1. A missionary is, first, somebody who walks with his/her community. S/he is not sent to a people without the firsthand knowledge of God. Every nation has heard about God. A missionary should thus learn to listen to what the Lord says to him or her through the community s/he is sent to. S/he should never consider him/herself as a specialist of the mission, but as a good pilgrim who is prepared to embark on a journey of faith with his/her missionary community.
2. Often missionaries spend years in a mission without being interested in the history of those they work with. And even though your culture might appear superior to theirs and your society more sophisticated, remember that every people, tribe and nation have their realities. And the uniqueness and authenticity of their life experience and history are always without comparison. So, what you already know is yours, and whatever new thing you will learn will be an advantage.
For these reasons, bear in mind that the more you are interested in people’s history, the more they are ready to listen to you. And, even though a missionary might be in the same region s/he was born, s/he should not pretend to know everything for realities also vary from one city to the other.
Learn their language, instruct yourself on their cultures and norms. Learn even those things you might think do not directly touch your mission, for it is an error to presume that there is an aspect of their life that does not concern your mission.
3. As you meet other missionaries already in the field, listen to them. You might be more educated than them, but the mission is not always about studies. Experienced are often said to be the best teachers.
And, to all the missionaries welcoming others in their places of the mission, do not forget that we are all brothers and sisters in Christ. They might be young and inexperienced, but they still have the innocence that often gives missionaries the impetus to engage in audacious missionary initiatives. So, treat them as brothers or sisters. The Lord has placed you as a light on their way, let that light shine for the greater glory of God. Never fail to be the instrument God will use to transform all those you meet on your missionary journey. Guide them and love them as Christ guides and loves you, for whatever you do to the little of Christ’s brothers or sisters, it is unto him you do it.
