From Jon Michel 6/4/08

RE: serving on a Piedras Negras Mexico Mission Trip

Last year I had the opportunity to go on a mission trip to Mexico with three others in my family. My initial purpose for going was to help others less fortunate and grow closer in service to God as a family unit. I felt that we had become spoiled in our American lifestyle and the expectations we had of physical things. The thought of serving others was little more than what “God required” of us since we were so blessed.

Little did I realize how impactful God had planned this trip to be for me personally. After experiencing building a house with the LFC church team and working side by side a Mexican family I was hooked. I finally understood the real value behind doing mission work. God touched my funny bone and I realized that the greater purpose in the giving and receiving of missions is too powerful to not share with others.

The opportunity to go back to Mexico and build foundations was my call to action. Some ideas were mentioned to the CPC staff that connected needs, possibilities and desires. Subsequently conversations with the CPC staff and other LFC men looked like a signal to share and lead a group back to Mexico. While leading a trip is slightly different than just being a participant, all of the same results were evident in all of the participants. Connecting as a group of men, connecting with and working with some Mexican workers, serving others, allowing God to shine through us and allowing God to speak to all our hearts were all evident. We had a fantastic trip.

I am not sure what this looks like in the future for me personally. The desire is still there to share being missional with some other men or mixed groups. I believe that the strongest joys God puts in our hearts are the callings he gives us. I loved going with this team of great guys and look forward to other missionary opportunities.