Here I am, 30,000 feet in the air with God’s creation unfolding before my eyes, Canada, Europe, Africa-it is all awesome and a wonder to behold!

Why am I here? Why do I consider short-term missions so special?

I love to meet and share with fellow believers, to experience new cultures and traditions, travel to new and different lands and … I admit it, I love the food as well. I have been blessed with the time, health and energy to take part in these unique ministries and have come to really value this avenue of service to the Lord.

My journey began as a child when I first became aware of the “mission field” and the need of developing countries to receive financial and practical help from those who were wealthier. I was impressed with the presentations I heard from those who had returned from overseas service or who were on homeland furlough. I enjoyed hearing them tell their stories and especially admired their shiny white uniforms. I dreamed that someday I might have the opportunity to follow in their footsteps by serving God in those hot, tropical climates.

The Lord has taken me on a circuitous path to short-term missions opportunities. I began simply, close to home, in leadership and volunteer positions in my corps and community.

The opportunity for short-term work in the Caribbean for the past 13 winters has been a tremendous experience for me. And more recently, my participation in various mission trips sponsored by territorial women’s ministries has expanded my horizon of need and service.

As I participate in this distinctive ministry I am continually reminded of God’s care and protection. I am grateful for his provision not just for my salvation, but of practical needs such as food, water, shelter and friends to accompany me on my journey. I praise him for allowing me to share in these multiple wonders of his grace.

Out of a mountain of journal entries, thousands of photos and tons of memories, here are a few highlights.

Below me more of God’s incredible creation unfolds. Browns, greys and muted greens, a wandering river cutting through-a living map. This is really Africa, growing brighter as we fly toward the sunrise!

From the grid pattern of Toronto’s high-rise buildings and paved highways to the cluster of mud and thatched huts that dot the Liberian countryside, along with the vegetation, rivers and sandy ocean coasts-all are an amazing vision of God’s handiwork.

I’m sitting here on the balcony watching the day begin. A young boy, in school uniform (pink shirt, blue trousers) walks by with older girls in similar uniform. He is holding the hand of one of them-perhaps a big sister-and just as he passes he looks up, smiles and waves to me. It’s just a split second in time, but a connection is made. Beautiful! Thank you, Lord.

A beautiful sunrise this morning after the severe rain, thunder, lightning and wind of last night. The sky is still burdened with clouds, but they cannot hide the sun as it comes up between the two “pine-like” trees across the road. The rooster is crowing and the sweeper is sweeping. Another day has begun.

“We have come again, we have come again, O Father we have come again. Holy Spirit, come and take control.… ” I love the uninhibited expression of praise and worship here. People dance up to the front row by row with their tithes and offerings. Even with as little as some of them have, they are cheerful in their giving.

Back home I know many are keeping us in their prayers. In spite of the time difference, the great distance and difficulty in communicating, I know and feel that every day we are being lifted up in prayer.

With Philip driving we went at a pretty good clip-once we left behind the heavy city traffic jams…. We were on a main road that I think was only two lanes. Every car was going in a different direction with five cars across, all trying to avoid the stopping yellow taxis and the water-filled, gigantic potholes. Scary. People back home are surely praying for our safety as we travel.

Our dorm water was off again just before supper, leaving no water to flush the toilet, wash our hands or do any laundry. It didn’t come back on until 9.30, and with lots of officers staying here tonight, water was at a premium. Still, it wasn’t too difficult, as everyone remained patient and simply worked with the situation.

Tonight around the “dinner table,” as the light faded, we had an especially beautiful time of sharing and praying together as a team. Tears were shed as we worked through all we have learned and gained while here. I am amazed at how well we have melded together as a team. It was a fine end to the day.

Our devotions today spoke of “holding hands.” It is beautiful to see how each team member picks up a task and works with it. Everyone seems willing and quick to take up any slack. Wonderful co-operation and team work.
Lord, you made me a part of your body and connected me with other parts. I pray my own actions will reflect the unity of believers and so honour you!

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers” (Galatians 6:9-10).

- by Nellie Hann
North York Temple, Toronto