Missions- it's different than you think

Spoiler Alert! Missions is different than you think. Some of the questions that I have been thinking about lately include the following:

1. What is the difference between long and short-term missions? (How do you- the reader- even define short and long term?)
2. What does the every day life of a missionary look like?
3. Is there really a difference between living an intentional life and living as a “missionary”?

 
Ok, I think 3 questions are enough to think about for now. Now, let’s discuss.

1. To me, short-term missions are an experience that ranges from a week to a couple of months. Long-term missions? I am not really sure how to define that. Maybe, being missional without an unforeseen end? (and in that case, shouldn’t we all be long term? Outside of a location placement perhaps.) Being in a two-year program, I don’t really consider myself to be in a short term or a long-term program. It is like this hybrid of sorts. The length of time is short enough to expose you to a different way of living, and it is long enough to change you forever. So what is the difference? From my experience, 3 things I have noticed in my life:
   1. I  can discover more of who I am with more time. Why am I the way I am? How is it that American culture has shaped me?
   2. In an unfamiliar setting, I can rediscover my personal relationship with Christ outside of my community.
   3. I can have more time for building friendships and investing in others.
2. The everyday life question. People are curious about the everyday life of a missionary. Well, I hate to break it to you, but every day life is this: normal. Wait, what? In my experience it has been normal. I mean, the new normal is getting used to being uncomfortable without knowing the language and the culture. But I have had to find a place to live, learn how to grocery shop, set up a bank account, join a gym, walk to class and go to work (my ministry placement.) But in doing all of those things I have made friendships and dealt with frustrations that bring me closer to the Lord. I have a better idea of how to be effective in the city and that is meaningful. 

3. I am not so sure there is a big difference between living missionaly and being a missionary. Anywhere I live I want to be missional, whether I am associated with an organization or not. You can be intentional and missional anywhere you live- and let that be empowering to you! Let there be no confusion between your job title and who God says you are. You are a child of God, living with the Holy Spirit inside of you- wherever you live. 

I am not so different from you. I am living my life in a different country just like I would back home. God is creative in the ways he will bring people into his Kingdom- all we need to do is say “yes” and watch him work- in us and through us. 
Until next time,
-Kelsey