Reflections on faith and mission

The following devotion was written by student missionary Dameon Highshaw from Wisconsin Lutheran High School in Milwaukee, WI. Dameon and his classmates participated in a mission trip to the Philippines in partnership with our Friends Network missionaries. 

While on the trip, the students had opportunities to participate in a variety of mission activities while being mentored by the Friends Network team. Dameon was asked to lead a devotion for the group, and we’re privileged to share it with you here. Dameon beautifully articulates his understanding of the relational, deliberate mission work we do, and his perspective is wise beyond his years. Please enjoy Dameon’s wonderful devotion and find encouragement in his message and prayer.

"We’re officially in the middle of our mission trip, which means we’ve hit that point where your feet hurt, your clothes might be a little too lived-in, and you’ve forgotten what your bed at home feels like. Someone probably snored last night, and the rice has become a love-hate relationship. 

But in all seriousness, the middle of a trip like this is often the hardest. The excitement of arrival is behind us, the adrenaline has dipped, and the finish line still feels far away. Fatigue can set in. The little frustrations like: tight schedules or sore feet, can feel bigger than they really are. And if we’re honest, some of us are probably starting to wonder: Am I really making a difference?

That’s why I love what Paul says in Galatians 6:9–10, 'Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.'

Paul knew that doing good, especially consistently, quietly, and without instant results, can be exhausting. But he reminds us that there’s a bigger picture. We don’t always see it right away, but God is working through every moment: every encouraging word, every act of service, every prayer, every hour spent simply being present. What you’re doing here matters especially when it feels small. You’re not here to be the hero. You’re here to be faithful. And faithfulness is powerful.

I want you to think of it like this: you’re not the gardener growing the fruit, you’re the one scattering seeds in faith, trusting that God knows exactly what He’s doing with them. Some seeds grow right away. Others take months, years, or even decades. That’s not up to you. Your job is to keep planting, even when you’re tired, and trust that the harvest belongs to Him. It is all about Christ who gives us our life and a mission to life for Him in everything we do and everywhere we go.

And hey, don’t forget to laugh. A missional life isn’t supposed to be miserable. Joy is a testimony, too. One of the best parts of mission trips is how God uses your laughter, your awkward moments, even your rice-filled dreams to bring people together.

Today, if you’re feeling weary, be encouraged: God sees your effort. He sees your love. He sees your heart. He’s not expecting you to save the world. He’s just inviting you to show up, trust Him, and keep doing good, even in the little things. Keep going. The story isn’t over. And neither is the impact. Let’s finish this trip strong, one act of love at a time."

Prayer: Lord, in the moments when we’re weary, remind us that Your strength is made perfect in weakness. Help us stay faithful even when we’re tired. Let us serve with joy and remember that every act of love is a seed You can grow. Fill our hearts with endurance and let Your Spirit shine through us. Amen.