Although I was raised in a church that supported missions, learned at an early age to give money to missions, and even actually met a missionary once, it had never occurred to me to go on a mission trip. I would just stay home and pray for those who were “called” to go.

Then one day my daughter invited me to go with her on a mission trip to Guatemala. How can you say “NO” to your daughter? So, of course I went, even though my life circumstances at the time were less than ideal. It was really her vision, not mine.  I just went along for the ride.

That was the year I discovered that just being me was all that was needed to leave a mark on the lives of young people in a foreign field. Then the opportunity came up for another trip which focused on teaching basic sewing. I knew I could handle that.

The kids are quick learners, despite the language barrier. It was exciting to see them learn a new skill that may be invaluable in the years to come. It was fun to teach them some folkdancing – even if it was very tiring trying to keep up the pace.

Watching the expression on other team members’ faces as we visited the homes and saw the people living in conditions which we cannot conceive gives new meaning to the words “they have nothing”.

Visit to the Coban Hospital

I wouldn’t say going to a foreign hospital was fun, certainly not something I would choose to do. The pain of human suffering is hard to bear, made even more so when you realize how much they are in need of some basic health care.

The love which the people of Tactic show, coupled with their generosity to give and share what little they have, is a very real “eye-opener”.

Would I go again? Well, that depends. When’s the next trip?

For more information on the work being done in north/central Guatemala, check the Impact Ministries website.

Something you might like to journal

Have you ever been on a mission trip? What were your impressions?

Would you ever go again or encourage a friend to go? Why?