What, Why, & How: World Race Gap Year

     The World Race Gap Year: What is it? Why am I doing it? How much does it cost? 

I’ve been asked these questions by many, so I would like to take the time to answer them for you. What is the World Race Gap Year? Well it is a mission trip lasting 9 months straight (yes, I know it sounds bizarre) within 3 different continents. I will be participating in the August 2020 trip. In September of 2019, the routes will be released and then I can choose my route. During this trip, I will be backpacking during my duration. Backpacking, means living out of a 65 liter backpack that contains all of my belongings for the 9 months. I will be sleeping in a tent primarily, and my tent and sleeping bag also go in that one backpack. While there will be many challenges with living out of a backpack, I am most worried about flying. Being that I have never flown before scares me, I will have to fly lots during this trip. The most important part/purpose of the trip is to share the Gospel with people all around the world, while experiencing different cultures and ethnicities along the way. Why am I doing it? In the past year, I have felt Jesus working in my life and speaking to me through two words: Go & Follow. He wants me to Go and share the word & Follow Him whole heartedly. At first I decided to just do a 3 month mission trip, because it was in my comfort zone and sounded easier. I knew that 3 months away from my family and the money to do that trip was more of something I could do. After praying long and hard up until and on the day I was to fill out my application; I heard the Lord say, “Stop resting in your comfort zone, step out in faith to pursue me.” I decided without hesitation to fill out the application for 9 months and trusting the Lord, days later I was accepted. Sharing Jesus with the world, always sounded intangible to me until this opportunity arose. I have experienced first hand the Lord’s salvation, love, grace, and healing so I want to share that with everyone I possibly can. How much does it cost? The grand total is $16,000 which includes: all of my transportations, flights, housing, food, insurance and other miscellaneous costs. Aside from the $16,000, I am still required to buy all of my gear and supplies for the race. This trip is bizarre, crazy, absurd, ridiculous, and seems pretty much impossible; thats because it is. With God all of those doubts and impossible ideas become reality and are achievable. I am steadily praying & trusting the Lord that he will provide all of the necessities for the race. Standing firm in faith, he will help me attain my financial goal, steady my spirit, and prepare me mentally. I hope you will join me in most importantly prayer, but also financially. Don’t forget to Subscribe to my blog to stay updated on my Race and fundraising goals. Thank you so much! 

He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.”

-Mark 16:15

With Love,

 Erika Talley