Hi friends!

I am so, so excited to be on this journey with World Race Gap Year, where I will be on the mission field for 9 months serving the Lord in Ethiopia, Eswatini, and Cambodia.

Here's just a little bit of info so you can get to know me better :)

I am currently a senior in high school living in a small town in Northern California soon to be traveling the globe with World Race. Traveling isn't new to me as I've grown up on the mission field as a missionary kid. 10 years in Tajikistan and 3 in Turkey has instilled in me a love for going new places, trying new things, and most of all, serving the Lord's people on a global level.

I loved living on the mission field, so when my family and I moved back to the States permanently, it was quite a shock. I didn't feel like I could ever fit in or be a "true American". But the discomfort I experienced was a catalyst for new growth, both in my relationship with the Lord, and in learning about who I am. I was able to get plugged into a youth group, where I joined the worship team and started singing and playing the piano. In that season, I discovered my passion for worship, and cultivating the heart of worship not just at church but in the everyday. I truly enjoy the creative parts of worship as well, specifically song-writing. I love anything that allows me to freely express myself: painting, card-making, drawing. I currently play soccer for my high school, and I love staying active in general.

As I said before, I’m excited for this journey (but also a little nervous!). In this season I’ve been struggling a lot with anxiety and fear of the unknown. I’m someone who likes to have control and know what’s happening (aren’t we all like that?) but the Lord has really been revealing the need for me to lay it all at His feet. A verse that he has put on my heart is from Psalm 62:7-8 (MSG): “My help and glory are in God —granite-strength and safe-harbor-God— So trust him absolutely, people; lay your lives on the line for him. God is a safe place to be.” In this season I find I have to let go and wholly trust God with his timing and plans. I need Him to be my harbor and my anchor, in the midst of this crazy storm of uncertainty and changes. 

I would greatly appreciate your support as I step out into this journey, whether it be through donations or prayers. Thank you so much for stopping by and taking the time to get to know me a little bit. 

God bless! 

-Emma :)