I recently read a very challenging article on Mission Trips and Selfies. One of the take-aways from the article was this...... we should not take selfies on mission trips that make us feel good about ourselves and at the same time make others feel like they have lost their dignity. While on mission/service trips, we are there to SERVE and not make ourselves feel better.
So, what will I do differently now as a result of reading this article? Instead of posting selfies on Facebook, I will remember to instead share pictures that tell stories. Instead of featuring my own efforts to help, I will take photos (with permission) and celebrate LOCAL people (like Lalo - pictured above) who are faithfully working for change in their own neighborhoods/communities over the long haul.
We must remember that when we venture on mission/service trips, we are there to learn and communicate stories of transformation rather then portray ourselves as the "savior." Many of the missionaries and community leaders are there long before a mission team arrives and they will be there long after the mission team leaves.
I personally believe mission trips are beneficial in many ways when done in the right spirit and in partnership. After every mission trip, I ask two questions - "What are you going to do differently now in your own community as a result of this experience?" "How can you continue to support this ministry of which you have been a part?"
Finally, we must remember that developing neighborhoods and developing countries do not need short term heroes - they need long term partners!
May God give us wisdom in our serving!
