“It’s a ton to do. Yet, each responsibility is a joy because you know it’s for the Lord Jesus Christ.“
Back in 2017, when I had begun to prepare to come overseas, there was an air of expectation in everything I was doing. Selling my TV and gaming systems? Didn’t need those! I was going to be very busy! Downsizing my wardrobe? Minimalism was the name of the game, baby! Getting rid of useless junk? Sparking some joy in my life! I was giving/selling so much away without any promise of a role/ministry/job overseas that some of my friends were concerned. Even had one friend ask if I was doing okay and considering ending my life. Once they were assured that I wasn’t spiraling they also shared my enthusiasm for the future.
The plan was to be a tent maker, at least at first, while deciding if overseas missions was even possible for someone like me. Missions isn’t a one size fit all calling (even though all are bound by the Great Commission, how we fulfill that commission is up to us) and only certain people really fit the “goer” mold. At least, that’s what I use to think.
I know better now. Yes, some personality types are pre-disposed to doing better at cross cultural mission work than others. The flexible and chill types? They’ll thrive. What about the extroverted social butterflies? They’ll knock networking out of the park. Bold and brave adventurers with nerves of steel? Need I explain why these will do well? However, what about the shy, introverted, regimental, tightly wound, and reserved types? They too can thrive at cross cultural missions. I would know, I’m one of them.
When I was expectant about the future, I had no idea just how difficult being a tent-maker missionary would be. Not only are you tired all the time and have WAY too much on your plate but you are involved in various ministries in your context. One night is ESL Bible Study, the next you’re meeting with possible mission partners for dinner, then a couple nights a week you’re studying for the sermon on Sunday, finally followed by after hours work for your income generating job. It’s a ton to do. Yet, each responsibility is a joy because you know it’s for the Lord Jesus Christ. You’re here for a reason and that is to be a servant. Servants work hard.
Sure, the expectations I had from before I arrived have all been pretty wrecked. The realities of missions and overseas life have been both devastating and pleasant. Yes, I’m working hard towards being in missions full time. (Support raising is just one more responsibility on my long list.) Yet, I’ve also come to see the value in tent-making. For one, anyone can be a tent-maker because anyone can do most jobs. There are so many ways to take your career global it’s mind boggling. Yes, even in the age of Covid. More than that, there are opportunities in countries that would normally be difficult for tourism but are opening up more than ever to the world at large (UAE, Oman, Kazakhstan, etc..). There hasn’t been a better time to be a tent-making missionary.
Jobs such as teachers, medical professionals, engineers, computer programmers, and more are all in high demand. Plus, with the advent of platforms like YouTube, there are other less traditional avenues to making a living online. So the days of having to rely on 100% support are long gone. In fact, if you are reading this and considering missions then hear my best advice to you: figure out how to make money in a location independent fashion. That will be your best way to not only live while raising support but will allow you to work anywhere in the world.
This post is already long enough. I’ll probably write another one later about this topic. I hope you were encouraged in some way!
May the Lord bless you and keep you, may He make His face shine upon you and give you peace.
That’s all for now travelers, see you next time!
Kenneth See
SRM Founder