When Ministry Looks Different Than You Expected

Most people begin the World Race with certain expectations.

Maybe they imagine leading a Bible study, serving in a children’s ministry, or sharing the Gospel in a village. And sometimes those things happen.

But often, God shows up in places we never anticipated.

For Emma, that lesson began with rain.

While serving in Nicaragua during rainy season, her team experienced severe flooding that impacted homes throughout the community. Families were walking through knee-deep water just to leave their houses. As the team joined cleanup efforts, helping salvage belongings and clear streets, they arrived ready to serve.

What they didn’t expect was to be the ones receiving.

As Emma’s team worked alongside local families, they witnessed incredible generosity.

Many people who had lost belongings and experienced damage to their homes continued to offer hospitality, sharing what little they had and making sure the team felt welcomed.

In the middle of hardship, they chose joy. For many Racers, this becomes one of the most surprising parts of the World Race. You arrive hoping to make an impact, only to discover that God is using the people you’re serving to transform you as well.

Their faith teaches you. Their resilience teaches you. Their joy teaches you.

The lessons didn’t stop there.

During her time in Nicaragua, Emma participated in a three-day fast with her team. Instead of immediately feeling closer to God, she found herself distracted, frustrated, and struggling to focus.

Then, in the middle of that struggle, God reminded her of something simple but powerful:

His desire wasn’t perfection. It was relationship.

As she spent time in prayer and Scripture, Emma experienced God’s grace in a fresh way. She realized He wasn’t asking her to perform. He simply wanted to meet her where she was.

Many Racers arrive expecting adventure, travel, and ministry opportunities. They leave with those things, but they also leave with something deeper: a greater understanding of God’s character, His grace, and His heart for people.

Sometimes those lessons come while helping a community recover after a flood. Sometimes they come during a difficult fast. Sometimes they come through the generosity of people who have every reason not to be generous.

The World Race isn’t about following a perfectly planned script. It’s about stepping into a journey where God has room to surprise you.

And often, those unexpected moments become the ones that change you most.

Ready to see what God might have waiting for you?

Explore upcoming World Race opportunities and discover where your journey could begin.