(Q) Ok, South Africa... what led you to want to go to South Africa - Swaziland of all places... ?
(A) God started working on my heart a few years ago about missions and for people in other cultures—especially poor conditions--but I have never been on an overseas mission trip. Over the past few years, I've been seeking for opportunities to be the 'hands and feet' of Christ in a culture outside of my comfort zone..... The great commission applies everywhere--here in America and abroad, but I've been learning it's easy to become a "victim of familiarity" and let my heart fall asleep when I'm in my comfort zone. Over the past few years, I've been encouraged by some of my friends and mentors in my life to seek ways to get out there, and let God use those unfamiliar places to keep my heart awake, serve others and teach me more about Him. Shortly after I started here at the station, I noticed a note about an upcoming mission trip---I pretty much knew I was in for it then! The details came in later—where it would be, how long, etc. When I learned of the destination—Swaziland, Africa—I hesitated.. because of the turmoil and wide-spread disease Africa is experiencing..but in many ways, it only emphasizes the need for missions, and service…..and the love of Christ.
(Q) Have you done any mission work before? (Local and/or abroad):
(A) Nope....this is my first official mission trip! I'm just getting started! =)
(Q) What do you expect to find when you get there?
(A) Well, I've learned the life expectancy in Swaziland is a little over thirty years. I expect there will be many orphaned children living in poor conditions.. I read that Christianity is one of the main religions in the country, although I'm not sure how it is received in the area we will be in. I also expect non-believers there to be more open to the message of the gospel. It seems that when someone...anyone...is living in adverse conditions, and lacking even some of the very basic necessities of life...they're much much more aware of the reality of death and also much more aware of their deepest desires---for hope, and life, and the message Jesus came to bring. I also expect the Christians of Swaziland will really know the deep joy of salvation—part of me expects the people there will teach us just as much or more than we will share with them.
(Q) Do you know exactly what you'll be doing once there?
(A) There are three main area's the team will be focused on---medical, construction, and Vacation Bible School. I'm looking forward to working with the kids in the Vacation Bible school, but I'm definitely there to help out in any area I can..
(Q) How long will you be gone?
(A) 10 days of working hard and loving people.
A trip Jessica will never forget! Please join us now and while our friends are abroad, in praying that their Mission Trip to Swaziland will please our Father and that all involved will be blessed with incredible memories and a safe journey to and from. We can't wait to hear all about it!
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