Following our return from Helene, there has been what seems like a never-ending flow of thoughts and emotions concerning the mission. Helene was a juxtaposition of opposites. First, the trip made the world much smaller but also much larger, both at the same time. Another opposite was the appearance of abject poverty at first glance, but reality revealed happy and contented islanders. The trip was a good reminder people may appear to be different, but in reality are pretty much the same.

There were cultural differences that provoked great pause in me, things like people sharing the same drinking cups and an abundance of trash everywhere. It is healthy to consider cultural differences that challenge one’s personal status quo, and mine was challenged.

II Thessalonians 1:11 was my prayer for the mission, “… that our God may make you worthy of his calling; and that by his power he may bring to fruition your every desire for goodness and your every deed prompted by faith.” My heart’s yearning was for God’s blessing on my desire to do good work in his name and without surprise, He answered that prayer.

I had opportunity to work in the clinic, accompany Dr. Todd on medical home visits, participate in general visitation, play with children, share my testimony with believers and unbelievers, share God’s word through Kid’s Club, get to know individuals on a very personal level and to earnestly pray for personal needs. My prayer list has expanded since the mission – some individuals are there on a regular basis while others pop in to my head on a particular day. Relationships as a mission was a stretch for a person who checks off listed items daily, however the mission of relationships has been effective.

In addition to relationships with the citizens of Helene, God provided an opportunity to foster a relationship with one of the members of our team. We have been meeting on a weekly basis for Bible study and to share life. It blows my mind to think God had a plan for a Titus 2 relationship but we both had to travel several thousand miles to make the connection. God’s ways are overwhelming!

The mission to Helene has forever changed me, and I am grateful for the opportunity. As a result of the mission to Helene, it is my heart’s desire to have a few more mission trips before God calls me home.