3 Jul 2017

Short term missions are not the race

by | posted in: Missions | 232,184

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.

232184 Responses

  3. press release. release
    | Reply

    Another blistering night here, the kind where the air itself feels like it’s placing bets against you.
    I found myself logged into casino again. It’s usually my after-dark refuge when the heat
    finally subsides.

    Honestly, lately, the wins have been like finding water in the
    desert. My balance is looking precariously small, and I’m starting to sweat more about the wife finding out
    than the actual games. She’s been giving me that look, you know?

    My so-called ‘buddy’ – the one who’s always lurking around,
    practically looking over my shoulder – he’s always on here too.
    And the infuriating thing? He’s constantly on a lucky
    streak. Slots like slot_game_1 and slot_game_2, even that crazy aviator_game where the
    plane leaves you empty-handed. He even brags about his wins on slot_game_3 and slot_game_4.

    It’s like this place is has a soft spot for him. Makes you wonder, doesn’t it?

    Especially with the way he looks at my wife when she’s not looking.
    Makes a man uneasy, this heat does.

    Despite all that, and maybe it’s just stubbornness, I still find myself drawn to favorite_slot_game.
    There’s something about those sweet symbols that keeps me
    clicking, even when the numbers aren’t falling my way.

    Maybe tonight will be different. Maybe the desert gods will finally throw
    me a bone. Or maybe my wife will just throw me out. Either way, here I am, spinning again at casino.

    Pros:
    Available 24/7 (perfect for my nocturnal habits)
    Wide variety of games (even if some seem to favor certain people)
    They do have favorite_slot_game, which I genuinely enjoy

    Cons:
    My personal luck here has been terrible lately
    Seeing him win constantly is enough to make you quit
    Starting to seriously impact my real-life budget and relationships

    Overall: Undecided. It’s a handy option to pass the hot evenings,
    but my recent experiences and observations are making me seriously question if it’s worth the risk.
    Especially with everything else going on.

  4. Alphabites
    | Reply

    Thanks for sharing your info. I truly appreciate
    your efforts and I am waiting for your further write
    ups thank you once again.

  6. bokep hijab
    | Reply

    Every weekend i used to pay a quick visit this site, for the reason that i want enjoyment, for the reason that this this
    site conations actually pleasant funny material too.

  9. CPA marketing
    | Reply

    Wonderful web site. Lots of useful info here. I’m sending
    it to a few buddies ans also sharing in delicious.
    And certainly, thanks on your effort!

  11. illegal death video
    | Reply

    Write more, thats all I have to say. Literally, it seems as
    though you relied on the video to make your point.

    You obviously know what youre talking about, why throw away your intelligence on just posting videos to your weblog when you could
    be giving us something informative to read?

  13. cannabis
    | Reply

    Hi to every one, the contents existing at this web site are really awesome for people knowledge, well, keep
    up the nice work fellows.

  17. helpful hints
    | Reply

    Pretty nice post. I just stumbled upon your blog and wanted to say that I’ve truly
    enjoyed surfing around your blog posts. In any
    case I’ll be subscribing to your rss feed and I hope you write
    again soon!

    my website … helpful hints

  20. Kurt
    | Reply

    Great article! I’ve always bern curious about sustainable weight loss methods, and this
    post highlights so many helpcul strategies. Recently, I styarted focusing on balanced nutrition rather than fad diets, aand the results have
    been encouraging. Do you have any favorite tips for staying consistent with a healthy lifestyle?

  21. Online Betting
    | Reply

    I tһink this іs one of the mօst vital info for
    me. And i’m glad reading your article. Βut should remark on some gеneral tһings, The site style іѕ perfect,
    the articles іs reaⅼly gгeat : Ɗ. Ԍood job, cheers

    Ⅿｙ blog post … Online Betting

  22. helsinginkesäteatteri.fi
    | Reply

    My partner and I stumbled over here different website and thought I might check
    things out. I like what I see so now i am following you.
    Look forward to exploring your web page repeatedly.

  27. Workman Restoration
    | Reply

    Hi i am kavin, its my first occasion to commenting anyplace, when i read this post i thought
    i could also create comment due to this brilliant paragraph.

  28. bokep hijab
    | Reply

    I’ve learn a few excellent stuff here. Certainly price bookmarking for revisiting.
    I wonder how a lot effort you set to make the sort of great informative web site.

  31. innoskart.eu
    | Reply

    Hi there, this weekend is fastidious in favor of me, as this occasion i am reading this fantastic informative paragraph here at
    my home.

  32. ETH Olux
    | Reply

    Hi there superb website! Does running a blog similar to this take
    a lot of work? I have no knowledge of programming but I
    had been hoping to start my own blog in the near future.
    Anyway, should you have any suggestions or tips for new blog owners please share.
    I know this is off topic however I simply had to ask.
    Kudos!

  33. pressure washing
    | Reply

    Asking questions are really good thing if you are not understanding something entirely, however this article presents
    good understanding yet.

  34. garage doors Kansas City
    | Reply

    I’ve been browsing on-line greater than three hours nowadays, but
    I by no means discovered any attention-grabbing article like yours.
    It’s lovely price sufficient for me. In my opinion, if all website owners and bloggers
    made just right content material as you probably did, the web will probably be a lot more useful than ever before.

  35. alainlamassoure.eu
    | Reply

    Write more, thats all I have to say. Literally, it seems as though you relied on the video to make your point.
    You obviously know what youre talking about, why waste your intelligence
    on just posting videos to your site when you could be giving
    us something informative to read?

  37. bokep hijab
    | Reply

    Excellent goods from you, man. I’ve understand your stuff previous to and you’re
    just too excellent. I actually like what you have acquired here, certainly like what you are
    saying and the way in which you say it. You make it
    enjoyable and you still take care of to keep it sensible.
    I can not wait to read far more from you. This is really
    a tremendous website.

  38. prime biome gut health
    | Reply

    I’m now not certain where you are getting
    your information, however good topic. I must spend a while studying more or figuring out
    more. Thank you for great info I used to be searching for this information for my mission.

  39. Sana Escorts
    | Reply

    The most beautiful and sophisticated Islamabad Sana Escorts
    offer a premium experience for those seeking discreet and
    luxurious companionship. Whether you’re in town for business or pleasure, they provide the perfect company
    for an unforgettable evening.

  40. Kamagraeu
    | Reply

    Hello very nice web site!! Guy .. Excellent .. Superb ..
    I’ll bookmark your web site and take the feeds also?
    I am satisfied to find numerous helpful info right
    here within the publish, we want work out more
    strategies in this regard, thank you for sharing.
    . . . . .

  41. garage conversion santa clara county
    | Reply

    What i do not realize is actually how you’re not actually a lot more well-favored than you may
    be now. You’re very intelligent. You recognize thus considerably in the case of this topic, produced me in my opinion believe it from numerous numerous angles.
    Its like men and women are not fascinated unless it’s one thing to accomplish
    with Lady gaga! Your individual stuffs great. Always handle it
    up!

  43. bokep hijab
    | Reply

    Magnificent website. Lots of useful information here.

    I am sending it to some pals ans additionally sharing in delicious.
    And certainly, thanks for your effort!

  44. helsinginkesäteatteri.fi
    | Reply

    This is really interesting, You’re an excessively skilled blogger.
    I’ve joined your rss feed and look ahead to seeking extra
    of your fantastic post. Also, I’ve shared
    your site in my social networks

  45. Kamagraeu
    | Reply

    I read this paragraph completely regarding the difference of newest and preceding technologies, it’s amazing article.

  46. caluanie muelear oxidize price in bangladesh
    | Reply

    Howdy, I do think your web site might be having browser compatibility
    issues. Whenever I look at your web site in Safari, it looks fine however when opening in I.E., it’s got some overlapping issues.
    I simply wanted to give you a quick heads up! Aside
    from that, great website!

  47. corporate firm singapore
    | Reply

    Excellent article. Keep writing such kind of
    info on your blog. Im really impressed by it.
    Hey there, You have performed a great job. I will certainly digg it and in my opinion recommend to my friends.
    I am sure they’ll be benefited from this site.

  48. web umkm
    | Reply

    I’m pretty pleased to find this website. I need to to thank
    you for ones time just for this wonderful read!!
    I definitely appreciated every bit of it and i also have
    you saved to fav to look at new things in your website.

  50. see real cam action
    | Reply

    Tremendous issues here. I’m very satisfied to peer
    your post. Thank you a lot and I am taking a look forward to
    touch you. Will you kindly drop me a e-mail?

Leave a Reply

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