This is probably the most common question that arises as you prepare to leave home. Typical short term mission trips begin with a task that they plan, prepare for and implement when they arrive at their destination. This is a very "western" way of thinking that tends to bring the senders' agenda to another place. This does provide measurable goals and an ability to assess success quickly. One difficulty with this strategy is that it makes it difficult to incorporate the strengths of team members. That said, our trip will not be typical.
We are preparing to spend about 2 weeks building relationships, not churches or houses or schools. Relationships take time and are much less "measurable", but are key components to successfully encouraging and supporting those we go to serve. We each will bring strengths and weaknesses as we step out of our comfort zones and into another culture. We will serve the orphaned, the lonely, the confused, the student, the teacher, the parent, and the pastor, just to name a few. One thing you can count on is that you will see God, and yourself, in new and exciting ways.
