The dude that drinks the water and gets sick on Mission Trips

Again, we are amazed at the humor and truth that can be spoken by funny people! Here’s a blog from Jon Acuff’s STUFF CHRISTIANS LIKE

A Letter to the Dude that Drinks the water and gets sick on Mission trips:

Dear dude that drinks the water,

We were all told about 836 times by our youth minister not to drink the local water when we went on our mission trip. We were told our stomachs were not used to the different type of water they have there. The consequences of digesting water and dairy products were graphically spelled out by the youth volunteer that wanted to scare us.

We made t-shirts that said, “Just say no to H20″ and even had that motivational speaker, “Mr. H2-Whoa” come in. Remember him, he had that partner of his “Fire hose Frank?” They threw water balloons at us for like an hour until we were finally “soaked with knowledge” about the danger of ingesting water we did not know the origins of.” Any of that ringing a bell?

Probably not, since this afternoon, during one of our breaks on the mission trip, I saw you eating an ice cream cone and drinking out of a hose someone had attached to a fire hydrant. Are you kidding me? We both know what’s going to happen. This is what happens every mission trip we go on. (And don’t tell me it’s because you’re embracing the culture or that it was an accident. Accidents like that happen on mission trips and that’s not what I’m talking about. And this has nothing to do with you nobly engaging with the culture. This is about a hose.)

You’re going to be sick. That’s what happens next. You’ll have an upset stomach and then we’ll all have to move our stuff to another room or another tent so that you can have a little space because you’re “sick.” That’s right, I used quotations. We’ll have to be extra quiet during our break times, because you’re “resting.” And everyone will have to work a little harder because for the next day or two we’re all carrying your load too and you need to “recuperate.”

But what really gets me is that some of the girls on the trip are worried about you. They apparently forget that you’ve done this exact same thing for the last four mission trips. They are going to dote all over you. They’ll bring you crackers to chew on and check on your “progress” every few hours. And, wait, I see what you’re doing. I always thought you were just a horrible listener. But now I get it, this is just an elaborate way to meet girls in our youth group. I pray that you never combine forces with the dude that always brings his guitar everywhere. The two of you would be an unstoppable force, with him writing songs about being sick and you looking pale and trying your best to sing, but I just feel so “weak” from talking, could someone get me a cold washcloth for my head please?

I can’t stand going on mission trips with you.

Leg drops,
Jon

Share This

Share on Facebook
Share on Twitter
Share on Linkdin
Share on Pinterest

More Stories

A Season of Expansion: Stretching Wide the Tent of Impact

This season, inspired by the words of Isaiah 54:2, we’re embracing what we’re calling our Season of Expansion.

“Enlarge the place of your tent, stretch your tent curtains wide, do not hold back; lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes.”

This verse beautifully captures the vision before us—to broaden our impact, deepen our roots, and extend God’s Kingdom in new and meaningful ways.

Read More »

How is Christmas in Guatemala Celebrated? 

In Guatemala, Christmas is deeply rooted in the Christian faith, with the birth of the Baby Jesus at the heart of the celebration. Guatemalan homes display handcrafted nacimientos (nativity scenes), often with intricate details of local daily life, such as figures of farmers, vendors, and scenes from nature. The festivities begin with the setting up of the nacimiento. 

Read More »

Christmas Traditions in Kenya

Christmas in Kenya is a time of vibrant joy, deep-rooted traditions, and cherished family moments. From bustling cities to quiet villages, the holiday season is celebrated in unique and heartfelt ways, reflecting both modern influences and traditional practices.
In Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, Christmas comes alive with dazzling decorations. Buildings, malls, and churches are adorned with twinkling lights and Christmas trees. Streets glow with colorful displays, and festive songs fill the air, creating an atmosphere of cheer.

Read More »

Subscribe

Get more articles and updates like this directly in your email inbox!