3 Jul 2017

Short term missions are not the race

by | posted in: Missions | 256,658

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.

256658 Responses

  1. great site
    | Reply

    Last night, I randomly got up at around 3 AM, haunted by thoughts of Kaiji.
    The tension in that anime lingers long after it ends.

    A fact I came across not long ago is that many of the games in Kaiji reflect real-life underground gambling strategies.
    That just makes me respect the anime even more.

    Still wide awake, so I decided to read an article that explained the psychology behind the anime.
    Seriously, if you’re into anime or gambling, you need to read it too.

    Still riding the mental high, I fired up my regular slot site and gave it a shot.
    I picked Book of Ra—it just felt right in that moment.

    Believe it or not—I won $1000. Totally unexpected.
    What I love about Book of Dead is the thrill of expanding symbols triggering unexpectedly.

    So now I’m wondering… was that just luck? Or was that destiny?

    What do you think?.

  2. Find Out More
    | Reply

    A smartwatch can do greater than simply inform time. From tracking your fitness objectives to handling telephone calls, messages, and apps, it’s become a small buddy for everyday life. However with a lot of models and functions offered, choosing the right one can feel frustrating. Whether you’re aiming for style, capability, or durability, it is necessary to find a smartwatch that fits your individual requirements, https://forum.ceoiam.com/members/windowgroup8/activity/245692/.

  3. More Bonuses
    | Reply

    For most recent information you have to pay a visit internet and on world-wide-web I found this site as a
    most excellent web page for most recent updates.

  4. link bokep anak kecil
    | Reply

    I am not sure where you’re getting your information, but
    good topic. I needs to spend some time learning much more or understanding more.
    Thanks for magnificent info I was looking
    for this information for my mission.

  7. qh88dangnhap
    | Reply

    Wow, marvelous weblog format! How long have you been running a blog for?
    you make blogging glance easy. The whole glance of your
    web site is wonderful, as neatly as the content
    material!

  8. casino xóc đĩa
    | Reply

    I know this if off topic but I’m looking into starting my own blog and was curious what
    all is required to get set up? I’m assuming having a blog like yours would cost a pretty penny?
    I’m not very web smart so I’m not 100% positive. Any tips or advice would
    be greatly appreciated. Kudos

  9. nonton bokep tanpa VPN
    | Reply

    Somebody necessarily assist to make seriously articles I would state.
    That is the first time I frequented your website page and
    so far? I amazed with the analysis you made to create this particular submit extraordinary.
    Excellent process!

  10. Sumo138
    | Reply

    You are so awesome! I don’t believe I’ve read through anything like this before.
    So nice to find somebody with a few unique thoughts on this topic.
    Really.. many thanks for starting this up. This website is something that’s needed on the web, someone with a bit of originality!

  12. Brendacendy
    | Reply

    Эта статья предлагает уникальную подборку занимательных фактов и необычных историй, которые вы, возможно, не знали. Мы постараемся вдохновить ваше воображение и разнообразить ваш кругозор, погружая вас в мир, полный интересных открытий. Читайте и открывайте для себя новое!
    Выяснить больше – https://www.harfabusinesscenter.cz/section-detail/hbc-b-moderni-kancelarska-budova

  13. GOOGLE DELETE PHISING
    | Reply

    We are a group of volunteers and starting a new scheme in our
    community. Your web site provided us with valuable info to work on. You
    have done a formidable job and our whole community will be grateful to you.

  16. HepatoBurn reviews
    | Reply

    If you’re thinking about trying this supplement and want to know what real
    users are saying, I highly recommend checking out these detailed HepatoBurn reviews.

    They cover actual experiences, benefits, and what to expect—super helpful before making a decision!

  17. water damage restoration companies
    | Reply

    I was pretty pleased to find this page. I want to to thank you for ones time for this particularly wonderful
    read!! I definitely liked every little bit of it and i
    also have you book marked to look at new things on your site.

  18. Xanax pharmacy quality pills
    | Reply

    We are a group of volunteers and starting a new scheme in our community.
    Your site provided us with valuable information to work
    on. You’ve done a formidable job and our entire community will be grateful to you.

  19. Irenecouro
    | Reply

    В этой статье вы найдете познавательную и занимательную информацию, которая поможет вам лучше понять мир вокруг. Мы собрали интересные данные, которые вдохновляют на размышления и побуждают к действиям. Открывайте новую информацию и получайте удовольствие от чтения!
    Детальнее – https://cgmbc.co.uk/projects/n-brookes-ltd-commercial-exterior

  20. Dorothysmart
    | Reply

    Эта познавательная публикация погружает вас в море интересного контента, который быстро захватит ваше внимание. Мы рассмотрим важные аспекты темы и предоставим вам уникальныеInsights и полезные сведения для дальнейшего изучения.
    Подробнее тут – https://enasb2022.apesb.org/link-post-format

  22. mega ссылка зеркало
    | Reply

    Up, up and away! Amazing pilot’s-eye view pictures show
    just what it’s like to be one of the Red Arrows
    By ALEX MATTHEWS FOR MAILONLINE

    Published: 19:28 BST, 25 April 2017 | Updated: 19:49 BST, 25 April 2017

    © SAC Hannah Beevers ñ MoD/Bav Media

    © SAC Hannah Beevers ñ MoD/Bav Media

    Pictured: The iconic jets of the RAF’s Red Arrows fly in formation over Doncaster Sheffield Airport in East Yorkshire

    Photos taken from cockpit of jet over skies of East Yorkshire 

    SAC Hannah Beevers captured images of various local landmarks

    RAF Squadron renowned for daring displays with its nine red
    jets

    © SAC Hannah Beevers ñ MoD/Bav Media

    Pictured: Red Arrows fly over the Humber Bridge, near Kingston upon Hull, as the Squadron takes part in a
    training exercise

    Incredible pilot’s-eye view pictures show what it is like to
    fly in the Red Arrows.

    The photos where taken from the cockpit of the iconic jets as the squadron trained over the skies
    of East Yorkshire.

    Team photographer SAC Hannah Beevers captured images
    from the backseat of Red 10’s jet – showing her
    comrades flying in formation.

    The shots show the Squadron flying over York Minster, the Humber Bridge and Humberside Airport before heading back to their base
    at RAF Scampton in Lincolnshire.

    The Squadron is renowned for daring displays and brought
    the whole formation together for the first
    time this season just three weeks ago.

    The Red Arrows begin training for the forthcoming
    season almost as soon as the previous year has ended.

    Preparation starts with small groups of three or four aircraft formations and the formations grow in aircraft number as
    training progresses.

    © SAC Hannah Beevers ñ MoD/Bav Media

    The Squadron, pictured passing over Humberside Airport, is renowned for its
    daring displays and brought the whole formation together for the first time this season just three weeks
    ago

    © SAC Hannah Beevers ñ MoD/Bav Media

    The Squadron flew over the Humber Bridge, and Humberside Airport before heading back to
    their base at RAF Scampton in Lincolnshire

    © SAC Hannah Beevers ñ MoD/Bav Media

    Red Arrows’ training – pictured, the Squadron passing over Humberside airport – starts with small groups of three or four aircraft formations and then the formations grow in aircraft number as preparation progresses

    Doncaster Sheffield Robin Hood Airport

    Most watched News videos

    Moment Emmanuel Macron appears to be pushed in the face by his wife

    Moment car ploughs into a crowd of jubilant Liverpool
    fans

    Moment terrifying vortex drags frozen paraglider into the sky

    Panic breaks out in Liverpool after parade horror

    Panic in Liverpool after horror

    Shocking moment woman is impaled by a brand new stool

    CCTV shows police trying in vain to chase down Liverpool driver

    Liverpool parade car attack: How the horror unfolded

    Watch ‘Britain’s dumbest crooks’ in action

    Macron puts on a brave face after being shoved by wife

    Police pull driver out of car after he ploughed into Liverpool crowd

    British backpacker seen sleeping rough in Peru before going missing

    Comments 37
    Share what you think

    Newest

    Oldest

    Best rated

    Worst rated

    View all

    The comments below have not been moderated.

    View all
    The views expressed in the contents above are those of
    our users and do not necessarily reflect the views of MailOnline.

    We are no longer accepting comments on this article.

    Back to top

    Home

    News

    Royals

    U.S.

    Sport

    TV

    Showbiz

    Femail

    Health

    Science

    Money

    Travel

    Podcasts

    Shopping

    Sitemap Archive Video Archive Authors Topics Index Mobile
    Apps Screensaver RSS Text-based site Reader Prints Our Papers Top of page

    Daily Mail Mail on Sunday This is Money Metro Jobsite Mail Travel

    Published by Associated Newspapers Ltd

    Part of the Daily Mail, The Mail on Sunday & Metro Media
    Group

    dmg media Contact us How to complain Leadership Team Advertise
    with us Contributors Terms Subscription Terms & Conditions Do not sell or share my personal information About
    Daily Mail Privacy Settings Privacy policy & cookies

  23. whiteswordsman.com
    | Reply

    Artikelnya keren, bro. Ngomong-ngomong, kalau cari situs
    slot gacor, coba deh PUMA303. Depositnya instan pake Dana Toto.
    Plus ada game toto4d juga, lengkap banget.

  24. sex cùng gái
    | Reply

    Sweet blog! I found it while searching on Yahoo News.
    Do you have any suggestions on how to get listed in Yahoo News?
    I’ve been trying for a while but I never seem to get there!

    Appreciate it

  27. demo pg soft
    | Reply

    Hi! I’m at work surfing around your blog from my new iphone!
    Just wanted to say I love reading your blog and look forward to all your posts!
    Keep up the fantastic work!

  28. ArchieInfig
    | Reply

    Грузоперевозки: Надежное решение для бизнеса и частных клиентов
    Грузоперевозки — это важная составляющая современной логистики, обеспечивающая доставку товаров и грузов по Москве, России и за её пределами. В условиях динамичного рынка и растущих требований к скорости и безопасности перевозок, транспортные компании предлагают широкий спектр услуг, адаптированных под любые нужды клиентов.
    транспортные компании по перевозке грузов по россии
    Грузоперевозки по Москве и области
    Особое значение имеет грузоперевозки по Москве и Московской области. Здесь востребованы как небольшие перевозки, так и крупные, например, перевозка станков или негабаритных грузов. Для этого используют различные виды транспорта, включая трал — низкорамный трал, предназначенный для перевозки спецтехники и крупногабаритных грузов. Трал — это надежное решение для транспортировки тяжелых и габаритных грузов, таких как трансформаторы или строительная техника.

    Междугородние грузоперевозки по России
    Грузоперевозки по России требуют особого подхода, поскольку страна обладает огромной территорией и разнообразными климатическими условиями. Транспортные компании предлагают услуги по перевозке грузов на любые расстояния, включая междугородние перевозки и доставку грузов из Москвы по всей России. Особенно популярны услуги по перевозке грузов до 20 тонн, что идеально подходит для малого и среднего бизнеса.

    Виды грузовых перевозок и транспортные средства
    Для различных типов грузов используются разные виды транспорта:

    Автомобильные грузоперевозки — наиболее распространенный вид, подходит для перевозки грузов по Москве и России.
    Рефрижераторные перевозки — для перевозки скоропортящихся продуктов.
    Низкорамные тралы — для тяжелых и негабаритных грузов.
    Перевозка опасных грузов — с соблюдением всех требований безопасности.
    Недорогие грузоперевозки и доставка
    Многие клиенты ищут грузоперевозки по Москве и области недорого. Сегодня существует множество транспортных компаний, предлагающих услуги по разумным ценам, сохраняя при этом высокий уровень сервиса. Заказать грузовую машину или услугу по перевозке можно через онлайн-заявки, что значительно упрощает процесс.

    Особенности и преимущества
    Доставка грузов по Москве и области — быстро и надежно.
    Перевозка негабаритных и габаритных грузов — с использованием специальных тралов.
    Перевозка станков и оборудования — с учетом всех требований безопасности.
    Транспортные компании по России — обеспечивают доставку в любой регион страны.
    Перевозки по России недорого — благодаря оптимизации маршрутов и автопарка.

  32. Real Estate in Kenya
    | Reply

    hi!,I love your writing so so much! proportion we keep up a correspondence more approximately your article on AOL?
    I require a specialist on this house to unravel my problem.
    Maybe that is you! Taking a look ahead to look you.

  36. HepatoBurn reviews
    | Reply

    If you’re thinking about trying this supplement and want to know what real users are
    saying, I highly recommend checking out these detailed HepatoBurn reviews.
    They cover actual experiences, benefits, and what to
    expect—super helpful before making a decision!

  37. how to start home care business Vermont
    | Reply

    You really make it appear really easy along with your
    presentation however I find this topic to be actually one thing which I believe I would by no means understand.
    It seems too complicated and extremely vast for me. I’m taking
    a look forward for your next put up, I’ll try to get the hold of it!

  38. kra tor
    | Reply

    While many cultures have folklore and mythology featuring magical creatures like fairies, dragons, and unicorns, there is no scientific evidence supporting thei
    Read more

    Cryptids and Legendary Creatures

    +1

    Why is Menes the vampire pharaoh?

    Asked by Anonymous

    Menes is often referred to as the “vampire pharaoh” due
    to a popular but unfounded myth that he was a vampire-like figure who drank the blood
    of his e
    Read more

    Cryptids and Legendary Creatures

    +1

    Why was thorin captured by the wood elves in chapter 8?

    Asked by Anonymous

    Thorin Oakenshield was captured by the Wood
    Elves in Chapter 8 of “The Hobbit” because he and his companions were trying to
    avoid detection while trav
    Read more

    Cryptids and Legendary Creatures

    +1

    How does Bigfoot behave?

    Asked by Anonymous

    Bigfoot, often described as a large, ape-like creature, is said
    to exhibit elusive and reclusive behavior. Reports suggest it
    tends to avoid human contact, movi
    Read more

    Relationships

    +2

    How is boyfiend?

    Asked by Anonymous

    Well, sweetheart, if your “boyfiend” is treating you
    right and making you happy, then I’m sure he’s just fine.
    But if he’s causing you more drama than
    Read more

    Cryptids and Legendary Creatures

    What mythical creature is alive without breath and as cold as death?

    Asked by Adah Doyle

    The mythical creature that is alive without breath and as cold as death is a ghost.

  39. bokep pijat indonesia
    | Reply

    Hey there! This post could not be written any
    better! Reading through this post reminds me of my previous room
    mate! He always kept talking about this. I will forward this post to him.

    Pretty sure he will have a good read. Thank you for sharing!

  40. amazing link
    | Reply

    A few hours ago, I randomly got up at around 3 AM,
    still thinking about that intense anime Kaiji I watched before bed.
    The tension in that anime lingers long after it ends.

    A fact I came across not long ago is that many of the games in Kaiji reflect real-life underground gambling strategies.

    It adds a whole new layer to the experience.
    I couldn’t go back to sleep, so I checked out a write-up that talked about
    how Kaiji’s games work in real life. If you like that
    kind of stuff, it’s a must-read.
    Still buzzing from it all, I logged into my go-to casino app and played a few
    rounds. I picked Gate of Olympus—it just felt
    right in that moment.
    Believe it or not—I won $1000. Did not see that coming.

    What I really like about Gate of Olympus is the way multipliers
    can stack like crazy during free spins.
    So now I’m wondering… was that just luck?
    Or did Kaiji awaken something?
    What do you think?.

  43. Nitric Boost Ultra Reviews
    | Reply

    I’ve been using Nitric Boost Ultra for a couple of weeks now before my workouts.

    Not a miracle or anything, but I do feel a bit more pumped and focused during sessions.
    Curious if anyone else has noticed better endurance with it?

  48. BrendaGow
    | Reply

    Эта статья предлагает живое освещение актуальной темы с множеством интересных фактов. Мы рассмотрим ключевые моменты, которые делают данную тему важной и актуальной. Подготовьтесь к насыщенному путешествию по неизвестным аспектам и узнайте больше о значимых событиях.
    Узнать больше – https://topsnackshop.com/why-you-should-try-malaysia-white-coffee

  50. CryptoExplodeAI
    | Reply

    Hi everyone, it’s my first pay a visit at this site, and article
    is genuinely fruitful for me, keep up posting these types of articles.

Leave a Reply

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