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.
hitam slot
hondatoto hondatoto hondatoto
Awesome issues here. I’m very happy to look your article.
Thanks so much and I am taking a look forward to touch you.
Will you kindly drop me a mail?
click to read more
Hi there, its nice article regarding media print, we all understand
media is a great source of data.
zabrane prawo jazdy jedyny żywiciel rodziny
Hello 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 theme or plugin that might be able to correct this issue.
If you have any suggestions, please share. Thanks!
Waltertal
kometa casino demo
Kometa Casino: Превосходный выбор для фанатов игр на удачу
Если вы интересуетесь игровыми автоматами и выбираете площадку, что обеспечивает большой выбор игровых автоматов и живых казино, а к тому же большие бонусы, Казино Kometa — это та площадка, где вас ждут незабываемый опыт. Попробуем рассмотрим, какие факторы превращает это казино уникальным и почему игроки остановились на этом сайте для игры.
### Главные особенности Казино Kometa
Казино Kometa — это всемирная игровая платформа, что была основана в 2024-м и сейчас уже привлекла интерес пользователей по международно. Вот некоторые моменты, что отличают этот сайт:
Черта Сведения
Год Основания 2024
География Доступа Международная
Объем игр Более 1000
Сертификация Curacao
Мобильный доступ Присутствует
Методы платежей Visa, Mastercard, Skrill
Техподдержка 24 часа в сутки
Бонусы и Акции Акции и бонусы
Система безопасности SSL защита
### Что привлекает в Kometa Casino?
#### Программа лояльности
Одной из ключевых функций Kometa Casino считается система бонусов. Чем активнее играете, тем выше ваши бонусы. Программа состоит из многоуровневую систему:
– **Уровень 1 — Земля**: Возврат 3% от ставок за 7 дней.
– **Уровень 2 — Луна**: Возврат 5% при ставках от 5 000 до 10 000 рублей.
– **Уровень 3 — Венера**: Возврат 7% при игре от 10 001 до 50 000 ?.
– **Марс (уровень 4)**: 8% бонуса при сумме ставок от 50 001 до 150 000 RUB.
– **Уровень 5 — Юпитер**: Возврат 10% при ставках свыше 150 000 RUB.
– **Сатурн (уровень 6)**: 11% бонуса.
– **Уровень 7 — Уран**: Максимальный возврат 12%.
#### Еженедельные бонусы и кэшбек
Чтобы держать азарт на высоте, Казино Kometa предоставляет регулярные бонусы, возврат средств и фриспины для новичков. Постоянные подарки способствуют поддерживать азарт на протяжении всей игры.
#### Большое количество развлечений
Более 1000 игр, включая слоты, настольные игры и живое казино, превращают Kometa Casino сайтом, где вы найдете игру по душе. Каждый может играть стандартными автоматами, так и новейшими играми от ведущих провайдеров. Дилеры в реальном времени добавляют игровому процессу еще больше реализма, воссоздавая дух казино.
how much evisa cost to vietnam
Excellent article. I will be dealing with a few of these issues as well..
French door fridge freezer
French Door Refrigerator Freezer: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly French door fridge freezer
repair double Glazed window
New And Innovative Concepts Happening With Double Glazing Repair Kit repair double Glazed window
free-wap-tube.com/movsYAwEnY2vSpC
Heya! I know this is sort oof off-topic holwever I had tto ask.
Dooes running a well-established bblog suuch as yours require
a arge amunt oof work? I’m completely nnew to oprating a blog butt I do write iin my
ddiary oon a daily basis. I’d like tto start a blogg so I cann easly
share my personal experience and thooughts online.
Plwase llet mee kknow if you haave anny ideas orr tips forr new aspirting bloggers.
Apppreciate it!
Private adhd medication titration
From All Over The Web Twenty Amazing Infographics About Method Titration Private adhd medication titration
MPOBIG login
This piece of writing is genuinely a pleasant one it assists new net viewers, who are wishing in favor of blogging.
Also visit my web page; MPOBIG login
ranchhand
Appreciate the recommendation. Let me try it out.
audi Tt key fob
Why Adding A Audi A1 Car Key To Your Life’s Journey Will Make The An Impact audi Tt key fob
audi Keyless Go
Audi Key Fob Replacement: What’s New? No One Is Discussing audi Keyless Go
keys
The People Who Are Closest To Renault Card Key Replacement Share Some
Big Secrets keys
price
Audi Q7 Car Key Replacement: 11 Thing You’re Forgetting To Do
price
dewa scatter
Nice blog here! Also your site loads up very fast!
What host are you using? Can I get your affiliate link to
your host? I wish my website loaded up as fast as yours lol
Porn Sex
If some one wants to be updated with newest technologies therefore he must be visit this web site
and be up to date every day.
پت شاپ
Great beat ! I would like to apprentice whilst you amend
your site, how can i subscribe for a weblog web site?
The account helped me a acceptable deal. I have been a little
bit familiar of this your broadcast offered vivid transparent idea
electric fence Malaysia
Do you have a spam problem on this blog; I also am a blogger,
and I was wondering your situation; we have developed some nice procedures and
we are looking to exchange techniques with
other folks, please shoot me an e-mail if interested.
Example Of Promotion Code For Bet9ja
The Bet9ja sportsbook has emerged as a leading gambling destination in Nigeria.
Offering a comprehensive array of sports betting options, this platform delivers an thrilling experience for sports enthusiasts.
A major draw of Bet9ja is its enticing initial promotion. New users can claim the Bet9ja promotion code while
creating an account to get a 170% bonus on their first deposit.
This promotional offer enables gamblers to increase their betting power right from the start.
To get started, the account creation steps is simple.
Simply visit the Bet9ja mobile site and follow the
prompts. Don’t forget to input the valid Bet9ja bonus code
to claim your welcome bonus.
After signing up, bettors can take advantage of a variety of features.
The sports betting section encompasses major competitions like the
Champions League, as well as other sports.
To cater to different preferences, the casino section presents a
range of gambling choices. From slots to table games, there’s an option to suit
all tastes.
The platform also provides various promotions, including the sought-after multiplier bonus.
This bonus amplifies the possible winnings on combination stakes, providing additional
incentive for experienced gamblers.
Mobile users can use the platform’s mobile version, ensuring gambling access are readily available.
The smartphone interface delivers a smooth operation, permitting players to gamble with convenience.
If you encounter any issues, the support staff is on hand to
provide guidance. Get in touch with the support team through
various channels, ensuring quick answers for any queries.
Keep in mind that while bonuses are attractive, betting within your
means should always be a priority. The platform encourages safe betting practices and offers resources to aid in regulating
their gambling habits.
In summary, Bet9ja distinguishes itself in the digital
sports betting arena. With its easy-to-navigate site, enticing offers,
and diverse gambling choices, it’s no wonder Bet9ja
has become a popular choice for Nigerian bettors.
Whether you’re a seasoned gambler, this site delivers an exciting betting experience that fosters repeat visits.
pornterm.com
I could not resist commenting. Perfectly written!
find out this here
If you are going for most excellent contents like I do, only
go to see this web site all the time as it provides feature contents, thanks
Www.Metooo.Com
10 Mobile Apps That Are The Best For Wall Mounted Electric Fires electric wall mounted fires uk (http://Www.Metooo.Com)
Kiedy Prawo Jazdy Jest W Systemie
Hey There. I found your weblog using msn. This is a very neatly written article.
I will make sure to bookmark it and return to read extra of your
helpful info. Thank you for the post. I will certainly comeback.
sites2000.com
10 Things We Do Not Like About Offset Bunk Beds l
shaped low bunk beds (sites2000.com)
mennyibe kerul a laboratoriumi mintadaralo
https://www.lab-mill.net/nn/principles-of-laboratory-ball-mill-design/principles of laboratory ball mill design
evisa express vietnam review
Paragraph writing is also a excitement, if you be familiar
with after that you can write if not it is complicated to
write.
fence electric Malaysia
I have been browsing on-line greater than 3 hours these days, but I by no means discovered any attention-grabbing
article like yours. It is beautiful value enough
for me. In my opinion, if all website owners and bloggers made
excellent content as you probably did, the internet can be a lot more useful than ever before.
find out this here
Wow that was strange. I just wrote an really long comment but after I clicked submit my
comment didn’t show up. Grrrr… well I’m not writing all that over again. Regardless, just wanted to say wonderful blog!
click for info
Your style is unique compared to other people I have read stuff from.
Many thanks for posting when you’ve got the opportunity,
Guess I’ll just book mark this blog.
fireplace insert
Wall Mount Fireplace’s History Of Wall Mount Fireplace In 10 Milestones fireplace insert
joyporntube.com
With havin so much content and articles do you ever run into any problems of plagorism or copyright violation?
My website has a lot of completely unique content I’ve either
written myself or outsourced but it seems a lot of it is popping it up all over the web
without my authorization. Do you know any ways
to help protect against content from being
stolen? I’d definitely appreciate it.
aiporn.bond
Hi there, of course this piece of writing is
really fastidious and I have learned lot of things from it regarding blogging.
thanks.
Ai Generated Porn & Ai Porn Pics
We are a group of volunteers and starting a new scheme in our community.
Your site provided us with valuable info to work on. You’ve done a formidable job and our whole community will
be thankful to you.
pornaffect.com
Wow, this piece of writing is good, my younger sister is analyzing these
kinds of things, therefore I am going to inform her.
classic Adhd symptoms
Why Do So Many People Would Like To Learn More About Adhd Symptoms In Women? classic Adhd symptoms
togel hongkong
10 Places Where You Can Find Togel4d Login togel hongkong
car Key replacement Bmw
A Reference To Bmw Key Cost From Beginning To End car Key replacement Bmw
escuela de manejo intensiva
I read this piece of writing completely concerning the difference
of latest and earlier technologies, it’s awesome article.
Treadmill Folding treadmill
How To Get More Results With Your Treadmill Fold Up Treadmill Folding treadmill
Porn Sex
Just wish to say your article is as amazing. The clarity in your post is just spectacular and i can assume you
are an expert on this subject. Fine with your permission let me to grab your feed to keep up
to date with forthcoming post. Thanks a million and please keep up the gratifying work.
Fireplace electric
Guide To Wall Fireplace Electric: The Intermediate Guide Towards
Wall Fireplace Electric Fireplace electric
sectional Sofas with recliners
Why Nobody Cares About Sectional Sofas sectional Sofas with recliners
Electric Fire Suite Sale
Electric Fire Place Suite: It’s Not As Difficult As You Think Electric Fire Suite Sale
bảng hiệu alu
I am in fact thankful to the holder of this website who has shared this fantastic paragraph
at at this time.
saveyoursite.date
This Is The One Best Coffee Machines Trick Every Person Should Know Best Coffee machines for home, saveyoursite.date,