Well, it’s me again! A lot has changed since I last wrote to you. I’m officially in Greece now, and I’m halfway through my race. The last time we spoke, I was in Thailand, wrapping up my time at the children’s home. Leaving those kids behind was incredibly hard—I miss their faces so much. It’s made me realize that one of the hardest parts about going on mission trips is forming deep connections with people, falling in love with them, and then having to leave.
My time in Thailand was so sweet. I had an amazing team, the most perfect little living situation, and a ministry that felt just right. But on January 1, we left for Thessaloniki, Greece. After 86 hours of traveling, we finally arrived at our new home. We met our ministry host, Antonis, who is incredibly funny and hospitable. We also met his family, and his wife reminds me so much of my mom. They own a lovely coffee shop where they hold church services and women’s Bible studies. They’ve been working in Greece to grow the church, evangelize, and provide housing for people in need. They’ve generously let us stay in their apartment complex, which has three bedrooms, a kitchen, and a living room. It’s a bit of a tight squeeze, but we’re able to live comfortably together.
Let me tell you a little more about our ministry here. The only consistent schedule we have is going to the refugee center every Tuesday and Thursday. It has been such an amazing experience—serving others, building relationships, and listening to their stories. We spend time with the kids, eat lunch with everyone, and get to hear about their lives. Many of these people come from Syria, Ukraine, and Georgia. It’s truly humbling and inspiring. On the other days, we do evangelism, prayer walks, and help Antonis with anything he needs, whether it’s at the coffee shop, babysitting, or other tasks.
Greece feels very different from Thailand and Malaysia. The climate here is cold and cloudy, and, as a Texas girl, I’m not used to this kind of weather. If I’m being honest, this has probably been the hardest part of the race for me so far. I miss home quite a bit, but I’m so excited to see my parents in less than two months! Living across the world for this long has really made me reflect on the good things in life that I often take for granted. The Lord has been teaching me so much, especially how true home is with Him. No matter where I am, He will sustain me.
I feel led to encourage everyone to consider going on a missions trip someday. It’s truly a fulfilling experience and something the Lord has called us all to take part in. Recently, I was in a women’s Bible study where an elderly woman shared that she felt she was ‘too old to use the gifts God has given her.’ Hearing this made me sad because the truth is, no matter how young or old we are, we can all do the Lord’s work. God’s gifts are not limited to a specific group of people—we all have the ability and calling to fulfill the work the Lord has placed before us.
I am also still frequently post pictures of my life on my photo circle! If you haven’t joined already and would like and inside look here’s the link! https://join.photocircleapp.com/R4YZJ3TRAB
