For many long-term missionaries, their greatest need upon returning home is not financial support but connection. Imagine coming back to your church after being away for eight years—so much has changed. Veteran missionaries often seek reconnection with those who sent them out to the nations. Church leaders should prioritize efforts to facilitate reintegration and reconnection for returning missionaries. This involves intentional relationship-building, providing opportunities for sharing experiences, and involving them in the ongoing life and ministry of the church. 

The blaring horn surprised me and caused me to jerk the car back into my lane. I was not paying close attention and had only looked in my mirrors before attempting to change lanes. A car was tucked neatly in my blind spot. It was completely invisible, yet certainly there.

This incident on the road made me realize that just as our vehicles have blind spots, so do our churches and their ministry efforts—particularly when it comes to supporting and sending missionaries overseas.

Every church has blind spots. This isn’t a criticism but a reality. As we work with our global team and engage with local churches, we have observed some recurring blind spots that mission teams and church leaders often overlook when sending or supporting missionaries. By shining a light on these blind spots, we can bridge the gaps in our understanding and elevate the effectiveness of our overseas ministry endeavors. Let’s consider five ways the church can better support missions.

1. Over-accountability

Accountability is vital for missionary support, regardless of the funding amount involved. However, it’s crucial to recognize the proportionate accountability role each church should play. Expecting a missionary who receives minimal financial support to fill out extensive reports, make monthly calls, and make annual visits may create an undue burden. Finding the balance between reporting and support that encourages meaningful dialogue without overwhelming the missionary is key.

Moreover, accountability should not only focus on administrative matters but also on the spiritual well-being of the missionary. Engaging in regular conversations about their ministry challenges, spiritual growth, and prayer needs fosters a deeper sense of support and connection. Acts 14:24-28 highlights the importance of both accountability and engagement in the context of missionary work.

2. Under-accountability

Conversely, asking nothing of our sent ones—no questions, communication, or reporting—leads to limited understanding and minimal relationship-building. Effective missionary support requires active engagement from church leaders. Regular communication, intentional inquiries about their ministry experiences, and ongoing prayer support create an atmosphere of care and investment.

As church leaders, we are called to provide spiritual oversight and guidance to those we send out on mission. Acts 14:27 states, “On arriving there, they gathered the church together and reported all that God had done through them and how he had opened a door of faith to the Gentiles.” This text demonstrates the importance of missionaries reporting their work and experiences to the supporting church, enabling a deeper understanding and connection.

3. The nonverbal message of support levels

Choosing a support level for missionaries involves more than financial considerations. Church leaders must recognize the message they convey through their support decisions.

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