Volunteering
Ten short termer's we don't want!
Many years ago, George Verwer (founder of Operation Mobilisation) wrote this helpful article on 10 short termers that are not needed on the mission field. Please give it careful consideration before sending in your application.
Having been involved for 50 years with both short and long-term mission has given me some very strong convictions about who should go and who should not go. Here are ten short termers who really should stay at home.
Mr Selfish - the person who mainly cares about themselves and how much they can get out of the trip.
Mr Tourist - the person who just wants to see the sights and hear the sounds. Not interested in hard work, serving or presenting the Gospel.
Mr Lazy - they will have many reasons each day as to why they cannot get out into the work.
Mr Big-Spender - they bring a lot of money/travellers checks and want to spend much of their time shopping.
Mr Insensitive - people who push their own country or culture and are insensitive to other people's culture. They often leave behind a very bad testimony.
Mr Critical - These people see everything that is wrong in the church and country, even among their co-workers. It is contrary to the basic message of I Cor. 13.
Mr Unteachable - they are often very prejudiced and stubborn and bring hurt and confusion.
Mr Prayerless - to me, it is unthinkable to have prayerless people in ministry or service. We are in spiritual warfare, and we must use the weapons that God has told and given us to use.
Mr Addicted - people, especially with sexual addictions, should not go. They can so quickly bring huge offense and even scandal. People with alcohol and other drug addictions need to get that sorted out at home.
Mr Proud - Pride is such a deadly sin and often leads to division and broken relationships. People with heavy national pride easily insult and hurt the very people you are trying to serve.
Yes, short-term mission is a serious ministry and must be done in a way that will honour God and bless the people we serve.