In case you have wondered about the benefits of sending (or better yet, taking) your teen on a short-term mission trip, let me encourage you.
My parents took me to a Romanian Evangelistic Family Camp, and it was a perfect platform for growing my faith, stepping out with courage, and practicing perseverance. God even used pre-trip experiences and trials to prepare me for ministry in Romania. Hours before boarding the plane, I returned from an Iowa youth camp, spiritually blessed and healed but physically tired and ill. By the time we arrived at the airport, I nearly bailed because I was miserably sick. Thankfully, I chose to persevere, and God comforted me throughout the trip with several special seats so I could recline and rest.
When we reached Romania, I slept for two days straight, but when camp began, I could fully participate in all the activities. Later, I was surprised and nervous when I was asked to give my testimony at the evening meeting. To prepare for camp, I had already written my testimony, but it never seemed quite finished. Amazingly, the healing that God did in my heart at the Iowa camp gave me just what I needed to complete it. A Romanian teen agreed to interpret for me, so we stepped out in courage, both new to our respective tasks. When I finished, a Romanian girl approached me in tears, expressing that she could identify with my struggles, and that I gave her encouragement and hope. This was a huge faith-builder for me. I didn’t imagine that my messy journey and healing could profoundly touch another. Even as a youth, my contribution in Romania was valuable and changed me.
After returning, I stepped out of my normal comfort zone and boldly shared my experiences. If you or your teen are interested in a short-term trip, I highly encourage you to make it a reality. It might be “short” in time, but it is “long” in steps toward growth of faith, courage, and character. ~by Faith Zupke, 16-year-old daughter of IM staff Stephen and Ann Zupke
