By Frank Severn — Why is it so hard for Christian parents to freely let their grown children become missionaries? That question often puzzled me as I interacted with committed Christian students and young adults. Some who believed that God was calling them to serve Christ among the least-evangelized peoples of the world never followed through because of their parents’ opposition.

A test of faith

First, I admit it is not easy to joyfully send your children to a distant country, or even a close city that may not be perceived as safe and healthy. When my daughter and her husband responded to God’s direction for their lives and headed off to Ukraine in the 1990s, I rejoiced but also had very mixed feelings. This was especially true when I suddenly realized our first granddaughter would be with them! We had committed each of our children to the Lord at birth and prayed that they would joyfully follow him even to the ends of the earth; however, it was not easy to see them leave. That is natural. We love our children and grandchildren. We want to protect them from disease and danger.

A safe place

Second, I believe we have been deceived into thinking that home, or at least our own country, is the safest place to be. What is to say that my son or daughter will be safe and better off by not going? Accidents happen everywhere. Sicknesses occur here, too.

A better life

I sadly remember the story of a wonderful young woman in the Philippines whom my wife and I knew well. She had dedicated her life to the Lord and believed she should go to Bible school to prepare to serve God. Her father was one of the key leaders of the church we were helping to establish. He, however, had other plans for his daughter. He wanted her to become a nurse and eventually go to America where she would earn a good wage, which would help her family. This was and is a very normal plan for a Filipino family. He said, “No, you cannot go to Bible school.” The young lady was heartbroken and found herself in an untenable situation. Being a good Filipina, she obeyed her parents. Sadly, she ended up marrying an unbeliever and her life was miserable.

A higher calling

A wonderful promise

We appreciate the sacrifices that families make when their loved ones serve as missionaries. Prayer can help bridge the gap. Download a free bookmark with daily themes to help you pray for your missionary family members.