Long term results from Short term missions trips--A North American perspective

As I mentioned in the previous post, by taking the time to trace God's handiwork through short term missions trips, Henri Doren (my co-leader) we have discovered some long lasting fruit resulting from this brief forays into Honduras. (the pic to the left is from a reunion of past work team members this past Thanksgiving in Pittsburgh)

• Derek: "We helped organize the trip from the State's side, then brought them to Honduras. This served as a wonderful preparation for our current missionary service in China where we have served for the past 7 1/2 years. It was good to see a missionary like Lisa on the field who could serve as an example to us."
• Holly: "Someone backed out at the last minute at giving their testimony and I reluctantly took their place. Speaking in public was one of my worst fears (still is) BUT, from that point on I was to share my testimony to every single taxi driver in China where we have served, together with my husband Derek, for the last 7 1/2 years. I am grateful for the training ground that Honduras was for our current ministry in China. I appreciate Lisa's timely advice and encouragement over the years."
  
• Diane: "When in Honduras I had an opportunity to interact with children during Vacation Bible School at a refugee camp for victims of Hurricane Mitch. This time sparked a connection with children that set me on a course upon my return to go to college to become an elementary school teacher. God is awesome!"
• Ann: "I have grown in sensitivity to intercultural "spiritual gifts" which we can draw out from one another, learn from one another and pass on to others."
• Teresa: "The hardships I experienced on these trips have enabled me to endure challenges in my job like when my co-workers are disgruntled with me, giving me a hard time because I love my job, excel at it, and am joyful. I know God is in control."
• Steve: "In 1999 I went to Honduras with my parents and sister. As a result, it had a lasting impact by deepening my relationships within my family."
• Corina: "I have felt affirmation for the gifts God has given me.
• " It's not wrong, it's different, we were taught to say. God has broadened my worldview to include more of the world --to accept other cultures, other points of view, and to have more grace."
• "It helps me to remember that God is bigger than my culture and what I can immediately see. It is eye opening and helps me keep perspective on who we are in Christ." (the picture to the right shows the work team members together with the Honduran volunteers cooling off in the creek at Fountain of Life Camp.)
  
• "Since going on several trips, I now have greater confidence in leading groups and I have found my niche for service in my church and beyond.

What a privilege that God has chosen us to play a small part in His overall plan for bringing signs of His Kingdom here on earth!

Long-term results from Short Term Missions Trips- A Honduran perspective

Sometimes missions trips are rightly accused of focusing on the short-term impact at the expense of the long term results. However, I would counter by saying: Not if they are done rightly! Which if done with the caliber of leaders like Henrietta Doren, from North Way Christian Community, they do indeed have long-term results on both sides of the borders! (in the photo on the right, Corina Hinchberger is helping out with the crafts during our family outreach day)

Here are some of the results gleaned from personal interviews I held with several of the Hondurans who participated in this past summer's adventure.

• Melvin: After having spent the week with the team from Pittsburgh and CCI AL/Honduras gave me a good idea of how to do camps, so I did one this fall which was sponsered by a Dutch organization using the International Extreme Camp here in Honduras . Here is what one of my campers said: I smoked one joint of marijuana at camp the first day. But, now, I don't need it. I am loved. I don't want to leave!

• Benjamin: After we got back from visiting the garbage dump I started collecting clothing and money from my college friends to deliever to the garbage dump each week together with my youth group. I have even sent emails thanking my non-Christian college friends for their donations!
• Blanca: I want to go back to the school we visited by the garbage dump and find out what their real needs are because I am planning on getting my youth group to help out Pastor Joeny with the children at the school.
  
• Carlos: It was the first time I ever entertained foreigners in my home and we were positively impacted by this experience. The door is now open for others to follow.
• Norma Canales: Although I didn't host a team this past year in 2008, I have for the previous 9 years and each family or pair of North Americans that we hosted in our small humble home left an imprint on our childrens' lives--they are now grown men--but they cherish the memories created.
• Kenia: This experience was like a car wash for me--God got rid of so many of my fears and inhibitions. For instance, it was my first time working shoulder to shoulder with foreigners. My worldview has opened as a result. (she is pictured below with her family)
  

Conclusion from the entire group: It has become ever so clear that hosting short term missions teams awakens in us a greater desire, interest and actual outreach to the social needs of our fellow Hondurans, something we can become blind to. We can give from our means too!

Victor's first gymnastic competition

What a joy it is to experience your child's successes (and failures)! Victor is growing up into a healthy, handsome young boy and his sister, Valerie, is his biggest fan! (check out these pictures!)