Missions Can Change You

Foreign missions are usually targeted at the lost of a certain country; however, ministering in a foreign country can change not only the natives’ lives, but the missionary’s as well. My family and I lived in Siberia for 5 years because my Dad taught in a seminary there. The experience for me was life-changing. Now, at first I did not like the idea of leaving my relatives, home, native country, and friends to go live in this freezing cold place called Russia for nine months out of the year. And, believe it or not, it took me 3 years to realize how much God was teaching me, and how much I would miss not returning to Russia.

One way Russia affected me was through the apartment we lived in. Our apartment was rather small; it only had 3 rooms, a bathroom, and a kitchen. Such “required” physical closeness also brought us closer together as a family. My sister and I would never have been such good friends as we are now if we had not lived in such tight quarters.

The culture of Russia really opened my eyes to see the way other people live. The Russian language was difficult at first, but we all caught on eventually to one degree or another. Not being able to say exactly what’s on your mind is always frustrating, especially in another language! But such trials produce patience.

Being able to worship with other believers half-way across the world, in a different tongue, but to the same awesome God was amazing to me. We made new friends, endured the cold freezing temperatures, and overcame the lack of space in our living quarters -- all by God’s grace. God taught me so many lessons during our time in Russia. Looking back now, I am so glad that we went and I hope that someday, if it is the Lord’s will, I might go back with my own family.

Rachel Pass