How do I make the most of my short-term experience?
Posted on 21 June 2023 by Global Connections
There are serious issues involved when relatively rich and inexperienced people want to ‘make a difference’ in situations which are usually far more complex and nuanced than they realise. Equally, this should not stop us from doing so – it should just push us to do things better.
Our desire to make a difference can lead us to unrealistic expectations of what we can achieve, and cause us to see mission just as an activity or an event.
This article is designed to guide you through some of these issues, and help you have realistic expectations of what being involved in short-term mission overseas means.
If there is one thing I could tell short-term missionaries, it would be this: focus less on "helping," and more on cross-cultural exchange, and becoming friends.
What can I realistically achieve during a short term mission experience?
The desire to make a worthwhile and lasting difference is usually high among the priorities of those involved in short-term mission – wherever they are going. However, if we aren’t careful this can lead us to unrealistic expectations, and lead to us seeing short-term mission just as an activity or an event.
Short-term mission cannot replace the involvement of those who share their lives in long-term committed relationships, but it can be of immense value if done hand-in-hand with, and contributing to, a longer-term vision. Short-termers often comment that they gain more from their experiences than they’ve been able to give.
So here are a few hints and tips as you consider this question:
- Keep your focus on God and His purposes and on what He is doing, rather than on how you might be benefitting personally or being changed.
- Whatever you do, do it with a heart to honour God and serve others.
- Take on board any advice given to you by your chosen organisation and your sending church.
- Listen and learn from those you are 'working with' - and realise that you will probably learn far more than you will give.
- Focus less on "helping" and more on building relationships and becoming friends.
- And understand that your attitude and how you get involved in the short-term project may, in fact, matter more than what you do.
How will this experience affect the rest of my life?
Many people get involved in short-term mission expecting to make an impact, and are surprised to discover that they have been impacted personally to a much larger extent. So, be prepared to be changed.
Most agencies run debriefing programmes which are set up to help you process the experiences you’ve had and to offer practical advice once you’ve returned home. Be open to what God wants to teach you and ask your church leaders for their prayerful input as you process your experience on your return.
Who knows where it all might lead?
At the very least, continue to remain involved in at least one of the following ways:
- Pray - commit yourself to praying for global mission and to raising the profile of prayer for mission in your church.
- Go - you might want to move on to become, for example, a team leader for projects with the agency with whom you had your first experience, or to seek further information or training to prepare for longer term service.
- Welcome - you don't have to go to the other side of the world to reach people from different nations, many come to the UK to study or work. You can share the good news of Jesus right here in the UK simply by being welcoming.
- Send and support mission partners - as well as prayer and financial support there are other ways of supporting which can be equally vital. Just being in touch, being a friend, replying to prayer letters and remembering birthdays can be a huge encouragement. At times mission partners will need pastoral care, and practical support is often needed just before going, during 'home assignments' and on returning to the UK. And if you can go for a visit this can often be a highlight for them (and you!) and enable you to see and experience their life and ministry.
- Give - giving financially is just one way of being involved in God's work across the world. Consider one-off gifts, monthly support, or support for needs and other expenses.
"The bottom line is that we need to think about short-term mission from a much broader perspective. It is not enough to see it simply as an opportunity for western young people to contribute or as a vehicle to recruit long-term mission workers. The impact on the receiving community must be at the top of our priorities..."
How do I go about trying to raise funds?
A good place to start is to tell people about your plans. If you don't talk about it, then others may miss out on the opportunity to bless you.
Then consider prayer, personal sacrifice and partnership:
Prayer
We have a great provider and should never underestimate his generosity. Many people over the years have been amazed to see how the funds have come in, because they’ve prayed and had others praying with them.
Personal sacrifice
This will, and should, cost you personally. Do you have any savings? Can you make some sacrifices to help raise the money you will need?
Partnership
Involve your church, invite friends and family to partner with you, contact trusts or local businesses, and think creatively about sponsored events. Whatever route you choose, you will need a support team of prayers and givers behind you.
Fundraising resources and training
'Funding the Family Business' is designed for individuals and organisations raising ministry support - it includes practical exercises along with Biblical principles and advice on support-raising obstacles.
Stewardship offers support-raising training for individuals.
Are there other resources or guidance you would like to see added to our website? Let us know.
