WR 2007 Casey Barefield - A work in progress...

Done but not Finished

Mon, 5 May 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Yes, indeed, I am home. But as we all well know, just moving from one thing to the next. (Never mind that the next is quite amorphous at this time) I would like first to say that I will continue to use this blog page as long as AIM will let me, so don't cancel your update alerts. While there is a lot going on, and I'm only beginning to process the last year, I do have a couple of things to share with you... 1) Our last video update!

Zion Update Guatemala from mshrauger on Vimeo.

2) I want to link a couple of recent blogs about coming home from Julie, Lauren, and Elizabeth. They are pretty funny, but also have some profound truths in them as well.

3) Jane, myself, and the rest of the Racers made it into the May newsletter of PorchdeSalomon. It's in PDF format, but worth looking at.

So, with all of those vital updates out of the way, I must say that I love springtime in the South. It reeks havoc on my sinuses and all that jazz, but I just want to bottle that floral smell up and pour in into a forever long hot bath. That would have been an awesome welcome home. What a wonderful time to come home and experience all the nostalgia and sunshine. Market Street Festival was this weekend, so it was like Columbus threw me a big welcome back Kotter party and invited 20,000+ of my closest friends. I remember walking down the street on Saturday with my friends Adam and Liza, being positively overrun with people, and joking that it feels like I never left the crowded streets of wherever-ville, therefore easing my culture shock.

I'm not quite sure what the summer will hold for me, as I said before, but I am looking to stay connected with AIM to some degree or another. This is the 'play it by ear' portion of the program... just with my ear firmly planted to the leather-bound Good Book. I've got some traveling to do, some time to carve out to spend to myself, some more friends and family to meet up with and that sort of thing. So continued prayers for more grace and flexibility as I seek wisdom and vision. And again; thank you, thank you for all of the support.

A fun welcome home.

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

So I'm just gonna throw out something fun because I've had a very intense (and productive) day and am in need of a little break. Final debrief has been a mixture of high emotion, serious preparation, and much needed relaxation. We're close. Very close. Yikes. But it's cool. It's the right time.
With the need for some fun, this is a portion of an email that Courtney's mom sent to her, full of wit and wisdom. Naturally, I would encourage you to read the entirety of the blog on Courtney's site:

The reentry of a World Racer. You are the guinea pig for it, but I have all confidence.

First, no dope slap (not literal just a good talking to), just a big Mom hug. I will squish your head into my breasts so that you can have warm memories of nursing.

Second, I have hidden all of the toilet paper. I don't want you to be slammed right into society. We have also had a squatty potty installed in your bathroom and removed the door.

Third, I will take all showers with you until you are OK in the bathroom alone. When you are fine taking a shower by yourself, then I'll just stay in the bathroom while you shower.

Fourth, you can just wait until next Christmas to open your gifts. I don't want you to feel spoiled.

Fifth, you can't use the new washer for at least a month. I don't want you walking around in clean clothes.

Sixth, I bought a bunch of beans and rice so that you don't have to digest meat right away. Strawberries are in season.

Seventh, we are taking away Rhonda (my car) for a month. Gas is too expensive and it would just be entirely too convenient to be able to go wherever you want to. There is still a bus stop on Eastwood Road.

Eighth, I had your new cell phone line disconnected. Too much pressure, that way if people don't like you, you won't know, they can't get up with you anyway.

If there are any other requests, just let me know. Also, I can customize this program for any other racers that need one.

Of course, if anyone that I plan on seeing in the next few months thinks it's a good idea to feed me only rice and beans, I would strongly encourage you to reconsider and cook me steak instead. Ditto for showering with me.

Circle of Life

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

I have nothing deep or profound prepared for this, one of my final blogs before returning to the states, but I am led to begin saying goodbye. I just know that we are a week away from the closure of one adventure and the beginning of another. Honestly, the title of this blog just kinda popped into my head as a way of describing this series of events. The year's seasons form a circle and so do the seasons of life. They look different for everyone, but each one of them is guided by the light of the Lord in the same way that the sun's rays control the temperature. As this season comes to a close, I know that a tough transition is coming. One would be foolish not to treat this change with due respect. There is no telling what some, if not most of us will be doing in a week, a month, 3 months, much less a year.

I've been in a lot of thought and meditation and prayer lately about what my life will look like when I get home, and where it will go next. I can't say that I've gotten anything solid; I also can't say that I believe its time for me to know what's next yet. This year I have learned to depend on God in ways that I literally have never thought of and my experiences and lessons will be invaluable as I navigate new waters. Again, I do not expect a cake-walk, but I do expect to be guided by my Lord in many ways, including through my friends, family and supporters who have been so encouraging for the last year.

Today, all of the Racers and the first batch of our debriefers are arriving and the end is inescapably beginning. Please pray for us as emotions begin to swell and fears are fought back down. Please prepare to greet us with grace and love as well as joy, because we are preparing to do the same. See y'all soon, and very soon, indeed!

(I dug one out of the archives, look at us greenhorns back in Atlanta!)

Dress-Up Fun

Wed, 16 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Well today was just fun. With more of this 'ministry is life, life is ministry' attitude running around, it's easy to see how a simple trip turns into so much more. While preparing Solomon's Porch (porchdesalomon en Espanol) coffee house for their short move in Panajachel, we were given the opportunity to go see a few families/friends in neighboring Santa Catarina. This is the short story of what happens when you mix ministry and life... you get way more of both. Two bags of rice, diapers, candy and cooking oil were necessities, sure, but it quickly became evident that we brought ample prayers, smiles and fun as well. It all started when we admired the traditional clothing...

Then, suddenly, all of the girls looked a little like this:

And before you know it, one guy sticks out like a blandly colored thumb:

(please excuse our novice photographer, he means the absolute best)

I was feeling down that I didn't have any sweet clothes to match my friends,
but my teammates made sure to include me in the fun,

and were very uplifting:

The End.

P.S.

Oh yeah.

... Living Deeply (Pt. 2)

Tue, 8 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

So where am I going with all of this? Where am I being led? I'm being led to understand what it means to make a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland. Isaiah 43:19 speaks of newness. Newness of life and love and grace. I've always loved that verse and have desired to understand its deep meaning. God is doing a new thing. He is making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland. We are just blessed to be a part of it. This last month has been a conflagration of many experiences and ups and downs. I always knew (all of my team did) that it was going to be for a great and glorious thing, that the Kingdom of God would be expanded and glorified because of our smallness and His greatness. Sometimes it feels like we've been through the ringer, run over by confusion and uncertainty. It's been a difficult month of traveling, worrying about safety and budgets, giving in to fear and lies, conflicting on what we are supposed to do, being quick to anger and slow to love at times... all the things us 'Christians,' that have love, should not be doing, should have conquered long ago.

God is springing up. He's springing up in the lives of our new friends. I was so concerned when we were first getting to know them that we weren't really any different to them. I was afraid we were simply new people to talk to because the base is very secluded. That's another thing that I felt conquered by, that I wasn't really different deep down; that people didn't see something else in me. But I know that's not true. I know that I am set apart and that the Spirit of the Lord is upon me. He's been showing me how I can allow Him to make a difference just by being. As we moved from Utila to Comayagua, I understood that what God needed me to do was to just be me. I've gotten a lot of confirmation lately about how I'm supposed to live my life. He's been reassuring me that all I'm supposed to do is be me, and that He's happy with me. Everything I do is supposed to be for His glory and Honor, even the simple act of just living my life.

That is what this month has been for me. I've learned that God is pleased with me in the day to day and He uses me even when I don't notice it. Even when I'm being stubborn or whatever, I'm still loved. It's that easy. I've always heard that the truth of the Gospel is easy. That's becoming a reality to me. I was loved first. So were you.

Changing Slowly... (Pt. 1)

Tue, 8 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT

We've spent several weeks now moving back and forth through Honduras, staying in places we didn't want to and in pretty crappy hostels. Some of us have sincere aversions to entire cities because of bad experiences or feeling spiritually oppressed or like we are wasting time. Sometimes it just all seems to come together. It's usually after a long period of asking why and going through things that don't make any sense and are really tough.

You know what? Forget it; no more introductions or prefaces. God is on fire. God is a consuming fire. He's consuming us daily and He's consuming others as well. He's consuming Dustin and Sheldon and especially Adam. They know it and so do we. Does that mean we are doing something right? Heck no. Does that mean we are righteous and worthy? Not a chance. It means that His grace is sufficient for us. It means His love is truly Almighty and He is a warrior. These Army guys and girls we have met and hung out with are warriors and protectors also. They speak of giving their lives for one another without hesitation. They volunteer to be away from their families for a year or more at a time and go through incredible hardships. It's no secret that some people receive special training on how to survive if taken captive and interrogated... tortured.

I can't even look at that word without breaking down into tears. It really troubled me and I had to fight to type it. It's taken minutes for me to start this next paragraph. The bond I've already developed with these guys is incredible and it has absolutely ripped my heart out to think of what they have subjected themselves to just in training of defense of someone else's life, for my life, for yours. Something has been struck in me and I'm not going to stop writing until it's out. Sometimes I feel so inadequate. I look at how kind everyone has been to me and I think what a failure I am because I'm not as kind and giving as they are and I'm the one who has the Joy of the Lord. I feel like that for a little while and then the Lord will bring one of them to me and they will say how much they have needed someone to come along in their life and be something new and fresh and complete. And then I realize I'm not a failure. I'm being used by God. I'm decreasing and He's increasing, both in my own life and in someone else's.

When I think about the sacrifice a soldier makes for a civilian, it's the same thing as Jesus did. God himself was tied up and beaten... mercilessly. He was absolutely torn open by clubs and whips sewn with jagged pieces of rock and bone. He was beaten for me, so I wouldn't have to suffer a blow. Look deep inside and discover that you believe what's written: that the wages of sin is (indeed) death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 6:23). He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life, and He gave everything, everything, for you. What a concept! A love that surpasses all. Find a quiet place to truly meditate on and ponder that fact for a while... the fact that God is a God of unfathomable love and mercy... see if it doesn't change your outlook a bit. See if it doesn't humble you.

I just looked back at that word I had trouble typing and the movie "The Passion of the Christ" comes flooding back as I stopped again to weep. I weep because it's so real. Sometimes Jesus is ethereal and mystic to me. I wish I could portray the emotion and heart that I'm pouring out into this. Not because I want you to see me, but because I want you to see what's going on in me. It's hard for a person who's set up in a tangible world to absorb an intangible Savior from thousands of years ago. God's been putting the faces of Van and Emile, Rob, Corey, Rachel and Vijay, Dustin, Sheldon, and Adam in my mind's eye. Their sacrifices are very real and tangible to me. That's what the whole point is, anyway. God is in everyone and each one of us is a special creation of His, created in His image. Perhaps for the first time ever, I'm truly seeing the face of God in someone. I can see exactly how God rejoiced in knitting them together in their mother's wombs; how he boasts righteously that He knows the exact number of hairs there are on their heads and that the thoughts He thinks for them are more numerous than the grains of sand on the seashore.

He's given me the ability to share in His joy and love for His own creation. It's been very special for me. I can see how God clothes the flowers of the field and the birds of the air in radiant beauty and that not even King Solomon could dress himself in such splendor. And then to understand that if He clothes things like the grass that is temporary in such splendor, that He will certainly clothe His precious creation (you) so much more elegantly and eternally... it makes Him even more real and lovely.

A Fly-By Update/Thank You

Thu, 27 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Sometimes you just get chill bumps. Tuesday just before lunch two US Army Blackhawk helicopters took off from the Utila airport taking some new friends with them. As I finished waving goodbye and began to think about what an incredibly nice and hospitable group I had met, I was overwhelmed with warm and fuzzy feelings. These were quickly blown off the face of the earth by a deafening roar of rotor blades as the birds seemingly leaped off the ground and into the sky. The power and decisiveness was truly stunning. Yes, I did walk away with chill bumps; partially due to the awesome force of the choppers, and partially due to the magnitude of character contained in them.
Guys and Gals, this blog is for you. It's to say 'Thank you.' When we set off through Nicaragua and Honduras, we prayed God would set our paths for us and introduce us to just the right people. Without a doubt, you are those people. As we've traveled the world, we often find that as much as we go somewhere and try to serve or minister to the people we meet, we are so much more served and blessed by them. You are no exception. How much did we learn from each other? I can barely start the list. How amazing was it to see that, although we have so many things different between us, we have such strong similarities for family, service and belonging to something greater?
Van, Sheldon, Dustin, Emile, Corey, Dave, Craig, Joe, Rob, Rachel, Vijay and the rest of you aviators and medics and psychologists that I've misspelled or skipped... Thank you for a cookout like no other. Thank you for the lessons in avoiding nasty spiked sea creatures. Thank you for belly flops of glory. Thank you for giving a Christian a lesson in hospitality and fellowship. Thank you for the conversations; I know none of us walked away empty handed. Thanks for stretching our beliefs and not being close minded, but rather, curious. Thanks for having fun with us. Thank you for serving your country. I thank every single person in any military branch, serving at home or abroad with utmost sincerity. Thanks for the fly-by. It's probably the coolest thing that's ever happened to me.
A prayer: God, thank you. Thank you for your Son, your grace and mercy and your love. Thank you for a great weekend with a group of incredibly diverse people... surfers, musicians, intelligence agents, pilots, backpackers, technicians, divers, missionaries, environmentalists, goof balls... from no less that 4 different countries. Just thanks. I love you. Amen.

Indulgence... a little.

Wed, 19 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

So... sometimes on the WR, you just have to treat yourself. There is no way around it. We are in San Pedro Sula right now and there is something here that I literally haven't seen all year. It's a product that is on the same order of specialty that Dr. Pepper is, and infinitely more rare. Slice and Bake Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough (dum dum dummmmmm!) The best decision I've made in a really long time was to buy a roll of the magic putty and share it with the team. Behold the aftermath...

When we recover, we are headed to the north coast somewhere to try and minister to people during Holy Week. God has been a faithful and timely provider and we trust in His continued blessings and directions.

Zion Video Update-Show you love

Mon, 17 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The blog that wasnt

Fri, 14 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

I typed a really good blog about how we got from Managua, Nicaragua to Tegucigalpa, Honduras on no plans whatsoever and have been trying to post it for days. Sometimes its formatting, sometimes its a computer wont even read my flash drive, sometimes its no connectivity with my computer... so this is the blog that wasnt because the blog that is, isnt.

Yes, we did make it from one capital to another through divine providence and, well, through divine providence. The details are just details, but a special thanks goes out to Bubbafrom South Carolina. Once in Teguz, we found a cheap hostel near the square and went out to meet God and see what we were there for. Turns out, we were only there to pray for an old man in a church and because God knew Beth would need an American Embassy. Somewhere along the way, she lost her passport (completely out of character for Beth, I must defend her responsibility) and was able to get a temporary one in 24 HOURS!!!! Yes, God can do anything.

So here we are, in Valla de Angeles, a small tourist trap outside of Teguz, really just a weekend retreat, setting up our on shops around the square and talking with unsuspecting English speakers about the God we serve. We are also answering the prayers of a woman and her family just down the road, who has been praying for missionaries to serve. We are they and she couldnt be happier. Were going to church with them every night in preparation for Holy Week and being whatever service we can to her and her family.

Blessings to all.

Lomas de Alabanza

Sat, 8 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

So my blog for this week is easy... link to everybody else and toss up some pics.

Julie, Dawson, and Beth wrote some good stuff yesterday.

We proclaimed freedom and power through the shofar yesterday and at daybreak today...

Let's Go!

Thu, 6 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

It's nearly noon on March 6th and we are about to go to Managua on the first leg of our month long ATL. We have a firm faith and confidence in God's provision for us and cannot wait for Him to be extravagant on us. We will most likely be blogging collectively, but I want to share the websites of my teammates for the month. Please check their blogs as often as you do mine. We thank God now for all of the gifts and blessings we will receive this month and for all of the ways that we will touch lives and show the love and freedom that is in Christ. Also, thank you for your continued prayers; they are so vital to us. Love.

Heather Tolbert
Beth Schroeder
Julie Lortz
Jenny Dawson

Jinotepe Debrief

Tue, 4 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

First of all, there is another article in Relevant magazine that was written by Jeff Goins about the World Race. It features Eric Hanson, a racer from Jan 07 and a good friend of mine. We have been unable to bring up the full article online, so I would recommend picking up the paper copy. It's a great magazine anyway. The WR is becoming a movement, and we are thrilled that the word is getting spread.

In other news...

The month I had in Puerto Cabezas was really cool; there was lots of hard work and lots of time to spend making friends with the children in the orphanage and the workers. I made a lot of really good relationships and got to be a disciple and encouragement to the guys rebuilding the town. The church and ministry there is really incredible and the Spirit of the Lord is moving in big ways. One kid, Ignacio, just turned 17 and has really been laid on my heart. I'm not sure what it all means just now, but I feel that I'll be called to help him realize whatever dreams he has. (Ignacio is on the back right)

Our debrief has been amazing so far and the Pitts and Days have come through again with hugs, insights, and candy. We are really starting to focus on accelerating through the end of the Race and seeking what this will be the platform for. Gratefully, our accommodations are pretty cool and Jinotepe is a beautiful town.

As soon as we leave here (March 6th-ish), we will be collectively embarking on some serious and genuine ATL (Ask The Lord) time. This is where we will really put our faith and trust in the Lord to direct our paths. We are not going to be operating in our traditional team formats, but have instead grouped together according to like desires for the month. There are several different ideas and each one will be based to some degree off of Luke 10, where Jesus sends out the seventy. Please be in earnest prayer as we continue to put our trust in Him and truly walk by faith.

Some Original Work

Mon, 3 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT

The Wisdom of a Nicaraguan Day:
Truth is best created in vulnerability and safety;
Love is best applied liberally and graciously;
Servant-hood is best displayed in a cheerful face and a joyous heart;
A Savior is best exemplified by a Death and a Resurrection.

The Gravity Above
Out of a kaleidoscope of vistas there comes a spiritual procession.
Through a profusion of times and places marches a cavalcade of warriors.
They are slaying the darkness because they see the full spectrum of faces and are witness to the power of creation.
With souls and spirits free, they feel the pulse of the earth and the gravity of the heavens.

Oh, weekend of Glory! (pt. 1)

Wed, 20 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Let's say you're in a small town in a very remote part of a Latin American country and all week you've been working and ministering. You've taken part in church services, been to schools to give talks on character development, met new people and learned some new words in two languages, tutored children after school, and been a blessing to the church and pastor in a number of other ways. It's Friday afternoon and you... play baseball. Of course you play baseball, you always play baseball if it's not raining. The kids from the orphanage are very good and you're quite impressed with them.

But this is only the beginning of the end of the week. On Saturday morning you sleep in just a bit, to say 9, then get up and meet the sunshine. Lounge around a bit, read, listen to music, let the Lord take you into the day, and prepare for your big lunch of rice and beans. After gathering your hat, camera and some other Racers, you flag down a taxi and say "baseball". He nods, because there is only one place in all of Puerto that they place baseball on Saturday; plus, it's the semis and everybody knows exactly what "baseball" means. Soon, after spending a total of $1.00 for the taxi and admission, you are sitting on concrete benches under some shade and behind a chain link fence with the infield before you. But alas, there seems to be no players and only a half-dozen people in the stands. Well, that's because everybody told you the game started at 1 and, silly you, you believed them. Never believe them. Go a half hour late. At 1:45 the last of the players arrive, there are now a dozen people in the stands, and you are relieved that you might get to see a game after all.

And so it begins. A merry and relaxing witness to a great tradition and a great sport. Feeling the warmth of the day but not the blazes of the sunshine, you watch the world go by. The stands are packed, heckling and telling jokes. The bat boys are running around doing whatever they please; the old man has his hand-held radio out and the children are selling popcorn. The scorekeepers are puttering about along the far wall and some folks have found free admission along the top of the wall. The Toros are beating the Novatos 3-0. You're rooting for the Novatos, by default because you are behind their dugout, but the loss is really not that important to you. What's important to you is that you got to be immersed in an atmosphere that is nothing short of idyllic for a splendid afternoon. It was very much an American experience (although baseball in Feb. is quite rare), but distinctly Nicaraguan as well. A better afternoon of baseball and culture there might never have been.

Baseball and Tacos (pt.2)

Wed, 20 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

(Check out Uhles' Taco Run Detour blog as well)

So does it get any better? Can Sunday top Saturday? The answer is a resounding Yes. It is, after all, the day set aside specifically and totally for the Lord. So you do that. You be with the Lord and let Him be with you. Again, you give the morning to the Lord in a personal way and then, without really knowing why at the time, consecrate the afternoon to Him in a public way. Then it hits you... tacos. Yes, tacos. Some Racers found a taco and juice stand the other day and have made big plans to go there for lunch. Taxis again and then you arrive to find it's closed on Sunday. Some part of you respects the place and some part of you is real hungry. Finding a new taxi, your friends confess to the driver that they had really wanted tacos for lunch and ask him if he knows of any place. He says "I know a little place. It's right on the water and has a warming Caribbean breeze with a stunning view of the pier. They have broiled lobster in a delicate souffle or herb roasted Spanish Mackerel with a vegetable medley as their specialties...." Actually, you haven't the foggiest idea what he said, but you secretly hope it's something to that effect. Eventually, you come back to your senses and signal the other cab of Racers to follow.

The restaurant that does not have tacos. But that's OK, because it really is on a ridge above the water and you can watch the children playing and the lobster and turtle boats ambling in and out of dock. The chicken is amazing and the Pepsi is cold. The open window really does welcome the soothing Caribbean breeze inside to envelope you in tropical goodness. Fried plantain chips and wedges of cheese are a bit hit. You have the place mostly to yourselves and its just the kind of lazy Sunday afternoon you could really get used to... idly squandering the remainder of the day in a state of bliss and whimsy. Except that's not what you gave yourself to do that day. That's why God put Miguel, your driver, in your path. He is joining you for lunch. He's gracious enough to let everyone try out their Spanish on him and attempts some English as well. He's been chatting with you and the others since you first got in the cab.

You see, he's a brother in Christ and he's jumped at the opportunity to hang out with some Christians from a faraway land with enough love in their hearts to give themselves to him. You learn tons about Puerto culture and industry, imports and exports of Nicaragua, delicacies, baseball heroes... you hear war stories; you learn about fishing seasons; you learn about the climate and the distinction between Miskito Indians and other Nicaraguan races. But mostly, you learn about his life; his journey. You are on a journey too, but yours seems not nearly as important as his. His is the life that matters to you. Such openness and trust from a complete stranger is a sign of the hand of God. The intimacy doesn't conclude with lunch; it extends to the pier, where he holds a second job, and he shows you around, letting you experience the sights and sounds of the lobster industry. He's very proud of his family and his respectable life; his time in the military and as a policeman have taught him many things that formed his character. But his life was truly changed just over a year ago when he made a decision about Jesus and was baptized. You will never be able to share everything about this man, but you got the opportunity to pray for and encourage him before you parted with his company. You exude thankfulness for what the Lord had provided in that day and for His divine appointments. You rain down blessings upon the life of a Christian, a Nicaraguan, and a brother. You encourage a new believer to continue to seek after God in all he does. You ask the Lord to continue to bring people of faith into Miguel's life so that he may never grow weak. That's why you agree to let your life not be about you, because sometimes it needs to be about Miguel.

Miguel, my friend, there are people praying for you and I trust fully that your life will be a living testament and sacrifice to the love and joy of Christ Jesus.

My Arm Hurts

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

So there I was, laying on my back on top of a half-built house, balancing on a 2x4, staring up into the sun, trying to hammer two pieces of wood together, sweating like a pig and wishing I had had this task at the beginning of the day and not the end, when one's arm has turned to rubber. I thought to myself as I laid the hammer on my chest to dry the grip(read: rest) that I was one lucky guy. Why? Because I get to do manly construction and be in the great outdoors and watch amazing clouds and see all kinds of animals wander by and meet incredibly nice people and work with brothers in Christ from a world away, all in the name of service to the Lord. It's a pretty sweet deal.

The views from the housetops are, for starters, incredible. The landscape is so amazing. It's just crazy. Sometimes I just put the hammer down and look around. When there is down time or we are waiting on lumber, we talk to the other workers and learn a little more Spanish and very little Miskito. These guys are awesome. Wonderful men of God who have diverse backgrounds and a desire to serve their fellow Nicaraguans because the Lord has put it on their heart. Good stuff. This area is extremely remote and hurricane relief is present, but sadly inadequate. Pastor Earl in Puerto Cabezas (our outstanding host) has committed to rebuilding an entire community out in the bush. The locals come and volunteer their time to help replace what was lost. Its cool to see people helping to pull themselves up by their own bootstraps.

So when my arm hurts and I'm sunburned and I'm tired and just want to lay in the shade, I remember that its not about my arm, its about the shelter the homeless that God is providing through me.

A Whirlwind Tour

Mon, 4 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT

My My My. What a trip. It has been a couple of weeks since I've made a post and even now I've only got a short time in front of me to talk to home. We left the Philippines on Feb 1, and flew to Los Angeles via Tokyo. Crossing the International Date Line, we actually arrived in LA at the same time we left Manila. Scheduling conflicts forced us to spend two days in LA and we were blessed beyond belief by a group of people who were just given a heart to serve weary travelers. It was fantastic to have what we had, but there were a lot of mixed feelings about being back in the states. For me, it felt like it broke stride and now I've got to get oriented back to what I'm heading into.

What am I heading into? Three months in Central America and an opportunity to finish the race well. We have just gotten to Granada, Nicaragua after leaving LA and a layover in Miami. Tomorrow I and half the squad will go to Puerto Cabezas and do Hurricane Felix relief. It's a Caribbean coastal town and is incredibly remote. I would have to say that any internet or phone time I come across would be a gift. Love you all.

Corrections and Updates

Wed, 23 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

I regret to inform that a correction is in order. This is a very big step for me, to admit that I'm wrong, and an even bigger step to fess up even though perhaps 99% of my readers would never know the difference. The utter shame and humiliation of being placed on the altar of fallibility is nearly more than I can bear. Of course, most of this is just dramatics, but I have made an honest mistake and shall hereby remedy it.

The picture I posted of a Papaya growing was, in fact, not a Papaya at all. A minor oversight, I know, but one that needs attention nonetheless. I've hereby taken measures to record an actual Papaya in growth and accurately document it. Thank you all for your grace as a novice horticulturist examines the hue of his thumbs.

In other news; as our time in the Philippines draws to a close, we have gotten some information about what is next on the list for us. We leave on February 1st, which also marks 3 months remaining on our journey. We will be flying to Managua, Nicaragua by way of the United States (since apparently not too many people fly directly) and plan to be arriving at our next sites by February 4th. This will either be helping an AIM couple set up a new ministry outside of Managua, or helping with Hurricane Felix relief efforts on the Caribbean coast.
Towards the end of February, we will have an opportunity to really place our lives in the hands of the Lord by walking in a lot more faith and a lot less planning. It is ripe with the chance to really see the changes in us come to life. I'm excited. I wish that I were in a place to be able to articulate all the things that I have been learning about myself in the last month, but I'm just not there yet. I trust that I'll soon get the words and my genuine prayer is that in the next 3 months, I'll be able to live and walk them.

I hereby decree that this child shall be the representation of me in deep introspection.

A Papaya Grows in Brooklyn

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

Hmm... that's close, but something is missing. .. A Papaya grows in Manila. Yes! That's perfect! There are 5 palates of seeds emerging from the soil that will soon be planted on a hillside in the Cuatro Community to provide fruit and income for the residents. I don't really know if I've got a green thumb, but so far, so good.

This little corner of kindness is but one of many projects here at Kids International Ministries. All of our squad has been here for just over a week now (after our Christmas break), and have really been given a green light to pursue a number of different ministries for the duration of the month. Among the options are helping with coaching at a local private academy for children of missionaries, assisting teachers at the recently completed Cuatro Community Center, endless painting projects, community development such as censuses and sanitation projects, volunteering at the Children's Home, getting involved with a local prostitute ministry, leading Bible studies in the community, babysitting for infants and giving the caregivers nights off, updating records and scrapbooks for the ministry and the residents of the Children's Home, starting micro-finance projects like chicken raising, building relationships through soccer and basketball with local men, and bringing food and supplies to prisoners.

So yes, with all of the projects flying around, it's easy to get lost in doing and forget about the point of why we are traveling. It's for the Kingdom. When we arrived, our contact said he was hit with the idea of doing a prayer room for the month. We took him up on the suggestion and have had at least one person in prayer since we got here, 24/7. We're fighting against setting the cruise control. We're fighting against being based on works alone. There's so much more than works. There's faith. That's why I am here. I am here because a faith has brought me here and it compels me to do more than plant seeds or visit prisoners or teach classes. It compels me to be more than a conquerer.

Happy New Casey! (Paperback version)

Thu, 3 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

May I have your attention please?

In the spirit of the New Year, I give you a New Casey...

That is all.

New Bare! (Hollywood Blockbuster)

Thu, 3 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT

A run faster, jump higher version of the big event.

The Event from mshrauger on Vimeo.

Merry Christmas! (very merry indeed)

Sun, 23 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

My First World Race Christmas! from Gabrielle Rodgers on Vimeo.

My conditions/Outta my Mind

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

*this is kinda two blogs smushed together that have taken some time to develop*

'If I'm out of my mind, it's You, You, cause I'm crazy in love with You, You.

Inebriated by You, You, cause I'm head over heels for You, You.' - David Crowder

2 Corinthians 5:13... "If we are out of our mind, it is for the sake of God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you."

I've got to be out of my mind. As I was listening to the above lyrics while walking the streets of China, I realized what a crazy thing I'm doing. It really (and finally) dawned on me... "What in the world am I doing?!?!?!?!" I'll tell you:

I'm sweating/freezing, tired, cramped, bored/too busy to see straight, eating poorly, showering seldomly, sleeping sporadically, suppressed in worship/not allowed to worship the Lord at all, surrounded by beggars and children with no clothes or mothers, living amongst a population that is 94% Buddhist/100% non-religious/etc, stared at (gawked at, actually), talked about, honked at, pointed at, ripped off, completely ignored, followed for crying out loud, sometimes lost (yes, only sometimes), allowed $8 a day to live on, communicating poorly in half a dozen different languages, slammed sardine-style into a train bunk for 30 hours, living in constant and disturbing proximity to lice, ticks, and mosquitos, traveling without the comfort and security of my friends or family(save the WRs, of course), often living in a tent and cooking over a wood fire, carving down everything I own to under 45 pounds, and loving nearly every minute of it.

Why do I love it? What is this? This is the World Race. This is me getting over myself; getting my walls and biases crushed. This is me getting my perspectives wrecked and my worldview eviscerated. This is me being obedient to the Father who sometimes forces His way into my soul and grabs my heart with His hands to balance perfect love and peace with the notion that you've got to be really left of center. This is me being totally transparent because it's pretty hard to lie to 25 accountability partners, but what I manage to sneak by them will come to light the next time I go to the secret and quiet place with my Dad. All this so that I can spread a scandalous idea about Life and the Afterlife; to bring light to darkness, order to chaos, sight to the blind, hope to the lost, truth to all, a purpose to those seeking, and glory to an embarrassingly extravagant God. What a notion(!) that there is a Christ, a Savior, that breaks all chains and religion and governments; that restores hope and sheds grace and mercy to all who ask.

At the risk of getting fussed at by a fellow Racer, I'm going to wrap this up with a line from a vision that was given just before we left for China; a single sentence that has almost entirely revamped me in the last month. The vision is that our worship is a tangible flood flowing in a heart-shaped river around the throne of God. The line is this: "It is the Joy of the Lord to get His feet wet in our worship."

Silence broken!

Mon, 17 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT

WOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ok, I feel better. Yes, we are back in Hong Kong after a month in another country. Oh, the stories we all have but can't really tell right now. And my, my, the pictures that we can't disclose either. I remember; however, that it's not about us or telling our stories, but rather, it's about a movement that is gathering momentum and being respectful to those leading it. This won't be a long post, just an announcement that we have not only survived, but prospered. We were truly blessed with overwhelming support from everyone around the world. From the deepest reaches of my heart... Thank you.

Family, I miss you. I will be calling soon, promise. Meredith, hope your birthday was amazing, love you.

Oh yeah, one more thing: God, Missionary, Holy, Christ, Love, Savior, Blood, Trinity, Spirit, Cross, Heaven, Pray, Worship, Bible, Gospel, and JESUS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (I've had to totally change my vocabulary, it's nice to use them again)

*edit* A humble thanks to Mrs. Burrows. I'm kinda frazzled right now, so please excuse my gross omission. (by the way, using "Uno" in its stead for the last month was kinda fun!)

Preparing for Silence

Wed, 14 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

I want to say a couple of things before we go to big red and my team goes completely silent.

First: I had an fantastic birthday. No really. It was the most fun I've ever had. A genuine and humble thanks to C and D squads for the love and joy that was shared on the 9th. Y'all are truly amazing people and I can't say enough how much of a blessing and honor it is to be walking the same path under God.

Second: the A and B squads are done... Wow. They will be back in the states in less than a week and stepping into the things that the Lord has revealed to them. I'm proud of these guys and girls. Proud because of what they've become and what they have sacrificed in order to get there. But the story is only beginning; the sacrifice has only begun. Find these January Racers and encourage them.

Third: yes, on Monday, the 18th, we are going to that overpopulated Asian country that doesn't like what we're about. It's ok, though, because the Lord is on the side of Peace and Justice and Love. There are lots of stats and secrets that we're hearing about security and clandestine activity and what words to say and not to say, but it breaks down for me in one way... All we can do is pray, trust, and obey. There is a hymn that mirros this concept and I think its right on the money. This is where that faith word really earns its mettle. So let's do it, all of us; let's have faith in the Lord to accomplish what He has sent us out to do.

You should be hearing from me again just before Christmas. I'm pretty sure Mom is going to be visiting in Manila, The Philippines, for Christmas. This is sure to be an awesome time for the both of us. Right now, Hong Kong is really cool, and the weather and scenery could not be better. When we go to big red, we are first going to do a couple of weeks of a 'cultural exchange' with university and high school students, them teaching us in the morning, and us them in the afternoons. After that, we will spend a few weeks in ministry in various places. Again, I'm sorry, but none of this information can be dispensed and there will be no communication from our team in any form of media. Prayers are the best thing I can think of for us to do.

I miss you. Every one of you. And I love you. A lot. Thanks again for being all that you are to me.

A Confession Blog

Fri, 2 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT

A fisher of men; that's what Matthew 4:19 says I will be if I follow Jesus. I'm sure this isn't news, but that is HARD. This blog is partly about confession and what the last two months have been like for me, yes, but also about one of the deep truths of the World Race and what it's designed to do. It's about the world changing me; then, maybe, me changing the world. This is being revealed to me more and more every day.

What I did wrong: While we were debriefing in Bangkok, I voiced a confession before all of the World Racers and God. My sin? I had mostly taken the month in Thailand off. I slacked in a lot of areas, most notably my discipline to reading the Word and prayer. I lost that intimate connection with God and with my team. I shaded too much towards being a tourist and a traveler; shied away from being a fisher of men. I fell to the spirits of complaceny and individuality. It's a dangerous route. It hampered my time in Thailand; I was surrounded by God's creation and people, but didn't really give Him whole-hearted credit. Now, after nearly a month in Cambodia, I'm beginning to understand the far reaching consequences of giving the Devil the foothold of apathy so many weeks ago.

How it's hurt me: During my ministry time in Cambodia, I've noticed myself a little bit absent at times. At the orphanage, I can see myself involved with the kids but not really loving them like I know I can and have. Walking down the street, my smiles to little children screaming after me (Hello! Hello! Hello! What is your name? Where you come from? Hello!) don't seem to come as easily. It's not easy for me to just strike up a conversation with someone who speaks english about as well as I speak Khmer, but the relational ministries we have been involved in were already doomed because of my attitude. I didn't have the investment attitude. I haven't seen the world through His eyes or loved it with His heart. I haven't known the world as He knows it. Why? For exactly all of those reasons mentioned above.

How I am defeating it: You can see how long its taken to start breaking that cycle. But I'm doing it. I'm doing it through the discplines of prayer and reading the Word. Already, those desires are returning to me. Giving my cup to Him to be filled so that it can overflow to others is a crucial point. There are two other keys to cleaning up the residuals of a trip through the valley: walking in authority and an increase in faith. Matthew 10:1 says very clearly what authority we have. In fact, the whole chapter is a guide as to what we should do and what we can expect when we are walking in his authority. And consider the passage of Matthew 14:22-33, where Peter sees Jesus walking on water, and has the faith to step onto the raging sea. A decrease in faith caused him to begin to sink, where an increase in faith would have let him continue on to Jesus' side.

The Redemption: I use Peter again to describe where all of this goes. In John 21:15-17, after he had denied Crhist 3 times during is arrest and crucifixion, the risen Christ meets him and asks him 3 times about his love. After each answer, Jesus tells Peter to feed his sheep and protect his lambs. Christ restored Peter. Christ is restoring me.

Sweet Nectar of Life!

Sat, 20 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

This post is to report on one piece of news... Today we found a store down an obscure dirt and mud alley in the middle of Battambang that sells Dr. Pepper. I had already finished my meal and was in conversation with my teammates when I saw the glory covered can in the drink case. I quite literally almost fell out of my chair. After more than 4 months without this succulent liquid, I bought one and drank it. For anyone that knows me well, you know how close this really was to being the most perfect day ever.

Battambang

Tue, 16 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Team Zion has survived another nearly harrowing bus ride to arrive in Battambang, Cambodia. We are going to be here staying with University of the Nations/YWAM contacts for the next few weeks an getting involved with some of their ministries. I'm afraid our days might be long and our nights might be early, so there may not be a lot of updates and that sort of thing. We've been praying into Cambodia and are really expecting God to move in a big way for all of the teams.

There is a tough evil to overcome in this country, with Buddhism again being so prevalent and the struggles the people still endure to overcome decades of violence and political instability. We toured some temples and learned about the Khmer Rouge on our first day in Phnom Penh. A visit to one main prison where the generals tortured and nterrogated' political prisoners, and then to the subsequent Killing Fields, brought a new respect and understand to the darkness that this region lives under. Please pray for the Cambodian people; they need it.

There are 2 teams from Squad D ( Beloved One and 7:11) in villages about an hour from us and we hope to be able to see each other a little. We've been really blessed to be able to spend some time with them recently.

Please also keep our A and B squads in your prayers as they are in a closed country right now.

Going native 2.0

Sat, 13 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Today I bought something at a store and gave the lady 100 Baht bill. I recieved as change a one Dollar bill and 3600 Riel, which can only mean I'm in Cambodia and better finish up a blog or two about Thailand.

The second part of Going Native is here to say that God is alive and moving in Thailand. Several people, myself included, have been given very strong things from God concerning the spiritual revival of the Thai people. I personally have been letting something simmer that God gave me on the airplane before even landing in Bangkok. I noticed lines of clouds partially hiding miles of rice paddies in rows and God brought me the Scripture "by His stripes we are healed." I know that Thailand will soon be healed. I have no idea if I'm called to be a part of it or not, but it's clear that the village we went to will be an amazing part of this rebirth...

It's pretty much standard on the WR that no matter how much we try and bless and minister to the people we meet, those blessings are returned to us many times over. Its how the body of Christ works. Most of the villagers are Christians and they were thrilled to have us come and visit. It seems they were excited as us to really get immersed in their world, instead of only talking with them to argue over $0.80 in the price of a shirt. We soon realized that this village would be no exception to the fact that blessings flow two ways.

They love to pray. They truly believe in the power of prayer and house calls were first on our agenda (after some tea, of course). My goodness, did we pray. On 4 different occasions we toured the village in prayer. Going into homes and talking with them, blessing them, encouraging them and praying for them. The pastors from this area have been praying for a true revival, for the Spirit to really move in the town. We didn't know this when our team really started to pray the same thing. Going native doesn't necessarily mean getting away from people. For us, the Manistry team, it meant getting closer to both the Body of Christ and the Father. Thailand will be healed and the Rummit village will lead the way... if we pray it into fruition.