Thoughts from this summer...

Abe Stratton (a friend of mine from the BritTeam this summer) asked me a few questions about the mission team we went on together this summer. I thought that some of you may be considering going on a team this summer and would like to see how the Lord can use it in your life. I hope my answers to his questions may help you in your decision making.

1. What was the greatest lesson that you learned on your mission trip?
• Responsibility; my place as a "cog" in the machine of the team (primarily what happens when I fail).
2. Why should a college student go on a mission trip? What is the need?


• Mission teams are an opportunity to break out of your comfort zone, to live for others, and to find your weaknesses and strengths.


• The needs are great both in the world and in our own lives. A mission trip gives one an opportunity to be a part of improving both.
3. What is the greatest benefit that you see any college student will have from a mission trip?


• Sanctification. Being on "the field" seems to help focus ones attention on the state of their heart and mind in relation to Christ's claim on our lives.
4. Are the results worth the cost?


• Monetarily, there is no comparison. The benefits are eternal and far exceed any amount of cash that could be paid.
5. What is the greatest benefit to a missionary on the field to have a visiting student(s)?


• New exuberance, new life, new hopes, and new dreams. Students can bring increased excitement about the work, and the missionaries often become inspired by seeing again the enthusiasm they may have lost over the years of continual service.
6. How does a mission trip benefit a student who is not sure of God's will for his life? OR How would it benefit a student who is planning to do something outside of missions? (business, law enforcement, etc.)


• We can all be sure of God's will for our life, in that He has written 66 books about what He expects from us. As far as what we are to do with our majors and future planning, the mission team can help any one in any major focus their talents, gifts, interests, and abilities on how Christ can use them for the Church.