Lindsay Blake

So, you’ve finally signed up for that long-awaited mission trip. The excitement is palpable, and you’re already dreaming of the adventures that await you in far-off lands. But hold on just a minute! Before you start mentally packing your suitcase with visions of sandy beaches and tantalizing cuisine, let’s talk about something important: why a mission trip is not a vacation.

Sure, it might sound tempting to think of your upcoming journey as a chance to unwind and explore new places, but let’s remember the true purpose behind embarking on a mission trip. It’s not just about sightseeing and soaking up the sun—it’s about co-laboring with God to extend his Kingdom by proclaiming, embodying, and demonstrating the sovereign kingship of Jesus Christ.

Now, don’t get us wrong. We are not saying that a mission trip can’t be enjoyable or that you won’t have memorable experiences along the way. Quite the contrary! In fact, some of the most rewarding and fulfilling moments of your life may very well happen during your time serving abroad. But it’s essential to keep in mind that the focus should always remain on the mission at hand.

So, why exactly is a mission trip not a vacation? Let’s break it down:

God’s Call to Serve: Throughout the Bible, we are called to serve others selflessly. In Matthew 25:40, Jesus tells us, “Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.” Our mission trips are opportunities to heed this call and make a tangible difference in the lives of those less fortunate

The Power of Sacrifice: Philippians 2:4 reminds us to “look not only to [our] own interests but also to the interests of others.” While vacations often revolve around indulging in our own desires and pleasures, mission trips require us to step out of our comfort zones and sacrifice our time, resources, and sometimes even our own comforts for the sake of others.

Spreading the Gospel: Mark 16:15 instructs us to “go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.” Our mission trips are opportunities to share the good news of Jesus Christ with those who may have never heard it before. It’s about shining the light of God’s love in dark places and offering hope to the hopeless.

Building Kingdom Relationships: On a mission trip, you have the chance to forge meaningful connections with people from different cultures and backgrounds. It’s about building bridges, fostering understanding, and ultimately, advancing God’s kingdom here on earth.

So, as you prepare for your mission trip, let’s shift our perspective from viewing it as a vacation to seeing it as a divine assignment—a sacred opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus in a hurting world. Sure, there may be challenges along the way, and it won’t always be smooth sailing. But remember, God equips those He calls, and with His guidance and strength, you can make an incredible impact wherever you go. 

So, pack your bags, but pack them with a heart full of love, a spirit of humility, and a willingness to serve. And when you return home, may your memories be not just of the sights you saw or the adventures you had, but of the lives you touched and the souls you helped lead to Christ.

Bon voyage, my friend! Your mission awaits.