A Servants Spirit

This morning I read an article written by Mike Stachura of Operation Mobilization, Seven Principles for Highly Effective Short-Term Missions”. One of the principles is called "A Servants Spirit" and it states:

"Nothing is more damaging to cross-cultural missions, short-term or long-term, than a patronizing, paternalistic attitude. Paul came determined not to present himself, but Jesus Christ and Him crucified. As for Paul, he wanted to be known as Christ's bondservant. A servant's spirit starts in the home church or group with a willingness to do whatever is asked. It is reflected in the team life where all members are willing to take their share of the workload. It means esteeming others, particularly national Christian workers, as better than ourselves."

In the many articles and books in which I have read in reference to short-term missions, the two most common principles is being flexible and being humble. We must go without our own individual agenda and allow God to use us as He sees fit. So as we prepare to Arise and Go, let us humble ourselves and ask God to change our hearts as we meditate on His sacrifice for us".