We went back in late March earlier this year, and I did not expect to have such a good time!!! I signed up with the intention of helping and to get to know the high school-ers more (Pastor Paul kind of gave the impression that they needed adult leaders/drivers too).
As time went on though, things were added to that list of reasons why I wanted to go on this trip. I realized I was excited for being on the mission, and that I was excited for the kids to be on the mission--that they'd have potentially life-changing experiences. And I'd have a front seat to see that--and maybe help or disciple some of them through that?! Talk about exciting!!
Then there were smaller things that added to the excitement too. Like being able to drive there and back (I like to drive!), being able to spread the gospel of my music in the car (Hip Hop artists who genuinely put their faith first in their lives), and having the opportunity to build community for some of the students who were more on the fringe (the Includer in me coming out).
If I was completely honest, I came in to the series of Church-led training meetings and the whole Mexicali mission with existing concepts of what training in missions, and even short-term trips, should or could look like. As a result, I was a bit skeptical and even critical at first of the training meetings. My expectations were as high as what I had experienced the previous summer at the LA Urban Project (LAUP).
Looking back though, I was totally betraying all the lessons I'd learned at LAUP in terms of entering another environment or culture, and was totally "red-lining" and not willing to learn.
So I have to admit I definitely came in more than a little prideful, thinking I already knew how things should go down.
When we first arrived at base camp in Mexicali, I felt the first threat to my pride and ego. It was painfully apparent that I had no idea how to set up a tent. Or how to arrange any of the luggage, cots, or chairs.
All my prior resolutions to see what God is doing and partner with that on any mission was overshadowed by my criticism, pride, and perceived know-how. Throughout the trip though, I was reminded again and again that I absolutely needed the team--I needed to work with them on this mission and could not be the shining example to the youth I thought I was.
I honestly thought I would be there for the kids to experience their "moment" with God on the mission field, but did not expect to have my own "moment" with God on the trip.
A few things "helped" break my walls of pride, which allowed for God to enter my heart and plant some seeds. I can't remember them in chronological order, but here they are...
- I remember praying with the student team leaders, walking with them through the uncertainties and many tasks that needed to be done. I remember that was a peek into the development of their leadership and character.
- I remember being both lost and impressed with the translated worship songs. And I remember not really feeling like an adult leader during the training/prep meetings, but more of an older but active participant when it came to rehearsing the skits and prepping the crafts.
- I can remember crying and calling out to God in earnest worship during the APU large group worship times.
- I remember feeling a burden for the streets and neighborhoods that we prayer-walked through, especially for the kids that were growing up with substance, mental, or physical neglect or abuse.
- I remember being deeply grateful for the friendships and connections made with those at the Salvation Army Church.
- And how can I forget how God strengthened my dependence on Him when I got sick! I had to literally and physically depend on God to be able to drive, stay awake, and even perform the bare minimum of my tasks and responsibilities.
Being part of the Mexicali team that ministered with the Salvation Church brought me back to the previous summer when I totally had to lead other people while still processing and absorbing what God had for me!
Looking back, I am deeply and truly thankful that God did not leave me in my prideful bubble of arrogance. If it wasn't for Him and how He orchestrated everything, things would definitely have been very different!
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