I know this trip will not only benefit my own spirituality and ministry, but my congregation as well. Below are some specific goals and expectations for the trip.
First, this course will enrich my ministry by giving me a tangible, firsthand experience of the geographical setting and greater context of many biblical events. I hope these experiences will increase my education and knowledge of the biblical text and help me to visualize the places where key events in the history of the Bible and the church have taken place. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the land of Israel will bring a new background and insight to many of the fundamental beliefs I hold for myself and teach to others.
Second, I know this trip will strengthen my spirituality. There are intentional worship times and nightly group meetings built into our time in Israel. Journaling is expected. There will be a strong focus on building spiritual depth along with academic study (This was the case for many of the courses at Kuyper when I attended there as an undergrad student as well — it is one of the reasons I am excited about completing more coursework there). I know my commitment and relationship with God will grow when I walk in the very steps of Christ.
Third, the other participants will be students and adults with a focus on ministry. Sharing this kind of experience with so many like-minded people will certainly not only lead to many conversations concerning our various ministries, but also discussions on practical application of the content of the trip across many fields of ministry. I hope these conversations will broaden my perspective on ministry—on my Youth Ministry, but other ministries I am involved in as well (I especially think about my involvement with the Evangelism/Outreach Committee and Volunteer Leadership Development).
Fourth, I expect this course, as well as other continuing education opportunities, will have a direct benefit to my congregation primarily through my ministry to youth. Increased knowledge will help provide more historical and biblical perspective to curriculum writing and the teaching times for our junior and senior high youth. In an ever changing world and culture, a deeper appreciation of the foundations of our beliefs will help every lesson plan and every teaching time. In addition to youth ministries, I am heavily involved in developing volunteer leaders and our church Evangelism/Outreach Committee. The increased knowledge and spiritual growth will help not only with discipling leaders but also spiritually--searching people and new Christians. The Bible is our source for learning, growth and direction in following Christ — understanding it better will only increase my effectiveness in every aspect of my ministry.
Fifth, I plan to host some pre--trip and post--trip activities to help inform and inspire fellow congregants to benefit from my experiences. This blog should help to record my progress on fundraising, provide prayer requests and update friends, family and congregation members on issues of importance dealing with Israel and the trip. Following the trip I also plan to give a written and oral presentation (with many pictures) to share about some of my experiences and insights from the trip.
Sixth, I anticipate that upon returning from a trip like this, I will bring energy, excitement and renewal to the ministries I am directly leading and also to the ministries on which I have influence. I think this will be similar to the refreshing effect on a congregation when a pastor returns from a sabbatical; congregants reap many benefits from the pastor’s time away for study and growth.
