As a full time, global worker now approaching my 10th short-term mission trip with Friends in Action International I reflect on how I've been so privileged to witness the transformative power of practical, hands-on service in communities around the world. However, alongside this privilege comes a sobering reality: the potential harm that can result from well-intentioned but misguided short-term mission trips. Drawing insights from "When Helping Hurts" by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert, as well as practical examples from "Serving with Eyes Wide Open," let's explore how we can navigate these challenges while remaining faithful to our mission of “Moving Earth to Share Heaven”.
The book, "When Helping Hurts", highlights the dangers of imposing Western (North American) ideas onto cultures not ready for them or maybe not even want them. Short-term mission trips often perpetuate this problem, with North Americans arriving with preconceived solutions without fully understanding the context and needs of the local community. This can inadvertently create dependency and undermine the agency of those we seek to serve.1 From our western culture of a “get it done” society we quickly face opposition and cultural unawareness when community and relationships take center stage in most of the areas visited by “short-termers”.
This can inadvertently create dependency and undermine the agency of those we seek to serve.
Looking at this challenge from a biblical perspective, one of the fundamental principles emphasized in Scripture is the importance of humility and cultural sensitivity in our interactions with others. In Philippians 2:3-4, we are reminded, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others." This verse serves as a powerful reminder that our mission work should be guided by a spirit of humility, putting the needs and perspectives of the local community above our own agenda.
Secondly, the Bible teaches us about the value of building relationships based on mutual respect and understanding. In 1 Corinthians 9:22, the apostle Paul writes, "I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some." This verse underscores the importance of meeting people where they are and engaging with them in a way that resonates with their cultural context.
Thirdly the Bible offers guidance on how to be effective witnesses without harming relationships. In Romans 12:16, we're urged to "live in harmony with one another" and to "associate with the lowly." This reminds us of the importance of humility and cultural sensitivity in our interactions with others, particularly when engaging in cross-cultural mission work.
This reminds us of the importance of humility and cultural sensitivity in our interactions with others, particularly when engaging in cross-cultural mission work.
In the Book, "Serving with Eyes Wide Open" David A. Livermore calls us to serve with our eyes open to global and cultural realities so we can become more effective cross-cultural ministers.2 He provides practical examples of how we can approach short-term mission trips with humility and intentionality. Instead of prescribing solutions, we should seek to listen and learn from the community, empowering local leaders and fostering sustainable development. This requires building genuine relationships based on mutual respect and understanding. If we don’t do this well, we are in grave danger of harming the word of God and deeply offending those we are attempting to serve.
As missionaries, it's crucial that we approach our work with humility, recognizing that we have much to learn from the communities we serve. By embodying the principles of love, compassion, and cultural sensitivity found in the teachings of Jesus Christ, we can truly be effective witnesses of God's grace through salvation without causing harm or perpetuating dependency.
Instead of imposing Western solutions, we should seek to empower local communities by listening to their voices, understanding their strengths and challenges, and working alongside them to address their needs in a sustainable and culturally appropriate manner. This approach not only fosters greater impact but also strengthens relationships and promotes long-term development. It gives better credibility when the gospel is ready to be shared. Theodore Roosevelt said, “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”
“People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”
At Friends in Action International, we strive to embody these principles in our mission work. Are we perfect? No, however through initiatives like our Community Development Projects, we prioritize long-term partnerships and capacity-building efforts that empower communities to address their own needs by empowering their own people. Rather than imposing our own agenda, we seek to walk alongside our brothers and sisters, offering support and resources as needed.
Our commitment to cultural sensitivity is evident in every aspect of our work. Whether it's partnering with local churches or collaborating with indigenous leaders, we prioritize the voices and perspectives of the communities we serve. By fostering meaningful relationships built on trust and respect, we aim to create lasting impact that transcends short-term interventions ultimately leading to sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ.
In conclusion, while short-term mission trips present unique challenges, they also offer opportunities for growth and mutual exchange. By approaching our work with humility, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to nurturing relationships, we can be effective witnesses of God's love without causing harm.
Let us heed the wisdom and teachings of the Bible as we strive to be faithful stewards of God's mission, walking alongside our brothers and sisters in humility and love.
At Friends in Action International, we remain steadfast in our dedication to empowering communities and fostering sustainable development that honors and uplifts the dignity of every individual. To learn more about our mission and impact, visit www.fiaintl.org.
Moving Earth to Share Heaven
Title: When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor . . . and Yourself
By: Steve Corbett, Brian Fikkert
Title: Serving with Eyes Wide Open: Doing Short-Term Missions with Cultural Intelligence, Updated Edition
By: David A. Livermore