The elderly, homebound
members of our church
sometimes request
a bit of help,
instead get
our youth group
goofing around
inside their house,
pretending to scrub
floors and windows.
But now
we’re taking our “help” crew
on the road.
Heading south
to West Virginia.
Joining teens
from all over.
Our first big mission trip.
We stand shoulder to shoulder
in the church lobby on Sunday
asking for sponsors.
Wallets and checkbooks open fast.
Everyone feels good
sending young people
off to bless the less fortunate,
to be the hands and feet of Jesus.
My Jonathan
and Samantha so delighted
with each other they’re
killing me
annoying to be around.
But this trip promises
to be an adventure
meeting other young people
who love Jesus too.
Besides,
West Virginia
sounds far away and
exotic,
like a place
I can be anyone I want.