This week we are at our mission training in Minneapolis, MN.  We are learning about new cultures, paperwork hurdles, and the like, but most importantly we are learning about the people we are called to serve: missionary kids or MKs.  In fact, two of the new missionaries here, one heading to Japan with his family and one to Black Forest Academy, are actually BFA graduates!  This school continues to impact the world.  They serve to exemplify why God has called us to serve in this unique way.

People ask us why we have chosen to serve this particular field.  Is it really necessary?  Why not do something that directly answers Christ’s instructions in Matthew 28:19 and in Acts 1:8?  Author David Pollock an expert in this field says, “Caring for missionary kids and missionary families is not an appendage to the fulfillment of the Great Commission.”  Based on his knowledge, we’ll begin a three part look at this issue and try to answer some of those tough questions that many of our supporters and potential supporters have.

PRESENCE – Reason 1

The need is there primarily because missionary kids are there.  It seems a bit simplistic, but one of the core reasons why MKs need a place like BFA and people like us to love them is that they bear God’s image and are part of His creation. MKs need Christ and His grace just like every other person on this earth. There is no apologetic needed.

Through missionary kids we, the extended body of Christ, are given the opportunity to demonstrate both the Great Commission and the Great Commandment in one intertwined action.  The two foundations of the Christian faith are interrelated and inseparable.  The love of Christ is how we are to be identified and distinct from the rest of the world. 1 John 3:16-18 reminds us that it is not our words that say “this is love.” It is how we act and treat others.

Brushing MKs or any kids aside is not OK.  If you have any questions about how God views children, just look at Matthew 18:6.  He is serious about our responsibility as adults to care for the young and innocent.  This includes missionary kids, impoverished kids, uneducated kids, abused kids, single-parent kids and orphans.  If your heart doesn’t respond to that, maybe your mind will respond to this fact: roughly 80% of all believers make a decision to follow Christ before they turn 18.  Kids matter in the Kingdom.  Missionary Kids matter in the Kingdom.

Missionary kids dot cultures and countries all over the world.  Just like the kids in the youth group, at the kids club, in the shelters, and elsewhere, their presence is an invitation.  As we step forward to serve at Black Forest Academy, we answer the call with the serious commitment that we ARE responding to the Great Commission.  We ARE on the front lines.  We ARE showing the world that Christ’s love does in fact make a difference at BFA, in the 45 different countries represented there and beyond!

If you’d really like to dig deeper into this issue please check out David C. Pollock’s book Third Culture Kids.  Pollock is recognized as an expert in this field and can fill in the many gaps that I’ve left here.