It happens almost every week: someone questions me about a missionary’s Facebook posting. It seems if missionaries post anything other than baptisms, church services, or evangelistic outreaches they are doomed to judgment. Seriously.
Here are a few things I have been asked,
“Are they just on a European vacation?”
“Why are there women in his picture; Is he fooling around?”
“What do they do with all their time?”
“All they ever do is drink coffee, hang out, or go running.”
“They post almost every day, are they just spending all their time on Facebook?”
Sometimes it is not a question. Sometimes it is just a statement like, “Geeze, I wish I could gallivant all around Europe.”
On and on it goes… Seriously.
Don’t get me wrong; missionaries must use discretion with social media: This is a topic of regular conversation and coaching.
But, before you jump straight to judgment on those ordinarily acceptable postings like hanging out with family and friends, accomplishing a personal goal like a marathon or bike race, a ministry event that required travel, or even a family vacation picture, ask yourself, “Why is the missionary posting this?”
Here are three reasons you should not judge missionaries by their Facebook postings.
- Some missionaries use Facebook to stay connected with family and friends. As such they share their personal lives. And yes, this may include a trip to the beach or movie or just a day off, just like everyone else on Facebook.
- Some missionaries use Facebook to connect with supporters, and as such, they may post a lot of ministry selfies. Just remember, the ministry posting does not tell the whole story. The ministry may appear larger or smaller than it actually is, but whatever it is, the missionary is excited about it and wants to share it with you.
- Some missionaries use Facebook to connect; just connect. Missionary life can be very lonely. These amazing people have left home, family, language, financial security, country, and peanut butter. Sometimes, they long for human connection, even if it is just a social media connection. Give them a break. Please.
Missionaries are awesome people. But they are people. As such, they too long for connection and affirmation. So, when you see missionaries post on social media connect with them, celebrate with them, and pray for them; they will be strengthened and encouraged when you do.