Mission Trip Checkup: A Prescription for Spiritual HealthExemple

Be a Willing Vessel We have a warehouse full of medicines, vitamins, and medical supplies, but one item our non-profit offers has absolutely nothing in it. And yet, it’s in high demand. What is it? Empty containers. These bottles and jars are invaluable to medical teams for measuring, transporting, storing, and distributing much-needed medicines. As believers, we are containers—or “jars of clay,” as some translations say. The container is not the precious cargo, no matter what material it’s made out of. Rather, it’s what is in us that is priceless because it’s the very power and love of God! “This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God’s right hand in the heavenly realms” (Ephesians 1:19-20 NLT). We get to pour out what has been poured in! As a unique vessel, you carry Christ and His power within you. Wherever you go, you have the capacity to distribute this gift. How will you carry the gospel? Will you generously ladle out the grace and hope you have in you? Practical considerations: * Think of the mission field as a place without borders. That way, whether you’re home or abroad, giving from Christ’s supply within you will be a regular practice. * When plans change on your mission trip—and they likely will—look at it as an opportunity to be a willing vessel of grace. * Before, during, and after your mission, stay filled with regular, quality time with God, the Word, and believers. Vessels can empty faster than they are filled.