A Mission Trip leader shares his thoughts…

In evaluating our recent trip to Puerto Peñasco, Sonora, Mexico, some thoughts have gone through my mind as to why we go on the Amor Mission Trip anyway.

My 16 year old son, who plays football, brought home his helmet to adjust. On the back of the helmet I noticed a warning label which included some intense cautions. “Keep your head up–Don’t spear with this helmet…failure to follow these rules can result in severe neck injury, paralysis, brain trauma or fatal brain injury.” These warnings were followed by a capitalized statement that said: “IF YOU WANT TO AVOID THESE RISKS, DO NOT ENGAGE IN THE GAME OF FOOTBALL.”

Likewise, there are risks involved in a mission trip to Mexico. But weighing the risks against the benefits of building God’s Kingdom keeps me wanting to do more. I understand the dynamics of working with the parents of students and I must honor their wishes when it comes to caring for their children. The safety of our students is priority. Challenging our students and teaching Christ’s mandate to be witnesses around the world requires constant tension.

This year, the violence continued to raise major unease in Juarez. Our parents expressed their concern for safety issues. In discussion with Amor, they opened up the opportunity to go to Puerto Peñasco. Most of our parents were excited about the opportunity and felt comfortable with the change. The change of location proved to be an awesome opportunity to serve our neighbors. The poverty issues were much the same. Unemployment at 70% as the tourism based economy was hit hard by the travel warnings, Puerto Peñasco is in desperate need of the church’s help. We can be tools of His Kingdom assisting the local church to meet the ever present needs surrounding them.

Amor is making a major impact on this city through the local church – and the community is eager to be involved also. Ministry opportunities are plentiful in this city. We were able to visit a couple of the local church ministries including a free health clinic and a radio station. Other ministries include food pantries, clothing banks, children’s programs, etc. We wish we could have gotten more involved in them, but time did not permit on this trip.

Yes, there are risks involved! But at no time did I even feel any danger while on this trip. The border crossing was uneventful. The Church and the community welcomed us with open arms. It was hot! (That may be a slight understatement!) We worked from 6-12 in the mornings and just a couple hours in the evenings to complete the houses in plenty of time. Some did get sick with the flu (we brought along with us) and the heat was a challenge. Along with this, the usual smashed thumbs, minor cuts, blisters, sunburns and bruises persisted.

My point: IF YOU WANT TO AVOID THESE RISKS, STAY HOME! “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord!”

Steve