France is an enigmatic place. Many Americans have a very one-dimensional view of France and either think only of bread, cheese, wine, and architecture; or they revile it as the world’s premier hub of irreverent philosophers, the sexually promiscuous, and libertines of all varieties. However, the French see themselves in quite the opposite respect.

The charge from Paul to young Timothy was to continue in the things he had learned, knowing it was Paul who taught them to him (II Timothy 3:14). Paul was basically saying, “Regardless of the circumstances, regardless of the challenges, and regardless of the conflicts – just do your thing.” This same charge applies today. 

Preparing for the mission field looks different for every missionary. Some are preparing to move to a different city, some a different country, but all with the same goal in mind. As a missionary preparing to move to a creative access country, my preparation has been several years in the making. From discipleship and training to the logistical aspects, the Lord uses each step to sanctify and equip His people to take the gospel to every corner of the world. 

Nestled deep in the southern province of Zambia, Africa, lies the chiefdom of Sekute — one of the 72 tribal chiefdoms in the region. Sekute is home to several tribal communities, including the Tonga, Lozi, and Tokaleya people, many of whom have yet to hear the Gospel of Christ. This remote region, formerly known as Northern Rhodesia, has become not only our home but also our passion. The people here are now our family.

Census.gov says, per the 2020 census, that 80% of Americans live in urban areas despite raising the minimum requirement of population to twice its previous number. They also found that urban areas are becoming more densely populated. And housing - if we zoom out to look at the world as of 2023 - approximately 4.6 billion people (57% of the world’s total population) live in urban areas. That is a lot of souls. 

Welcome to a series of articles exploring the often-unseen realities of life on the mission field. Inherent difficulties and expectations of suffering are always intertwined with the call to global mission. We will draw insights from scripture and the experiences of those who have lived the reality of suffering on the mission field.