Spring break spent doing mission work

With all this mix of cold weather it is hard to believe spring break is just around the corner. Despite the snow one day and the 70-degree temperatures the next, we are still getting that much-needed week off in March.

It is easy to go ahead and make plans to go to the beach, an exotic resort or maybe just head home to see family. However, I did not have any plans of the sort, and a spring break mission trip grabbed my attention – something that I am doing for the first time this year.

I am joining the Memorial Road Church Campus Ministry on a trip to San Antonio to partner with Habitat for Humanity, helping with construction for those in need. This, of course, is not the only trip out there; I know of several churches around the city of Edmond set to embark on a mission trip over spring break.

I know several friends who have gone on the San Antonio trip in the past, and the vast majority of them have absolutely loved it. In missions, friendships are strengthened and new ones are formed. Sure it may be hard work, but the reward is great.

I have not been on this specific mission trip before, but I have had the opportunity to go on a few in the past. As many of you would agree, I have found that seeing the work as an obligation soon turns into an attitude of joy. It took me some time, but after doing a few mission projects here and there, taking myself out the equation and considering the happiness on the faces of those you helped, it is an incredible feeling. The men and women that are served cannot express their thanks enough, and they know without a doubt that your gift of hard work comes as a gift from the love of Christ.

I am eagerly anticipating the opportunity I have taken to go on a mission trip this spring break. My experience with missions has been fantastic, and it is a great opportunity to improve friendships, bond with new people you have never met before and to just simply grab a hammer, some nails and do work in the name of Christ.

Tyler Ratcliffe is a junior at Oklahoma Christian University

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