Once a Missionary, Always a Missionary
Pioneer missionaries tramped through enemy territory, literally faced off with demons, and endured hardships almost unheard of in today’s society. But there was something in them … the fires of evangelism … that caused them to press onward and be victorious, no matter the cost.
But, what about what awaited them at the end of life? Would they have enough to sustain them financially, or would there even be family members or friends who would assist them? Would they be able to overcome the health issues that would likely strike? It was said that one of the earliest missionaries of the Church of God was discovered living in abject poverty in those final years.
Earlier missionaries gave their all to spread Jesus’ message of hope and redemption, giving no thought for provision in the latter years. No retirement plans were available then, and certainly no “end of life” care.
The older missionaries now faced a different kind of adversary, and were unprepared. Worst of all, many were alone with no one to help them deal with such a formidable foe.
Wisely, the Church of God began to realize the dilemmas many of the elder missionaries dealt with, and strategies were set in place to defer adverse circumstances. That is not to say, though, that support isn’t still needed for the aging group of missionaries home from the field. It is necessary now more than ever.
Admirably, some local Churches of God have “adopted” a retired missionary and one of them is overseeing a portion of the care of one missionary who is presently in a nursing home. Another missionary was the recipient of a retirement home for the declining years, built by the Men/Women of Action.
It means a great deal for the church to consider missionaries’ sacrifices, and to recognize them as full-fledged missionaries in their declining years.
The fires of evangelism still burn within their souls. For them, once a missionary, always a missionary!
(Source: Church of God World Missions. By Brian Raff)
