Life on Mission

Ep.1 | Columbia 2018

Hosted by Sharon Sands with Special Guests:
Jacque Carlson, Emerald Holden, + karissa kellerstrass

IN THIS EPISODE

• Jacque and her team worked on bringing hope and encouragement to moms in Colombia | 1:31
• Karissa | Why she decided to go  | 4:31
• Emerald | What was important to you on your decision to go?  | 6:36
• Reflecting on the moments that matter, that we carry with us | 8:58
• When you are on Mission, be open to what God wants you to see and hear  | 17:50
• Sometimes the Mission Field throws bats and spiders at you  | 20:03
• Along with our suitcase, we always bring experiences, emotions, and stories home with us  | 24:01
• 2019 is bringing the MOPS team to Guatemala  | 31:18

INSTANT TAKEAWAYS

1 | INVEST IN THE NEXT GENERATION

When we want to see change, growth, and obstacles overcome, we need to pour into those that will be taking up the mantle after we are done. Legacy is so important, and mentoring those that are young and hungry is imperative to break paradigms. When Jacque and her team were in Colombia, they spent time with moms and their kids, teaching them about the hope that can be found in Jesus. When we give value and raise those that are younger than us up, we are empowering them to become agents of change for their own circumstances. All of that through Christ, Jesus!

2 | IT’S WHAT YOU TAKE WITH YOU

Throughout this episode the team talks about pouring into those that they went down to serve, along with receiving amazing hospitality and reciprocated encouragement from those they were around. When we think about serving globally we sometimes get bogged down by the fact that we’re only there for a week or that we meet so many faces, how are we making a difference? Not only is Jesus working through us while we’re there, but we become agents of change when we come back. When we’re able to serve alongside partners (both locally and globally) we are forever transformed into advocates for their organization and the incredible work that they’re doing. Whatever the circumstance, location, or emotion that is evoked within us while we spread the Gospel, Jesus is there working through it for good.

3 | FOCUS IN ON THE NEEDS OF THE HEART

Often times, especially with short term mission trips overseas, we look at the big picture. We really love that 30,000-foot overview of the greater impact that is occurring. We tend to get our feet out in front of us and think about the pieces of ministry that are going to fall in to place after you have left. It’s often times that we miss the opportunities that God is putting right in front of us when we’re living in the present. These moments are fleeting and God has placed them in our laps to be cherished. While it is important to think about 5 and 10 years out, what impact will the work we’re going now have, it’s equally as important to hold those around you and pray with them in the moment.

SHOW NOTES

We are so excited to launch our new series, Life on Mission. Craig Smith, our lead pastor, has charged the staff and congregation alike to live life on Mission with Jesus. It’s what we’re called to do! So, throughout the life of Anchor + Waves, we will be bringing you missional stories from our short term trips, our local partners, and our global partners alike! We will be focusing on what it truly means to serve, as He’s called us to do.

In our kick-off episode here, we will be speaking with Jacque Carlson, Emerald Holden, and Karissa Kellerstrass about their recent trip to Colombia. While in Colombia the team had chances to work with leaders, children and moms to provide hope in the name of Jesus. Listen in as we learn what it looks like to emulate the characteristics of Jesus in Colombia.