My week in a Mississippi work camp is nearing it’s end. We made one of the last treks to the latrine by flashlight in the frigid night air, remembering at last by rote to not flush the toilet paper. I contemplate how many of my new found habits, like brushing my teeth with bottled water, will follow me home.
As I return to my warm sleeping bag and safely secure my flashlight to the metal bunk bed frame I wonder how much more I will carry home than just these hygiene habits.
I’ve gone on many “mission trips” before, and this one has been productive in being a ministry of mercy. But I sense the true test will come months from now as to just how productive.
Lakeshore Baptist church has a commitment to minister to the needs of the local people that arose after this area was covered with 40′ of Katrina flood water. True—these needs are hard to ignore—shelter, food, clothing. Yet I wonder what are the needs to be met in my own local geography which I’m beginning to see as equally important.
The local pastor spoke of an organic bond—not a handout with no friendship attached. It’s relatively easy to give a week in another climate, another culture. What I see and desire in this night hour is an attitude of ministry in my normal life as I return home that will be the test of a truly productive week.
Thoughts from a Sister Serving at Lakeshore
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