An art & craft lesson plan about caterpillars and butterflies, and a story about coconuts. That was all I had to offer.

“Wai Jia, this trip is for you to watch and learn. Bethesda church in Sri Lanka has invited us to go over to conduct a children’s camp for them, to instill character and impart spiritual lessons to them. The theme of the camp for these children, many of whom come from broken homes, is Transformation.”

Transformation. Little did I expect how I myself would be transformed on this mission trip as I taught, played and ministered to the children. As our 4-person strong team from Cornerstone Children’s Church (Wai Leng, Paru, Siva and myself) conducted a children’s camp themed Transformation for more than a hundred children from various villages in Columbo, Sri Lanka, I found myself, too, being transformed.

Even before I was born again, I had dreams of serving the poor and broken as a missionary. But I knew I was never ready to give up the creature comforts that I’d gotten so used to. It was only when I started walking with the Lord in a more intimate way and knowing the matters that weighed on His heart that I knew I had to step out and be His hands and feet.

Before embarking on my first mission trip, I’d spoken to a few people at church about wishing to be exposed to the mission field. Through their own experience and wisdom, they dispensed practical tips and advice, of which I treasured much. Despite these, nothing beats first-hand experience.

When I’d found out in March 2009 that there were available slots in the team going to the Jerusalem Prayer Centre in Kandy, Sri Lanka, I was elated. The team was to travel in April and the purpose was to hold an English camp for the Sunday school kids at the Jerusalem Prayer Centre.