3 Jul 2017

Short term missions are not the race

by | posted in: Missions | 171,057

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.

171057 Responses

  4. Estelle
    | Reply

    I really love your site.. Excellent colors & theme. Did you create
    this web site yourself? Please reply back as I’m attempting to create my own personal site and would like to find out where you got this from or exactly what
    the theme is named. Appreciate it!

  6. jinda888
    | Reply

    id=”firstHeading” class=”firstHeading mw-first-heading”>Search results

    Help

    English

    Tools

    Tools
    move to sidebar hide

    Actions

    General

  8. index
    | Reply

    Hmm it seems like your website ate my first comment (it was
    extremely long) so I guess I’ll just sum it up what I submitted and say, I’m thoroughly enjoying your blog.
    I as well am an aspiring blog blogger but I’m still new to everything.
    Do you have any suggestions for novice blog writers? I’d really appreciate it.

  10. togel online
    | Reply

    excellent issues altogether, you simply won a logo new reader.
    What might you recommend about your submit that you made a few days ago?
    Any certain?

  11. Ernestina
    | Reply

    I like the valuable info you provide in your articles.
    I’ll bookmark your weblog and check again here regularly.
    I’m quite sure I’ll learn a lot of new stuff right here! Good luck for the next!

  14. autospin777
    | Reply

    Hey there, I think your blog might be having browser compatibility issues.
    When I look at your blog site in Chrome, it looks fine
    but when opening in Internet Explorer, it has some
    overlapping. I just wanted to give you a quick heads up!
    Other then that, very good blog!

  17. Aja
    | Reply

    I am no longer sure where you’re getting your information, however
    great topic. I needs to spend some time learning much more or understanding more.
    Thank you for great information I was looking
    for this info for my mission.

  19. lipozem reviews
    | Reply

    Every weekend i used to go to see this site, for the reason that i want enjoyment, since this
    this web site conations in fact pleasant funny data too.

  27. slot dana terpercaya
    | Reply

    You are so interesting! I don’t suppose I’ve truly read anything
    like this before. So great to discover somebody
    with a few genuine thoughts on this topic. Seriously..

    thank you for starting this up. This website is one thing
    that is required on the web, someone with some originality!

  28. big tits online free
    | Reply

    Hi there! Do you know if they make any plugins to assist with Search Engine Optimization?
    I’m trying to get my blog to rank for some targeted keywords but I’m
    not seeing very good success. If you know of any please share.
    Thank you!

  33. Alexis
    | Reply

    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.

  34. Cassie
    | Reply

    Greetings! Very helpful advice in this particular post!

    It is the little changes that will make the greatest
    changes. Thanks a lot for sharing!

  35. blowjob
    | Reply

    Losing a tooth is way greater than a hole between your other teeth.
    It is a dent in your confidence and inhibits
    your potential to enjoy the foods you love. There’s no reason it is best to have to
    live with no tooth, and that’s why we wish to help. Today, we want to
    better your understanding concerning the price of dental implants
    in Downey, California. Finding the precise value for dental
    implants may be an uphill struggle. People think dental implants are costly as a result of one dentist
    decides to charge $9,000 for a single dental implant in Beverly Hills.

    However, that doesn’t outline the price of all dental
    implants in Downey. Here in Downey, dental implants
    are as little as $1,495 per dental implant.
    Dental implants are the closest to bringing again your natural teeth,
    think of them as your third set of teeth. Don’t let high
    cost assumptions deter you from getting the answer you need.

  44. Luella Perez
    | Reply

    thank you to come back addressing known pitfalls confronted throughout renovations principally budgeting constraints which characteristically derail projects early-on—it serves as advantageous courses realized—you’ll uncover maintenance guides collected Savvy Fox Buyers Agent

  46. buildingrating.com
    | Reply

    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.

  48. roof flashing repair
    | Reply

    I’ve bwen thinking about replacing my roof foor a whilke
    now. This blog reaally heloped me understand the difference
    between roo repairs and replacements. I’ll definitely be
    conntacting a professional to get an assessment soon!
    Thhis is really helpful. I didn’t realize how much the condition of your roof can affect
    your home’s overall efficiency. I’ve been having some issues with leaks, so
    I think it’s time to consider repairs or a full replacement.
    I’ll definitely keeep these tips in mind!
    I recently had to replace my roof, and I can say from experience that it makes a huge difference.
    It definitel added value to myy home and saved mee from
    dealing with constant repairs. I recommemd gettijng a professional opinion if you’re unsure about your roof’s condition.
    I had no idea that roof maintenance was so important!
    It’s definitely something I’ll pay more attention to moving forward.
    Thanks for the valpuable information!
    It’s been really helpfuul to read this blog to geet a better undrstanding of my options.

    I’ll be scheduling a roof inspection to see if repairs orr a replacement is
    the best route. Great advice!
    I’ve been wondering if it’s time for a new roof or if I can get away with
    some repairs. This article gave me some good insight on what to look for.
    I think I’ll be getting an expert’s opinion soon.
    I’m currently deciding whether to repakr my roof or replace it completely.
    I appreciate the advice on getting an inspection before making a final
    decision.
    I’ve been putting off getting my roof fixed for too long.

    This article has motivated me to schedule an appointment.

    Thanks for the helpful information!
    Has anyone else faced the dilemma of roof redpairs versus replacement?
    Thhis post made me rralize how important it is to consult a roofing expert before making a decision.
    I always thought roof repairs were just about fixing leaks.
    I’ll be booking an inspection to figure out what I need.
    Thanks for the clarity!
    After reading this, I understand that a small issue could lead
    to much biggdr problems. I’ll definitely be getting my roof checked
    soon. Great advice here!
    This is exactly what I needed to hear! The tips here helped me understand how
    to make a more informed decision. Thanks for sharing this valuable info.

    It’s good to know that a 20-year-old roof is probgably ready for a replacement.
    I’ll keep that in mind as I move forward with
    my roof issues.
    I hadd a roof replacement done last year, and I can’t stress enough how much better iit feels.
    If anyyone 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 to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace
    a roof. I’ll definitely follow your advice and have my 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.
    I’ve been thinking about getting a new roof foor
    a while, but wasn’t sure if it was worth the cost.

    Thanks for the helpful information—I think it’s time for
    an upgrade.
    My roof is showing signs of age, andd now I realize how important it is to take care of
    it. I’ll definitely follow up ith a roof inspection to see what’s needed.

    I’ve had some roofing issues for a while but wasn’t sure whether to replace or just repair.
    This blog hass really opened my eyes to the importance of getting a professional inspection. I think I’ll reach out to get some expert advice.

    I always thought a roof replacement would be a huge hassle.
    I’ll definitely keep this in mind when it’s time to replace mine.
    Thanks for the helpful breakdown!
    I’ve been putting offf roof repairs, but now I understand tha addressing small
    issues early can savbe a lot in the future. I’ll be contacting a roofing professional tto take a lopk at my roof.

    It’s amazing hoow much damage a small leak can cause if left unchecked.
    This post really hwlped mme understand whyy 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.Thnks for the insightful
    information!
    Great post! It’s gooid to kno that a new roof can not onlly prevent leaks but also boost
    my home’s value. I’m definitely consiidering my options
    now.

    Here is my website :: roof flashing repair

Leave a Reply

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