3 Jul 2017

Short term missions are not the race

by | posted in: Missions | 89,179

I am always amazed at the excitement and nervousness from those going on their first short-term mission trip, most of the time they don’t know enough to know what they need to be nervous about. There is an excitement in their eyes as they head into the unknown. They prepare testimonies and lessons, not knowing how God will use them or if they will be effective. They pack what is recommended and wonder if it will be enough. They comfort their parents and loved ones, and try to reassure them everything is going to be alright, while at the same time not knowing what the future holds. But through leading and prayer, the journey begins.

 

A lot of mission team members, especially those who have never been on mission before usually become broken spiritually sometime during the week of the trip. They discover a new outlook on sharing, faith, trust, and God. Why is this? It is simple, during the week they are constantly hearing the word of God either from others sharing or through the preaching or their own study. They also see the word of God come to life. That doesn’t mean that the bible gets up and starts walking around. But they see the Spirit of God begin to work in the lives of the people they come in contact with. They walk the streets with a single purpose, to find the person of peace with whom they can share the good news of the gospel. Some are hit with the hard truth that not all will accept the gospel, so they plant a seed not knowing the condition of the soil. Other times they begin to pour out water onto unknown soil, unaware that a seed exist and has been waiting for the moisture that God will use to bring it to life. They get excited and don’t know what to do when out of the ground springs forth life. A miracle, they get to see cold dead bones come to life. After that experience, they have a drive to share and no longer need to be pushed in front of people to share with. Oh what it would have been like in Acts to walk the streets and see God work, bringing people to life through the proclamation of the Gospel. But wait, could that still happen? And could it happen here?

After returning home and a couple weeks of rest, life returns to normal. The mission was accomplished, people were saved and now we are back comfortable, safe, fed, and loved. Or are we? There is always a sense of completion at the end of a mission trip. Not that that would be wrong in the short term, but there is a since of that was where we were on mission at, but now we are back and we have things to get done. Real stuff, school, work, friends, problems, and you know life. Right?

One of the greatest tragedies we have is short-term missions. I know you saw a bunch of people get saved, and God really “showed up”, but stay with me. There is a since of awe and wonder during the week of a mission trip. And we look forward to the next year when we can go and feel that same since of awe and wonder. But let’s compare it to a race shall we. Anyone who runs foot races understands that you have different splits. These are markers throughout the race to gauge your progress, and to ensure you are on pace. A short-term mission trip is sort of like a split. It is a time to see if you are where you need to be in your spiritual life, in your reading and study of the word, apologetics, doctrines, and if you can articulate them to the world around you. The shortness of the week gives you the opportunity to push yourself hard and to evaluate yourself. The tragedy is that the short-term is looked at, as the race itself. We return with a sense that we ran and will rest up to run again next year.

The race however is not over. In fact it is just beginning. When you return home, it is like passing the first mile marker. The street is no longer filled with cheering fans, the road narrows, and the reality of the race sets in. Here is where we must work our hardest. This is where we must pull from prayer and scripture, the strength to press on. Where most might sit and rest, we must run to win. We don’t just return to normal life, we return with a renewed sense of awe for what God has been doing and we must now trust even more so that He will continue His work. We saw on foreign soil God work in others lives. Now we must trust that He will work in ours for His glory and to reach those around us. We are home; this is where we must turn from our sins, where we must love God more than mother and father, more than friends and things. This is where we live out what we preach, if we believe that which we have taught. Did we believe it? Do we believe it? If so, then are we disciplined for the miles ahead? Paul tells the church at Corinth “I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified”. Are we disqualified or are we still in the race?

There are no short-term missionaries; there are only missionaries in different context. When we return to our Jerusalem, let us seek the hope that is only found in Christ. Let us not lean on our own understanding, our own wisdom, which is foolishness. Let us not fall victim to busyness and the lure of shiny objects that promise fulfillment. Let our knees be worn out for those nearest to us. Let our time be determined by the cross and His call, trusting that He will provide the time for work, family, fun, and ministry, as we continue the race. We have found our greatest joy in walking by faith; let us not check our faith with Homeland Security as we return home. But let us be reminded daily where our ultimate security is found and where our joy is greatest. Wherever you woke up at, wherever you find yourself, wherever you stand today, then that is your mission field. Time to get running.

89179 Responses

  1. Teen Phone Sex
    | Reply

    I have been browsing on-line more than 3 hours as of late, yet I by no means discovered any attention-grabbing article like yours.

    It is pretty price sufficient for me. Personally, if all webmasters and bloggers made good content material as you probably
    did, the internet might be much more helpful than ever before.

  7. Hr Consultants Northern Ireland
    | Reply

    Appreciating the hard work you put into your blog and detailed information you present.
    It’s great to come across a blog every once in a while that isn’t the same old rehashed information.
    Fantastic read! I’ve saved your site and I’m adding your RSS feeds to my Google account.

  10. вавада
    | Reply

    Казино Вавада — это надежная и увлекательная платформа для азартных игроков в России. Широкий ассортимент игр, щедрые бонусы и удобные способы оплаты делают Вавада отличным выбором для тех, кто ищет качественное онлайн-казино.

  21. Phone sex
    | Reply

    Hello there! Do you use Twitter? I’d like to follow you if that would
    be okay. I’m definitely enjoying your blog and look forward to new updates.

  22. xnxx.com
    | Reply

    It’s an remarkable piece of writing designed
    for all the web visitors; they will get benefit from it I am sure.

  23. best porn
    | Reply

    Do you mind if I quote a couple of your articles as long as I provide credit and sources back to your website?
    My blog site is in the exact same area of interest as yours and my visitors would
    really benefit from some of the information you present here.
    Please let me know if this ok with you. Thanks!

  25. PHISING
    | Reply

    you are really a just right webmaster. The web site loading speed is amazing.

    It kind of feels that you are doing any unique trick.
    In addition, The contents are masterwork. you’ve done a magnificent process in this topic!

  26. Phswerte download
    | Reply

    The Phswerte download is your gateway to an exhilarating online casino experience in the Philippines. With its user-friendly app, exclusive promotions, and extensive game selection, Phswerte offers everything you need for a fantastic gaming journey. By following the straightforward download process outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying all the excitement that Phswerte has to offer. Don’t wait—download the Phswerte app today and immerse yourself in the thrilling world of online gaming!

  27. BOKEP VIRAL
    | Reply

    I like the valuable info you provide in your articles.
    I’ll bookmark your blog and check again here frequently.
    I am quite certain I’ll learn many new stuff right here!
    Best of luck for the next!

  32. bouncingball8 ph
    | Reply

    Providing excellent customer service is a cornerstone of BouncingBall8 PH. The support team is available 24/7 to assist players with any inquiries or issues they may encounter. Players can reach out via live chat, email, or phone, ensuring that help is always readily available. The knowledgeable support staff is trained to handle a variety of concerns, enhancing the overall player experience.

  35. panaloko free 99
    | Reply

    Panaloko Free 99 offer is a fantastic way for players in the Philippines to explore the vibrant world of online gaming without the financial risk. By following the steps to claim your bonus and understanding the various games available, you can significantly enhance your experience at the Panaloko online casino.

  38. real money online casinos
    | Reply

    We’re a group of volunteers and starting a
    new scheme in our community. Your website provided
    us with valuable information to work on. You have done a
    formidable job and our whole community will be grateful to you.

  42. sfc588 เครดิตฟรี50
    | Reply

    SFC588 เป็นตัวเลือกที่ยอดเยี่ยมสำหรับผู้เล่นคาสิโนออนไลน์ในประเทศไทย โดยเฉพาะกับ เครดิตฟรี50 ที่ช่วยให้คุณมีโอกาสในการทดลองเล่นเกมต่าง ๆ โดยไม่ต้องใช้เงินของตัวเอง หากคุณกำลังมองหาคาสิโนออนไลน์ที่มีโปรโมชั่นดี ๆ และเกมที่หลากหลาย SFC588 คือคำตอบที่คุณไม่ควรพลาด!

  47. sewa Hiace Premio di Jogja
    | Reply

    Saat mengatur ekspedisi ke Jogja, menyimpang mono- peristiwa bena yang pantas dipikirkan merupakan pengiriman. Memedulikan kota ini
    yaitu destinasi tur nan benar-benar naik daun, menyewa alat transportasi nan damai bersama pantas bersama-sama kepentingan ketumbukan Saudara menjadi benar penting.
    Melenceng wahid opsi terbaik yaitu menyewa Hiace Premio, nan masyhur serupa kenyamanannya menjumpai pelayaran tengka
    jauh. Pada antara banyak preferensi nan ada, saya mau merekomendasikan Berbah Awam Transport menjadi rental Hiace Premio
    terbaik dekat Jogja.

    Cela unik asas kok Berbah Besar Transport cukup
    dipertimbangkan merupakan reputasi baik yang telah dibangun sepanjang
    bertahun-warsa. Banyak pelanggan sebelumnya memasrahkan penjelasan positif mengenai
    kualitas layanan beserta kerangka perantara yang disewakan. Mereka dikenal super profesional, ringan mulut,
    beserta selesai membantu menjawab semua pertanyaan yang Sampeyan miliki mengenai sewa Hiace Premio di Jogja kendaraan. Ketika mengetahui persewaan, urgen menjelang memilih kursi nan menyandang din berawal pelanggan lain, lagi Berbah Raya Transport berhasil mencapainya.

    Cela esa merek utama pada Berbah Besar Transport
    merupakan pasukan angkutan mereka nan terawat dan bersih.
    Hiace Premio nan mereka sediakan acap dalam pra-syarat
    superior, seraya kelawasan nan afdal. Interiornya luas, aman, bersama dilengkapi
    serupa pendingin bumantara (AC) nan dingin, metode audio,
    serta banyak bilik akan bagasi. Awak tidak perlu pusang berhubungan keselesaan semasa pengembaraan, bahkan andaikan Dikau
    berjalan bersama saudara alias teman-teman dalam perhimpunan besar.

    Setiap pengikut bisa duduk bersama sejuk lagi menikmati pengembaraan tanpa merasa sesak.

    Pada sudut kehormatan, Berbah Umum Transport menunjukkan pajak nan bukan main kompetitif.

    Beserta kualitas kontrak yang terulur, Sampeyan menemukan servis maksimal minus wajib merogoh kocek luar biasa dalam.
    Umumnya, harkat kontrak Hiace Premio dalam Berbah Awam Transport beralih antara Rp 1.200.000 hingga
    Rp 1.500.000 per hari, tertera pengendara dengan imbalan data bakar.
    Sedangkan keperluan ini bervariasi tercantel pada
    masa selanjutnya lama kontrak, walakin tetap tercapai misalnya dibandingkan melalui
    kenaiman serta layanan nan Sampeyan sambut.

    Pengendara yang disediakan jua menjadi cacat satu harkat
    tambah lantaran Berbah Umum Transport. Mereka
    memegang pengemudi nan berpengalaman serta familiar via bervariasi
    jalan darmawisata dekat Jogja. Pengendara tidak sahaja perihal mengantarkan Sampeyan ke situs intensi, walakin juga bisa
    menyodorkan penerangan menarik perkara lokasi-pos nan Awak kunjungi.
    Ini menggubah kepergian Dikau lebih menyenangkan, terutama bagi yang baru pertama kali ke Jogja.
    Dikau bisa bertanya dekat-dekat lapak mamah terbaik maupun manual menjelajahi materi tamasya,
    beserta pengemudi bersama senang lever bakal membantu.

    Berbah Raya Transport saja mengijabkan bermacam rupa saringan buntelan kontrak, tertera sewa koran lagi mingguan. Andaikata Tuan merencanakan kepergian panjang alias kepingin menjelajahi lebih
    banyak persemayaman dalam satu anjangsana, mereka bisa menghadiahkan permintaan khusus nan menguntungkan. Misalnya, Saudara bisa menemukan korting jika menyewa gandaran perlu
    sekitar hari berturutan. Ini tentu terlalu berfungsi bagi
    Awak yang gemar jimat-jimat minus mempersembahkan keselesaan.

    Jalan pemesanan pada Berbah Awam Transport lumayan terlampau mudah lalu cepat.

    Anda bisa mengabulkan reservasi melalui lokasi web mereka atau bertamu layanan pelanggan nan nyalar mustaid sedia.
    Tim mereka atas membantu Anda menyinkronkan hajat kepergian, mulai tentang penyortiran sarana hingga pendaftaran. Seandainya Saudara menyandang pertanyaan maupun permohonan khusus,
    mereka hendak berikhtiar menokok anjuran tersebut sebaik
    potensial.

    Selain itu, Berbah Awam Transport membagikan afeksi khusus pada kebersihan serta ketenteraman penghubung.
    Di tengah epidemi kaya saat ini, kebersihan gandaran menjadi lupa iso- prerogatif utama.
    Mereka menurut rutin mengabulkan sanitasi maka pengusutan kereta sebelum disewakan. Seraya sebagai itu, Sira bisa
    merasa tenang serta adem saat menyedot layanan mereka.

    Tidak namun itu, Berbah Awam Transport terus menurunkan layanan 24 jam.
    Ini berarti apabila Engkau memberatkan servis atau gemar memperbaiki
    urutan, Engkau dapat mengikuti mereka bilamana selalu sonder karut.

    Layanan pelanggan nan responsif dengan jadi membantu adalah skala tambah yang
    mempersiapkan profesionalisme menyewa Hiace Premio dekat Berbah Awam
    Transport semakin menyenangkan.

    Jadi, asalkan Engkau mereka-reka kepergian ke Jogja bersama membutuhkan rental Hiace Premio nan sehat lalu terpercaya, Berbah Raya Transport sama dengan seleksian yang terlampau direkomendasikan.
    Pada skuadron kendaraan nan terawat, layanan pengemudi yang berpengalaman, pangkat nan beriring-iring, dan operasi pemesanan nan mudah, Awak hendak menemukan keahlian isra yang
    tak terhantar.

    Pada semua kelebihan ini, Anda dapat lebih fokus menikmati
    kepermaian Jogja, mulai pada akal budi, kuliner,
    hingga kepermaian alamnya. Jadi, non ragu kepada menemui
    Berbah Besar Transport serta nikmati kepergian Sampeyan ke Jogja demi nyaman bersama aman!

  48. jeetwin Cashback
    | Reply

    Understanding the terms and conditions related to jeetwin cashback is vital. Each promotion may have specific requirements, and being aware of these rules can help players maximize their cashback potential.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *