Tag Archives: surrender

The TCK Surprise

The children of Goers are ofter referred to as TCKs. They don’t completely fit in their stateside culture, nor do they fit in their home (overseas) culture. They exist in a third reality that is made up of both cultures combined. That is why we refer to these kids as Third Culture Kids. Ann Bowman has third culture grandkids and has seen the ways that their experiences abroad and on furlough have shaped them to be unique in so many ways. Read this new post (and listen to the podcast!) as Ann talks about ways that we all can minister to these very special kiddos.

What Does it Feel Like to Be the Mother of a Missionary on Mother’s Day?

Hey missionary mama, some of you may be wondering, “What does it feel like to be the mother of a missionary on Mother’s Day?” And I think the best way I can describe it is bittersweet. Bitter because my missionary is in a different place, a different time zone, a different culture than I inhabit, and this all makes me feel out of touch with him. But sweet, because the baby that God allowed me to steward, that baby that grew and flew and became an amazing adult, is now serving that same God as a missionary in a faraway land. Could I ask for a better Mother’s Day gift? I think not.

But sometimes this peculiar bittersweet feeling weights heavy on my mama’s heart…can you relate?

Departures Are Messy

Ann Bowman knows about departures. With two daughters serving globally, Ann is an expert at saying goodbye. This excerpt is from her new book, “I Never Signed Up For This”, and describes the ache of surrendering those most precious to you. Listen to her extended story on the most recent Parents of Goers Podcast

Tree Farm Fail

Are you bemoaning the fact that your Goer is far away this Christmas?

When I focus on my sometimes-disappointing circumstances, my life feels lacking. But when I choose the same attitudes Paul encouraged in the Philippians (4:8), when I think on whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, and whatever is admirable, I see how incredible it is that Jesus became a baby so he could become our Savior–the same Savior our Goer kids are sharing with people who don’t know him. I can praise God for Christmas and use it as a time to learn to think more like HIm.

What Missionary Grandparents Give Up–and Gain

Being a long-distance grandparent is really hard. This excellent article written by a former goer offers great perspective to our kids abroad, and helpful advice and encouragement to those of us missing our precious grands. May it encourage your soul.

Confessions of a “Fix-It Father”

Many of you have expressed interest in resources for fathers. Here’s an article from a self-proclaimed “Fix-It Father” who has learned to yield his protective fatherly instincts to God’s sovereignty. Mark wisely reminds us that we are just caretakers of these children. They really belong to God.

Mothers, Fathers, and Missions: A Lesson From Jim Elliot

Parents must resist the urge to hinder their children in the work of missions under the guise of parental protection. This is a very difficult act of surrender and a peculiar sorrow which has been endured by parents through the ages. Read this fascinating letter from the late Jim Elliot to his parents.

Predictably Unpredictable Visas

The whole visa process is confusing to me and other parents, I assume. At least it was confusing to Connie, who sent me this question via the Parents of Goers website.

As I get these questions, I will share them with you all since we are all in this boat (airplane?) together. I will respond with my personal experiences, but I would love for you all to chime in with yours in the comments so we can all learn from one another. Hang in there Missionary Mamas and Dads!

New Podcast Episode! Advice for Parents and Grandparents

Are you a parent or grandparent grappling with the idea of your child or grandchild pursuing a missionary calling? Do you find yourself filled with questions and concerns about how to support them effectively? In this episode of The Missions Podcast, our host Scott Dunford engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Tori Haverkamp, founder of Parents of Goers Ministries and author of the new book Missionary Mama’s Survival Guide.

Become a Sending Parent

“When I consider the idea of one day releasing one or more of my four daughters into the hostilities of global missions, I’m reminded it’s an offering worthy of my God—the God who first sent his Son, Jesus Christ. The pain I’ll bear in watching my child’s form disappear into the airport, then seeing her endure the daily death of a missionary, will only serve to make me more like the sending God who lives in me.”

In Case of Emergency

With family so far away, Goers can feel helpless when hard things happen at home. And they can feel isolated as they navigate big changes abroad. Both parents and Goers will sacrifice as a result of this missional life. Abigail Follows gives a seasoned perspective on the cost and beauty of the Missionary’s task.