But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. -Acts 1:8

My friends,

As the daughter of Romanian immigrants who have been called to missions in their native country, I have been witness to God’s power in ways that I could not have imagined. It has been both an honor and a privilege that I have had the opportunity to participate in short-term mission trips to Romania and Ukraine many times since I was a young child. I started as a simple observer, but quickly became a participant, and now as a leader I see over and over again the life-long impact that missions trips have on team members. It is an experience that I would recommend to every follower of Christ.

Short-term mission trips can involve so many different types of ministry. When we plan trips, we find the gifts that God has given each team member, and find ways to bless the missionaries using those gifts. Are you a teacher? You can teach. Are you handy? You can build. Are you an encourager? You can visit those in need. Are you a child? You can show love to other children. Are you unsure what your gifts are? God will use the trip to reveal your gifts to you!

Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. -1 Peter 4:10

Each time a short-term mission team works with our missionaries, they experience tremendous joy. The nationals pour their souls into their mission work, so our teams replenish their souls through our love, support, and encouragement. In return, we gain life-changing experiences that will grow our own relationship with Christ tenfold.

I encourage you all to pray and see if God is calling you to go on a short-term mission trip this year. No experience required!