Shelby sent an article wondering why people return to Ebola-stricken areas of Africa, especially after they had to leave for that reason earlier.
Article at GetReligion.org
She asks: "They are now returning and I am curious to hear others' opinions on the Brockleman's decision to return. Would you?"
The timing of this post is relevant to a conversation that a friend and I had earlier this week. We were discussing why so many missionaries, especially American Christians, go internationally to do service when there are needs that must be met here in the United States. I believe that in the case of the Brockleman's, the desire to go back extends beyond benevolence and the need to "finish the job".
ReplyDeleteI think that a common reason why missionaries go international is because they believe in the need to help others who do not have the same amenities they posses in a first-world country. But, I would also contend that the other factor is more psychological. I believe what missionaries experience while in another country is similar to what our servicemen and women experience while overseas. There is a thrill and excitement that comes with being in a place that is ruptured or in crisis. It is this fragility coupled with a lack of attraction to a stable life that pulls these individuals back to a place in need.
Would I go back? After experiencing a life where everything is changing and each day might bring something new, I believe I would find the comfortable life I have here in America to not be sufficient.