The last day of service, when on mission, is met by all the participants with very mixed emotions. While everyone is happy to be heading home to loved ones, we also want to hold onto the fellowship and community that we have all been a part of over the past week.
When we met tonight, we were simply asked to answer one question: In a word, sentence, or longer, how would you describe your week on mission, or what did you take away from it?
Mary: "I loved getting to know everyone and the things about them that make them smile. I also valued our time bonding with the different Mission participants."
Rob: "I was impressed by the crew leaders. Their demeanor, openness to suggestions, and calm approach to the job, along with their ability to pass on their knowledge to even those with no experience, impressed me. We were sent out on a mission to do Christ's work."
Lucas: "I appreciated the break from the everyday stress and being able to focus on being present and part of a group of people working for Christ. It was wonderful to experience being a participant and being part of the group, not necessarily being the leader."
Judy: "I can't remember the last time she spent this time with people who are all about love. What the work was secondary to being with the people."
Isaac: "I felt a sense of community. Everyone was willing to help others with whatever they needed."
Michaela: "I felt like I learned a lot; people were patient with her as she learned. Everyone was really nice."
Theresa: " Fulfilled. It was great to get away to a slower pace. The people I worked with were amazing to be with and worked so well together."
Chris: "I was very excited to join this group. I call them my new mission family and will cherish the week's memories."
Beth: "Gratitude—It was so wonderful to be a part of a group where we all felt comfortable sharing about our faith openly. It is not always comfortable to do that. I am grateful for being a part of this week and this group."
Doug: "People – It is not about the job but the people; that's why it works. This mission was a very spiritual experience for me. I love everyone here, and I mean that. It is all about the people."
David: "Humbled. I am humbled by this opportunity and being part of this group."
Joe: Fulfillment: "I feel fulfilled. Before I went on this trip, friends asked me why I was going; I told them I didn't know … Now I do."
Karin: "Physically drained, spiritually filled. I appreciated starting the day with prayer and spending time together. We are just getting to know each other, and it's time to go home; I would love more time to get to know everyone better."
Larry: "Refreshed and nourished spiritually, mentally and physically. Spiritually, it is done by being focused on the work of Christ. Mentally, I learned a lot about the culture and the people here in South Eastern Kentucky. I have also learned some great construction tips. Physically, the meals and food were spectacular. I am also physically tired but joy-filled because I'm tired from work serving the needs of others."
James: Refreshed, renewed, and Blessed.
Tomorrow, we all head our separate ways, but as Sr. Debbie always told us, "Just because the Mission trip is over, your mission is NOT; that is just beginning. We are asked to live the lessons we learned and to show the world God's love through our actions and lives."
Live your Mission!
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