3 Jul 2017

Short term missions are not the race

by | posted in: Missions | 168,778

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.

168778 Responses

  4. check my blog
    | Reply

    Ahaa, its fastidious dialogue on the topic of this paragraph at this place at
    this webpage, I have read all that, so at this time
    me also commenting here.

  5. Alex
    | Reply

    I am regular visitor, how are you everybody? This
    piece of writing posted at this web page is in fact nice.

  8. Read more
    | Reply

    Hello There. I found your blog using msn. This is a
    really well written article. I will be sure to bookmark it and return to read more of your useful info.
    Thanks for the post. I will certainly return.

  17. Thelma
    | Reply

    I know this website presents quality dependent
    articles or reviews and extra data, is there any other site
    which provides these information in quality?

  22. تک غرب
    | Reply

    I’m amazed, I have to admit. Rarely do I encounter a blog
    that’s both equally educative and interesting, and let
    me tell you, you have hit the nail on the head. The problem is something that not
    enough folks are speaking intelligently about.
    I am very happy that I found this in my hunt for something regarding this.

  29. Marty
    | Reply

    My brother suggested I may like this web site. He was totally right.
    This publish truly made my day. You cann’t believe simply how so much time I had spent for this info!
    Thanks!

  36. hoaheleretreats
    | Reply

    Hi there very nice blog!! Guy .. Excellent .. Wonderful ..

    I will bookmark your web site and take the feeds also?

    I am satisfied to find a lot of useful info here within the post, we need develop extra strategies on this regard, thanks for sharing.
    . . . . .

  39. WD808
    | Reply

    Hi, i believe that i saw you visited my blog thus i got here to go back the want?.I am trying to to find
    issues to improve my website!I guess its adequate to use a
    few of your concepts!!

  40. Soffits Installation
    | Reply

    I’ve had some issues with myy roof lately and was unsure whether to
    repair or replace. This blog really helped me understand
    the difference between roof repairs and replacements.
    I’ll definitely be contacting a professional to get an asssessment
    soon!
    Thanks for the insights! Ididn’t realize how much the condition of your roof caan affect your home’s overall efficiency.

    I’ve been having some issues wirh leaks, so I think
    it’s time to consider repairs or a full replacement.

    I’ll definiterly keep these tips in mind!
    I recently had to replace my roof, and I can say from expoerience that it makes a
    huge difference. It definitely added value to my home and saved me from dealing with constant repairs.
    I recommend getting a professional opinion if you’re unsure
    about your roof’s condition.
    After reading this, I realize I’ve probably been neglecting my roof foor too long.
    It’s definitely something I’ll pay more
    attention to moving forward. Thanks for the valuable information!
    It’s been really helpful to read this blog to get a better understanding of my options.
    I’ll be scheduling a roof inspection to see if repairs or a replacement is the best route.
    Great advice!
    I’ve been wondering if it’s timme ffor a new roof or if I can get awqy with some repairs.
    This article gave me some goodd insight on what to look for.
    I think I’ll be getting an expert’s opiniion soon.
    I’m currently deciding whether to repair my roof or replace it
    completely. I appreciaate the advice on getting an inspection before making a fnal decision.
    I’ve been putting off getting my roof fixed for
    too long. This article has motivated mme to schedule an appointment.
    Thanks for tthe helpful information!
    Has anyone else faed the dilemma oof roof repairs versus replacement?
    This post made mme realize how important it iis to
    consult a roofing expert before making a decision.
    Turns out there’s a lot more too it, like assessing overall condition and addressing underlying issues.
    I’ll be booking an insspection tto figure out what I
    need. Thanks for the clarity!
    I’ve been delaying roof replairs because
    I wasn’t sure if it was reallyy necessary. I’ll definitely be getting my roof checked soon. Great advice here!

    I’ve been on the fence about whether tto replace or
    repair my roof. Thhe tips here helped me understand how to
    make a moe informed decision. Thanks for sharing this valuable info.

    I had no idea that roof age played such a big role in determining whethyer
    to repair or replace. I’ll keep that in mind as I move
    forward with my roof issues.
    I had a roof replacement done last year, andd I
    can’t stress enough how much better itt feels. If anyone
    is hesitant about replacing their roof, I highly recommend considering it.

    It really makes a difference.
    I didn’t realize there were so many factors tto consider wheen deciding whether to repair or replace a roof.

    I’ll definitely follow your advice and have mmy roof inspected before making any decisions.

    I’ve been trying to delay repairs, but it’s becoming clear I need
    to address the issues sooner rather than later.
    I’ll be contacting a professional soon.
    After reading this, I now understand how much
    more secure and efficient a new roof can be.
    Thanks ffor the helpful information—I think it’s time for ann upgrade.

    I never considered roof maintenance until recently.

    I’ll definitely follow up with a rpof inspection to see what’s needed.

    I’ve had some roofing isssues for a whjile but wasn’t sue whether to replace orr jyst repair.
    This blog has really opened my eyes to the importance of geetting a proofessional inspection. I think I’ll reach out too get some expert advice.

    I always thought a roof replacement would bbe a hughe hassle.
    I’ll definitely kep this in mind when it’s
    time too replace mine. Thanks for the helpful breakdown!
    I’ve been putting off roof repairs, but now I understand that addressing
    small issues early can save a lot in the future. I’ll
    be contacting a rooffing professional to take a look at my roof.

    It’s amazing how much damage a small leak can cause if left unchecked.

    This post really helped mme understand why regular roof maintenance is
    so important.
    I recently had a major leak, and this post helped me figure out whether I should repair or replace my roof.

    I’ll be following up with a professional soon.
    I’ve been putting it off, but now I see it could save me a lot of trouble in the future.
    Thanks forr the insdightful information!
    Great post! It’s goo tto know that a neew roof
    can not only prevent leaks but also boost my home’s value.
    I’m definitely considering my options now.

    My webpage; Soffits Installation

  43. Buy Java Burn
    | Reply

    It’s a pity you don’t have a donate button! I’d most certainly donate to this
    excellent blog! I guess for now i’ll settle for bookmarking and adding your RSS feed to my Google account.
    I look forward to brand new updates and will talk about this site
    with my Facebook group. Chat soon!

  44. Silke
    | Reply

    I’ve been surfing on-line more than 3 hours these days, yet I
    by no means found any interesting article like yours. It’s pretty value enough
    for me. In my view, if all web owners and bloggers
    made good content material as you probably did, the internet might be
    a lot more useful than ever before.

Leave a Reply

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