One short month ago, I had every intention of going straight to college. The idea of a gap year had never even crossed my mind. I was routinely scrolling through my Instagram feed, when a sponsored ad popped up promoting a Christian gap year mission trip. Initially I thought taking a year off to live in 4 different countries, doing mission work sounded exotic and thrilling, but unrealistic. Fortunately, my parents took this opportunity pretty seriously and encouraged me to pray over it. I began praying that God's desires would be my desires. Feeling God’s call to missions, I decided to jump on board. However, I may have done so too quickly as I was recently committed to a program that wasn’t the right fit for me, sending me back to square one. As my plans for college were not falling into place, I felt that God was still pushing me to serve Him through missions. Thankfully, He placed Experience Missions in my path and provided me with the opportunity to serve with them through IMMERSION over the course of the next year in Costa Rica, South Africa, Lesotho, and Namibia!

I’ve always loved adventure of every kind, and now God has matched my passion for adventure with my passion for missions. Last summer, I had the opportunity to go on my first international mission trip to Zimbabwe. I experienced God in a new way on this trip. Simply worshiping with His people, in a language I didn't understand, was incredibly moving and God's presence was undeniable. This experience was also the first time I had to straight-up share the Gospel and my testimony with anyone. Even though this was a super scary thing, I was humbled to be used by God and be a witness to people accepting Christ to be in control of their lives. There was no doubt that God was at work. This incredibly encouraging experience made me hungry to serve more.

God put this wild opportunity in my life for a reason. I have a strong desire to grow closer in my relationship with Christ. I know that this experience will be very challenging, but I'm also aware that tough trials and stepping beyond my comfort zone is what will strengthen my faith. A verse that really hits home for me is Isaiah 6:8.

Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said "Here am I. Send me!"

I don't leave until August 27th, but the journey starts now. I ask that you will pray for boldness and strength for me and my teammates. Also pray that our hearts will be ready to serve and that the hearts of those we serve will be ready to receive. BiG ThAnKS for everyone's support so far and please stay engaged for the duration of this journey to see all that God has in store.

-Mary Claude