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.
99811760.xyz
The Reason Buy Spare Car Key Will Be The Hottest Topic In 2023 99811760.xyz
рабочий адрес омг
What’s up, I check your blogs daily. Your writing style is witty, keep up
the good work!
tuzla en ugun hurdacı
Yes! Finally something about tuzla hurdacı.
ngentot nungging
Do you mind if I quote a couple of your posts as long as I
provide credit and sources back to your weblog? My blog
site is in the very same area of interest as yours and my users would definitely benefit from a lot of the information you provide here.
Please let me know if this ok with you. Thanks a lot!
bokep simontok
Spot on with this write-up, I seriously believe this web site needs much more attention. I’ll probably be back again to read more, thanks for the info!
Brain Injury Attorney California
An experienced mind Brain Injury Attorney California
legal representative might have the ability to assist.
check out this site
Thanks , I have recently been looking for information approximately this topic for a long time and yours is the greatest I’ve came upon so far.
However, what in regards to the conclusion? Are you certain in regards to the source?
labradar chronograph
Very nice post. I just stumbled upon your blog
and wished to say that I have really enjoyed browsing your blog
posts. In any case I will be subscribing to your rss feed
and I hope you write again soon!
Columbus OH real estate agent
Thanks a bunch for sharing this with all folks you actually
realize what you’re speaking about! Bookmarked. Kindly also seek advice
from my site =). We could have a hyperlink change contract between us
Here is my website Columbus OH real estate agent
dumpster rental near me
Hi there! Someone in my Facebook group shared this website with us so I came to look it over.
I’m definitely enjoying the information. I’m bookmarking and will be tweeting this to my followers!
Terrific blog and fantastic design.
księgowość Stratford
Hello just wanted to give you a quick heads up and let you know a
few of the images 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 results.
Play Slots Online
When I initially commented I clicked the “Notify me when new comments are added” checkbox
and now each time a comment is added I get four e-mails with the same comment.
Is there any way you can remove me from that service?
Thank you!
Columbus OH real estate agent
Aw, this was a very nice post. Spending some time and actual effort to make a
good article… but what can I say… I hesitate a whole lot and never
manage to get anything done.
Here is my web site :: Columbus OH real estate agent
pragmatic slot
Do you have any video of that? I’d care to
find out more details.
Realtor in Columbus OH
Hello! Do you use Twitter? I’d like to follow you if that would be
okay. I’m definitely enjoying your blog and look forward to new posts.
Also visit my web site Realtor in Columbus OH
마곡셔츠룸
Its like you read my mind! You appear to know a lot about this,
like you wrote the book in it or something.
I think that you can do with some pics to drive the message home a little bit, but instead
of that, this is magnificent blog. A fantastic read.
I’ll certainly be back.
Columbus OH real estate agent services
It’s awesome in support of me to have a website, which is useful in support of my know-how.
thanks admin
my blog post – Columbus OH real estate agent services
link alternatif
Hello to every , for the reason that I am actually keen of reading this web site’s post to be updated daily.
It consists of pleasant material.
dewascatter link alternatif
What’s Taking place i am new to this, I stumbled upon this I’ve discovered It absolutely
useful and it has aided me out loads. I am hoping to contribute & help other users like its helped me.
Good job.
private server ragnarok
Just desire to say your article is as astounding.
The clearness in your post is just great and i can assume you are an expert on this subject.
Well with your permission allow me to grab your feed
to keep updated with forthcoming post. Thanks a million and please keep up the rewarding work.
sex mới nhất
You need to be a part of a contest for one
of the highest quality blogs on the net. I’m going to highly recommend this blog!
Top-rated Realtor Columbus OH
Hi, I do believe your site might be having browser compatibility problems.
When I look at your site in Safari, it looks fine however, if opening in I.E., it has some overlapping issues.
I merely wanted to provide you with a quick heads
up! Aside from that, excellent website!
my homepage – Top-rated Realtor Columbus OH
Best Realtor in Columbus OH
I don’t even understand how I finished up right here,
however I thought this submit was great. I don’t realize who you
are however certainly you’re going to a famous blogger Best Realtor in Columbus OH the event you
aren’t already. Cheers!
bokep barat
you are really a just right webmaster. The site loading pace is amazing.
It sort of feels that you are doing any distinctive
trick. Furthermore, The contents are masterwork. you have done a great process
on this topic!
fxpro サインアップ
Santo could be the name Excellent to be called with but I never really liked that name.
One of factors that she loves most will be always to keep birds and she has been doing it for
a rather while. Some time ago I decided to have a
home in North Carolina. I used to be unemployed
but now I am an interviewer but I’ve already requested
for another any.
porn xnxx
Hey I know this is off topic but I was wondering if you knew of any widgets
I could add to my blog that automatically tweet
my newest twitter updates. I’ve been looking for a plug-in like this for quite some time and was hoping maybe you would have some experience
with something like this. Please let me know if you
run into anything. I truly enjoy reading your blog and I look forward to your new updates.
porn xnxx
Wow, this piece of writing is nice, my sister is analyzing such things,
thus I am going to convey her.
bokep simontok
A fascinating discussion is definitely worth comment.
I do think that you ought to write more about this issue, it may not be a taboo matter but generally people
do not discuss such issues. To the next! Cheers!!
nhap si chi na
Its such as you learn my thoughts! You seem to grasp a lot approximately this, like you wrote the book
in it or something. I believe that you can do with some % to drive
the message house a little bit, however instead of that, this is great blog.
A fantastic read. I will certainly be back.
look at here
The other day, while I was at work, my sister stole my iPad and tested to see if it can survive a thirty foot
drop, just so she can be a youtube sensation. My apple ipad is
now broken and she has 83 views. I know this is entirely off topic but I had to share it with someone!
뱅크카지노 도메인
Havee you ever considered creating an ebook orr guest authoring on other sites?
I have a blog based upon on the same subjectts you
discuss and would really like to have you share some stories/information. I
know mmy viewers would appreciate your work.
If you are even remotely interested, feel free to send me an e-mail.
뱅크카지노 도메인
백링크 업체
Small Business Seo Guidelines – Helpful Hints!
백링크 업체
Befurk
purchase rogaine sale – purchase rogaine sale finpecia pills
vietnam e visa official site
I am regular reader, how are you everybody? This
piece of writing posted at this site is in fact nice.
see here now
I’m impressed, I have to admit. Rarely do I come across a blog
that’s both equally educative and engaging, and without a doubt, you’ve
hit the nail on the head. The problem is something that not enough men and
women are speaking intelligently about. Now
i’m very happy that I found this in my search for something relating to this.
смотрим тут
It is the best time to make some plans for the future and it is time to be happy.
I’ve read this put up and if I may just I desire to counsel you few fascinating issues
or tips. Maybe you could write subsequent articles relating to this article.
I wish to learn more issues approximately it!
JesusPaikefap
24000 Euro Kredit
Rebrandl.Y
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has evolved into
an indispensable part of diverse sectors, changing the way we exist.
One hotly debated application of AI is the development of AI undressers.
AI undressers are applications that leverage deep learning to digitally take off clothing from images of people.
The rise of such innovations has ignited
numerous moral debates.
Some believe that AI undressers may be utilized for constructive uses, such as healthcare evaluation and forensic
analysis.
In the realm of medicine, AI undressers may help physicians in better understanding the internal structures of the body.
This may result in more accurate clinical assessments
and better therapeutic strategies.
In criminal cases, AI undressers may assist detectives by uncovering key evidence that usually remain undetected.
However, the possibility for exploitation is significant.
AI undressers might be used for exploitative purposes, causing serious security breaches.
The power to remove clothing from someone virtually without their
consent poses major ethical dilemmas.
Many individuals think that the development of AI undressers breaches core values of
privacy.
The controversy about AI undressers is likely to grow as innovations continue to evolve.
There are appeals for rigorous control and ethical rules
to control the deployment of AI undressers.
Many support for a balance that permits the positive applications of AI undressers while defending individual rights.
In conclusion, AI undressers symbolize a highly debated crossroads of technology and ethics.
The persistent debate surrounding their application highlights broader
public issues about the place of AI in our lives.
As we navigate this new era of artificial intelligence, it
is vital that we consider the ethical implications of our innovations.
pepek becek
If you are going for finest contents like I do, simply pay a visit
this site daily as it provides quality contents,
thanks
learn the facts here now
Hello are using WordPress for your blog platform? I’m new to the blog world but I’m trying to get started and set up my
own. Do you require any coding knowledge to make
your own blog? Any help would be really appreciated!
Columbus OH Realtor
Thanks for another great article. Where else
may just anybody get that kind of info in such a perfect way of writing?
I have a presentation next week, and I am on the look for such
information.
Feel free to visit my homepage :: Columbus OH Realtor
lộ clip sex
I just like the valuable information you
supply for your articles. I will bookmark your blog and test once more right here frequently.
I’m somewhat certain I will learn many new stuff right right
here! Best of luck for the following!
gambling mobile optimization
Amazing Note to Personal Site Critique
Amazing content! I’m certainly relishing the text on this site.
Possess you at any time thought about getting part of internet betting gaming activities?
Evolution Gaming is a amazing site comprising a diverse array
of outstanding live dealer products. The full outing is
unbelievably enthralling and authentic, it feels analogous to you’re perfectly in the gaming
establishment within the gambling.
If you’re keen on the topic of attempting this additionally,
I’d be delighted to delighted to provide my exclusive suggestion online location. The Evolution Gaming Platform encompasses a wonderful signup incentive for new
latest bettors. It undoubtedly unquestionably worth checking more on the condition you’re seeking a modified online gambling
experience.
Gratitude furthermore pertaining to the brilliant website
text. Preserve on the fantastic activities!
Here is my webpage gambling mobile optimization
rebrandly
AI technology have infused themselves into various aspects of life.
A particularly controversial offshoot of this innovation is
the AI undresser.
AI undressers employ advanced systems to synthetically erase garments from images of individuals.
The emergence of such technology has ignited numerous moral questions.
On one hand, AI undressers might be used for constructive purposes,
such as medical diagnosis and forensic investigations.
For example, in the clinical field, AI undressers may assist doctors to more accurately visualize the internal details of the body.
This might result in improved medical evaluations and better medical approaches.
In forensics, AI undressers could assist detectives
by exposing clues that are normally not visible.
However, the potential for abuse is immense.
AI undressers could be abused for exploitative purposes, leading to severe personal issues.
The ability to remove clothing from someone synthetically without their knowledge poses significant ethical challenges.
Many people think that the availability of AI undressers violates
basic principles of personal security.
As AI continues to develop, the discussion about AI undressers is likely
to grow.
There are increasing appeals for stringent regulations and legal controls to govern the application of AI undressers.
There are experts who promote a middle ground that permits the beneficial purposes of AI undressers while safeguarding personal rights.
In conclusion, AI undressers embody a contentious intersection of advancement and ethics.
The controversy about their use highlights wider social concerns about the place of AI in our
world.
As we progress in this new age of artificial intelligence, it is imperative that we reflect
on the ethical implications of our technologies.
Josephmix
digital marketing agency
비트코인 시세
Your decision is primarily based on the cards you aree
holding, annd the dealer’s up card.
Also visit my web blog; 비트코인 시세
Visit This page
The casino also takes pride inn its commitment to accountable gaming.
Look into my web-site :: Visit This page
Columbus OH real estate
Exceptional post however , I was wanting to know if you could write a litte more on this topic?
I’d be very thankful if you could elaborate a little bit more.
Thank you!
Look at my page :: Columbus OH real estate
쿨카지노 도메인
Hi there to every , as I am truly keen of reading this website’s post to be updated daily.
It carries nice information.
my site 쿨카지노 도메인
check this link right here now
Do you have a spam problem on this website; I also am a blogger,
and I was wanting to know your situation; many of us
have created some nice methods and we are looking to exchange strategies with others, why
not shoot me an email if interested.