3 Jul 2017

Short term missions are not the race

by | posted in: Missions | 78,446

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.

78446 Responses

  1. bokep indo
    | Reply

    Greetings! I know this is kinda off topic however , I’d
    figured I’d ask. Would you be interested in trading links or maybe guest writing a blog post or vice-versa?
    My site covers a lot of the same topics as yours and I believe we could greatly benefit from
    each other. If you’re interested feel free to send me an email.
    I look forward to hearing from you! Superb blog by the way!

  2. Mitsubishi Tây Ninh
    | Reply

    What’s up Dear, are you truly visiting this site regularly,
    if so afterward you will without doubt take nice know-how. https://tayninh-mitsubishi.com.vn Mitsubishi Tây Ninh Giá Tốt là đại lý kinh doanh các loại xe
    Ôtô Mitsubishi mới, Mitsubishi đã qua sử dụng, dịch vụ bảo trì, bảo dưỡng và thay thế
    phụ tùng xe Mitsubishi chính hãng Uy Tín. Showroom Mitsubishi chính thức tỉnh Tây Ninh.

    #MitsubishiTayNinh, #mitsubishitn, #Xpander, #Outlander,
    #Attrage, #PajeroSport, #Triton, #Pajero
    Cars

  3. nails
    | Reply

    Wonderful beat ! I wish to apprentice while you amend your site,
    how could i subscribe for a blog website? The account aided me a acceptable deal.
    I had been tiny bit acquainted of this your broadcast provided bright clear idea

  7. Mitsubishi Tây Ninh
    | Reply

    May I just say what a relief to discover an individual who genuinely
    understands what they’re talking about over the internet.
    You certainly understand how to bring a problem to light and make
    it important. A lot more people must check this out and understand
    this side of the story. It’s surprising you aren’t more popular because you certainly have the gift.
    https://tayninh-mitsubishi.com.vn Mitsubishi Tây Ninh Giá Tốt là đại lý kinh doanh các loại xe Ôtô Mitsubishi mới, Mitsubishi
    đã qua sử dụng, dịch vụ bảo trì, bảo dưỡng
    và thay thế phụ tùng xe Mitsubishi chính hãng Uy Tín.
    Showroom Mitsubishi chính thức tỉnh
    Tây Ninh.
    #MitsubishiTayNinh, #mitsubishitn, #Xpander, #Outlander, #Attrage, #PajeroSport, #Triton, #Pajero
    Cars

  8. kanye west holding poster
    | Reply

    Being a massive fan of Kanye West for a long time, I think his work is genuinely amazing.

    It’s been amazing to see his journey as a artist.

    Kanye swiftly rose to fame as a record producer with his innovative approach.

    His first album, The College Dropout, was a breakthrough in the hip hop industry.

    Kanye has continued to push boundaries music over the time, with projects like Yeezus.

    Not only is he a artistic prodigy, but his presence in style with his Yeezy brand is unquestionable.

    His art is striking, forever challenging norms.

    Adorning my room with Kanye West prints recently, and they seem fantastic.

    Each print captures a moment of his career and provides a special element to my decor.

  9. bokep pelajar
    | Reply

    I am curious to find out what blog system you have been working with?
    I’m having some minor security problems with my latest site
    and I’d like to find something more safeguarded. Do you have any recommendations?

  10. kanye west late registration poster
    | Reply

    As a huge fan of Yeezy for ages, I think his work is really phenomenal.

    His evolution as an artist has been astonishing to
    see.

    Becoming well-known rapidly as a record producer,
    Kanye became famous for his unique style.

    His first album, College Dropout, was a game changer in the rap industry.

    With albums like My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy, Kanye has kept on to redefine the industry over
    the years.

    Kanye is not only a artistic genius, but his impact
    in fashion with his Yeezy brand is unquestionable.

    Kanye’s art is bold, always challenging conventions.

    I recently enhanced my room with some Kanye West prints, and they appear amazing.

    Each piece highlights a part of his career and adds a distinctive
    vibe to my home.

  11. asbestos litigation
    | Reply

    Settlements are frequently preferred by lawyers because they
    are less dangerous and clients can receive settlements faster.
    They will also look at the cost of treatment and wrongful death awards during
    settlement negotiations.

    Stop by my web site: asbestos litigation

  12. Hands and Feet of Christ
    | Reply

    You are so interesting! I don’t think I’ve truly read something like this before.

    So wonderful to discover someone with a few original thoughts on this
    topic. Seriously.. thank you for starting this up.

    This website is something that is required on the internet, someone with some originality!

  14. Linkasbola.Com
    | Reply

    Do you mind if I quote a few of your articles as long as
    I provide credit and sources back to your blog? My blog is in the very
    same niche as yours and my visitors would really benefit from some of the information you provide
    here. Please let me know if this alright with you. Appreciate it!

  16. google fuck
    | Reply

    Hi there! Quick question that’s completely off topic.
    Do you know how to make your site mobile friendly? My weblog
    looks weird when viewing from my iphone. I’m trying to find a template or plugin that might be able
    to correct this issue. If you have any recommendations,
    please share. With thanks!

  19. rush royale cheat
    | Reply

    I am not sure where you’re getting your info, but good topic.

    I needs to spend some time learning more or understanding more.
    Thanks for magnificent information I was looking for this information for my mission.

  21. link building
    | Reply

    Backlinking plays a vital role in search
    engine optimization. It requires acquiring links from external sites to your online presence.

    Backlinks are considered by search engines as an endorsement for your content, which can boost your site’s
    visibility.

    Importance of Backlinking
    Inbound links tell search engines that your website is trustworthy.
    The more relevant backlinks you have, the higher your website will rank in search results.

    Types of Backlinks
    Several different types of backlinks that affect your SEO efforts differently:

    Natural Backlinks: This type is earned organically. External sites refer to your content because they
    find it useful.

    Manual Backlinks: This category requires actively seeking links.
    This can be accomplished through submitting to directories.

    Self-Created Backlinks: These links is generated by adding a URL to a forum signature.

    Quality vs. Quantity
    When it comes to backlinks, the quality outweighs the volume.
    A single authoritative link from an authority website holds more weight than dozens of low-quality
    links. Bing evaluate the authority of the referring
    domain to assess the value of the backlink.

    How to Build Quality Backlinks
    Here are some proven techniques for building high-quality backlinks:

    Guest Blogging: Contributing content to high-traffic websites in your niche can gain backlinks
    to your content.

    Content Marketing: Developing high-quality and shareable content earns inbound links.

    Broken Link Building: Identifying 404 errors on third-party platforms and proposing your site as an alternative.

    Skyscraper Technique: Publishing posts that offer more value than what’s currently available and reaching out to content creators that refer to the outdated content.

    Influencer Outreach: Collaborating with prominent figures in your industry to gain links.

    Avoiding Black Hat Techniques
    In the process of backlinking, it’s essential to not use
    spammy tactics. This covers participating in link farms services.
    Such practices can lead to search engine penalties from Bing, that could negatively impact your SEO efforts.

    Monitoring and Analyzing Backlinks
    Regularly reviewing and analyzing your inbound links is important
    for ongoing SEO efforts. Using platforms such as Ahrefs can support in tracking backlinks and spotting any issues.

    Conclusion
    Building backlinks continues to be a core aspect of SEO. By prioritizing quality over quantity, using ethical practices, and consistently reviewing your external link structure, you can enhance your site’s visibility on Google.

  22. WillieNiG
    | Reply

    Cristiano Ronaldo https://cristiano-ronaldo.prostoprosport-ar.com is a Portuguese footballer, forward, captain of the Saudi Arabian club An-Nasr and the Portuguese national team. European Champion. Considered one of the best football players of all time. The best scorer in the history of football according to the IFFIS and fourth according to the RSSSF

  24. www.reddit.com
    | Reply

    Hello there, I found your blog by means of Google even as searching for
    a similar subject, your web site got here up, it appears to be like
    great. I have bookmarked it in my google bookmarks.
    Hi there, just changed into aware of your weblog via Google, and
    located that it’s truly informative. I am gonna watch out for
    brussels. I’ll be grateful if you continue this
    in future. Many folks shall be benefited out of your writing.

    Cheers!

  25. 롯데 상품권 현금화
    | Reply

    Have you ever considered about including a ligtle bit more than just your
    articles? I mean, what you say is fundamental and everything.
    But think about if you added some great visuals or video clips tto give your posts more, “pop”!
    Your content is excellent bbut with pcs and videos, this site could undeiably be one of the greatest in its field.
    Great blog!
    롯데 상품권 현금화

  26. koh sze huan
    | Reply

    I know this web page provides quality dependent
    articles or reviews and extra data, is there any other website which gives these kinds
    of stuff in quality?

    Also visit my site – koh sze huan

  28. Alfredgem
    | Reply

    Lionel Andres Messi Cuccittini https://lionelmessi.prostoprosport-ar.com is an Argentine footballer, forward and captain of the MLS club Inter Miami, captain of the Argentina national team. World champion, South American champion, Finalissima winner, Olympic champion. Considered one of the best football players of all time.

  30. android
    | Reply

    Way cool! Some extremely valid points! I
    appreciate you penning this post plus the rest of the
    site is also very good.

  35. finance phantom scam
    | Reply

    Thank you for any other fantastic post. The place else could anyone get that kind of information in such
    an ideal manner of writing? I’ve a presentation next week, and I’m on the search for such info.

  37. wbc247
    | Reply

    Hello! This is kind of off topic but I need some guidance from
    an established blog. Is it tough to set up your own blog? I’m not very techincal but I can figure things out pretty fast.
    I’m thinking about creating my own but I’m not
    sure where to start. Do you have any points or suggestions?
    Appreciate it

  40. FitSpresso Reviews
    | Reply

    Pretty great post. I simply stumbled upon your weblog
    and wanted to say that I have truly enjoyed browsing your blog posts.
    After all I will be subscribing for your rss feed and I’m hoping you write
    once more soon!

  43. situs bola terpercaya 2024
    | Reply

    Very nice post. I just stumbled upon your blog and wanted to say that I have really enjoyed surfing around your weblog posts.
    After all I’ll be subscribing for your feed and I am hoping you write once more soon!

  45. pkv qq
    | Reply

    Today, I went to the beachfront with my children. I found a sea shell and gave it to my 4 year old
    daughter and said “You can hear the ocean if you put this to your ear.” She placed the shell to
    her ear and screamed. There was a hermit crab inside and it pinched her ear.
    She never wants to go back! LoL I know this is
    totally off topic but I had to tell someone!

  47. immediate genesis
    | Reply

    I really love your website.. Very nice colors & theme.
    Did you make this web site yourself? Please reply back as I’m hoping to create my own blog and
    want to find out where you got this from or just what the theme is named.
    Thank you!

Leave a Reply

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