Team Orientation

I've sat through and even giving the orientation to volunteer teams numerous times. It's always shocking to hear and say. Here's a little piece of what each team is told before heading out to provide relief in Joplin.

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Thank you for being here with us today! We greatly appreciate you all being here. Has everyone signed a waiver?

Let's talk about why you have to sign those waivers. You are getting ready to head into a very dangerous area where the possibility of you getting injured is high. You'll notices as you get into the disaster area the air gets thicker and there is a distinguished smell in the air. There is still a lot of stuff in the air; insulation, drywall, etc. You'll notice when you get out of the area your skin might itch from being exposed to it. We have a few masks if you didn't bring your own; always wear a mask when in the area.

Be very mindful of where you are stepping. We've had numerous people step on nails and get cut. One guy fell through a roof and another into a basement because they thought the structure could hold them. If you do get a cut or injured, it is imperative you get it taken care of. There has been fungi and other infectious diseases that have sent people to the hospital. If you get cut, wash and bandage it well. Make sure your tetanus shot is up to date; if you need one, there are multiple places around the city offering free shots. Please let us know if anything happens and seek medical attention if necessary.

Another huge danger is the weather. We've seen record high temps the past several days. Today, temperatures are expected to reach 100 with heat indexes of 104-106. There is no shade. You can take a tarp and construct a shelter if you'll be at job site all day. Staying hydrated is imperative! Make sure your cooler is stocked full of Gatorade and water!

Today will be a busy and hard day for you; the job is big; however, what we are most concerned about is the Gospel going forth. Be mindful the people you encounter. If you see someone alone working or standing in front of a home; approach them and ask if you might help them. A lot of people for the first time are realizing everything they've built their lives on and for is gone. We have a great opportunity to point them to the only true thing they can build their lives on... Jesus. Offer to pray with them and serve them whenever possible. When you do meet someone, get their information so a Mystery Church leader can follow up with them.

Let's pray before you head out...

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If this message hasn't scared you, consider coming and joining the hundreds who accepted the challenge and volunteered with Mission Joplin! The work is hard, exhausting and draining; yet in the midst, Jesus strengthens, encourages and uplifts you. Is he calling you to be a part of what is going on in Joplin?!