For this blog me and two of my squadmates wrote about 3 things (1 each) that we have learned since being on the mission field. Enjoy!
1. Me: “I’ve learned how to say ‘no’. Not in a rebellious way, but in order to do what God is calling me to do. Back in Costa Rica I found myself cooking for teams or individuals nearly every weekend, and I wasn’t using that time to recharge and rest for the upcoming week of ministry. If I’m not refueled then I am grumpy or constantly tired, which does not benefit those around me. I eventually had to learn that it is ok to say ‘no’ to people and put myself first sometimes. It taught me to recharge myself and then pour out my overflow into others in other ways than just cooking. For me, saying ‘no’ looked like only cooking for myself or the others I was eating with, instead of the whole squad.”
2. Amanda: “One thing I’ve learned on the mission field is that small acts of kindness go a long way with anyone you come across. I’ve experienced and been immersed in so many different cultures but they all have the biggest smile on their face and a sense of gratitude when you show them any forms of kindness.”
3. Sam: “Time is precious, and on the Race, I’ve learned not to take it for granted. Even if a certain ministry or aspect of the Race isn’t the most enjoyable thing in the world, it’ll be gone within the twinkling of an eye, and so every single minute of it is precious. The life we’re living on the Race is not a ‘normal’ life (in fact, the way I’d describe it like an alternate reality) and as such, it doesn’t make sense to prance through it as if it’ll last forever: once this trip is over, it’s over. So why wish it away? try to speed it up? One of my biggest regrets on the trip is the way that I spent my time. Not necessarily that I was lazy, but I know I could have spent it so much more efficiently by writing more blogs in my spare time, exercising more, or simply having more conversations with those around me. But time is something you can’t take back. You get one chance; don’t waste it.”
Also, please be praying for our squad. We are getting ready to go home and it is hard for a lot of us to stay present. There is always sickness going around too, which does not help at all. Thanks!
Yours in Christ,
Landon Mullins
