Our Second Mission Application - for the Second Time

Our first full-time mission experience forever changed us.  We are no longer the same as we were.  Others might see us as the same, and maybe we behave the same and look the same, but inside we are forever changed.  It is something we can’t fully describe, but it was delicious.  It was sweet. It was exquisite. The experience taught us about new vistas and heightened views. And we long to serve again.

In a previous blog post, we described having to wait six months to have a repeat medical test before we could submit our papers for our second full-time mission. That test is now complete and it confirms that we are perfectly healthy and able to serve in any capacity with no restrictions.

So today we submitted our mission papers, again, to request serving a full-time mission.  And now the 4-6 week wait begins before we find out where the Lord will have us serve this time.  We are happy to serve anywhere and do anything.
 

"Congratulations! Your missionary recommendation forms have been submitted...."

One of the changes we experienced from our first mission came about by watching others live fully consecrated lives. These incredible men and women had learned to put aside their own wills and humbly submit to the will of the Lord in all things.  We watched their lives unfold as they discovered that when you “seek … first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, all … things (are) added unto you.”  (Matthew 6:33)

I had not particularly wanted to serve an office mission, but having done so, and having been so completely changed by the experience, I am eternally grateful to the Lord for allowing us that most precious opportunity.

Going on a mission is not about us.  It’s not about what we want to do.  Some may be concerned about serving a mission because they don’t want to serve in an office, or don’t want to go overseas, or don’t want to stay in the United States, or don’t want to be where it is cold, or where it is hot, or where it is crowded, or where it is hard.  Or they don’t want to do a temple mission or don’t want to do a family history mission, or only want to do a temple mission, etc.

As hard as the Brethren try to be accommodating to senior couples requests, a mission call is not about us.  It is not for us.  It is about learning that very doctrine of consecration and putting words and promises into lives and action. It is for the Lord and the call is from the Lord.

Yes, our service may look to some simply like free labor for the Church. Or, when seen through the perspective of covenants and promises, the service that missionaries provide can unfold into pure discipleship and unwavering dedication to the Lord Jesus Christ, who never once asked what was in it for Him.

We are so excited for our call we can hardly stand it.  While we are happy to serve anywhere, we requested Asia, and to serve as Member Leadership Support missionaries (MLS). So, once again - where do YOU think we'll be called?

Courtesy of flickr.com/Travis