"For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written: How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news?” (Romans 10:13-15)
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:18-20)
Throughout the Bible, you will see a command from God to share the good news of the Gospel with the world. Yes, that can be done as you go about life where you currently are as there are coworkers, friends, family, and even strangers that you come into contact with every day that need to hear the good news of Christ. There are also countless ways for you to get involved and serve at your local church and community. There is no denying the fact that these actions honor God and that you are taking responsibility for your faith.
With that being said, there are countless people groups that have never heard the Gospel or do not have a saving relationship with God. These are people that aren’t in your community. They are overseas, and even sometimes, just a few states away. Though the distance may seem daunting, looking at these two verses should instill a sense of urgency that overcomes the miles. Mission trips are a great way to fulfill God’s command to us. It is also a good chance for children to actively practice their faith by sharing it with others on these trips.
During the school year, children realistically can’t do this. They have classes and other responsibilities that shouldn’t be neglected. That is why the summer is the perfect time to go on these mission trips. Most churches will have sign ups and info sessions throughout the year. Once you sign up for one, some churches will even have training sessions in order to best equip people for whatever specific ministry they will be doing. Whatever it is, come eager to learn and ready to step out of your comfort zone.
The purpose of mission trips has nothing to do with yourself. It has everything to do with obeying and honoring God with your actions. Yes, you do grow in your own walk with Christ, but that should not be the sole reason you go on a mission trip. There should be a yearning in your heart to bring the Gospel to places that so desperately need it and to bring hope to situations that seem so hopeless. Going on a mission trip shouldn’t be something that someone has to twist your arm into doing. You should want it, and when you want it, God will be honored no matter what happens. You just have to take that first step. When you do, you will have the chance to impact someone’s life for all of eternity. In a society where most people would consider mission trips overly invasive and just for show, remember that for Christians there is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for a friend (John 15:13). Jesus did that for us, and it is ultimately our responsibility to bring this good news to those around us as well as those far distances away who may have never heard this news before. ■
