Pre-Field Training: Preparation Shaped by Community
Because MTI emphasizes whole-community training, each program includes families, singles, and couples. This diverse makeup mirrors the team dynamics participants are likely to experience on the field, helping them appreciate the unique contributions of individuals and families at different life stages. This gives plenty of opportunity for participants to understand how individuals and families each uniquely contribute to a more beautiful whole.
3 Lessons from Scripture for Cross-Cultural Workers
Hold steadfastly to your hope in Christ and your relationship with Christ. This often means trust-falling into God’s plan even when our shortsighted eyes cannot see the way forward. Because we cannot know the future, remembrance is a powerful way to lean into God’s faithfulness during tribulation. When you find yourself sitting in the chaotic rubble of your current circumstances, intentionally take time to look back at all of the carefully stacked Ebenezers that point to God’s unwavering faithfulness.
Into the Unknown: The Perspective of a Third Culture Kid
As a TCK, leaving my home was difficult beyond words; yet, it was an opportunity to experience life in a way that not many kids my age ever would. Parents of TCKs should process sadness and transition with their children while also encouraging them to see hope in new opportunities. There will inevitably be grief and excitement associated with transition. By embracing this paradox and fully engaging sadness and anticipation in tandem, families can move forward freely together, decoupled from the paralysis that often accompanies unprocessed emotions. It is within this collective freedom where families can operate as a unified whole.
A Heart-in-Hand Approach to Listening
Everyone has a deeply embedded desire to be listened to. Because of this, listening can be a powerful way to show others the love of Christ. When someone shares openly and vulnerably, trusting you with their heart, will you hold it compassionately in your hands, just as Jesus did?
Paradox in Missions: When Joy and Sorrow Coexist
At MTI, we use a pair of rubber ducks to lend a bit of clarity to the concept of paradox. There is a “yay” duck and a “yuck” duck, together forming a “pair of ducks”, or a “paradox”. You cannot have one without the other, though one may lead while the other swims behind. The missionary life is filled with paradox - you cannot have hellos without goodbyes; you may be leaving your missionary family to return to your blood family; perhaps you have experienced multitudes of hurt, and out of that, you have known the love of a Savior as you have never experienced. Paradox.
The Journey of MTI
Through our commitment to the holistic well-being of missionaries and their families, we continue to pave the way for a future where cross-cultural workers are fully equipped to navigate the complexities of their calling with grace, effectiveness, and compassion.