[coaching]

Having the desire to love and serve those in a crisis is a lot different than being called to go. Hopefully, most of us would feel burdened for those having gone through life altering events, however empathy doesn’t necessarily mean calling. How do you know if you’re called? Ask yourself these questions.

a. What do I have to offer? What skills, abilities or gifts do I have that could be brought to bear on this situation? There are numerous needs that could include anything from construction and demolition experience to well digging and medical training to problem solving, counseling, etc. Know what you can do and do well.

b. Can I take care of myself? Am I in good health and sound mind? Serving in a disaster zone means going without a lot of the creature comforts you may be used to. There may not be a place to get out of the heat. You may be sleeping in a tent. You may have infrequent access to water or perhaps little to no access to medical attention. Are you ready and equipped to survive on your own. Also, what you witness may be difficult to deal with. You will be dealing with people at their darkest hour. Are you spiritually mature and mentally fit enough to handle these situations? The last thing you want to do is become a drag on the resources that were intended for the original victims.

Some Helpful tips / knowledge:

Bring your own meds. Bring netting to sleep under and appropriate rain gear. Pack only the essentials as you could end up moving around quite a bit. Your luggage could take up room needed for others and supplies.

Immunizations. If you’re traveling abroad especially to a “third world” country make sure your immunizations are up to date. Because it takes time to make these appointments and to get a series of shots which is often the case, plan ahead. In other words, if you’re not up to date with your immunizations when disaster strikes you probably won’t be able to get them done in time. Immunizations will usually include Hepatitis A and B, Malaria, Rabies, Typhoid and Yellow Fever. For an up to date list for the country you’re traveling to check out: http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list

Finally, generally speaking, if this is the first time you’ve thought about going, you’re probably not called to go. A calling usually manifests itself in a growing burden over time. Pray about it, seek counsel, ask the Lord to speak to you regarding your involvement in the future. Here are some other ways to be involved: https://sentonesnetwork.org/forums/topic/general-tips-for-involvement/

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