Every now and then I find myself voicing a defense of short-term mission trips. It has been suggested – even thoughtfully articulated by some – that it would be better to financially support a ministry abroad rather than flow thousands into getting North American Christians to get a weeklong experience. That cringeworthy term “voluntourism” just rings of wealthy, entitled kids and adults getting a “fix” of service before returning to normal life.
As many of you know our 13+ year relationship with the Dominican Republic has shown that we support short-term mission work. We believe that ongoing partnerships equip local leaders, support their vision, and inspire risk-taking, cross-cultural relationships. Last week I visited Santa Clara, Peru a small village outside Iquitos in northeastern Peru. As we stepped off the Amazon River boat-taxi, I was immediately surprised at the quiet atmosphere within the village. No bustling market. No revving engines from motorcycles. No shouts from children or adults for our attention. Just the breeze in the air and a few toucans squawking in the distance.
We met the pastor of the small community – Pastor German (“Herman”) and his wife, Enith, and began preparing for the local church service. From that morning and throughout the next few days, I was perplexed at the small size of 8 or so adults attending services or classes. There were very few young adults, a couple of teenagers, and around 30 children.
Why was I disappointed with such a small crowd? Comparing one mission experience to another might be the reason. But I think there’s another: I’ve been hearing about the ministry partnership of Westminster and this community for 6 months – and understanding that it’s the result of 15+ years of annual trips, projects, and outreaches. So after all this time, I thought there would be “evidence” of the investment. Sure, I met folks who were active – even one man who is a new believer and becoming a vital part of the community and church. And he is awesome! But I was left with a nagging curiosity to uncover something else.
It took all week – really until the last day – for me to understand the call we have to this ministry. As Pastor German rose to share parting words and to honor Dr. Paul for his 16 years of trips, he shared a story of a ministry-friend who had once been close but stopped coming or calling German in the recent years. “I hope we do not lose touch,” he said as he reflected on the blessing of their partnership. With gratitude and a tinge of sadness, he and Paul said their goodbyes. The mantle of “trip pastor” was being passed to me…and I finally understood what I was there to witness and bring back.
You see, this man (and his wife and family) had been faithfully serving this community for years. This calling they have carried is one of loneliness, harsh criticism, rejection. There was never a moment of radical growth. Just families who came and went. It’s a ministry filled with fragile faithfulness – one that the enemy teases and pokes until others in ministry would normally walk away. I think I would have! But…
He has never walked away.
So God says, “you won’t either, Justin.” Supporting this man of God means that as long as the Lord allows it, we will endure with him. We will suffer through the disappointments. We will celebrate the new believers. We will build a fence, assemble some water filters, or teach some classes. We will go. We will listen to the vision and we will beg heaven to chase every person down in Santa Clara.
It will seem foolish to many. I’m sure I will even have my doubts some years. But we partner and support this Pastor.
I can’t wait to get to know Pastor German more – and the family and friends who will continue living out the Gospel in Santa Clara. And I will keep asking God to give us the faithfulness to walk with them.
Not Just a Corner 