3 Jul 2017

Short term missions are not the race

by | posted in: Missions | 112,042

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.

112042 Responses

  2. Allie Hughes
    | Reply

    Bardzo ciekawy artykuł! Skup nieruchomości to świetna opcja dla osób, które chcą szybko sprzedać swoje mieszkanie czy dom. Dzięki profesjonalnej obsłudze i sprawnej transakcji można zaoszczędzić wiele czasu i stresu więcej informacji

  6. best fantasy football team games
    | Reply

    Have you ever considered writing an ebook or guest authoring on other websites?
    I have a blog centered on the same topics you discuss
    and would really like to have you share some stories/information. I know my viewers would value your work.
    If you’re even remotely interested, feel free to send me an e-mail.

  9. Instagram profiles for sale
    | Reply

    Great article! I recently discovered a store that sells authentic Instagram accounts, and it has been a
    game-changer for my social media marketing.

    The instant access to a large audience really helped boost my online presence.
    Highly recommend! Instagram profile shop.

  11. Penerjemah Tersumpah Di Jawa
    | Reply

    Attractive section of content. I just stumbled upon your web site and in accession capital to assert that I acquire in fact enjoyed account your blog posts. Anyway I will be subscribing to your augment and even I achievement you access consistently quickly.

  12. schema migration
    | Reply

    Awesome blog you have here but I was curious if you knew of any forums that cover the same topics discussed here?
    I’d really like to be a part of online community where I can get comments from other experienced individuals that share the same interest.

    If you have any suggestions, please let me know. Thank you!

  14. Instagram account reseller
    | Reply

    Great article! Buying Instagram accounts can indeed provide a significant boost to your social media presence.

    It saves a lot of time and effort, allowing businesses to focus on content and engagement.
    For anyone looking to grow their Instagram quickly, I highly recommend checking out our site.
    They offer a variety of authentic accounts that can help
    you achieve your goals faster. Thanks for sharing these insights!

  18. vinovasg
    | Reply

    Hurrah, that’s what I was looking for, what a information! present here at this weblog,
    thanks admin of this web page.

  19. Instagram account service
    | Reply

    Great article! I completely agree with the benefits
    of buying Instagram accounts, especially for businesses
    looking to quickly establish a strong online presence.
    The instant access to a large audience and enhanced credibility
    can make a huge difference. I’ve found that purchasing a well-established account saves so much time and effort.
    It’s definitely a smart strategy for anyone serious about growing their
    brand on social media.Secure Instagram accounts.

  23. phenq reviews
    | Reply

    Hello my loved one! I wish to say that this article is
    amazing, nice written and include almost all significant infos.
    I’d like to look extra posts like this .

    Feel free to surf to my web site: phenq reviews

  29. Link Dor77
    | Reply

    If some one wants to be updated with most recent technologies
    afterward he must be go to see this website and be up to date all the time.

    Here is my web page; Link Dor77

  30. inslot.pro
    | Reply

    Having read this I believed it was extremely informative.
    I appreciate you finding the time and effort to put this information together.
    I once again find myself spending way too much time both reading and leaving comments.
    But so what, it was still worth it!

  32. AaronDag
    | Reply

    Another important reason to modify to solar power could be the cost benefits it offers. Solar panel systems can handle generating electricity for businesses, reducing or eliminating the necessity for traditional types of energy. This might end up in significant savings on energy bills, particularly in areas with a high energy costs. Furthermore, there are many government incentives and tax credits open to companies that adopt solar technology, rendering it much more cost-effective and affordable.

    The technology behind solar power is relatively simple, yet highly effective. Solar panel systems are made of photovoltaic (PV) cells, which convert sunlight into electricity. This electricity may then be kept in batteries or fed straight into the electrical grid, with regards to the specific system design. To be able to maximize the many benefits of solar power, it’s important to design a custom system this is certainly tailored to your particular energy needs and requirements. This can make sure that you have just the right components in position, such as the appropriate quantity of solar panel systems plus the right kind of batteries, to optimize your power efficiency and value savings.

    https://medium.com/@mattdagati/list/matthew-michael-dagati-ec71315d898b

  33. detailcustomhomes.com
    | Reply

    The experience of the lawyer also matters a lot: Now in order to have verified the educational background of
    the lawyers demand to discover the experience that offer.
    Top college lawyers are good but having proper
    experience is very important.

    Feel free to visit my website :: US Immigration Lawyer London (detailcustomhomes.com)

  34. pantai papuma
    | Reply

    Every weekend i used to pay a visit this website, for the reason that i
    want enjoyment, since this this web page conations genuinely nice funny material too.

  35. puravive weight loss
    | Reply

    Hi there! This is kind of off topic but I need some guidance
    from an established blog. Is it very difficult to set up your own blog?

    I’m not very techincal but I can figure things out pretty fast.
    I’m thinking about making my own but I’m not sure where to
    start. Do you have any ideas or suggestions? Thanks

  37. Penerjemah Tersumpah Laporan Tahunan
    | Reply

    I needed to create you a bit of remark so as to thank you so much the moment again just for the wonderful views you’ve shared on this website. It was pretty open-handed with people like you to supply extensively exactly what a few people might have sold for an ebook to get some money for themselves, precisely considering the fact that you might have tried it in case you decided. These guidelines likewise worked to provide a fantastic way to recognize that many people have the same dream much like mine to learn way more regarding this problem. I’m sure there are numerous more enjoyable periods up front for people who browse through your blog post.

  43. finance phantom review
    | Reply

    whoah this blog is great i love reading your posts.
    Stay up the good work! You understand, a lot of people are searching round for this info, you could aid
    them greatly.

  44. demoslotterlengkap.id
    | Reply

    Magnificent goods from you, man. I have understand your stuff previous to and you are just extremely fantastic.
    I really like what you’ve acquired here, certainly like what you are saying and the
    way in which you say it. You make it enjoyable and you still care for to keep it sensible.
    I cant wait to read much more from you. This is actually a tremendous web site.

  45. Roller Bearing
    | Reply

    Roller bearings are a fundamental component in many mechanical systems, designed to facilitate motion by
    reducing friction between moving parts. They employ cylindrical, tapered, or needle-shaped rolling elements positioned between inner and outer rings, allowing for smooth rotational movement.
    Their versatility and efficiency make them indispensable across various industries.

  49. aw8indo
    | Reply

    If you want to improve your know-how only keep visiting this web site and be updated with the latest
    news update posted here.

Leave a Reply

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