Kara Burrows Just BE! - The World Race 2008

Camp The Ukraine

Fri, 29 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

My time in Ukraine was the perfect blend. Our first week we stayed with Vicki and Richard Nelson. They are an awesome couple who moved to Ukraine three years ago instead of retiring. Richard is a dentist and works with a small team of people doing dental outreach to villages and orphanages. Vicki is the queen of crafts. One afternoon we were able to tag along and see the Nelson's in action. It was a great day of songs, games, crafts, check-ups and teddy bears. Teddy Bears? Vicki requested bears from the James Fund charity to hand out to each child after they finish their check ups or dental work. The bears are a such a comfort and treasure for the children, not to mention adorable. The Nelson's are also helping to start Smile House. Smile House will provide a place where people can come and receive dental care and other services.

This last month taught me that God knows what i need even when I don't know. I was in desperate need of rest. Most of our time with the Nelson's was spent relaxing. We spent the entire first day jumping up and down because everything in there house made us excited. Real beds, a nice shower, movies, games, peace and quiet, internet, great food and wonderful fellowship. We also got a in some sight seeing in Kyiv and some retail therapy. Two of my favorite sites were St. Andrew's and the Lavrapsa(really the Lavara, but I could not remember so I renamed it.) I am not one for lots of detail so hear goes. St. Andrew's is a church constructed on the site where Andrew claimed the city for Christ. The Lavrapsa is the largest monestary

complex. At one time it might have been the oldest but most of it was blown up and rebuilt in 1998! If you want to see creepy dead monks in caves, this is the place.

Our second week of ministry brought back the good o'le days of summer camp. We left the comfort of home and our Ukrainian mom and dad. Andrew and Jenny Kelly have been working with orphanages and transitions homes for many years. Currently, they are building a camp. Pinebranch is in the process of finishing construction on a meeting hall/ kitchen/ dorm, and several smaller cabins. We jumped right in and with in matter of days had mastered flooring, meter and circular saws, building bunk beds, spackling, sanding, varnishing and my favorite Wigofolding( the wind barrier you put up before you install siding.) The days were long but we had a blast. Andrew taught us so much and we worked along side some wonderful Ukranian men. They were always looking out for us and and calling us strong anytime we lifted any object over 10 pounds. Our favorite job was playing with Abbie. The 8 month old genius baby. We all fell in love with her and fought for her attention constantly. We also added an honorary member to are team. Jared came to work with the Kelly's for three months. He had just arrived a week before us and he was such a great help to us. All in all we had a great time at camp. I will not soon forget all the laughs and memories of my this last month.

Thanks so much to everyone who made this last month so great.
Vicki and Richard Nelson
Andrew, Jenny and Abbie Kelly

Jared

Our Ukranian Brothers

My team,

Jen, Sara, Krystle and Maithili

and last but not least

Jesus!

Sara is so Cool!

Mon, 11 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I have been so blessed this year to have a group of supporters like you, who have blessed me and given me such encouragement. It is because of you that I am FULLY FUNDED! I am so thankful for each of you, and the prayer and support you have provided has been priceless, and I could not have done it without you. It is you who moved an orphanage in Mozambique, gave clothes to Guatemalan women, gave shoes to Swazi children and loved on Cambodian HIV orphans. This has been your race as much as it has been mine. Thank you again and God bless you.

My friend Sara needs a bit more funding to finish the Race, and I ask that you consider transferring your monthly or one-time donations to her. She is a beautiful woman of God, and I don't know what I would have done without her this year. She has been a blessing in my life, please be a blessing in hers.

Hi! I'm Sara, a Chicago native who has fallen more in love with Jesus and the nations over the course of the past 11 months. Since leaving on the World Race in July 2008, I have been preaching, teaching, praying and serving around the globe. The amount of financial and prayer support I have received up until this point has been incredible. However, with just two weeks left on my adventure, I am still $2800 short of my total financial goal. This is where, I hope, you come in.

Would you prayerfully consider joining my financial support team and helping complete my journey?

Please visit my blog http://saraellis.theworldrace.org/ to read more about my World Race experience or please click here to join my support team. If you have any questions, feel free to get in touch with me. Thank you for your prayers and I look forward to having you as a member of my support team.

Dearly Loved

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A beautiful sea of faces greeted us as we exited the bus. Piercing blue eyes, giant smiles, boisterous laughter and energetic hugs from the gypsy children made us all lose our hearts immediately. We came to the village to minister and yet again, God was using these people to minister to me. Our group did a drama, sang some fun kids songs and presented the gospel. At the end everyone was praying together to receive Christ. One girl with pigtails, who was no more than 5 or 6 years old, had her hands tightly clasped and raised in front of her. Other children were tightly intertwined with team members. On my lap was a 8 year old boy, Milton Yoshi. He had been my companion from the start. As we prayed, I began to cry. The love that God has for each of us overwhelmed me. God has been reminding me that I am dearly loved. Tenderly, sweetly, extravagantly loved. Looking at each child, man and woman, God was saying " Dearly loved, dearly loved, dearly loved." I wanted to shout it from the rooftops to each one of them, " Do you know that you are dearly loved?" All I could pray was that each person there would know God's love. His love changes everything. It means everything. It is everything.

"And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is Love. Whoever lives in love lives in God and God in them."

I John 4:16

God is love. It is as easy as that. God is the originator, creator, source of love. It is not a feeling that is fleeting or negotiable. He is love. He cannot change. He cannot waver. He cannot be what He is not. I have traveled the world searching how to serve God best. Looking for strategies to present the gospel and bring people to Christ. Striving to have the knowledge to be the most effective missionary possible. I discovered what I already knew but had taken for granted. God is love. I am dearly loved. Everyone I meet is dearly loved. There is whole world of dearly loved people. God is calling us to love. God is calling us to himself. Tears streaming down my face, I held Milton, tighter hoping that my arms would tell him he was dearly loved. Praying my eyes moist with genuine affection would communicate a piece of God's heart. Waving goodbye from behind the bus windows, my heart was wrenched and rejoiced all at once. Leaving was awful but being dearly loved and loving dearly is truly a treasure I would give my life to pursue.

This album is from our first week of ministry in Targu Mures, Romania.

It's a little late but... meet the G:racers.

Tue, 7 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Thanks Jen!

Raise UP! Blessed by Extravagance

Thu, 2 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The last few weeks have been such a blessing from the Lord. The kids are amazing. We went there to teach them but they ended up teaching us. They are thankful for everything. Small and big. They pray and expect that they will be given what they ask for. They believe they have everything. These kids are so happy even though so many hard things have happened to them. They have all lost so much, but you would never know because praise and thanksgiving flows out of them every moment. Each of them is so thankful to God for saving them and changing their live. Everynight they gather and sing songs expressing their thanks to him. The songs fill the night until the children are too tired to carry on. Then they all cry out and pray to God. Chechwa prayers of thankgiving for arriving home safely, for healing their sickness, for the healing of their sick friend, for the provision of food and shelter, and someone to take care of them, for the sacrifice of Jesus, for a God who listens to their prayers, for God himself. The sound is more beautiful than anything I have experienced. I may not know the exact words but I can hear, feel and see the faith and love and joy pouring out of each of these children. Our voices combined was yet another picture of heaven for me. I will never fully be able to put into words the experience I had at Temane Orphanage. It was simple, pure. Many times I couldn't believe what I saw further God's kingdom. Coloring pages, paper, crayons, marbles, hair clips, hugs, games, laughter and fun. There was no earth shattering movement of the spirit. There were no prayer vigles or revival meetings. It looked nothing like what I expected coming into Africa. However, it was more tangilble more palbable. Love. Love that came from each child. Not only for their God, but for one another and me. I have travelled the world and I have never experienced community like I did at Temane Orphanage. They are family. The body of Christ brought together through tragedy and heart break. The body of Christ bringing glory to their father in heaven.

Another facet of Raise Up! was discipleship. Every night as we gathered around the fire to pray and sing we would read stories from the Bible. Upon arriving, we asked the kids if they knew the stories of the Old Testament. A few of the older children knew some of the stories but most did not. No better place to start then the beginning From creation to the battle of Jericho, we would tell the stories of God's faithfulness and glory. As the smaller children drowsily stumbled to their mats, the older ones would crowd around the bible engrossed with the illustrations. The first few nights all the characters were identified as Jesus. Slowly we would turn each pages introducing the spiritual likes of Abraham, Joseph and King David. The wonder in there eyes humbled and reminded me how to treasure the word.

Thank you again for support and encouragement. God has used you to make eternal investments in the lives of our children in Temane. May you be blessed by His extravangance.

Raise UP! Laying a Fondation

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 00:00:00 GMT

A few weeks ago, we posted a blog requesting your assistance- and through you, God has provided! Before leaving South Africa, we learned that all the money for Raise UP! Had been supplied. Thank you all for allowing God to use you in this way.

The Rudolph's, who run the Temane Orphanage, traveled from Mozambique to South Africa to help us purchase supplies. As we shopped for boxes, toothbrushes, and other items we watched in awe as we continued to spend, but our money continued to multiply, going further than we ever dreamt. God's provision was incredible! In addition to our anticipated program expenses, we were also able to provide such needs as shoes, rain jackets, backpacks, school uniforms, notebooks, glue and erasers. Each of these items offers yet another opportunity to teach them responsibility and ownership.

Kara and I arrived at Temane Orphanage, MZ, on Friday, March 6^th. The reunion was joyful and long anticipated. Greeting each child, we thanked God that they were healthy. Most were just as we remembered, if not a bit taller.

Raise UP! Began on Saturday. We presented each child with a clear plastic box containing basic toiletries. The children were informed of the expectations and the rewards that would follow the meeting of these expectations. It is wonderful to see the children emerge from their tent, boxes in hand and head toward the shower. We then check that the boxes are clean and all its contents are inside before giving rewards to encourage this good habit.

Sunday was for each of us the best World Race day thus far. We washed each child's feet and slipped new crocs over their toes. Handing out backpacks, rain jackets and school supplies, we saw the gratitude radiate from each child's face. As we placed each new item in their waiting hands, we instructed them on how to care for them.

Over the last two days we have watched the children take great care of all their new belongings. Shoes are washed daily, backpacks and school supplies are put away.

Jaco, Maria, and Eric have done an amazing job raising these children. The foundation they are laying is solid in the knowledge of God. Through Raise UP! we have the privilege of coming along side and supporting this process. God is using Raise UP! To provide practical needs that express His love. Each night after dinner, the children gather around and break out into a sing-a-long/dance party of praise for what God has done. They stand and express thanks for big things such as their new shoes and rain jackets, as well as small blessings like arriving home safely from school. God is at work here in Temane, and we count ourselves lucky to be a part of what he is doing.

Thank you again to all who were faithful to obey the voice of God and generously bless these children.

God Will Make A Way

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When we arrived at Temane Orphanage in Mozambique, our eyes were open to a world we could never fully comprehend. Twenty-four orphans were found in the bush after the devestation of Cyclone Flavio in 2006 by a man named Eric. He would now care for them and protect them. However, Eric did not have the means to provide much else.
Jesus 4 Africa is a ministry started by Jaco and Maria Rudolph. Native to South Africa, they left home to preach the gospel in Mozambique. God interwove Eric and The Rudolph's paths. Once Jaco and Maria discovered Eric and these children, they knew God was calling them to help. With little more than their own personal support, the Rudolphs set about the task of caring for these children. First, giant revival tents were purchased to provide shelter. One tent for the boys and one for the girls. Food is three meals of mealy meal and soya mintz, a soy meat substitute. Surveying the grounds of the orphanage, you would find a shower enclosure made by reeds, a toilet situated over a "septic tank" (a hole 4 meters down) and a playground that was provided by a short-term mission team from a previous year.

Our purpose at the orphanage marked a new phase in everyone's life. The Rudolph's are on the brink of launching into the first phase of their long-term vision. The children are months away from having walls, beds and a better life. Our team was wrecked, and we wondered what more we could do. For now, it was to move the orphanage to the new site.

Jaco has a vision to provide a dormitory building with a kitchen, running water and electricity. But, $20,000 would be required to provide electricity to the original orphanage site. So, Jaco decided to use his other piece of land so that his dream of better providing for the children would become a reality.

Moving day was long, hard and hot. Three giant truck loads later, everything was moved. Clothes, pots, tables, tents, toys, the children's belongings, the toilet, and even the chickens and goats arrived at their new home. After a few days at the new site, the team and children had cleared the land, dug holes and moved the beams for the new building. Looking around we could see that so much had been accomplished. Looking ahead we saw many challenges. A few days later we were leaving. Some of us could hardly bear the thought of leaving the children and the orphanage unfinished. God had been showing me that these children need a mom, someone to raise them. Jaco and Maria are in the process of trying to move to Temane to be with the children but they need someone now. After speaking to Maria, the urgency to return was undeniable. My brain was going 100 miles an hour for days with ideas to return and help the children. Raise UP! was the culmination of this process.

And your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt; you shall raise up the foundations of many generation; you shall be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to dwell in. Isaiah 58:12

My idea was to teach the children about respect for themselves, others, belongings and their environment. Each of them would have a box in which they could put the items they earn. This process would give the children ownership and help them develop responsible habits. More than anything, I want to be a part of raising these children.

It seemed a bit impossible for everything would work out for us to go back. However, I knew that God said He would make a way. Only trust and time would be my best and worst enemy in the weeks to come. It was incredible to know my purpose and to think God would use me in the lives of these kids. Also, it was maddening watching days pass by without any signs of God's promise. Fighting for control only to apologize and turn it over to God once more. Frustration, exasperation, peace, trust, faith and and finally elation. Tonight, God made way. Tonight, God's promise was fulfilled. Tonight, I found out that I am going back to Mozambique.

Raise Up!

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Seventeen members of our squad spent the month of January in Temane, Mozambique, partnering with Jesus 4 Africa Ministries, run by Jaco and Maria Rudolph. Among other ministries, their main focus is the Temane Orphanage.

Twenty-four orphans were found in the bush of Mozambique following the devastation of Cyclone Flavio in 2006 by a man named Eric. He took responsibility for them. He would now care for them and protect them. However, Eric did not have the means to provide much else.

Once Jaco and Maria discovered Eric and these children, they knew God was calling them to help. With little more than their own personal support, the Rudolph's set about the task of living out God's call.

Currently the children sleep in large revival style tents on grass mats with blankets. At this time, a building is being constructed to offer more suitable living conditions. In order to prepare the children for this transition, several of our team mates feel called to return to Mozambique for the month of March. This preparation will consist of, among other things, the Raise UP! Project.

Raise UP!

And your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt; you shall raise up the foundations of many generations; you shall be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to dwell in.

-Isaiah 58:12

Raise UP! is a respect and incentive program coupled with discipleship. The goal is to establish routine in order to teach respect for themselves, others, their belongings, and environment. The goal is that through these children, we may set the foundations of this generation firmly in the Lord and His Truth, so that they can raise their children to repair and restore the breaches of their nation.

The respect incentive portion of the program will focus on scheduled rewards for adhering to established guidelines. Each child will be given a box, which they can personalize. The first week will focus on each child receiving all the incentive items which include: toothbrush, soap, washcloth, small toys, etc.

After the initial one-month course, additional materials will be sent via e-mail, complete with scheduled rewards to be given by orphanage staff.

Teaching the children to care for their boxes and contents will help them to form good habits of taking ownership and responsibility. With guidance, these habits will overflow into all areas of their lives.

Our vision is to invest in this generation. We are asking for your help to Raise UP! a foundation for these children. Below is a list of supplies and costs needed to obtain them.

Supplies:

Box $10 per child

Incentive Items $20 per child

Rewards $200

Teaching Materials $200

Miscellaneous $100

Total $1,220

Click here to give to this Project. Please write "World Race Ministry - Mozambique" in the space provided in order to make sure your gift is designated to this ministry.

On a personal note, I am fully funded. God has shown his faithfulness through all your generous gifts and pledges. For those who feel led, please give any additional funds to this project. The funds will be used to further God's kingdom in Mozambique by raising this next generation. Consider it a Kingdom investment. God Bless!

Welcome to the Jungle!

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Just your average day

on the World Race.

Hanging out with all

sorts of animals.

A Love Beyond Reason

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

24 Kids. 24 pairs of eyes, ears, hands, feet. 24 hearts that have been ravaged by life.

24 stories of pain and devestation. 24 kids in Mozambique. 24 kids who have stolen my heart.

Damasco, Sinato, Solvino, Sylvester,

Josepha, Raifiki, Domingo, Felizberto,

Isaac, Sarage, Claudio, Olex,

Judita, Admira, Sodahla, Zufrina,

Rozena,Guenesa, Shala, Momad,

Lancio, Casilga, Helena, Sandra.

Each one of these kids grabs my heart in a unique way.

I find myself just watching them in wonderment.

Asking why? Why do I love these kids?

At the end of many long pauses, I have no answers.

A love beyond reason.

All year I have prayed to see as God sees. To feel as God feels. To be lead by his hand.

As we drove to Swaziland today, I was struck by God's love.

A love that shed blood to cover me.

Hands and feet that ache with each act of grace poured out.

Every sin that I need forgiven, not just me but every person in this van,

on the Race, in Mozambique, in Africa, in the world,
past, present and future.
The depth of this truth humbled me.

To choose death.

A love beyond reason.

Could I ever fully comprehend this love?

I think I could spend every moment, of every day,

for several lifetimes and only drain the cup by one drop.

This past month I experienced a taste of this love.

Beyond reason, I love these kids.

I want to hug them. I want to kiss them.

I want to hold them when they are hurt.

I want to cry with them. Laugh with them.

Play, sing, and dance with them.

Mostly, I want them to know they are loved.

Loved by a God who poured out his own blood to save them.

Loved by a God whose wounds secure our healing.

Loved by a God who is waiting to lavish them with grace and mercy.

Loved beyond reason.

Arriving in Mozambique

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

We arrived in Mozambique yesterday after almost 3 full days of travel. I don't feel like I am in Africa. Everything is in English. The temperature feels like Wilmington, NC in August. It has not hit me yet. After landing in Johannesburg, we immediately got into the van that would be our "home". First stop Nelspruit, where we had to buy all our groceries for the next two weeks. Corned beef hash, peanut butter sandwiches with bread made in the bush, cream of wheat, pancakes and eggs. Then off we went for what would be 24 hours of straight travel. Here is a glimpse. Party music to keep the driver awake. Sleeping straight up, on the floor, on each other, ankles swollen beyond recognition, sleeping on the side of road, peeing on the side of the road, seeing a few brief moments of my first Mozambiquen sunrise and then sleeping some more. In the heat of the day, we arrived at the Eagle's Nest in Vilanculos. Jaco, our contact, was there to welcome us. Stumbling out of the van, we transferred our stuff and went in groups to the house. I hung back and was rewarded by riding on top of the jeep instead of being squished in the back.

We arrived to an oasis. Real showers and toilets, a mini lake for swimming, the solidarity of my tent, and a wonderful host family. After riding on the top of the Jeep to the Eagle's Nest, the name of Jaco and Maria's property, we unloaded and set up camp in their front yard. First priority, swimming; second was a shower, thrid, dinner and 4th sleep at about 7 pm. Waking up the next moring, I feellike a new person, a person I actually want to be. I am finding that just being recquires more trust in God. It recquires me to relinquish control. To see if God's character has been formed in me or to what degree his character has taken hold. My preference is to managae my image. I care more about what people see than what God see's. Hard Truth. Most days, I am not sure what to do or who to be. I am so consumed with acting instead of trusting God in myself. I have learned that I am an all or nothing type of person. Realizing this has diffused the dramatic impact it has on my life. I t has been good to realize that I can chill out, relax and trust that God can handle it. He is in control. He has a plan. A good plan. Today, I can accept grace as a comfort. Everywhere I look I see his grace because I am comfortable. I hope someday that my character will be formed enough to see God's grace when I'm not comfortable. When I'm miserable, cold, lonely and my hope is dwindling. I hope that one day I can believe beyond a shadow of a doubt His promises and character to be true no matter what does or does not come my way. Today, so much felt restored. I was rescued out of my despair and faithlessness. Today, I sang danced, loved, served and genuinely lived in the moment.

Finding What I Never Knew I Needed

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Today was ordinarily perfect. Looking at the surface nothing unusual happened. Everyone exits their tent between 5 a.m. and 7 a.m. based on each person's threshold for the morning sun. Breakfast is eaten; showers are taken and the countdown begins. For the last three days, we have been resting from our three-day journey from London to South Africa to Mozambique. Some people have an endless supply of activities: reading, swimming, reading in the hammock, playing cards, manicures, reading on the porch, walking, pedicures the list goes on and on. Others have hard time occupying the single ticks of the second that moves at a pace not near the speed they desire. As for me, I love each moment encapsulated by every tick of the second hand. I woke up took a shower and grabbed my portion of Museli (world race cereal substitute). My next moment though seemingly ordinary, completely shaped the course of the rest of my day. The family we are staying with has Swiss Family Robinson type of existence. Their property is situated on a beautiful lake with lots of land, sand and dogs. Pathways made of various materials, mats, stones and sand lead to the house, kitchen, showers, church and porch. The latter is where this anything but monumental event took place. Walking with measured steps toward my tent, my intention was to find a place to spend some time with God. A split second later I found myself on a different path. A path that lead me straight to a chair. A special chair? No. A chair with significance? No. An ordinary chair. Little did I know, sitting in the chair would change the course of my day. I relaxed into the chair and exhaled. Brennan Manning describes this phenomenon as "sink[ing] down into my heart".

Looking into the face of the full moon, I thank God for being amazing. Even when I am unaware, He is truly amazing. Every detail of the day testified to this very truth. What was so great about this day? It was totally, completely, beyond a shadow of a doubt ordinary. I hung up bags of water to keep away the flies. Helped Maria, our host mother, do laundry. Ate some lunch. Finished up the laundry. I sat in a hammock. Swam with friends. Learned to do the butterfly stroke. Unloaded groceries. Ate Dinner. Studied the Bible with our big team. Flinanagened (code word for team meeting) with the G:racers. Completely ordinary. Sitting with my team, I realized how perfect the day had been. I was able to just BE! Not worry about what people thought. Not thinking about all the things I was supposed to do. Not trying to feel what I should feel. Just BE! Don't ask me how. I simply chose to sit in a chair. God took care of the rest. Today, I was just His little girl. I was honest. I served from the heart. I enjoyed the company of all those around me. I had good conversations. I smiled. I laughed. I realized this is exactly how life should be. Not highs. Not lows. Norms. Normal everyday life can be extraordinary. For so long I have been running from the ordinary everyday of it all. Only to discover God right smack in the middle of the everyday. Prayers were answered. Blessings recognized. Praises lifted. Laying my head down that night, I was as happy as I have been in long time. God never ceases to amaze me.

Support Brian and Stacy!

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Support Brian and Stacy here:

www.adventures.org/give

Select "The World Race"

Type: "For Brian Alonzo"

Oblivious

Tue, 6 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

So we detoured to London this month. Something to do with plane tickets, riots in Thailand and God's will. We have spent the month working with many different churches. Mostly, handing out literature and going door-to-door to spread the gospel. It has been quite a month of change. Third world to first world. 70 degrees to 30 degrees on a good day. Rice to potatoes. Translators to direct communication. Kids at the church to strangers in the park. One culture to many cultures. Free time to a structured schedule. Privacy to community. These are just a few of the many changes and adaptations this last month brought.

One thing has become very apparent to me over these last six months. I am not changing the world, it is changing me. My expectation was to leave a mark on this world. Oddly, the opposite is happening. Leaving for the Race, I felt totally prepared. I knew there would be challenges and surprises, and flexibility was a must. Confident I possessed all that I needed, I was ready to face whatever the world had to throw at me. I grossly overestimated myself and underestimated the world. I find that in every country I am feeling like I gained more than I gave.

Oblivious.

The best way to describe my life pre-World Race.

My experiences this last six months have shattered my unawareness.

Guatemala is in their first post civil war generation.

A country in desperate need of better education system in order to help allevate the poverty gap.

Vietnam is country where religious freedom is window dressing for a state run church that is anything but free.

Cambodia has had to rebuild their country, culture and lives from scratch.

The Khmer Rouge's genocide left a significant wound on the heart of this nation.

Thailand is consumed with sex tourism. It is a normal part of life.

Not many bat an eye at the site of girls selling themselves everyday.

London is a place of great opportunity that draws many people from all over the world but is spiritually dead.

Speaker's Corner in Hyde Park is a place where Islam and Christianity go head to head and

try convince the other that they follow the one true God.

This is just the tip of the iceberg.

6 countries.

A handful of cities.

Each one has a specific need,

a different need, a dire need.

Greatest lesson learned: I have nothing to offer. Nothing I do will ease their suffering for long or provide for enough of their needs. I left so many people thinking, "I wish I could give them more". More time, more money, more help, more hope. I am empty. I am broken. I am not in control as I once thought. I am not able to change people's hearts and minds. I am not able to do anything but trust God with each of them.

I wish that I could say that with more joy. Trust God with them. I am finding out that I don't trust God as much as I hoped. I trust Him when He does things my way. But as soon as He goes outside those bounds I get belligerent. I dig in my heels and get down right obstinate. Many times I discover that I don't want to need grace. More than I care to admit, I find no comfort in grace. The need for grace implies that I am lacking. I see all that I am not. Staying in that place of not measuring up, perpetually failing, fighting for control, feeling unsure about myself, God and the world has disastrous effects. Yet time and time again, I find myself caught in the torrent of such thoughts.

Abba's Child by Brennann Manning has given me some hard but excellent insight into this struggle. I would love to just quote 90% of the book but that's would ruin it for everyone of you who are going to read it.

"Humility is confidence properly placed in God."

For the rest of my life, I may be caught in the deep waters of this truth.

Humility is not about behavior modification.

It is true submission to my Abba.

Days and weeks to come will find me both in and out of this place.

But at least now I know I am broken and empty.

Maybe God can use that to change the world.

The Fun I Didn't Have in London!

Sun, 4 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

I was ready for the big city with all it's opportunities for fun and relaxation for our days off. Alas, that was not in the cards for me this month. I spent a majority of my time sick. Sleeping, sleeping and more sleeping. But I thought I should post some of the fun other people had. I would have loved to have been there and so I am living vicariously through my fellow World Racers. Enjoy, but don't look for me!

P.S. Not trying to drum up sympathy, I promise.

Thanks to Jessie for letting me live it up through her video.

Great Scavenger Hunt of Thailand 2008

Sat, 3 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

The G:racers have a few things in common. We like popcorn, card games and winning. During our extra time in Thailand, Shanda and Tara B made up a scavenger hunt for all the teams to compete against one another. Do you ever one of those moments when you understand why God put certain people in your life? I had one of these moments when I watched as my entire team sprint at the exact same moment toward our first challenge. G:racers take two things seriously: fun and competition. We were in it to win it! For you viewing pleasure, The Great Scavenger Hunt of Thailand 2008.

Ekine

Fri, 2 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Looking out over the river Quai through tears, I sang along with David Crowder:

Where there is pain, let there be grace
Where there is suffering, bring serenity
For those afraid, help them be brave
Where there is misery, bring expectancy
Surely we can change, Surely we can change something.
And the problem it seems is with you and me
not the love who came to repair everything
I don't know what to with a love like that
I don't know how to be a love like that
When all the love in the world is right here among us
and hatred too and so we must choose what are hands will do.
Where there is pain, let us bring grace
Where there is suffering, bring serenity
For those afraid, let us be brave
Where there is misery, let us bring them relief
surely we can change, surely we can change,

surely we can change something

As each tear fell and became part of the water encircling my feet, all I could feel was pain. The pain of seeing something you feel helpless to change. The pain God must feel as he watches us suffers. Just imagine all the pain you have felt in your life. God was there feeling the magnitude of each tear, each wave of emotion, each desperate cry and each tear of your heart. Now multiply that by every person you know, every person in the state you live in, every person in every country, the whole world, past, present and future. Before this trip, I imagined God with joy that never ceases. I imagined him always smiling as he looked down on me. Tonight, I realized that God experiences as much pain as he does joy. If he is with us at all times and through all things, how could he not know great pain?

Yesterday, I met Ekine. She is a women who lives in a village of Burmese refugees. A man from the church, brought us to her village to pray for some of the church members. Ekine lives next door to a woman we prayed for. As we were leaving, the man from the church, called us over behind a piece of tin roofing. Curiously, we approached and found Ekine sitting in a wooden chair sheltered from the sun by the tin . As Mon, our translater, spoke to her, we learned that she was suffering from the effects of a stroke. Her body was very weak and she was not strong enough to walk. Kira felt the Lord asking us to pray for healing. Kneeling down we put our hands on her legs and feet and began to ask God to heal her. After praying for a few minutes, I opened my eyes and saw Jen Crane speaking with her husband. The husband searched around and handed Jen a towel and a basin of water. Jen gently washed Ekine's feet as we continued praying. Once we had all prayed. Mon said she felt like the Lord had healed Ekine and that she needed to practice walking. No time like the present, so we gently helped Ekine to her feet. Jennifer and I held her arms to steady her as she walked the few feet to her house and back to her chair. My heart was exhilerated to see God giving her strength to walk. We promised to come back the next day and help her practice. It was a beautiful moment seeing my team lavish Christ love on Ekine.

Excitement and anticipation grew within me, as we were to return and help Ekine practice walking. The sun was scorching hot and caused us to delay our visit til late afternoon. The day before the Lord provided a walker for Ekine through a neighbor. Walker in tow, we looked for Ekine. She was not in the same shady spot. To our amazement, the house we visited yesterday was gone and a new house was halfway built.The foundation and floor were complete and several men were working on roofing the house with tin. Ekine was in her chair waiting.

"I want to walk today," She meant business. Jen and Jen helped her up and I steadied her from behind. Mastering the walker, was no problem. Her strength surprised us all and gave us reason to praise the Lord. I kept my hands on her back but she was doing all the work. After making her way back to her chair, the wind picked up and we feared an eminent downpour. Concerned, we asked if we could help her to a more sheltered place. Some words spoken in her native language brought her son over. He scooped her up and brought her to a neighbor's house. Mon and I followed with her chair.

Newly situated and sheltered, we continued talking to Ekine. All of the sudden, Ekine was weeping. Through her tears she spoke about how her husband sometimes beats her. Many times when she needs to use the restroom or has other needs she is beaten. Looking into her children's eyes as they speak and tend to her, you can see that she is an unwanted burden. The loneliness and despair in her words hung in the air. All I could do was stroke her back. I wanted to run away because the pain was palpable.

Minutesof helpless silence passed. Finally, not able to take it anymore, I said it was time to go.

"Tell her that we love her and will pray that her husband's heart will change."

This was all the encouragement I could muster.

We left her sitting there.

The rains were on their way, but I didn't care. I grabbed my ipod and bible and headed down to the river. I would give anything to take Ekine's pain. I would pay any amount of money to give her relief.

As I am telling God this, I remember that He already paid the price by giving His life for Ekine.

Pain swept over me as the river swirled around my feet. It was the same pain I felt in Cambodia at the Killing Fields. The same pain I felt leaving Happy Tree the orphanage for children with HIV. The pain I felt is but one small drop compared to the pain God must feel. To know that he sent Jesus to die so that are suffering would end. Everything we need or long for is available because of the blood of Jesus Christ, but so many don't know. Even Christians don't know the freedom Christ died to give us. So I cried. I cried and asked that the Holy Spirit would find a prayer for Ekine in my weeping.

I found no answers, only a peace that passes all understanding. Literally, I have no understanding of how God is moving in this situation. No understanding of how he will bring grace, relief, joy, serenity, bravery and provision. No understanding of how I am supposed to help or be obedient. All I know is that I ran out of tears and God gave me peace.

Please pray for Ekine, her husband, her children and her community.

Pray for me as well. I want only to be obedient to God's will on earth as it is in heaven. I don't want to leave this place feeling better. I want to leave this place knowing that I was obedient to the will of God.

Even if I don't understand.

Even if nothing appears to change.

Even if I still feel pain.

Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.

Luke 12:6-7 (NIV)

Thailand: A Glimpse

Fri, 2 Jan 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Our time in Thailand was spent in the western mountains among Burmese refugees, most of them have been in Thailand for 20-30 years. We learned to be ready for anything. The G:racers were preachers, teachers, bible study leaders, encouragers, singers, vbs leaders, and receivers of hospitality, aka food. Pastor Bode and his family took such good care of us. We met so many wonderful people who truly love the Lord. I hope this video gives you an idea of our time in Thailand.

A Collage to Angor Watt

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

While in Cambodia, Amy, Jen, Kira, Stephanie and I thought we would take in the sights of one of the 7 wonders of the world. Angor Watt. It is the largest temple system still standing, I believe. It is magnificent. Everywhere you look there is detail carved into every inch of the stone. Truly wonderful. I didn't realize that the complex was in it's prime a city. The granduer of the intricacy of the culture and the structures built to immortalize left me in awe. So different from the modern society I know. Strip centers, fast food, convenience stores and so on. I kept thinking that I wish that they had built it for the one true God. Then it wouldn't all reek of emptiness. I love to go into those place and imagine that it was built for God. I like to look for all the great and small details that remind me of him. Moss, giant smiling rocks, beautiful carvings, doorways with resting children, incredible trees, and sharing it all with good friends. Just a little tast of what one day on the World Race looks like. Playing with orphans one day and wandering around one of the 7 wonders of the world the next.

Arms of Jesus

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

I hope this brief introduction to Arms of Jesus will begin to help you understand why I fell in love with this ministry. The purpose and mission is exactly what is needed to make a difference in the lives of the next generation. I have never encountered a ministry with such focus and passion that is actual meeting the needs of the people. Here are links for more information on Arms of Jesus and the Tharakan's.

The Faces I Miss

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

My time in Guatemala with AOJ was among my favorite memories on the race. I loved having whole classes of kindergardeners and first graders swarm me as I walk through the front door. Swinging kids around on the playground till my back screamed "No more!" Turning the jump rope, counting and hoping each girl would beat their own best. Playing tag and hide seek and pato, pato, gonzo (duck, duck, goose) were not just child's play; they were my job, my mission, my calling.

When I was not playing, I did do a little teaching. Stephanie and I taught a lot of songs to the kids, most of them have stuck with us. At any given moment, we can be caught sining "What's the weather?" or the days of the week song. Not only the songs stuck with me, each face has left an impression that will not soon leave. This video is mostly for me, but I thought I would share some of the blessings God has brought into my life.

Peas in a Pod

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Keo and Kara, peas in pod. From the first moment, I stepped through the gate at Happy Tree, the orphanage in Phnom Penh, we were inseparable. I am not sure what made her pick me, but after the first day, we were fast friends. I let her use my camera which probably helped. Officially, she was the keeper of my way cool sunglasses. Everyday we would grow a little bit closer. Her size will fool you; even though she looks about 10 she is actual 14. She never looked aimless, unless she just woke up from a nap.

She dragged me all over the orphanage,showing me her room and where she like to hang out. Keo Lakana always seemed to have a purpose.Mostly, during those two weeks, she purposed to take pictures of her and her posse in every room, every tree or shrub and in front of anything remotely interesting. Keo had such a big heart. She was always taking care of others. There was one baby in particular that she doted on all the time. He was included, she made sure of that. Also, she took care of me. Always explaining as best she could in charades and even shoving spoonfuls of her sweet lentil mush into my mouth for snack.

I love the look on her face when I first arrive. Eyes that danced and a face that was radiant with joy. Alternatively, leaving was the worst. However, we made up our own goodbye. We would say and sign, "God loves you. I love you too! See you tomorrow." It was said at least ten times before I would pry myself away and head for the tuk-tuk that was waiting to take me home. I loved knowing that I would see her tomorrow.

Finally, our last day at Happy Tree had arrived. I had prepared myself for it to be hard. I am not going to cry because it will just make it harder on the kids. I repeated this to my self to build my resolve . We finished our planned program and the kids treated us to traditional Cambodian dancing and some not so traditional Cambodian Dancing.

I know now how my mom must have felt at all my dance recitals growing up. I was so proud and determined to capture every second on video. The other girls were the same way. We kept saying we felt like parents. The program was ended with a song, Sank you Sank you Jesu. I'm pretty sure it was Thank you, Thank you Jesus, but it will forever be remembered as the former. The program ran long so we had to rush to leave. It wasn't until the last moment I even realized this could possible be the last time we would ever see each other. Wrapping my arms around Keo, I held her so tight and she held on like she was never going to let go. My will no longer had control of my tears. Our embrace would never be long enough to satisfy either one of us. Keo and Kara, peas in a pod. Wet peas.

For the first time in two weeks, Keo didn't walk me to the gate. We didn't say our special goodbye. There was no joy to be found in those last moments. I left her at the steps, the saddest I had ever seen her. Turning to go, I didn't dare look back. I would never make to the gate. About halfway to the gate, I was sobbing uncontrollably. Jen put her arm around me. "It hurts so much" is all could say over and over again. " I can't do this 7 more times," I cried. Poor Jen, I sob the whole way back to the tuk-tuk. I hated being one more person to leave her. One more person who says " I love you" and doesn't stay. One more person who can't really make anything better. Keo Lakana has HIV and will never leave that orphanage. She is home.

My only hope is to pray that the seeds we planted and the love of the dedicated workers at the orphanage will bring her hope. Eternal hope. A hope in Jesus Christ as her Savior, friend, and King. I look forward to the day when Keo and Kara will once again be peas in a pod hanging out behind a much nicer gate.

All my love Keo Lakana.

God loves you.

I love you too.

Happy Tree

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Katie Rowland did an awesome job of capture our time at Happy Tree. I was so thankful for all her efforts. There was no way I was going to get through all the footage without disentigrating into a blubbering mess. I could not even watch the video without crying. Here are some precious memories of our kids at Happy Tree.

Can't get Enough!

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Can't get enough of these kids!

Jen also did an excellent video.

My philosophy is there can never be enough Happy Tree!

Favorite Things

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

These are a few of my favorite things in Cambodia

New Hope In Christ Church

Quiet times in the room with a hole cut in the floor so as not to interfere with the slide.

Writing vocab words with the white board marker.

Deserts- Brownies, apple strudel and half-baked cookies from a toaster oven almost every night

A hundred small children greeting you with " Good Morning Teacher."

Teaching Beginning English because my students are awesome.

Losing my shoes after every English class.

Breakfast at Dara's one of my studen'ts home.

Hi 5"s from a million different kids.

T our personal tuk-tuk driver.

Flooded streets of sewer water, NOT!

The question "Where do you go?"

and even more so the question " Why do you go alone?"

Mike and Nikki our standing dinner dates.

Explaining things like free-standing structure and yacht

Hula hooping with Hannah and Krystal.

Shopping. Eveything from DVD's to clothes to jewelry. I got one of everything.

My new friends: Roni, Naomi, Charlie, Luke, Mr. Vanna, Srang, Tavy

Roni becoming a Sister in Christ! Go Jesus

G:raKia- G:racers and Kiatera together and having a really good time.

Lucky Mart

Worship songs in Khmer (Cambodian language.)

Elephants, elephants that hang out in parks

Last but not least, our amazing and gracious host, Pastor Keat and Sally Kov.

Check out these blogs from some of the other girls on G:raKia.

A God of Pursuit - Krystal Longmire

Tuol Sleng - Kira Guerke

Cambodia & Angkor Wat in Photos - Jennifer Leverett

Cambodian Adventures- Lisa Smith

One Word Challenge

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Our squad leader Stephanie Fisk decided it would be fun to "challenge" us to describe the World Race in one word. Here is a little background of how this went down.

Stephanie: Describe the World Race thus far in one word.

( camera in your face, red light indicating record on)

Kara: (deer in headlights look on face)

Well you can just watch the video and see for yourself.

Just so you know, everyone's response gives you a little insight into who they are.

We laughed alot and I hope that you will too.

Let's Teleport!

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

In order to go back in time on the World Race, we are going to have to do something a little out of the ordinary. Teleport. Yes, I said teleport. While I have not quite figured out the specks on the rotary girder, I have devised a simulation that should work for these purposes. Through this list of activities, we are going to journey back to August 2008. Imagine that the g:racers are in Antigua, Guatemala. Forget the feel of fall and return with me to 75 degrees. Stare intensely at the video below and repeat 10 times a minute, " There's no place like Antigua."

Vietnam:Fire and Light

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Vietnam... It is so hard to capture what has transpired in these last two weeks. To say it has been challenging is a severe understatement. Each moment was an isolated event. One moment was full of painful realizations. Several hours later, another would bring you exuberant joy. I found myself waking up in the morning to days that were full of uncertainty. I never know what will happen, when it will happen of if it will happen. Time, privacy, personal space, quiet, calm and stillness were all luxuries. Luxuries I no longer have. Relationships are beautifully orchestrated by the Lord; meaning, we were all acting as iron sharpening one another. So many times in the midst, all I saw were the sparks and heat needed to soften the metal so it can be shaped and formed to be stronger. The theme for Vietnam has been fire and light. Continually, we are hearing from the Lord about these two elements. To the people of Vietnam, we are light bearers meant to start a fire of revival which is so desperately needed in this country. Many prayers and prophetic words have been spoken over this place and this people.

The application of these elements to our squad is probably the more challenging situation. We have seen parts of ourselves and teammates that are not as they should be. Issues and dark places within us all have been brought into the light. We have also been affirming the places where we see God shining through. The environment we lived in was oppressive. We stayed in a hotel that was used for sex trafficking every night. It was hard being the only light in that dark place. Every night we were praying for the girls and men went into those rooms. Tara Bruce was so broken for one of the girls that she met and angry at the situation she was in and decided something had to be done. Fire in the Night. As a squad, we joined to together to intercede for these girls and the men. We prayed, worshiped, read scripture, claimed God's promises, expressed our prayers through art, and all out fought the enemy with everything we had in us. To read more visit Tara Bruce's blog.

Our other ministry focused on college students. We had some awesome translators who took great care of us. They would take us to the universities where they studied. We would meet students, try to get to know them and share the love of Christ at the same time. I lost track of all the universities that we visited. Trust me there were a lot.

Also, we had the chance to visit an orphanage. Many of the children there suffer from cerebral palsy. Our purpose was to just love on the kids, so we would take their pictures, play with them, and pray over them.

Even though it was tough at times. We made good friends and made many great memories. I will always be thankful for my time in Vietnam. I learned how to fight spiritual oppression. The Lord drew me closer to him through intercession. Also, I learned how thankful I am for my family and friends. They rallied around me when they heard I was having a rough time. Thanks to everyone for the e-mails, comments and messages. I wish you could see how you lifted my spirits. God used you to give me strength to keep going.

New Generation

Sun, 26 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

I met Luis Carlos Castillo through Mark Annand, works with YWAM. Luis established a ministry called New Generation or in Spanish, Nueva Generacion. Every week Luis goes into 3 schools in Antigua and 1 school in Guatemala City and teaches Christian values classes from the Bible. Their mission is to reach Guatemalan youth with the word of God. In public school he is using the word of God to help build a foundation for the next generation. Even more amazing, he is an actual teacher; he has full support from the administration. His program reaches 1500 students weekly.

Some of the topics included in the Christian Value classes are identity in Christ, self-esteem, relationships, how to choose your friends wisely, respecting your parents, sexuality, dating and forgiveness. In addition to the classes in the schools, New Generation also holds Point of Encounter youth rallies, spiritual retreats and small groups were discipling continues.

Luis was gracious and allowed me to speak to his students for the week. My topic was Second Purity. The weeks before I arrived, Mark and Luis spoke about dating, sex and purity. I wanted to express to these students about God's forgiveness and mercy for those who have already given their virginity. My heart goes out to those who have to live with the shame and guilt that inevitablely follows the decision to have sex outside marriage. He also impressed upon my heart to speak to them about their identity. I told them they are royal sons and daughters of the most high King. It was a truly amazing and scary opportunity to stand in front of classrooms filled with mostly 16 year old boys. Telling them about the affect sex outside of marriage can have and how God can restore. My audience was not always thrilled to hear me speak, but I knew I must be obedient to speak what God had given me. At the end of the week, I knew that God had planted seeds in the good soil. He would be tending them in my absence. I walked away thankful that my life could encourage others.

As you heard in the video, Luis is looking for people to help with a new program to help the youth identify their gifts and talents. Again it would require a week of work in the schools. Please prayerfully consider if God is asking you to come volunteer your skills and passion in music, art, dance, drama and sports. I am hoping to return after the race and help with the dance program one week.

Nueva Generacion's ministry is incredible. The impact and influence they are given by the public schools in Guatemala is a gift from the Lord. If you would like to partner with Nueva Generacion by donating please contact Luis Carlos Castillo at misseong@gmail.com.

For more information about Mission Impact visit www.missionimpact.com. Also you can follow the ministry through Luis' blog.

Siam Reap Resurrection!

Sun, 26 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Hallelujah! Praise the Lord! My blog is back from the dead. After an entire month of being dead, my blog has been resurrected. Look out because it is on fire for the Lord. Prepare yourself, for what an overwhelming amount of information in the next week or so. Please do not hold me responsible it has a mind of its own. Since my blog has Lazarused, you can expect to be hearing alot more from it. Even blogs want to testify and give glory to God.