http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org Cristie Reiter - Just being... en-us Mon, 8 Sep 2008 12:40:01 GMT 30 http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=my-heart-is-set-on-fire http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=my-heart-is-set-on-fire The Lord has been stirring my heart so much over the past few weeks. I've been wanting to blog about it for a while, but then He gives me more. I cry out to the Lord to help me not fall into complacency and get consumed with thoughts of going home. I ask Him to help me stay focused on the mark and continue to press in to His sweet presence. The Lord has been answering my prayers a little different than I was expecting. He wakes me up between 5-6:30am every morning. (My alarm clock has been missing for a while now.) I spend the first fruits of my day with my Heavenly Father and it has been such a sweet time. He has spoken so much truth and confirmation to me about who I am in Christ and the anointing on my life. He washes His love over me and pours His heart into mine- imparting His perfect will to me.(An acronym the Lord gave me.) F earless WarriorA mbassadorI ntercessorT rustH eartFaith and power seems to be the common theme in our dialogue. He gives me Scriptures like Romans Mon, 28 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=reunited-with-my-family http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=reunited-with-my-family   I am currently in a small colonial city called Antigua, Guatemala... ...enjoying beautiful sights and a fun-filled time with Team Awaken.  It's been so great being re-united with my team and sharing long stories of what the Lord has been doing in our lives over the past few weeks.  I feel so blessed to have such incredible, God-fearing people in my life.  Only three weeks left on this incredible journey we call the World Race.  God has completely rocked my world this year.  I have mixed emotions about finishing the race but stand excited to press on towards the high mark for which Christ has called me.  The Lord is crazy awesome and living a life for Him is a blast-full of adventure and the unknown.  I have fallen so deeply in love for my Jesus and there's no turning back!  Peace to you!   Thu, 10 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=faces-of-managua http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=faces-of-managua The Lord taught me a lot during my time in Nicaragua.  Just this morning the Lord was speaking to me about living a life of faith and trusting Him in all things.  He gave me Philippians 4:6-7  which says, "Be careful for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." On my ATL journey through the month of March, I really saw God's hand on our team and His faithfulness at work even in the small stuff.  The Lord provided our every need, protected us, and even allowed us to have some fun along the way.  We were able to build some great relationships and really dig in and serve local missionaries throughout Central America.  Though it was really tough being away from my original team, I had a great month and will always cherish the time I had servin Mon, 7 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=atl-journeys http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=atl-journeys Our first two weeks on our "ATL" journey were quite busy.  We jumped in with both feet in the water never looking back helping in the local communities and serving the missionaries in anyway we saw fit.  We found ourselves falling in love with the people of the community.  We plugged into the youth outreaches and weekly church services, helped cook and distribute food in the surrounding areas, and sorted through massive amounts of clothing to distribute to our new friends in the slums.  We also found ourselves teaching in the local schools and sharing our stories to the congregation during Sunday morning worship.  God really blessed us during this time and showed us what it means to be true servants in the Kingdom. . . . . . . . Church Service at Pochocuape . . . . On our way to Street evangelism with the Local Youth . . . . . . Food Distribution in Local Communities throughout Nicaragua . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mon, 31 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=human-trafficking http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=human-trafficking Several of you have showed a continued interest in the fight against human trafficking.  I wanted to invite you to join three previous world racers who are on a mission to raise awareness and stand in the gap for millions of young girls and women.   Biking Against Human Trafficking March 23rd-March 31st 8pm CST                                 Nightly conference prayer.  Everyone is welcome!  To call in, dial 1-218-486-1600 followed by the access code 472085#.   Scroll to the bottom of this page to read about the speakers featured during each call.       Passion starts here It is estimated that nearly 27 million individuals are enslaved around the globe today. Unfortunately, slavery has not disappeared, but is a thriving 30 billion dollar industry. Vulnerable Thu, 20 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=to-do http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=to-do Team EC2 (squared) We started our ATL journey about a week ago-asking the Lord to lead us, listening to the Holy Spirit, and obeying His leading.  I would be writing pages if I had to tell the stories of how God has already worked on our behalf thus far.    I originally chose to be on a different team then I am right nowactually my team didn't even exist.  About a week before it was time to start our journey, I got a sick feeling in my spirit about the upcoming month of ATL ing.  I started praying and seeking the Lord about it, and I knew it wasn't rightsomething had to change.  God placed desires in my heart during that time, but because of restrictions and logistics I knew it was impossible for things to work out unless God was in it.  I prayed fervently for about two or three days before I mentioned it to anyone or took it to leadership.  The obvious reasons I couldn't do it were stated by my leaders: I couldn't travel alone an Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=nicaraguan-ministry-pics http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=nicaraguan-ministry-pics   Teaching Bible and character to middle and highschool students. I love teaching! Construction work at the base Learning about concrete and building foundations Drime ministry The dramas portrayed a message of life in Jesus Christ.  Hope and freedom from the desires of our flesh when we take our burdens to Jesus and lay them at the foot of the cross. Teaching balleia class with the orphans on base Beautiful girls Gloria a Dios! Sun, 9 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=nicaragua http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=nicaragua Throughout this month I was in Puerto Cabezas, Nicaragua.  I worked on a missions base with a gracious Pastor and loving community.  They took us in, put us to work, and entrusted us to teach in their schools, pour into the children there, and run the church services three times a week.  I really enjoyed my time there.  It was definitely one of my favorite months on the race thus far.  I found my place with the children there.  They have two schools composed of approx. 900 students and an orphanage and boys home with about 90 children.  I worked at the school in the mornings teaching middle and highschool students about Godly character, forgiveness, and the love and hope of Jesus Christ.  I was joined with Jessie, Julie, and some of our Nicaraguan friends from Grenada.  Communication was a bit difficult at times seeing we didn't always have a translator, but God is gracious and I know His love was ministered.  Several students ga Sat, 8 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=cliff-jumping-and-zip-lining-adventures http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=cliff-jumping-and-zip-lining-adventures Cliff Jumping at the River in Puerto Cabezas Jessie and I enjoying a great lunch! Crazy boys! New friends-------------------------------------------------------Zip Lining in the Canopy of the Jungle Here goes nothin' Thank God for the safety ropes! Lovin' it Thu, 6 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=the-spirit-of-the-living-god http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=the-spirit-of-the-living-god The Spirit of the Sovereign God is upon me because He has anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he has sent me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those that are bound. To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mournto give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness, that they may be called oaks of righteousness that HE MAY BE GLORIFIED. Isaiah 61:1-3Some of my most cherished moments on the race have been in an open field crying out for the living God, dancing before my King, or just sitting still as He pours His love over me. The other night the spirit fell heavy on my heart. I suddenly had an urgency to find a secluded place and just fall on my knees in prayer to the Lord. I went outside and started to just worship. I knew there was something on the Lord's heart that I was supp Sat, 1 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=picture-blog1 http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=picture-blog1 Christmas at Puerto Gallera -------------------------------------------------- Heidi Baker Conference in Manila -------------------------------------------------------------- Ministry behind bars ---------------------------------------------------- Just chillin' at the children's home ----------------------------------------------- Teaching art ---------------------------------------- My sweet boys: Darwyn and Alvin Then shall the King say to them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry, and you gave me meat; I was thirsty, and you gave me drink; I was a stranger, and you took me in; naked, and you clothed me; I was sick, and you visited me; I was in prison, and you came to me...Verily I say unto you, as you have done it unto one of the least of these, you have done it to me. Matthew 25:35,36,40 Sat, 9 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=clinic http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=clinic The clinic has been one of my favorite ministries.  Katie and I were given the privilege of assisting Dr. Scott and Dr. Alan in their clinic this month.  The doctors are incredible and not only take the time to pray, care for, and disciple each one of their patients, but also to teach their volunteers as they are treating the patients.  I learned a lot about tuberculosis and looking at chest x-rays, along with taking vitals like blood pressure, and listening to irregular heartbeats and breathing patterns.  We treated a lot of TB, high blood pressure, common colds and illnesses, but I also saw gunshot wounds, worms, leprosy, and many other rare tropical diseases.  The doctors were great and would often take the time to write out or diagram on the white board anything I didn't understand or was confused about.  I really felt this to be a great honor and privilege to work alongside the doctor's ministry and seeing their genuine love and concern for th Thu, 7 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=ministering-in-the-philippines http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=ministering-in-the-philippines I have been in the Philippines for the past month now with the entire June squad. Our contact offered us several ministry options upon arriving in Manila and we stayed very busy scattered among serving the people and our ministry contacts. Our ministry this month included: construction work and painting, home visits and feeding projects for the homeless and squatter areas, teaching and tutoring underprivileged kids, prison and prostitute ministry, assisting at dental and doctor's clinics, working at the children's home and babies center, and community outreach projects just to list a few. The Filipino people are so friendly and open to hearing the Gospel. The streets where we stay are filled with children dancing and playing along the street. We are greeted daily with friendly hellos, bright smiles, and waving hands. It's amazing the joy these people have yet they have so little, but this seems to be a common thread throughout the world. The more you have, the more burd Wed, 6 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=a-little-gift-from-my-heavenly-father http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=a-little-gift-from-my-heavenly-father The past few days have been incredible!  After 24 hours of traveling from Manila, Tokyo, and finally to L.A, I was greeted by two of my favorite people in the world!  God blessed me with two fun-packed days with my parents. We spent our hours catching up on the past several months, sharing pictures and all that God is doing in our lives...eating great food, enjoying the sights, and shopping!  Did I mention HOT showers, a bath tub, and a big,soft bed?!! God is so good to me!  We enjoyed a beautiful Valentine's dinner together on our last evening...world race style!  I am so blessed to have such great parents!  Thank you, Jesus! ````````````````````````````` I leave for Nicaragua in just a few hours.  My communication will be limited this month, so I may need some grace in blogging and giving updates along the way.  Our ministry focus this month will be hurricane relief work in the rural areas along the eastern coast of Nic Sun, 3 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=farewell-ministry-video http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=farewell-ministry-video I wanted to share this video with you to give you a little glimpse of the ministry we've been a part of this past month.  I feel so blessed to have been a part of the awesome work Jeff and his family is doing in the Philippines. God is so good! KIDS International Ministries Thu, 31 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=block-party-outreach http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=block-party-outreach Here is a video of a community wide event our squad hosted in the squatter camps.  Over 400 children, teenagers, and adults heard the message of Jesus Christ and experienced the love of Christ through food, fun, and games.  Praise the Lord and the work He is doing in the Philippines!   Wed, 30 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=my-volcanic-experience http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=my-volcanic-experience   Last Saturday I got the urge to take on a little adventure to an active volcano.  I haven't done anything crazy in a while and thought it was about time to venture out.  So, I grabbed a few teammates and hit the road.  The ride there was a little shaky, the boat ride a little wet, and the trail a little smelly, but the mountainous island was gorgeous, and seemed to make all the trouble getting there well worth my time.  Our destination to the top was overwhelming as we looked deep into a crater filled with bubbling water and patches of smoke along the shores of the lake. .  ..  .. . . . . . . . Here is a short video to try to capture the moment:   Mon, 28 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=friends http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=friends A man that has friends must shew himself friendly, and there is a friend that sticks closer that a brother. Proverbs 18:24 In 2005, I took a short term trip to the Philippines with my Bible college based out of Tulsa, Ok.  I fell in love with the country and God captured my heart for the nations while I was there.  My heart broke as we visited the dumps and ministered to the thousands of children that live in the mountains of trash and swim in the excrement of the community. I was so excited to hear the news that I may have an opportunity to go back while I was on the race.  Well, here I am in Manila, Philippines, loving on the people and fulfilling my destiny.   I contacted my friends that I stayed in contact with and we shared a great day visiting together and recapping all that has happened in our lives over the past few years.   They said the church we helped plant is still growing like crazy and God is doing great things amongst the community Sat, 26 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=247-prayer http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=247-prayer If my people which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from Heaven, and will forgive their sin, and heal their land.2 Chronicles 7:14 Our missionary contact here in Manila, Jeff Long, is an incredible visionary full of love and compassion for everyone with whom he comes into contact. Upon briefing our squad with different ministry opportunities and touring us around the area, he came up with an idea for a 24/7 house of prayer. I was overjoyed at the announcement and hoped my squad would be just as thrilled and excited as I was. The idea is to set aside a room in the house just for prayer and to fill up every hour with someone praying in the room, interceding for the country, the people, our ministry, our teams, and anything else God places on our hearts. It has been incredible to see the squad come together and fill the days praying for each other and over the ministry taking place Fri, 25 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=beijing-and-the-great-wall-part-three http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=beijing-and-the-great-wall-part-three Our last few days were spent in Beijing after several hours traveling by train.  We hiked to a completely unrestored part of the wall, and ended at a small Mongolian village where we enjoyed a traditional lunch in the village.  Our day started early in the morning with snow on the trails.  I was wearing six layers, three of them being jackets, long johns, and a beanie.  It was cold!!!  We hiked for about an hour up to the wall, enjoyed the satisfaction of finally arriving and spent a couple more hours climbing and hiking along the wall.  Hiking the Great Wall had to be one of my favorite experiences.   Our starting point!                          Snow on the trails       . . .   The Great Wall is 6,000km long.  Just to give you a little idea, this means it could stretch from New York, NY  to Los Angeles, CA.&nb Fri, 18 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=a-little-taste-of-china http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=a-little-taste-of-china   My heart broke for the elderly of China, who carry heavy loads and work long hours to provide for their families.   God, I thank you that your Word is truth.  God, you said anything I ask in Jesus' name you would bring it to pass.  God, I pray for provision over the elderly I encountered in China.  God, I pray that you would provide their every need according to your riches in glory by Christ Jesus.  God, that you would take their heavy loads and pressing burdens and replace it with rest in Jesus' name, Amen. Mon, 14 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=my-china-experience-part-one http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=my-china-experience-part-one China was full of adventure, challenges, and new found joys.  I spent my first two weeks in China learning more about the Chinese through a cultural exchange program at a local university.  I spent my mornings at the university taking classes on the history and language of China, traditional Chinese medicine, calligraphy, and traditional folk music.  In the evenings, we participated in an English program to work with the language major students.  We shared about our culture and lives, and made many new friends through the program.   Calligraphy class                          Traditional Chinese medecine       Acupuncture (ouch!)                   ...... ...... ...... ...... ......                Sharing traditional Chinese meals together! Sat, 12 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=the-joys-of-the-season http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=the-joys-of-the-season Here is a little glimpse of the joys I shared with my team over the holiday season.  My team gives me a hard time about interpretative dance, so I thought I would give them a little show.  And one of my favorite Christmas traditions is baking cookies for family and friends, so mom...this one's for you! Fri, 4 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=my-christmas-wish-list http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=my-christmas-wish-list I'm back. Yipee! I've safely arrived in the Philippines after spending a few weeks in solitude. This month was hard for me, but ohso good!Team Awaken at the Great WallWhile I was in China and the Christmas season was passing by, I often found myself daydreaming and trying to imagine what my family was doing in the moment. Was Mama baking cookies or going Christmas shopping tonight? I bet Daddy is going to build Mama a fire this morning? I wonder if Desiree is planning to make any homemade Christmas gifts this year? Hmmmso many thoughts would run through my head. Here is a list of some of the things I miss most about Christmas.Waking up at 6:30am only to find Mom and Dad sitting in front of the fireplace, enjoying a cup of coffee togetherBaking Christmas cookies with Mama for all of our family and friendsDaddy's homemade veggie and fruit smoothiesso good!Sweet tea and Boberry bisquits from BojanglesMovie nights and sleepovers with my best friend, LorrainePlanning Christmas parti Sun, 23 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=my-world-race-first-christmas http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=my-world-race-first-christmas Merry Christmas! Sat, 22 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=christmas-address http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=christmas-address We've hit our half way mark on the race.  I can't believe it!  Time is flying by and I can't say I'm too excited about it.  We've been in Hong Kong over the past few days with incredible mentors from the states who have been pouring their hearts into us.  I believe our squad is going to a new level in understanding how to flow more with the Spirit of GodI'm pumped!  Our friends from the January squads are heading home and getting ready to embark on new journeys all across the world.  We have been so blessed to be able to meet up with them in previous debriefs and get to know their hearts.  God is doing something HUGE in our generation.  There is a movement that is spreading all across this earth-praise Jesus!   I'm determined to press on towards the goal of the high calling of Jesus Christ-holding nothing back.  It's time to dig in deeper and press on harder.  I will finish my race strong and refuse to fade out, slow down, or Fri, 16 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=picture-blog http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=picture-blog During the Khmer Rouge the majority of the educated population and scholars in Cambodia were killed in fear that they would challenge the military forces. Doctors, professors, and teachers alike were searched and massacred by the thousands. Recovering from several years of war and destruction, the young people of Cambodia know that the future of their country depends on a solid education.I've been teaching English and skills classes for the past three weeks. My students are so smart and hungry to learn. I have two English classes: one is composed mostly of middle school students, the other is a small beginners reading class with about eight children I have fallen in love with. Jenny Dawson and I also partner in teaching a skills class with college-aged young people. I have thoroughly enjoyed teaching -- the ministry has been great. I've fallen in love with the culture and people of Cambodia. Along with my students, I find myself learning something new everyday. Wed, 7 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=i-am-a-mess-and-have-lost-all-control http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=i-am-a-mess-and-have-lost-all-control Another journal entry...My mind is cluttered with the pain of this world. My heart is aching more than I have ever felt-more than heartbreak or complete rejection from those you love and respect most. I am feeling more pain now than I have ever felt for myself or anything else I have had a passion for-yes, even for the nations. There is something burning within me, I'm being consumed, engulfed in a blazing fire that's out of control. I have no control. The only peace I find is when I run into my Father's arms and allow myself to be swept away into His sweet presence. I'm completely surrounded by poverty, a terrible infrastructure, dirt, and the poor. Day in and day out, there is no pretty part of town. Children roam every street, elderly women carry heavy loads, land mine and war victims beg at the street corners.Agony. A ripping pain. I don't understand it nor can I seem to explain it with words. Before Thailand I found it so hard to cry on the race, always feeling that I h Tue, 6 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=uncensored http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=uncensored The previous month has been intense for me emotionally and spiritually. I made a decision to press in to the Word and commit to a lifestyle of consistent prayer at the beginning of the month before arriving in Cambodia. I would love to say that this time was full of joy and happy feelings, but it was actually a time of exhaustion, pain, and misery. I was never at peace, tormented in my sleep and dreams, and constantly questioning what was the truth and work God was doing in my life. I can joyfully say I have finally made it through the storm. I've conquered the mountain, and have found peace and joy in my Savior's arms once again. Praise Jesus! But I would like to share my journey in the process. So here is a piece of my new heart-one that I feel God gave me while I was ministering in Thailand. I'm still learning how to move, work, and breathe with this heart. (This is an excerpt from my journal earlier this month. I despise the thought of being vulnerable and broadcasting my in Mon, 5 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMT http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=why-do-americans-buy-our-children-for-sex http://cristiereiter.theworldrace.org/?filename=why-do-americans-buy-our-children-for-sex This is the question I was asked by an 18-yr-old student of mine. Jenny and I were teaching a class on hospitality and the cultural differences between Cambodia and America. We went in prepared to talk about light differences like picking your nose in public (it's not a bad thing in Cambodia), or the differences in introducing yourself with a sompeah (slight bow with hands raised to your nose in a praying position) and a hand shake. We asked our students if they had noticed any differences in culture between Westerners and Cambodians. Sothat quickly said that Americans take too long to eat, and talk a lot during their meal. He said that locals eat fast, "6:25-6:29 and we're finished! We learned how to eat fast because of the Khmer Rouge, never knowing when a bomb would go off, or how safe it was to stay in one place for an extended amount of time."We talked more about the Khmer Rouge and the effects it had on their families and culture. But the conversation took a turn I wasn't Mon, 29 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMT