I love giving gifts. For my mom, my husband, my friends and the kids in my life.\u00a0 There is nothing like choosing the most perfect thing, the thing they aren\u2019t even expecting but will absolutely love.\u00a0 And then the expression in their eyes and the look on their face when they open the gift is, as they say, priceless.\u00a0 That sweet moment of gift-giving victory compels me toward other gift giving opportunities for these loved ones.<\/p>\n
There are many moments in mission experiences that offer this same sweet reward.\u00a0 Most of us know this from being on a mission trip, or part of a local effort, that gave to others in need.\u00a0 These gifts may have been necessary items for life such as food, water, school supplies or even a building or painted wall.\u00a0 Or maybe it was actual gifts like toys, new t-shirts, stickers or candy.\u00a0 These gifts bring smiles to both the giver and the gifted alike.\u00a0 And after such events we are compelled to engage in similar mission experiences again.<\/p>\n
But these high moments, as sweet as they are, are not sustaining or even life changing.\u00a0 Relationships that have an impact on someone\u2019s life are in for the long-haul.\u00a0 They require a day-in, day-out commitment that is sometimes messy, sometimes frustrating and all too often mundane.\u00a0 These relationships are: mentors who teach job skills like sewing or bicycle repair, teachers who show up every morning to teach reading and math or a pastor who opens the doors of the church every day to make community development possible.\u00a0 It takes a long time to empower people with education and life-supporting job skills. But the results last longer than a snap-shot moment of smiles and hugs.<\/p>\n
When I\u2019m honest, I want my friends and loved ones to have so much more than the occasional gift that I give.\u00a0 I want them to have a full life, a job, healthy relationships and a deep and growing faith.\u00a0 Doesn\u2019t it make sense then that the mission experiences we engage and support promote the abundant life that Jesus offers?\u00a0 Day in, day out, everyday.<\/p>\n
–By Kim Crawford, Covenant World Mission<\/p>\n