Why should you volunteer for mission activities?

I was searching for a way to serve God in a meaningful way. While I led a small-group meeting and found it beneficial, I still felt a longing to serve God in a deeper way. I have mentored men one-on-one. That too is rewarding, but still I felt unfulfilled in my service to God. I served in an important administrative position in my church and accomplished many beneficial things for the church. While this too had its rewards, I still lacked peace. However, when I went on my first mission trip to serve God, I finally found peace and purpose. God filled my heart with satisfaction. This is not to say that my service was always joyful, because it was not. My service to God required a lot of dedication and hard work. I had to sacrifice sleep, the comforts of my own home, and time with my family. At times, I felt lonely and at other times I felt frustration. However, all these small discomforts seemed like such a small price to pay for all the rewards I received.

First, I have deepened my relationship with and faith in God in such a way that would never have been obtained at home. I give God many thanks for giving me the opportunity to know Him better. Second, I was able to meet and receive love from people I would have never known otherwise. My mission experience helped me to experience another culture and develop meaningful friendships. Third, I learned the value of spending time with God. So many times, at home, I would choose an activity that brought me entertainment such as watching Netflix, exercising, social media, or visiting. I chose these things over prayer, Bible study, or meditation. However, with these distractions gone, I turned my attention to Jesus and found that my life felt more fulfilled. I felt God’s closeness. I felt His words speak to me as if He were speaking to me verbally. I gained clarity in my purpose for life. I deepened my Spiritual wisdom and knowledge, which has helped me walk with more faith and obedience. Most importantly, I have experienced God’s love more intimately. I believe mission work benefits the missionary more than the people receiving their aid. This is God’s grace that goes beyond words. It can only be understood through experience.

Why teach English to Chinese missionaries?

I am but one man and can only meet one person at a time. However, if I can help prepare fifteen people who desire to serve God and carry out His Great Commission, I have multiplied the potential of increasing God’s kingdom by fifteen-fold. I see great value and efficiency in my work for God. If you could buy one shirt or fifteen of the same shirts for the same price, which would you choose? The fifteen shirts have the most value. However, teaching Chinese missionaries versus other missionaries has an added benefit. Chinese missionaries have made it their mission to serve in the darkest and most dangerous places of the world. They are willing to go to places that other missionaries will not go. They are willing to preach the gospel in places where the majority of people have never heard it before. I believe this brings even more value to my English teaching efforts. I strongly encourage you to prayerfully consider the opportunity of serving God as an English missionary teacher to the Chinese.

Written by a volunteer who reached out to help us teach English

If you have a desire to stretch your boundaries and leave your comfort zone, and would like to help us by teaching English, contact Belinda at Fieldoperator@backtojerusalem.com