Mission to Texas

Even after a few weeks being back in California, I must confess that it is difficult to put into words, the experience we had going to, coming from, and being in Jacksboro, Texas.

The goal we simple: travel to Texas and meet with other students across the country (through World Changers) to repair and restore sub-standard housing in the local community, all the while working in love and witnessing to others.

We left Gateway Church at 4:30am on Friday, June 23rd. We were all tired; however, thanks to our awesome adult leader drivers (who had downed PLENTY of coffee, I’m sure), we made it to our motel that night after 18 hours of pure, good ol’ American road tripping.

The next morning we set off once again for more driving. Finally, after countless McDonalds, Loves, and Sonic stops, we arrived at Jacksboro High School, which would be come our home away from home over the next week.

We spent Sunday, going to local churches with our work crews where we met so many friendly and generous people. They prayed for us, fed us, and ended up creating unforgettable memories with us throughout the week. We were also able to go to our work sites that day and meet with the homeowners whose houses we would soon be working on.

The next day, the 225 of us, broke off into our crews and began working on houses and sharing the gospel all throughout Jack County Texas. We had over 20 work sites located in 11 towns in the county. It was hot, the work was hard, and the hours were long. However, there is something about serving in the name of Christ that makes every minute seem absolutely worth it.

We faced our share of adversity throughout the week. Injuries, some lack-of-sleep-related grumpiness, and the race to beat the clock all took their toll on us. Thankfully, the World Changers staff provided wonderful worship, messages, and devotional material to keep our spirits up and our eyes on Christ.

By the time the week was over, people had come to Christ, some recommitted their lives, homes looked like new again, and the neighbors were smiling and talking about all that we had accomplished.

We sadly began our trek back home to San Diego, happy to see the ones we love, but saddened that we had to say goodbye to so many new friends.

It’s often been said that a picture is worth a thousand words. If you would like to learn more about the trip, check out the picture gallery.

Thank you for your prayers and support. Please continue to pray for the citizens of Jack County, Texas.