called to be like Christ, and Jesus and His Father were One. But I've noticed how hard it is for our over-churched culture to truly know and trust what they've never experienced.
There are men involved in the World Race and in my life who have proved against the way of the world. Hard as it may be to see a culture without fathers, I see the need we all have for our daddies. I thank God that I have been blessed beyond measure with spiritual fathers around me. They speak truth. They love. They hug. They are fearless men of God who dream and pray for our young generation to be exceedingly great lovers of Christ.
Happy Father's Day!
Gary Lengkeek - Gary Black - Pappy - Papa Larry - Chuck Day - Seth Barnes
- Tom Sipling - Mike Paschall - Michael Hindes - Andrew Shearman
These men love their God with holy fear and growing wisdom. They're pretty much crazy... which is a fabulous influence for our "safe" generation. They love their wives and families more than worldly obligations. They offer bold truth, pray and prophesy. To my WR fathers... THANK YOU. Thanks for loving us all so very much. Thanks for each moment you've invested in the lives of Racers. Thank you for giving up sleep and comfort to travel hours just be with us in person. Thank you for allowing God to use you completely as you are. You're a huge inspiration, encouragement, and example for a holy loving lifestyle.
Happy Future Dad Day!
World Race guys:
Kyle - Danny - Brandon - Aaron - Seth Jr. - Mark
I've known these men the last three years. They are each generously growing in their faith and love. I've seen incredible growth and humility in their lives. My brothers, I pray great blessings on you and your families. You are superb men of God. I am blessed to run this race with you.
Brian - Mike - Casey - Grant - David - Matt - Joe - Tres - Ralph - Tim - Joel - Paul
Men of God, rise up! When I met most of you I saw young faith with wild hopes. I have enjoyed working along side these men and being a witness to God's great love in their lives. Brian, Mike and Casey - it was a joy to lead along side of you and your wives. Thank you for sharing the joy of your marriage with so many. To all you K-squad men - thank you for surprising me with your strength and compassion and unyielding servant hearts. I pray your sons and daughters may see God's passion in you as I have.
Ryan Woodward
You're going to be a daddy!! Ry and his wife are quite possibly my favorite people. In a few short weeks they will welcome the first baby to be born of each of our families to Christian parents. This baby (my nephew) will be strong and wise - much like his daddy, my big brother. I'm so proud of you, Ry. Continue to fall in love with the Father as He teaches you how be the dad you're meant to be. Your life is beginning a new chapter and you're ready for all that is in store!! Love you!!
HAPPY FATHER'S DAY, DAD!!!
Phil Woodward
I KNOW my dad loves me. I know. As I was driving the other day... as I drive I often think of my Dad 'cause working on my car is a way he shows me his love... I thought of Dad. 25 plus years he's worked so hard to meet my every need. He's allowed for God to work crazy in my life. I laugh because of him. I am strong because of him. I work hard because of him. I am honest and genuine because of him. I can flip my eyelids inside-out because of him. He's sometimes a quiet man but every hug I get after every travel and move speaks volumes to my heart of a Daddy's love. I love you, Dad.
But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons. Because you are sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, "Abba, Father." So you are no longer a slave, but a son; and since you are a son, God has made you also an heir. (Galatians 4:4-7)
>>Blog readers, pray. Pray for this fatherless generation. Pray for your fathers. Pray for the spiritual fathers in your life. Pray for reconciliation of children and their fathers. Pray for healing and restoration in families. Pray that fathers can continue to learn how to be dads by growing in their own faith and strength. Pray for countries who, from disease or disaster or culture, are living without fathers or men in their communities. Thanks and amen.
8 hour drive. 4 states covered. 27 students. 6 leaders. 5 work days. Nearly 90% humidity. And about 100 prayers answered! That was my last week in Waveland, Mississippi with the Lilburn Alliance youth group...
To be honest this was my first day with them: "What the heck am I doing here??" I knew I adored these kids. I knew I was on a leadership team with fabulous people. I knew my obedience to God led me to some half-of-a-ghost town in the south of Mississippi. Oh, but it was frustrating. Have you ever known the "yes" but the "why" left you completely clueless?
I went on doing what I needed to do. Then Thursday came...
Sarah, Alvoro, and I went on the morning run about 6:30. Just the three of us and the sound of our feet on the pavement. I broke the silence about five minutes into it - I couldn't handle it any longer. Though I don't normally chat while running, I asked my friends if I could shout...like, really yell. I started the prayers and Kingdom reigned down.
"God, You love this city!"
I refused to settled for "blah". For the following 30 minutes Sarah, Alvoro, and I shouted out prayers for the group, for the city, and for ourselves. We needed to press in farther into the passions and spark of the God that brought us this far. We needed perseverance for this journey.
That day I went to the same work site I had been at the previous two days. It was a hard and slightly hopeless place to return to. I was unmotivated but I called to God with every part of me while I led the kids through their work projects. One of our senior guys, David, was given the challenge to seek God and His will for this place. Before we left David shared God's joy, peace, and power over Freedom Hall. Then we prayed and declared it over each room we worked in. Simon led some of the other kids to write the words and Scriptures we declared over the doorposts. What amazing men of God who stood up and shouted God's promises!
I was beginning to believe more in the hope of why God had me in Waveland. But the day wasn't over yet. That evening we split guys and girls. While the boys went out to sweat and throw stuff the ladies got to come together and chat. Along with Amy and LeeAnn, we were all able to speak truth and identity into these women. Before we knew it we were all standing on couches and chairs and tables proclaiming God's promises, strength, and covering over our lives. WOO! And I couldn't let it stop there. I ran around the room praying and prophesy over each lovely lady - strength for the one moving to Haiti, healing for the one with Lupus, freedom for the one living in fear, beauty for the one struggling with identity. God showed up!! One of those precious princesses even felt God for real for the first time that night! God, You love this crew!
The evening with the ladies ended with a crying and snotty huddled mess. As they continued to pray over me all I could call out was "Thank You, Jesus! Thank You, Jesus!"
Thank You, Jesus. Thanks for showing up at the perfect time. Thank You for loving me SO much. Thank You for loving this group of young men and women. Thank You for bringing me to a point of desperation - a longing for nothing but You - where my voice can be loud and shouts of passion can bring a little more of Kingdom down to earth.
TRUST in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.
Proverbs 3:5-6
So, in traditional Caitlin-style, I guess, I am on the move again. Through prayer, conversation, and simple motivation to seek more of the Lord's heart I am out of Indiana and back in sweet Georgia. Let me give you a quick run down of some things in store for me over the next few months...
WORLD RACE TRAINING CAMP: May 22-30
Little known fact: I LOVE World Race training camps! This will be my 7th training camp to be a part of. They are an A-mazing 10 days packed with Holy Spirit worship, freedom, truth, and great people. This will be one of the largest camps the World Race has ever done, therefore it has been moved to a new location. (...I am actually leaving for it in a few minutes once this Georgia rain calms down...)
Lilburn Alliance Youth in Waveland, Mississippi: May 30-June 6
There's this crew of high schoolers here in Lilburn, Georgia whom I absolutely adore. I was able to hang out with them while I lived in Georgia last year. I've raised my hand and signed up to spend a week of hard work and Jesus-lovin' down in Mississippi in a Katrina relief area. Should be great fun!
Beacon Missions International: All summer long...
While staying in Georgia for the summer I'll be helping Scott and Carol Pitts with their work in Jamaica and Vietnam. They needed a videographer and it just so happens that's what I do. I'm pretty excited to launch into a place where my passions meet my giftings.
World Race August 2009 Final Debrief: June 22-29
Yes. Our August K-squad is nearing the end of their 11 month journey. The coaches, Scott and Carol, as well as squad leaders, Brian and Stacy Alonzo, and I get to fly over to Bangkok, Thailand for the squad's final debrief. It will be a great time of celebration and fellowship with this family. Please pray for Thailand's safety as there is government tension currently going on in the capitol city.
South Lyon Youth at Mountain TOP in Tennessee: July 10-17
My parent's church in South Lyon, Michigan has supported me financially and prayerfully the last three years. This summer, since I'm in the country, I asked if I could tag along on their youth group's summer work trip. I've been eager to meet and encourage these high schoolers.
This update is brief, but I am completely filled with peace and joy that the Lord has brought me back to Georgia. My life is in boxes temporarily taking up a corner of space in my brother's basement. Please be in prayer for more open doors as God leads throughout the summer and afterwards. God continues to remind me of Himself despite everything else. Re-read the verse at the top. I'm still stuck on the sweet power of the word "TRUST." Our God is so faithfully loving and kind.
Thank you so much for everything! I am so grateful for all prayers and support. Click "Support me!" to the left to help more Kingdom happen!!
[I know, I know. It's past Mother's Day. The official celebratory day for moms is over. But I really wanted to share with you some of the amazing mothers I have met throughout my time with the World Race. And a couple days ago my picture uploader wouldn't work on my blog so I couldn't possibly post stories about these amazing women without including their gorgeous faces, could I? Thus the delay.]
I want to introduce you to twelve inspiring women of God. I've had the privilege to be loved, served, taught and prayed for by these women. They are as strong and passionate as they are gentle and compassionate. They love and serve the Lord with everything they have. They adore their families and husbands and kids - especially their kids around the world. They've always been willing to hug a daughter in need and lead her closer to the heartbeat of Father God. I am truly blessed to have each of them in my life in big and small ways. So, without further due, please meet some mothers of the World Race...
Karen Barnes I've known of Karen since about 2002 when I started going on trips with AIM. This lady is phenomenal! She's raised four daughters and a son - all of whom walk in the grace, respect and love for life that they've been raised up in. Karen is sweet and gentle and so delicate for being such a mighty woman of God! She's served alongside her husband for many years. And they are more in love today than they were when they met back in college...and we love hearing them retell that story. She's been a prayerful support to many, many World Racers both pre and post Race as well as when we're on the field. Some of my favorite visits to Gainesville, Georgia are when I know I will get to see Seth and his bride, Karen.
Karen with her daughter, Estie
Nancy Lengkeek Nancy was one of the first coaches that the September 2007 squad was blessed with. She and her husband are veteran missionaries and currently work for Adventures in Missions. Nancy has this irresistible joy and care about her. While the September squad was just getting their feet wet with the whole mission deal, Nancy graciously came along side us to guide and love. Her prayers are tender and honest. She just makes me smile. Anyone in her presence can feel the love God has for this daughter. Nancy is a hard worker for the Kingdom with a beautiful and giving servant's heart.
Nancy with her daughter, Connie, who also works with AIM
Carol Pitts While the September 2007 was in training we camped with the June 2007 before we all headed out. It was during that training I met Carol Pitts, or Mama C, and her husband, Scott. They were the coaches for that June squad. A-MAZING! This woman has the fire of the Holy Spirit so richly alive in her she gets you going with just a wink! Three years ago I met Mama C. during the end of a teaching session when I asked her to pray for me. Honestly, I was kind of scared. This was a wildly passionate woman of God!! She's gonna think I'm some puny wanna-be Christian. Ooo, but when she prays for her kids...honey, she prays for her kids! Through her heart and voice that prayer became the first time I was named "Caitlin Christ!" It was the beginning of knowing my true identity. Moms are good at that.
Last year, Mama C and Pappy signed up to coach another squad - the incredible August 2009 crew. They've been coaching the squad I got to lead last fall. The squad I fell in love with. In June we'll wrap up their Race just in time for Mama C and Pappy to begin leading another squad. They just can't quit. Their hearts overflow with compassion for a misguided and uninitiated generation. They love and love and love. And they give and give and give. Their Jesus-like lives are humble and honest. What a great example and blessing they are.
Mama C with Ashley Higgins, World Racer
Selena Day Mama C has a partner in crime. Both in June 2007 and August 2009 there have been two sets of coaches for the World Race squads. Selena and her husband, Chuck, have selflessly offered themselves to the work of the Kingdom through the World Race many times. It has been a true joy to watch the growth in the women of God around me over the years. Selena's beauty and grace never cease to leave imprints of God's righteousness wherever she's been. I remember a debrief she helped out on during Christmas of 2007 when our squad wasn't able to have our coaches present. She's been blessed with such a tender listening ear...as was needed to be able to sit and hear the lives of dozens of World Race women missing Christmas with their families. She's beauty and faith rolled up into style and flair!
Selena with Ashley Musick, World Race alumni and staff
Lisa Black LISA BLACK!? Passionate. Honest. Loving. Generous. Kind-hearted. Warrior woman for the Kingdom! Our September squad met Lisa, along with the rest of the Black tribe, in February 2008 when we landed in Africa. God called their family to Swaziland, Africa for a year and they obeyed. What followed was a hard but fruitful year for them and their family of six kids.
I hadn't read blogs previous to my World Race trip. AKA - I hadn't heard about Gary Black before meeting him and therefore wasn't afraid of him...yet. Oh, but this family was exactly what our entire squad of 27 needed. And our team of six young women needed Lisa Black. The time we spent with her washing orphans in Swaziland changed the way I live as a woman of God. She called us out of being women of the world and called us into a lifestyle of obedience, honesty, righteous living, kindness, selfless serving, and, well, love.
The beauty and strength given to her through God's grace is extraordinary. Through pain, loss, and sickness she still turns to her Savior. Again and again and again.
Lisa with her daughter, Alexis, a G42 student
Cindy Sipling I guess Africa is keeping some great women. Our team stayed with Cindy and her husband, Tom, in Cape Town, South Africa in February of 2008. This woman is crazy! Ha, she made us laugh. She made us food. She brought comfort to some brokenness in our team. And she loved without judgment. Cindy has a discernment to see the potential in God's kids. She hears the voice of her Father and guides the younger generation around her. She has a hope that inspires. A faith unwavering. A joy compelling. She and Tom have since signed on and coached a World Race squad. Their adventurous journey with the King continues...
Cindy with Gretchen Kiehlbaugh, World Race alumni
Pat Burrows Pat B. was without a doubt or question or vote the BIGGEST fan of the September 2007 World Race squad! Of which we were all grateful and blessed! She read our blogs, tracked our growth, and left comments for just about everyone. Her incredible daughter, Sarah, was on our squad and we enjoyed having her mom tag on a bit for the ride. Pat B.'s comments and prayers for us were simple but joy-filled. Something was always mentioned on the field when someone was blessed by her.
I think it was a couple months after returning from that Race during a training camp in Georgia when I got to meet her! Yes! I was face to face with the Pat B.! Though I was sincerely touched and excited to finally meet Sarah's mom, I think it was Pat that could hardly get words out. She was even more thrilled to meet some of the Racers she had prayed for for so long. Wow, how humbling it was to be a blessing just by being. Her joy and love and zeal of life were only magnified in person. Such a sweet angel we have been blessed with on earth.
Pat with her daughter and World Race alumni, Sarah
Patti Paschall When we were down in Swaziland, Africa our squad ran into a man named, Mike. Mike was good friends with Gary Black and his family. He just happened to be around when our squad rolled through during a debrief. Mike agreed to sit in on some one-on-ones. I distinctly remember that afternoon. I walked to the offices with some teammates and waited my turn to sit with this dude I'd never met before. I didn't expect much. Oh, but once we broke the ice by sharing tattoos he soon became a trusted man of God. And his prophetic prayers are something I will never forget. But what I noticed most about Mike was how much he talked about his bride, Patti.
It was a few months later, once I was back in the states, when I finally met Patti Paschall! Like many of the couples I've mentioned already - Mike and Patti are hungry for more of the Kingdom of God to be reigning down on earth. Patti is a HUGE joy to the World Race community. Together with Mike they coached the January 2009 squad - a squad I kind of stalked for a long time last year. ;) Patti's simple joy and generous compassion is infectious. This good-old southern woman grabs you up in her arms as if you were her own baby. Her beauty and excitement have inspired and encouraged many World Race women in their own journeys. She is a jewel for the Lord. (And you should ask her and Mike about their dance skills...)
Miss Patti with Tra-day, World Race alumni
Kathy Hindes I need to pay more attention when I meet people. I met Kathy's husband, Michael, one day in the AIM office. Very briefly he asked my name and what my dream for life was. I think he was looking at his cell phone the whole time I fumbled through an answer. Ha, little did I know that Michael would soon become the director of the World Race and that he and his wife would be such an incredible blessing to my life.
It must have been a training camp in Georgia when I finally met Kathy. She has the gentleness and grace and kindness the mother of Jesus must have had. Kathy is strong in her faith and solid in the path God's chosen for her and her family. She gracefully demonstrates a Proverbs 31 woman with such humility. With so many World Racers being launched throughout each year it can seem overwhelming and sometimes exhausting. But every time I get to cross paths with Kathy her hope and love for our generation grows and grows. She is steady and supportive and SO welcoming to the new and sometimes fearful Racers. She gets her call from the Lord and has set an example for the young women around her of such sweet Christ-likeness.
Kathy with Allison Johnston, World Race alumni and staff
Patti Ghramm If you've ever had the chance to go through a World Race training camp in the last two years, even just walked through the offices, you may have met Patti. And if you've gone through the training camp and eaten the world class meals, you might have just fallen in love with this woman.
Patti is the mom of World Race alum and staff, Casey Wells. You know how they sometimes say, "Like mother, like daughter" as if its a bad thing. Well, here it's the complete opposite. I love my dear friend Casey! And getting her mom about every training camp has been an extra blessing. Patti pours more of herself into the training camps than some of the Racers. (I'm pretty sure she does all this - if not she still deserves the credit...) She decides the menu, buys the food, and cooks each meal for the 10 day training camp - sometimes for nearly 100 young adults! She always has a smile on her face every time you walk through the kitchen. She is honored to be there just as much as we are to have her.
Patti with her daughter, Casey Wells, World Race alumni and staff
Pam Bickel Living and ministering alongside people can sometimes only give you a short version of their stories. They talk about their families but there is something drastically different when you are able to sit with the parents of a Racer and see it in their teared-up eyes how much they love their kids.
I returned from co-leading the August 2009 squad just after Thanksgiving. My flight landed me in Georgia but I needed to make my trek up I-75 North to Michigan for Christmas. It just so happened that Denise's parents would be en route. (Denise and Mike Murphy were raised up as two of the three squad leaders just before I headed home.) After getting numbers and addresses I was more than willing and excited to stop by the Bickel home for dinner on my way. Food, prayers, conversation that moved the soul filled the few short hours of my visit. Pam was overflowing with joy and pride for her daughter and son-in-law who decided to serve the Lord overseas for a year. Pam and her husband have great faith in their kids and the moving of the Lord in this generation. They are an encouragement of faith in action and passion filled prayers.
Pam with daughter and World Racer, Denise Murphy
Jill Woodward Lastly, my mom. You save the best for last, right? This picture was taken last summer while we crossed paths for an hour in Granada, Nicaragua. We were both on mission trips loving the Lord. I am my mother's daughter.
This woman has shown me more grace, understanding, truth, encouragement, joy, discipline, mercy, kindness, and faith than anyone else I know. I know she jokes about wanted to be like me when she grows up, but I am the one inspired by her. She is always available. Always willing to serve. Always willing to pray and seek God in everything. And not just towards me. Over the years since she came to know the Lord she continues to seek new opportunities and people to share the love of Christ with. She has a discipline and hunger for the Word of God that could have only come from her Father God.
My mom grew up in a religion without Christ. "Faith" was based on mind games and religious rituals. Over her time as a follower of Jesus she's read and studied the Bible with such child-like joy and humility - finding new treasures all the time. She can see her past faith without bitterness but thankfulness. It spurred her on to know the real grace and mercy found in a loving Savior.
She is humble servant of the King. She has done everything to help me become a better me. She's loved me to the core of who I truly am. Thinking of her and my dad - no one else could handle the country-hopping, Kingdom-chasing, heart-healing, life-changing habits I've picked up throughout my years. I love you, Mom!
These are mighty women of God. All deserving the honor and respect of a princess. All daughters of the King of kings. All saved by the grace they walk in everyday. I thank God for the blessing they are to me. I pray I will be like them one day...
Yup. Our pastor told us to do that last week. Our thirty-something married father of three pastor told us to "give a rip." It seemed slightly out of character. Catching me off guard, I glanced at my friends just to make sure that's what he really said. Heads nodded. Did he mean that? Yup. Preach it, Pastor Paul...
Over a few weeks Paul is preaching a series that's been named "NEXT." What's next for the Church? What's next for you? The prayer focused efforts of the staff and elders have been incredible. Though the church is in need to make its building project happen they deeply want the hearts of the congregation to be aligned with God's plans and will as well.
A week ago we focused on caring. Yesterday, generosity. What seems to be "next" for us is to give more of ourselves away. Give more of ourselves for the Kingdom. Start giving a rip about the people around and in our lives everyday.
"For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in His steps."
1 Peter 2:21
Seven days ago my heart was stirring. I'd felt it before. Actually, every time I head out for a run I feel God's call of Kingdom on this city. God wants it. God wants the people and the glory. He wants life and freedom. He wants love and singing in the streets. There has been a house that has especially been pulling on me since about February. Let's call it 1909. I don't know why. So, I try to listen to what God has been wanting me to do about it.
The Sunday morning before we heard about caring the Holy Spirit was already up and pushing me. I drove by 1909 on my way to church thinking I should stop by. I didn't. Even with an entire sermon about "giving a rip" and caring for others I didn't stop. A week went by and the same excuses that Paul mentioned on Sunday went through my head. "I don't want to be in inconvenience." "I'm too busy." "It costs too much."
Thankfully, God's been doing some wonderful things in my heart lately. For one, He's showing me the excitement in the now more than I've ever known. Tomorrow will come. It worries about itself. This summer will happen. I don't need to be anxious. But now - right now I get to give a rip. Right now I get to love the people around me. I get to meet new friends. I get to listen to my roommate's dreams and plans. I get to invest in youth that are in love with Jesus. I get to pray for my boss and co-workers. I get to prophesy over the city my feet are walking in everyday. Right here. Right now. Give a rip!
Yesterday, I finally made my way to that house. I took a Sunday nap after church. When I woke up I went on a run...determined to not go home until I had stopped by 1909. Twenty-eight minutes later my sneakers and I made it to their doorstep. I knocked. No answer. "Knock, and it will be opened to you" came to mind. I knocked a second time. No answer. It wasn't really as anti-climatic for me as I thought it would be. I turned to run home. I listened. I obeyed. I risked. I actively gave a rip...
True, it took some resistance and excuses. I am human. I won't pretend not to be. But God still showed up. He confirmed some things for me that afternoon. One, He doesn't NEED me to do things for Him, but He sure likes inviting me to be a part of the love He has for His children. And two, God cares about these people whether I'm the one to tell them or not. That's the truth I need to be more a part of. God loves Noblesville, Indiana. God loves Gainesville, Georgia. And Swaziland, Africa. And Bangkok, Thailand. And Chisinau, Moldova. It's all the same eternal Kingdom-sized love we get to be a part of when we give a rip.
[And, yes, we are invited to even love the people in the Church. Last year God yelled at me for that one. After much grumbling and complaining on my part during my post World Race life, He told me, "Love My Church because I love My Church."]
Even last night there was a challenge for the youth of the city to give of themselves. I tagged along with our middle and high schoolers to an inter-church worship event. The turn out was impressive for a two hour gig of music, prayer, and teaching. A pastor from Louisville, Kentucky who has left his church of thousands to minister to the poor came to share. Pastor Ben told the kids to get out of the camp and grow. Get out of the comfortable Christian camp that you can spend most of your life in and RISK. And when God's people risk, God shows up. Care for the poor. Sit with the uncool kids. Ask God who your people are and reach out to them.
Inspired? Greatly! Not only is God telling me to love and reach out to my community but He's telling the Church - the Body of Christ - to give a rip, too!
Thank You, Jesus! Thank you, friends! I encourage you, wherever you may be, to ask God who your people are. Who are the ones God wants you to care about? To show love to? Pray, pray, pray and then step out to give a rip.
Alright. The jet-lag is gone. Real life is commencing. Four days in Thailand were amazing!
Though...
Since...
Today I'm in love. Been there since about August. And I haven't quite found the words to describe it...
And 3 weeks ago I got to see the loves of my life - all 42 of them!!!
Brian, Stacy, and I along with Mama C and Pappy got to head over to Hua Hin, Thailand to meet up with the World Race K-squad. We hadn't been the full K-squad since Thanksgiving. Our family was back together - for a few days at least.
The typical debrief schedule was set: meetings, prayer, worship, dinners. Jam packed days with debriefing, processing, eating, and catching up with 42 people I haven't seen for four months. To say the least it was an incredible time with my dear K-squad family.
They are healthy. They are strong. They are willing. They are loving on each other and the people around them. The K-squad is 8 months in with the last 3 months scheduled to be in Asia. Right now they've been split into new teams while they are in Thailand. The men are together while the ladies are able to focus on orphan, lepers, and the women of the sex trade.
Please, please pray for this difficult month in Thailand - transitions in cultures, ministries, relationships. Pray for the teams and the squad as a while - communication, growth, unity. Please pray for the squad as they live in the moment and begin to transition for their return home at the end of June. Please pray for financial support for the Racers as well and Brian, Stacy and myself.
I wish I could describe in words how amazing this crew of young adults are. They have helped change my life in so many beautiful ways and I am blessed to be a part of theirs. Thank you for your continued involvement in the ministry and life-impacting work God continues to lead me through. I am very grateful for you!
So, pretty fantastic. I had about three years worth or footage from around the world working with the World Race. I love everything the Lord has shown me. I love each and every person I've met. I love being challenged and loved and encouraged to live life to the fullest. And this is just a little bit of what that looks like.
(Music by Sidewalk Prophets. Album: These Simple Truths. Those guys are amazing!! Thanks for inspiring!)
