Five Mission Trips and No Passport Required

FIVE MISSION TRIPS AND NO PASSPORT NEEDED!

Mission trip opportunities are a great way to obey Jesus’ command found in Matthew 28:19: spread the gospel and make disciples of all nations, but what about fulfilling the Great Commission from home? It may not feel as exciting, and there’s no cool slideshow, but it’s just as worthwhile.

Here are some ideas to get you started.

NURSING HOME/ ELDER CARE MINISTRY

Leviticus 19:2 exhorts us to honor the aged. Have you checked out nursing homes lately? Does it look like we are obeying that command? Visiting nursing home residents can bring joy and stimulation on an otherwise dreary day. Before barging into people’s rooms you should talk to an activities director or home administrator. Start by visiting people from your church. Talk to your pastor about some ideas or contacts and expand from there.

Another way to honor the aged and minister to caretakers in the bargain is giving a needed break from the exhausting work of caring for elderly parents or disabled children. You can start by contacting a hospice agency. They often need volunteers to carry out needed home visits.

MEALS ON WHEELS

Romans 15:1, says we ought to help the weak. “Meals on Wheels” or similar services, need volunteers to deliver meals or help prepare food. Perhaps you can organize a ministry that provides desserts to the meal provider. I can assure you it will be much appreciated.

GIVE MOMS A BREAK

Psalm 4:8 tells us we all should spend time with the Lord. Moms of young children find this to be a daunting task. Offer to babysit for moms who need a break and/or spiritual refreshment. Check out a Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) ministry at a local church to get started.

FOSTER PARENTING

James 1:2 requires Christians to visit orphans and widows in their affliction. What better way to obey God than to care for children in need. Unfortunately, the demand for foster parents is exploding partly due to the crisis of opioid addictions.

Rewards:

The opportunity to impact the lives of children who may have never heard the name of Jesus.

Forming a lifelong connection with these children.

Adoption is sometimes possible, changing a child’s life forever.

Drawbacks:

Children come with serious emotional wounds due to neglect or abuse.

Often you are not seen as their knight in shining armor, but rather an interloper who disrupts their lives.

Before Becoming a Foster Parent:

Pray intensely and learn about this ministry before making a commitment.

Research options and choose an agency carefully.

Understand this is not a second income. The per diem is to cover the child’s care.

Consider your biological children’s safety and emotional well-being as you decide how fostering best fits your family dynamic.