Pioneers, missionaries and hats

Pioneers have a lot of work to do that most people don’t even have to think about.  Simple things, like “Where can we get water?” or “What can I sleep on?”  As I went about my work today, I realized that missionaries often have the same problem.

Missionaries have to wear a lot of hats.  Of course, it’s obvious if you’re thinking of a missionary among a stone age tribe.  They have to deal with true frontier medicine, basic food and water issues, and culture and communication challenges.

But missionaries going to any unreached area have to do a lot of their own legwork.  Take us, for example, going to an unreached part of Mexico.  Imagine going to a city that has only one tiny church, or no believers at all (that you know of).  There’s no Christian library down the road, or even Christian books in the library or at the bookstore.  There’s no fellowship.  You have trouble even communicating properly with people you do know, not because of language but because of culture.  There’s no Christian schools, Bible colleges, or megachurches with resources to sponsor Christian ministries.  You have no office, no secretary, few resources.  And far less materials available that are culturally and language appropriate.

It’s always harder to start from scratch, but when you’re starting a church in an unreached area, that’s what you’re doing.  But even here, we have to wear a lot of hats!  Take for example some of the things I had to do today.

Today I was communicating with Mexico about various details the Meximize Team will have to be aware of.  I was at a travel agent, working through various details for flights to Mexico.  I had to consider what insurance might be needed, and when the best time would be to buy it to save money.  I had paperwork and questions regarding our personal medical insurance.  There were some financial issues I had to discuss with Shari.  I deposited a cheque.  I had vehicle registration to deal with.  I had banking details I needed to discuss with someone at the bank.  I had to help my kids with various activities.  I discussed some details with Shari regarding our trip to Mexico.  I have to consider immunizations that may be needed.  I worked on training that the team will need before they go to Mexico.  I tried to take care of Nathanael, who I think is a little sick.  Oops – I forgot my cell phone some place, so I had to go back and pick it up.  I updated something on the computer.  I updated my spring/summer calendar.  I got the mail.  I communicated with the Meximize team leader regarding some training issues.  And alas, just when I was getting rolling I ended up with a bad migraine attack and…well, I still had enough energy to write this little note.  And really, that wasn’t much of a typical day – the typical things I didn’t even get to!  And no, I didn’t list everything I did today.

I knew it before, but I know it again.  The life of a missionary is anything but typical.  Next time, I’ll just call my office and let them take care of all the details.  Wait – I am the office! 😯