Some thoughts on short term missions trips

The Livesay family, one of my favorite Haiti bloggers, recently posted some thoughts on short term missions work.  Their post is an interesting mix of their experiences, the experience of other long term missionaries, and an article written for a Christian magazine.  I suppose, at first glance, their comments and the comments of other long term missionaries seem jaded or even critical.  But I think the things they are saying are important for people to hear, regardless of if they want to serve in short term ways in the U.S. or abroad.  The jist of what they are saying is that short term missionaries must be careful not to ride in on white horses and try to save the day.  When you arrive on a short term mission trip, you are the outsider.  You don't know the culture, the language, the community, the people, or even the program that is being put forth by the missionaries you are working with.  Yes, you might think you know but the reality is, because you are not there day in and day out, you don't know.  It can be very easy to unintentionally upset the apple cart so to speak because of an offhanded comment, your expectations as to what needs to be accomplished, or your generous gift given to someone whom you think needs it.  Read what the Livesays are saying.  Read the comments under the posts.  Hear what they are really saying.  They are not saying "don't come".  What they are saying is be wise if you come.  Be intentional if you come.  Be thoughtful if you come.  And most of all, be considerate of what the missionaries who are hosting you are telling you.