Mission trips can change many lives

Many American youth spend one or more college breaks on a mission trip. Some cross oceans to save lives, some grab paint cans to head to the inner city, and some faithfully pick up where others left off following a natural disaster.

Christian youth bring energy, enthusiasm and compassion to projects they undertake in the name of the Lord. They go before they settle into routines or occupations that pay for healthcare, food, and other daily living expenses.

Years ago, while speaking on Jesus’ commission to share the gospel with those who have not yet heard, an African missionary told our church, “Jesus’ commission regarding missions gives you three options. The first is to give, to support missionaries. Maybe you think you really cannot afford to give, so consider the second option.  

“The second option is pray. Pray for missionaries and the people they are serving. However, maybe you think don’t know how to pray or you’ll forget to pray. So, now what?

“That’s okay,” he said, “because a Christian still has the third option. If you cannot give and you can’t pray, then you can go.”

A lot of us thought there would be another option, but he spoke truth.  

As we grow older, we tend to get comfortable focusing on options one and two.

Mission trips are a way for youth, and others, to keep all options open.  

Christian youth are generally willing to invest themselves in a “get dirty for God” vacation and return claiming those days are some of the most worthwhile days they have lived to date.

The reality is that “time” does not clear up hurricane debris, fill an orphan’s emotional tank, supply construction project manpower, transport survival supplies, or meet spiritual needs.

A group of youth can make a difference as a valuable asset, especially if they are sensitive toward the culture and can cheerfully follow instructions so real help is provided.

For Christian youth, mission trips are more than an adventure. They put their faith and Biblical knowledge to work for the benefit of strangers who cannot repay the kindnesses shown to them.

However, some argue, mission trips are expensive, and short. Those opposed suggest monies should go directly to the needy or to those serving long-term in foreign cultures.

Additionally, volunteers can unintentionally undo relationships long-termers have “finally” established in a foreign culture, or accidentally offend those they came to help by trampling on cultural practices.

A mission trip “done right” benefits both volunteers and the people they serve, even if “conversations” are mainly gestures, smiles, nods and waiting for an interpreter.

Most returning from mission trips will tell you of their greater sensitivity to the needs of others and deeper appreciation for conveniences others probably cannot even imagine.

A mission trip, like hard work, reduces whining.

Youth and adults I’ve known have spent days, even months, on a mission trip. Maybe someone, somewhere will claim their trip was a waste, but so far, I’ve not heard such complaints.  Mission trips, however, can become contagious.   

In 1999, Joel met our daughter in Belgium on her first mission trip. In 2001, another mission trip assignment put them both in Bulgaria.

Nine years ago this week, our family joined a mission trip to do construction projects in Mexico. Joel unexpectedly arrived, proposed, and they married by week’s end. Now as missionaries, mission trips are still part of their lives.

Youth, be forewarned. If “missions” gets in your blood, who knows how many lives change for the better? Maybe even your own.

Regardless, your days matter to the Lord.

Marge Warder is a freelance reporter and a columnist for the Red Oak Express. She can be contacted at mawarder@yahoo.com.