As I sit in the Atlanta airport getting ready to board a flight to Battambang, Cambodia, I can’t help but to reflect on the past few days leading up to this moment.
I am so excited to see all that the Lord has in store for this next season of my life, but that doesn’t mean the ache of letting go of the comforts I am so used to isn’t there. The hardest thing I have ever had to do is say “goodbye” to my parents. I was blessed to have my parents come to Parent Launch and get to experience the teachings and worship that are the so involved in the AIM community. When Monday afternoon came, I realized that the moment I had been dreading for a while had finally arrived.
I have lived at home my entire life. My family has always been close, but during the past year I feel as if we have really brought our relationship to a new level – and I thank God for this blessing that a lot of people do not have. Even on long trips, my parents have always been one call away. But when I hugged my parents for the last time (for 9 months) I realized that my mom will not always be there for me to tell about my day. My dad will no longer be there to watch movies with after a long day at work. My sister won’t be one room away to make me laugh when I need it the most. All of these qualities – and so much more – are no longer a part of this season.
They are comforts that I have always had that the Lord was asking me to give up.
As I turned away from my parents and walked up the stairs, I had a vison of Jesus standing at the top with His arms wide open. Comforting me in my sorrow. Holding me in my hurt. Because He knows exactly how it feels.
“Then He said to them: ‘whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me’” Luke 9:23
Following Christ will not be easy, but it will be worth it. One of the speakers I heard this past week defined it as: give up everything, to receive everything.
I now fully embrace all that God asks of me, and all that He has for me.
Over the next few days I might not have a good internet connection, so I would like to update everyone by announcing that I AM FULLY FUNDED!!! Thank you to everyone who has donated to me, as well has lifted me up in prayer. I am so blessed, and so fill with gratitude. The Lord has abundantly blessed me.
Gracie, thanks for making my cry this morning! LOL I can’t wait to see what God is going to do in your life during the next 9 months. Praying for you and your squad and for your family.
Gracie,
God will bless your obedience! Your transparency is an encouragement to many. You will give others courage as they watch you press through the hard stuff and know that it’s worth it! We are grateful that you said “yes” … when you recognized your Savior’s voice! We will pray for The Comforter to hold you and give you peace and joy as you journey … and become the hands and feet of Jesus. We will pray the same for your family. Love you so much!! Safe travels!!
You are loved beyond words.. so proud of the person you have allowed God to make you…sweet blessing on you and your squad
So very proud of you to walk in the feet of Jesus to the far reaches of the earth ,
So very proud of you Gracie. You are an amazing person. Safe travels.
You are an inspiration to so many?? Multitudes of people are praying for you on this journey. I, for one am excited to hear about your journey. God Bless younand know that you are loved by many??
Those question marks are hearts. 🙂
Goodbyes are so hard and sorry to say they never get easier no matter how many times you do it! ?? BUT God is always right there just like you said: arms open, ready to cry with you and to give you a peace knowing it is for the Lord and the spreading of the Gospel!
Praying specifically right now for the pain and healing of the separation Gracie because I understand!!!! You are brave, strong, and an amazing testimony of a young lady who loves the Lord with her whole being!
I’m so proud of you. I pray for your safety and continued growth in Jesus! Love you!
Oh sweet girl, I know that you are hurting. I want you to know that even in prison Paul and Silas sang songs and praised God. He is working something awesome in your life and I believe in you! I could not love you more and I know that you are on a new path but you are not alone. He is with you. I am praying for you always!! Phippians :12 hugs and kisses sweet girl!!
1 :12
So proud of you Gracie!! I can’t imagine how hard this is for you and your parents because I remember being your age and now I am a parent… but as a parent now, I know how proud yours are of you and I commend them for instilling such a strong love of Christ in you. God is doing great things through you!! Many prayers for you and your squad!! Love you!!
Your example of following is having an impact on so many. God called you out and you followed,. Cannot begin to imagine the blessings you will receive as you are His hands and feet. Your parents willl miss you so much, but they are so proud of the godly young woman you have become. You are in my prayers. Love you!
I am so beyond proud of you. You my friend, are going to change the world. Enjoy yourself this next 9 months! It will be over before you know it, and we will be welcoming you home! Love you bunches! Go tell the world about Jesus!!!
I am so beyond proud of you. You my friend, are going to change the world. Enjoy yourself this next 9 months! It will be over before you know it, and we will be welcoming you home! Love you bunches! Go tell the world about Jesus!!!
I can’t wait to see the plans God has for you! We love you so much. Praying for you daily!
PRAISE GOD!! He is so so good!
Excited that you are fully funded and don’t have to think about that during this time on the race. God has so many rewarding experiences ahead for you – live in the moment so you don’t miss a thing! Can’t wait to see you!
We watched and we knew GOD had a plan for you.. I’ve always felt there was something special about you and the Lord was nurturing you with his spirit until it was time.. his time..we don’t always listen and you did.. so very proud of you..praying daily for you and your team..love you sweet girl??????
We (parents) and you (Racers) are giving up our comforts for more of Him! God is good. He is faithful. May we lean on him for our strength and peace.
Psalm 29:11
May the Lord give strength to his people! May the Lord bless his people with peace!
Praise God for being fully funded and supported!
Goodbyes are so hard. God will be faithful to His promises. Praise Jesus for your funding. See you in 3 weeks!
It’s hard to give up comfort and some don’t realize it and can become complacent in their faith. God wants us to grow in faith. Growth requires change in us. Grow spiritually in wisdom, patience, obedience and love. God has you!?? You are loved by the King!!!
We live Gracie and are very proud of you!