Ministry Behind the Mission

The Great Commission is clear. We are commanded to go to all nations, baptizing and teaching them to obey His words (Matthew 28:16-20). My husband and I believe this and take it to heart. We endorse the command “to go” by regularly participating in mission trips, most of which are orchestrated through our church.

What do I mean when I say missions and mission trips? The biblical definition refers to following Christ’s call to share the gospel with the unsaved throughout the world.

Mission trips are organized as a group to go in the name of Christ to share His love in a variety of ways, all of which lead to the same purpose: to bring salvation to the lost. This is accomplished through evangelistic efforts, construction, music, medical practices, Bible teaching, meal distribution, and so, so much more.

When it comes to missions, Parky and I have different interests. He is drawn to construction trips, while I prefer, well, anything else! For the past 35 years (with the exception of COVID), Parky has attended a Builders for Christ church construction trip every summer. He has become deeply involved in the design and strategic planning for the ductwork and piping of the heating and air conditioning system for the new church. He spends hours and hours for months in preparation prior to going.

Once there, he works from early morning to evening for two solid weeks. When he gets home, he is exhausted and scarred. I am proud of his commitment, skill, and willingness to go.

I, too, enjoy going on mission trips. Most of mine are international. Over the years, I have been to countries in South America, Central America, Europe, Asia, and North Africa. They encompassed medical practices, music, playing in an orchestra, leading worship, teaching, working with children, evangelism, missionary support, and prayer walking.  

Parky and I are obedient, serving as ambassadors for Christ. I fulfill the mission call out of duty to the Great Commission, but moreso, out of love. “For Christ’s love compels us . . .” (2 Corinthians 5:14).   

While it is great and wonderful that we take these trips, it also means that someone must remain at home to watch over the household affairs. I have come to realize this is an important role underlying the greater cause. When Parky is gone, that means I am home taking care of our family, consisting of two dogs. Big dogs, I might add. Currently, one of those big dogs is a 9-month-old Irish Setter puppy. He is playful, rowdy, curious, rambunctious, wild, energetic, and loving. In other words, he’s a handful. The other one is more manageable, although he has become quite the escape artist. I’m talking about literally opening doors and unlatching gates! Yes, a dog!

The dogs are fed twice a day and walked once a day. They need love and social play. It’s a lot! When it rains, it’s even more! Then you’re talking dirty paws, wet coats, and a nasty backyard. Baths are a must if the dogs are to come inside the house, which is where they like to be when I am home. Have you ever bathed a big dog by yourself?  

Meal preparation, laundry, errands, meetings, church, and social activities don’t stop just because Parky is out of town. Writing deadlines are still in effect. Unplanned things inevitably crop up. Stuff goes wrong around the house (e.g., the garage door won’t close, the TV remote malfunctions, the smoke detector battery needs changing). Bad storms come through and knock out the power, disrupting the internet and the outdoor lights.

My point is: things happen, and I am left to deal with them.

While the mission is underway somewhere else, a ministry is taking place at home. The support behind the mission is noteworthy.

Years ago, when Parky was a Boy Scout leader, he went on monthly weekend trips. We had a huge garden at the time. The garden would be in the throes of harvest time, and I would be left alone to pick beans, peas, squash, cucumbers, okra, and tomatoes. Weeding was an issue, too. Picking is one thing, but then you have to do something with what has been harvested. Adopting the idea that my role was to support my husband’s ministry softened my attitude.

So, for all of you wives and husbands, mothers and fathers, left at home while your loved one goes on a mission trip, I recognize your noble deeds and acts of silent service. I am aware of your inconveniences and frustrations. God does, too.

But guess what . . . You may have indirectly led someone to eternal salvation.