Coming into college, missions was already on my mind because the last one I went on was during my Junior year of high school. I decided to go on STSM because I really liked the length of the trip and just the ability to meet fellow brothers and sisters from different campuses. Another major factor that contributed to my decision was my heart for ministry, whether it be pastoral or missional. With that I wanted to go on this trip to explore what God possibly wanted for me but also serve Him at the same time. 

I feel like there are so many things I learned and were blessed by on this trip. One of the main things I learned is the importance of staying mission minded. There were many opportunities for the enemy to attack – whether it be physical fatigue, fighting or being annoyed with a team member, even getting lost in our own conversations. The enemy was not pleased with what we were doing and was taking any opportunity he could to slow us down. In fact, on the very first day of village ministry, a man interrupted our vbs (Vacation Bible School) because he thought we were spreading false religion. Through things like this it was very important to remain prayerful and constantly have that kingdom mindset. 

Another thing I learned is the importance of prayer and the power that comes from it. Every single morning we would have morning prayer. And every single day from the first to our last, the missionaries and all the staff would pray so fervently. They had so much passion and desperation for the Lord. It was always so loud in the room because they truly cried out to the Lord. At first it was hard for me to pray, but seeing their hearts for Christ I gave it a try and just poured everything out to the Lord – all my worries, anxieties, problems etc. And wow God is amazing and so good because some of those prayers were answered soon after. Even coming back home I could see how God had moved. The main way I think God showed me the power of prayer was through depending on Him for strength. The very first day I was super excited for ministry. It was hot and very humid but I wanted to go all out. Our main ministry for the whole month was vbs or Vacation Bible School, and seeing that I thought it would be impossible to do this almost everyday. However every night as I laid in bed, I would ask God for strength to give as much energy and effort as I did the day before or even more. All I can say is WOW again. The Lord really gave me this supernatural energy to dance, jump, and interact with the kids everyday. I felt like I was bouncing off walls. Even during our breaks I did not take many naps because I wanted to keep going. I felt like I could do anything and everything.  Philippians 4:13 

“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” 

Coming home I realize the mission is not over. America has many people who don’t know Christ or have walked away. Not only that but there are many more things that can distract us from having a missional mindset. That being said, I want to continue having this kingdom mindset – just being aware of what I do, the things I say and continue staying prayerful in my daily life. In other words, just trying to live a more Christ-like life. One thing I am committed to doing is starting early morning prayers once a week at Riverside. I want it to be a space where we can come together as brothers and sisters in Christ to pray about anything and everything. Whether it be personal prayers or prayer for our campus and community. Literally just to lift everything up to the Lord. Through this I hope to help others practice living a more prayerful life and to pray with great faith because our God is all mighty and He can do anything.