What's In It For Me?

What's in it for me? Great question! This seems to be a trend in most areas of our lives. As we consider what things we want to be involved in, this is a common question. We want to make sure that as we give up our time and resources to take part in activities, events and more, what we can expect to get out of it in order to make the decision to be part of something. For the most part this seems to make perfect, logical sense. But, as I speak to literally hundreds of people each week, this is something I rarely hear when talking about mission trips.

I am amazed that this quetsion rarely comes up. Well, not really. As people look at and think about a mission trip they don't have this concept on their minds. In fact, just the opposite takes place. Their question is "How can I help others and best serve them?" I love it! The focus is off of them and on to others! This is one of the best aspects of a mission trip! The dying to self aspect! The putting of others first! In fact, they are willingto spend a lot of money to do it!

I am so blessed to be part of Praying Pelican Missions and have the ability to speak with people with this mind set! I love talking on the phone with folks who want to serve others! To speak with those who are not looking to "get something" out of it as thier motive to go serve. But, let me tell you, even if that is not their motive and purpose it will happen anyway! I love the scripture found in Colossians 3:23

"Whatever you do, work at it wholeheartedly as though you were doing it for the Lord and not merely for people."

This verse is awesome as we connect it to mission work. As I serve on the mission field, I am constantly reminded of this verse. Its not people that we are serving, but God Himself through people. As you and I serve others with a simple glass of water, with a small meal, with a visit, with a hug we are doing the same to Jesus!

Matthew 25:40 says: " The king will answer them, 'I tell all of you with certainty, since you did it for one of the least important of these brothers of mine, you did it for me.' I love it!

In this verse, we are reminded that the question of "what's in it for me" isn't a thought but yet it is a blessing beyond blessings! We go to serve, to give, to sacrifice and yet God in His great love for us gives to us a blessing! What a blessing it is to serve others and by doing so serve the King of Kings! That just send chills down my arms thinking about it!

Mission trips are a beautiful way to serve others and be blessed at the same time. I can't begin to tell you how many times people have come on trips and at the end say to me with tear filled eyes, "we came to bless others and we are leaving this place more blessed than them!" They didn't come for the blessing but left with it all the same! That is just how our God works!

Are you ready for a mission trip? Are you ready to be a blessing to others? Are you ready to serve Christ through those whom you would be serving? Are you ready to set aside the mindset of "what's in it for me?" Well, lets go! I would be glad to help you get started!

We have literally hundreds of opportunities for you to serve others! Praying Pelican serves in 14 different countries as well as the USA. We partner with local churches, schools and orgizations to better serve the communities in the locations we currently offer. Take some time out of your busy schedule and come serve with us. You will be so glad you did! "What's in it for you?" You can't even begin to inagine!