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.
kra32 at
Hey there just wanted to give you a quick heads up. The words in your content seem to
be running off the screen in Opera. I’m not sure if this
is a formatting issue or something to do with browser compatibility but I thought I’d
post to let you know. The style and design look great though!
Hope you get the problem fixed soon. Thanks
Also visit my webpage; kra32 at
best australian online casino
An intriguing discussion is worth comment. I do believe that you ought to write more about this topic, it may
not be a taboo matter but typically people do not talk about such
issues. To the next! All the best!!
hptoto
Gabung di HPTOTO, situs slot online resmi 2025! Rasakan serunya bermain disini, bonus
besar, dan akses mudah lewat link alternatif aman.
EloMaas Reviews
Valuable information. Fortunate me I discovered your web
site unintentionally, and I’m shocked why this coincidence did not came about earlier!
I bookmarked it.
خرید رو تختی یک نفره
If some one desires to be updated with latest technologies therefore he must be pay a quick visit this web page and be up to date every day.
globe technologies fusible link
This site certainly has all of the information and facts I needed
about this subject and didn’t know who to ask.
dich vu seo
What’s up all, here every one is sharing these kinds of familiarity, therefore
it’s nice to read this website, and I used
to go to see this web site all the time.
forklift concrete bucket attachment
Whoa a lot of very good data.
Switch Hiprex
Informative article, exactly what I needed.
คาสิโนออนไลน์ฝากถอนออโต้
This info is priceless. How can I find out more?
toto togel online
Normally I don’t learn post on blogs, however I wish to say that this write-up very compelled me to take a look at and do it!
Your writing style has been amazed me. Thanks, very nice post.
best app to open ARJ files
I would like to thank you for the efforts you’ve put in penning this site.
I’m hoping to check out the same high-grade content from you later on as well.
In truth, your creative writing abilities has inspired me to get my own, personal website now 😉
hptoto
Gabung di HPTOTO, situs slot online resmi 2025! Rasakan serunya bermain disini, bonus besar, dan akses mudah lewat link alternatif
aman.
about
Wonderful blog! Do you have any suggestions for aspiring writers?
I’m hoping to start my own site soon but I’m a little lost on everything.
Would you suggest starting with a free platform like WordPress or go for a paid option? There are so many choices out there that I’m
completely overwhelmed .. Any ideas? Kudos!
midland trash chute doors
Good replies in return of this issue with firm arguments and telling the whole
thing concerning that.
فواید قرص زینک پلاس قهوه ای
Hi, I do think this is a great website. I stumbledupon it 😉 I may revisit once again since I
bookmarked it. Money and freedom is the best way to change, may you be rich and
continue to help other people.
Api Link
Very descriptive article, I loved that bit. Will there be a part 2?
mattresssingapore33
Wonderful web site. A lot of useful info here. I’m sending it to several buddies ans also sharing
in delicious. And obviously, thanks for your effort!
bandar slot777
Have you ever thought about publishing an e-book or guest authoring on other websites?
I have a blog centered on the same information you discuss and would love to have you share
some stories/information. I know my subscribers would appreciate your work.
If you are even remotely interested, feel free to
shoot me an e mail.
best australian online casino
Having read this I believed it was extremely informative.
I appreciate you spending some time and energy to put this short article together.
I once again find myself personally spending a significant amount of time both
reading and commenting. But so what, it was still worth it!
kraken4qzqnoi7ogpzpzwrxk7mw53n5i56loydwiyonu4owxsh4g67yd
What’s up, I wish for to subscribe for this weblog
to take hottest updates, therefore where can i do it please help out.
Also visit my site: kraken4qzqnoi7ogpzpzwrxk7mw53n5i56loydwiyonu4owxsh4g67yd
free online casino games
Hi Dear, are you in fact visiting this web page daily,
if so after that you will absolutely take nice knowledge.
mattresssingapore33
Heya just wanted to give you a quick heads up and let you know a few of the pictures
aren’t loading correctly. I’m not sure why but I think its a linking issue.
I’ve tried it in two different web browsers and both show the same
outcome.
midland chutes parts
Right here is the right blog for anybody who
would like to understand this topic. You realize a whole lot its almost hard to argue
with you (not that I really will need to…HaHa).
You definitely put a new spin on a topic that has been written about for many years.
Wonderful stuff, just great!
Daycares popular listings
Also visit my homepage: Daycares popular listings
Private Proxy Browsing
What’s up everybody, here every person is sharing these kinds of experience, thus it’s good to read this weblog, and I used to visit this webpage every day.
aqua sculpt weight loss
Please let me know if you’re looking for a writer for your site.
You have some really good articles and I feel I would be a good asset.
If you ever want to take some of the load off, I’d love to write
some content for your blog in exchange for a link
back to mine. Please blast me an e-mail if interested.
Thank you!
kraken2trfqodidvlh4aa337cpzfrhdlfldhve5nf7njhumwr7instad.onion
Heya superb blog! Does running a blog such as this require a great deal
of work? I have virtually no expertise in programming but I was hoping to start
my own blog soon. Anyway, if you have any suggestions or techniques for
new blog owners please share. I understand this is off subject however I just wanted to ask.
Thank you!
Here is my blog – kraken2trfqodidvlh4aa337cpzfrhdlfldhve5nf7njhumwr7instad.onion
EloMaas Reviews
You’ve made some really good points there.
I checked on the web for more info about the issue and found
most individuals will go along with your views on this web site.
9betlat
My coder is trying to convince me to move to .net from PHP.
I have always disliked the idea because of the expenses.
But he’s tryiong none the less. I’ve been using Movable-type on a variety of websites for about a year and am concerned about switching to another platform.
I have heard very good things about blogengine.net. Is there a way I can transfer all
my wordpress posts into it? Any kind of help would be really appreciated!
sayapku
I enjoy what you guys tend to be up too.
This sort of clever work and coverage! Keep up the fantastic works guys I’ve you guys to blogroll.
New Retro казино официальный сайт
New Retro Casino — это современное казино для любителей классических игр и современных технологий. Наши игроки могут наслаждаться не только старинными слотами, но и современными игровыми возможностями.
Бонусы и акции в New Retro Casino сделаны для того, чтобы увеличить ваш шанс на победу. Наша система бонусов поможет вам получить дополнительные подарки, не отрываясь от игры.
Процесс регистрации в New Retro Casino максимально быстрый, а интерфейс легкий в использовании.
Ежедневные бонусы и выгодные акции
Быстрые методы пополнения и вывода средств
Играйте в любое время и в любом месте, используя мобильную версию New Retro Casino.
Не упустите шанс стать частью New Retro Casino и начать выигрывать прямо сейчас https://newretro-blast.buzz/
kra32.cc
What’s up to every , as I am actually eager of reading this blog’s post to be
updated daily. It carries nice stuff.
Also visit my web page kra32.cc
New Retro турнир
Если вы желаете уникальное сочетание классических игр и новых возможностей, то Нью Ретро Казино – это ваш выбор. Наши игры включают как классические игровые автоматы, так и эксклюзивные разработки.
С нашими специальными бонусами вы сможете получать гораздо больше и увековечить свою победу. С участием в наших акциях, вы сможете приумножить свой игровой баланс и шанс на успех.
Удобная регистрация и простой интерфейс.
Мы предлагаем вам привлекательные бонусы и акции, чтобы каждый момент был выигрышным.
Удобные методы пополнения счета и вывода средств.
Мобильная версия казино, доступная в любое время
Присоединяйтесь к Нью Ретро Казино и начните выигрывать прямо сейчас! https://newretro-funglider.wiki/
Austin Fence & Deck Builders Installation & Replacement
Woah! I’m really loving the template/theme of this blog.
It’s simple, yet effective. A lot of times it’s hard
to get that “perfect balance” between usability and visual appearance.
I must say you have done a excellent job with this. Also, the blog loads extremely quick
for me on Firefox. Superb Blog!
buy telegram bot starts
Wow! At last I got a website from where I can truly obtain useful information concerning my study and knowledge.
Cassie
Regards. Fantastic stuff.
SDiozxshoicy
магазин аккаунтов социальных сетей магазин аккаунтов социальных сетей
Leadwith.Org
Brilliant insights! As a West Loop restaurant owner, I’ve bled for
Chicago’s South Side GBP bloodbath through CTA station proximity hacks + AI-trained neighborhoodd NLP.
Forget generic gurus – our 606xx zip codes eat parasite page purgges from
Wicker Park mom blogs. Last 6 Month Seo Strategy (Leadwith.Org): 27%↑ Edgewater calls.
Hack alert: Magnificent Mile directory paywalls = rank rocket.
– Marcus @ Chicago SEO Network
Refugio
Visit my site Daycare Near Me By State – Refugio,
Bokep Terbaru Bokep Pelajar Ngewe Crot Sampe Keenakan
Hey there, I think your blog might be having browser compatibility issues.
When I look at your blog in Safari, it looks fine but when opening in Internet Explorer, it has some overlapping.
I just wanted to give you a quick heads up! Other then that, superb blog!
bandar toto togel
You should be a part of a contest for one of the greatest sites
online. I most certainly will recommend this website!
TK999
What’s up to every one, it’s genuinely a good for me to visit
this web page, it consists of valuable Information.
best australian online casino
Having read this I believed it was rather informative.
I appreciate you spending some time and effort to put this content together.
I once again find myself spending a lot of time both reading and commenting.
But so what, it was still worth it!
Онион казино
Онион Казино — это место, где азарт и удовольствие от игры становятся реальностью. Мы предлагаем широкий выбор игр, включая слоты, покер и рулетку, а также уникальные игры с живыми дилерами. Каждая игра в Онион Казино — это шанс не только повеселиться, но и выиграть крупные призы. https://onion-rush.buzz/
Почему стоит играть именно у нас? В Онион Казино мы обеспечиваем полную безопасность ваших данных и прозрачность всех транзакций. Наши эксклюзивные бонусы и акции дадут вам дополнительные возможности для выигрыша и увеличат ваши шансы на успех.
Когда лучше всего начать играть? Не упустите шанс, начните играть в Онион Казино прямо сейчас и испытайте удачу. Вот несколько причин, почему вам стоит выбрать нас:
Ознакомьтесь с нашими условиями и правилами, чтобы играть на выгодных условиях.
Постоянные игроки в Онион Казино получают специальные предложения и эксклюзивные бонусы.
Для начинающих мы предлагаем бесплатные версии игр, чтобы вы могли без стресса освоить все механизмы.
Присоединяйтесь к Онион Казино и откройте для себя мир азарта, побед и уникальных предложений!
JamesSeipt
косметолог салон https://uslugi-kosmetologa2.ru
Ronnieacasp
отоларинголог лор отзывы lor-otolaringolog-abakan.ru/
Voltage Regulation
Thanks , I have just been searching for information approximately this topic
for ages and yours is the greatest I have came upon till
now. But, what concerning the conclusion? Are you positive in regards to the
supply?
My webpage … Voltage Regulation
cockass
I’d like to find out more? I’d care to find out more details.
قیمت کابینت ام دی اف متری چنده
You have made some good points there. I looked on the web to learn more about
the issue and found most individuals will go along with your views on this site.