Here's an idea that I found oxymoronic: a "missions cruise." I received this email about it just now:

"Discover the World of Possibilities on a cruise to Discover opportunities all over the World. The time promises to be fun, rewarding, challenging, and spiritually revitalizing. Speakers who have worked all over the globe will share experiences and teach sessions throughout the six days. There will also be a children's program covering different world cultures, crafts, and customs from different language groups. There will be fun activities for the whole family in addition to those offered by the cruiseline."

If people can't catch the irony in a group of overweight Americans gorging at the buffet table while hearing about the plight of starving orphans, then they've got a tin ear.

Mind you, I'm all for cruises and nice vacations. Karen and I are going on vacation tomorrow and I am thankful for the break and the beautiful beach we'll be visiting. And I've got no problem with a day off to relax at the end of hard work on a mission trip. We just have to be careful where we draw the lines - missions is not a spectacle, it's a lifestyle.