3 Jul 2017

Short term missions are not the race

by | posted in: Missions | 78,445

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.

78445 Responses

  1. how to apply for turkey evisa
    | Reply

    I’ve been exploring for a little for any high quality articles or weblog posts on this sort of space .
    Exploring in Yahoo I finally stumbled upon this
    site. Studying this information So i’m happy to express that I’ve a very
    good uncanny feeling I came upon exactly what I needed.
    I most indubitably will make sure to do not put out of your mind this site and give it a look regularly.

  2. apply for morocco visa
    | Reply

    Hello I am so thrilled I found your blog page, I really found you by error,
    while I was searching on Askjeeve for something else, Anyways I am here now
    and would just like to say thank you for a marvelous post and a all round
    exciting blog (I also love the theme/design), I don’t have time to look over it
    all at the minute but I have bookmarked it and also added in your RSS feeds,
    so when I have time I will be back to read a great deal more, Please do keep up the superb work.

  3. AW8INDO
    | Reply

    You’re so awesome! I don’t suppose I’ve read through anything
    like that before. So good to find somebody with original
    thoughts on this issue. Really.. thanks for starting this up.
    This site is one thing that’s needed on the web, someone with some originality!

  5. business Instagram accounts
    | Reply

    Welcome to our store, where you can find a wide selection of authentic Instagram
    accounts tailored to boost your social media presence.

    We provide instant access to large audiences, enhancing
    your credibility and engagement. Ideal for individuals and
    businesses, our secure transactions and dedicated customer support ensure a seamless
    experience. Elevate your Instagram game with us today!Instagram account reseller.

  6. Anonymous
    | Reply

    Hello there, I do think your site might be having browser
    compatibility issues. Whenever I look at your web
    site in Safari, it looks fine however, when opening in IE,
    it has some overlapping issues. I merely wanted to provide you with a quick heads up!
    Aside from that, fantastic website!

  8. memek
    | Reply

    Hey just wanted to give you a quick heads up. The words in your content seem to be
    running off the screen in Internet explorer.
    I’m not sure if this is a format issue or something to do with internet browser compatibility but I thought I’d post to
    let you know. The style and design look great though!

    Hope you get the issue fixed soon. Kudos

  9. pepek becek
    | Reply

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

  12. g2g639
    | Reply

    This is my first time go to see at here and i
    am actually happy to read everthing at alone place.

  14. link bokep
    | Reply

    hanya ada di sini link bokep yang ada di sini ya jangan kau lupakan itu
    semua akan ada di sini silahkan di pakai

  15. bokep
    | Reply

    Nice post. I learn something new and challenging on websites I stumbleupon every day.
    It’s always helpful to read through content from other authors and use a little something from other sites.

  16. AW8 Slotaw
    | Reply

    Nice post. I learn something new and challenging on websites I stumbleupon every day.
    It will always be useful to read through articles from
    other writers and use a little something from other
    sites.

  17. sarangsbobet
    | Reply

    We are a gaggle of volunteers and opening a brand new scheme in our community.
    Your website provided us with valuable info to work on. You have
    done an impressive process and our entire community will likely be thankful to you.

  18. aw8 server asia
    | Reply

    A person necessarily help to make seriously posts I might state.
    That is the very first time I frequented your website page and thus
    far? I amazed with the research you made to create this actual submit incredible.
    Great process!

  20. tonic greens reviews
    | Reply

    whoah this weblog is wonderful i like studying your posts.
    Keep up the great work! You know, a lot of people are looking round for this information, you
    could help them greatly.

  22. oral sex
    | Reply

    Hey there! I’ve been following your website for a while now
    and finally got the courage to go ahead and give you a shout
    out from Houston Texas! Just wanted to say keep up the great work!

    my web site :: oral sex

  23. established Instagram accounts
    | Reply

    Welcome to our store, your trusted destination for authentic
    Instagram accounts. We offer a diverse selection of accounts with
    high follower counts, perfect for individuals and businesses
    looking to enhance their social media presence instantly.

    Our accounts provide immediate access to large, engaged audiences,
    boosting your credibility and visibility. With secure transactions
    and dedicated customer support, we ensure a seamless purchasing experience.
    Whether you’re aiming to grow your personal brand or
    promote your business, our premium Instagram accounts are your gateway to success.
    Elevate your Instagram game with us today! Verified Instagram accounts.

  24. link bokep
    | Reply

    I always spent my half an hour to read this webpage’s articles or reviews all the time along with a mug of coffee.

  27. bokep jepang
    | Reply

    If you are going for most excellent contents like I do, simply
    pay a quick visit this web site all the time for the reason that it offers feature contents, thanks

  28. Lola Higgins
    | Reply

    Me alegra encontrar un recurso como este blog que nos ayuda a tomar decisiones informadas sobre nuestra salud. La elección correcta del centro de salud puede tener un impacto significativo en nuestra vida atención médica

  29. LIVE Draw HK
    | Reply

    Live Result HK {
    {You|You actually} {said|reported|mentioned|revealed|suggested|expressed|explained|stated} {that|this|it} {very well|really well|exceptionally well|effectively|wonderfully|adequately|well|perfectly|fantastically|superbly|terrifically}{!|.}|
    {Live Draw Hk|Live Result Hk| Live Hongkong|Live Hk} Live Draw HK adalah salah satu situs resmi yang menampilkan langsung keluaran togel hongkong yang diambil dari websitenya yaitu hongkongpools.com
    Dikarenakan sulitnya untuk mengakses situs Live Draw
    Hongkong karena telah di blokir oleh sistem nawala pemerinta Indonesia.
    Tentunya para pecinta togel hk kebingungan untuk mencari situs yang bisa diakses untuk melihat langsung Live Result HK tanpa kesulitan.
    Oleh sebab itu kami disini dengan cepat membuat website keluaran hk yang
    dapat diakses selama 24 jam oleh para togelers untuk
    melihat hasil Live Hongkong tanpa takut terkena blokir internet positif lagi.

    Pastinya situs yang kami buat ini tidak dipungut biaya apapun dan dapat diakses secara
    bebas.
    Live Result HK adalah solusi terbaik yang dapat kami berikan kepada para pecinta togel untuk melihat hasil pengeluaran hk
    Prize 1, Prize 2 dan Prize 3 secara resmi.
    Live Draw HK tercepat hari ini memiliki jadwal resmi yang akan selalu on time
    yaitu pukul 22:45 WIB hingga 23:01 WIB. Live HK akan selalu menampilkan hasil
    keluaran hk sesuai jadwal yang ditentukan, namun jadwal bisa
    berubah sewaktu – waktu apabila ada update dari pusat.

  30. 77emas alternatif
    | Reply

    Thank you for the auspicious writeup. It actually was once a enjoyment account it. Glance complex to more added agreeable from you! By the way, how could we communicate?

  33. Perjalanan dari Jember ke Malang
    | Reply

    Howdy! Quick question that’s entirely off topic. Do you know how to make your site mobile friendly?
    My web site looks weird when browsing from my iphone.
    I’m trying to find a theme or plugin that might be
    able to fix this issue. If you have any recommendations,
    please share. Thanks!

  34. bokep indonesia
    | Reply

    Woah! I’m really loving the template/theme of this blog.
    It’s simple, yet effective. A lot of times it’s very hard to get that “perfect balance” between user friendliness and visual appearance.
    I must say that you’ve done a amazing job with this.
    Also, the blog loads extremely quick for me on Chrome.
    Excellent Blog!

  35. Dante
    | Reply

    My spouse and I stumbledd over here coming from a differennt
    web page and thought I might check things out. I like what
    I see so i am just following you. Look forward to looking
    into your wweb page again.
    특허사무소 – Dante –

  36. buy followers
    | Reply

    Our store specializes in selling authentic Instagram accounts with high follower counts.
    Ideal for individuals and businesses looking to boost their social media presence, we provide secure and hassle-free transactions.

    Gain instant credibility and reach your target audience effectively with our premium Instagram accounts.
    Start growing your influence today!

    Instagram account seller.

  37. spg138 rtp
    | Reply

    of course like your web-site however you need to test the spelling on quite a few of your posts. Many of them are rife with spelling issues and I to find it very troublesome to inform the reality nevertheless I’ll certainly come again again.

  38. online casino
    | Reply

    I don’t know if it’s just me or if everyone else encountering issues with your blog.

    It appears as though some of the written text in your content
    are running off the screen. Can somebody else please comment and let me know if this
    is happening to them as well? This may be a problem with my web browser because I’ve had this happen previously.
    Thanks

  43. Instagram account deals
    | Reply

    Our store specializes in selling authentic Instagram accounts,
    offering immediate access to large, engaged audiences.

    Ideal for individuals and businesses looking to enhance their social media presence,
    our accounts provide credibility and rapid growth potential.
    We prioritize secure transactions and exceptional customer support, ensuring a smooth and reliable buying experience.

    Elevate your Instagram strategy effortlessly with our premium,
    ready-to-use accounts. Start achieving your social media goals today!

    Pre-owned Instagram accounts.

  45. Instagram account deals
    | Reply

    Our store specializes in providing authentic Instagram accounts, offering instant access to large, engaged audiences.
    Ideal for influencers, businesses, and marketers looking to boost their social media presence, we ensure
    secure transactions and reliable customer support.
    With a variety of accounts to choose from, elevate your
    Instagram strategy effortlessly and achieve your goals faster with our premium services.

    Buy verified Instagram accounts.

  46. 77emas user area
    | Reply

    Hey, you used to write great, but the last few posts have been kinda boring? I miss your tremendous writings. Past several posts are just a bit out of track! come on!

  47. kontol kuda
    | Reply

    I read this paragraph completely regarding the resemblance of most recent and earlier technologies, it’s awesome article.

  48. Madge McKenzie
    | Reply

    Bardzo ciekawy artykuł na temat skupu nieruchomości! Wydaje mi się, że jest to bardzo ważna usługa dla osób poszukujących szybkiego i bezpiecznego sposobu sprzedaży swojego domu czy mieszkania pomocna strona

Leave a Reply

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