If you are in the portion of the United States that is experiencing brutal heat this weekend, it would be a good time to stay inside and check out this latest batch of missionary care resources. And the heat might remind you to pray for the global workers you know who must contend with such temperatures on a regular basis, and often without the aid of air conditioning.

EQUIP YOURSELF

This summer may be your chance to engage in some really meaningful dialogue with a missionary or two. Here are some helpful ideas on what to talk about, from the folks at On Mission.

Looking for a foundational course in missionary care? Heartstream Resources may have what you want: a three-week training program that will teach you how to use current resources in caring for missionaries. And while you’re on their page, you should check out the other services they provide.

LIFE ON THE FIELD

One of the most therapeutic things a global worker can do is spend time in nature. Not always easy, but always worth the effort. Monica explains the benefits in this post. What creative ways could you suggest to your friends on the field for getting a “nature fix”?

FUNDRAISING

Know anyone trying to raise additional support? Tailored Fundraising has three ideas for sources that are often overlooked. This two-minute video could lead to many good leads.

TRANSITION

What is reverse culture shock, and how can you help mitigate it for your missionary friends? Meredith Cook answers both questions in this helpful post.

The people you know who are going through transition (maybe returning to live in the U.S.) need grace and understanding. What does transition feel like for them?

It feels like living on another planet.

Marilyn Gardner’s post will help you know how to help them.

MKs/TCKs

Demons in the suitcase? Most of us realize that MKs bring a lot of baggage with them when the repatriate, but Michele Phoenix points out one reality we may overlook: exposure to demonic activity. A complex issue that Michele addresses with skill. If you work with MKs in any capacity, you will benefit from knowing what she has to say on the subject.

Here’s a little something on the lighter side: Signs you’re dealing with a TCK. Ruth and Kevin wrote this in the context of China, but the basis holds true most anywhere in the world.

EVENTS

October will be here before you know it. It’s time to make plans to attend PTM (Pastoral Training in Membercare). Join a few hundred member care people, ranging from multi-year veterans to newbies, for personal refreshment and practical teaching. One of the best and most practical events of its kind–and this year is a special anniversary for them.

Marriage counseling is not just for couples who are experiencing problems. Any marriage can be enriched and revitalized through a good marriage retreat, like the one offered by Alongside. Coming up September 30-October 4. Who could you bless with the gift of this event?

Are you working with someone in the early stages of determining their calling? The Journey Deepens offers a weekend retreat designed to help people discern their next step. You might want to consider attending along with the person you are mentoring. Coming up in September, in Indianapolis.

Also coming in September: Traction—a men’s retreat in Switzerland. “Traction is focused on helping men navigate their roles to regain spiritual footing and momentum to move forward.” Lots of opportunity for recreation and relaxation in a breath-taking environment.

Who could you send to this six-day retreat? ELIM Retreats is a ministry of Barnabas International and is devoted to caring for the hearts of global workers. September 15-20 in Eagle, Wisconsin.

As always, thank you for taking the time to equip yourself to care well for the missionaries God has placed in your life. I am quite sure that they are grateful as well.

New on my bookshelf:

• Love Well: Living Life Unrehearsed and Unstuck, by Jamie George
• Innovation in Mission, by Jim Reapsome and Jon Hirst

What I’m reading this week:

• Serving Well, by Elizabeth & Jonathan Trotter
• Summer, A Spiritual Biography of the Season, Gary Schmidt ed.
• Desiring the Kingdom, by James K.A. Smith
• Formed for the Glory of God, by Kyle Strobel
• The Return of the King, by JRR Tolkien

Recently finished reading:

• The Gifts of Imperfection, by Brene Brown
• Never Quit: How I Became a Pararescue Jumper, by Jimmy
• Beloved Dust, by Jamin Goggin and Kyle Strobel
• Invitation to Retreat, by Ruth Haley Barton

Up next:

• Searching for God Knows What, by Donald Miller