Being a student missionary stretches you in many important ways, pushing you to become more than you thought possible. I enjoy being a small part of that stretching process. Young missionaries have so much potential, and I love to give them opportunities to blossom. I thank all the parents who had the courage to allow their college-age student to embark on this adventure of personal and spiritual growth that will impact them for the rest of their life.

The scary times; the times they are sick or depressed; the times they are bored or wonder why in the world they came out to this jungle—those are the times your prayers carry them through to higher ground; through to a closer walk with Jesus; through to more effectiveness in ministry.

I am convinced that the Lord blesses the self-sacrifice the students make when they delay their university schooling to come to the “higher education” school of experience. I’m also convinced that the Lord has a special blessing for those who give up their sons and daughters to spend a year away from the safety net of the known in the scary abyss of the unknown. There is an even greater blessing for those who relinquish their sons, daughters, grandchildren, nephews and nieces and allow them to follow God’s calling to a lifetime of overseas service.

Behind each missionary stands an army of family and friends who have sadly but willingly surrendered their right to be near them. The sacrifice and loss are real on both sides. And yet the blessings are real, too. Even today, even in the pain of the distance between you and your loved ones, there is a profound blessing in knowing others are finding Jesus because you were willing to let go. There will be stars in your crown, too, representing the people who heard and followed because you let a loved one go and be the voice, the heart, the loving hands of Jesus.

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