Several months ago, my boys and I joined our Sandals Church family on a Tijuana mission trip to help build a home. We were late in raising support, so we had to dig deep into our own pockets. But looking back, I can’t imagine a more worthwhile expense. The experience changed everything—and here’s why.

Prayer Walk: The Tijuana Mission Trip Wake-Up Call

Upon arriving in Tijuana, our team leader Sarah led us on a prayer walk through the neighborhood.
Later, I asked my youngest son—then a high school sophomore—what he thought.
He gave a one-word answer: “Shocking.”
That word said it all. It meant: I’ll never see my life the same way again.
“Shocking” made my list of life-shaping moments.

Rich Culture in a Place of Little

In that neighborhood, we discovered something our own culture often lacks.
There was contentment with little, rather than little contentment.
There was deep community—families sharing space, life, and love.
These people had less, but in many ways, they had more.

Unforgettable Moments of the Tijuana Mission Trip

• Eating food that both delighted and challenged our stomachs.
• Seeing God’s image in every face.
• Working hard and sweating for someone else’s blessing.
• Carrying a roof to cover a roof—literal and symbolic.
• Sharing embraces, prayers, and laughter with people we would’ve never known.

A Team Experience That Changed Us All

This wasn’t just a trip. It was a bonding experience that shaped our faith, friendships, and priorities.
We came to serve, but we left transformed—together.

The Priceless Return on a $600 Investment

Yes, we spent more than we expected.
But what we gained? Perspective. Gratitude. Joy.
The cost of our Tijuana mission trip was $600 extra—but the value was immeasurable.
I would do it again in a heartbeat.