Heart of Mission

S6E05 - Meet Daniel, Tamie and Michelle – three Mission Mobilisers from three different CMS branches - all deeply invested in journeying with people as they consider their role in God’s global mission. Considering mission service can seem daunting, but in this episode Daniel, Tamie and Michelle seek to share their life, clarify the inquiry process, and show us what sort of people CMS is looking for. Our panel also tackles concerns missionary inquirers have - like financial stability, language barriers, and the potential impact on family life. They emphasize that trust in God as central to every Christian’s life (at home or on the mission field) and reliance on Him brings blessings, personal growth, and joy, even during difficulties like water shortages or language struggles. They also discuss the robust pastoral care provided by CMS, which ensures missionaries and their families are supported, enabling them to flourish. And they share their experience of the many fulfilling aspects of missions, from unique life experiences, such as safaris and cultural immersion, to the profound privilege of being part of God's global work. Mobilising new missionaries is a partnership, requiring us to seek where the Spirit is at work within our own lives, our churches and where the needs are around the world. For more resources or to connect with a mobiliser in your area, visit the CMS website or contact your local CMS branch. Links: If you are interested in serving with or supporting CMS find out more at www.cms.org.au

S6E04 - Malcolm and Leanne open up about the "second window of availability"—that phase when God throws up new opportunities, even when they may seem impractical. They share their early stirrings towards mission work, the preparation required to go overseas, and the challenges of adjusting to a vastly different culture and learning a new language in their fifties.They also discuss the joys they've encountered, including helping to establish a locally led Bible college that serves as a gospel light to the community. The Bible college has a pivotal role in developing leaders for a growing Christian population, many of whom come from regions with limited access to formal theological education. Leanne also shares about her role in teaching English to students, helping them access resources and further studies that will allow them to continue strengthening their churches and communities.Whether you’re considering cross-cultural mission work now or simply love hearing stories of faith and resilience, Malcolm and Leanne's journey provides inspiration, insight, and a powerful reminder that age doesn’t disqualify you from living out a life of purpose and mission when Christ is at the centre.Links:If you are interested in serving with or supporting CMS find out more at www.cms.org.au

S6E03 - Many parents grapple with the question of whether they should they take their children overseas as missionary kids (MKs)? Is it responsible to uproot them from their home culture, away from family, to a place that may have limited medical care, educational opportunities, or stability? What does it really mean to raise a "Third Culture Kid" (TCK), and how does this impact their identity and future?Our guests today, Maaike Prins and her daughter, Esther, share their personal experiences as a family who spent 17 years serving as missionaries in Cambodia. Maaike and her husband felt called to the mission field, even with a young daughter in tow. Esther, now a young adult, reflects on growing up in Cambodia, attending international schools, and navigating the complexities of being a TCK—living between cultures but fully belonging to neither.The episode also explores the role of international schools designed specifically for MKs, with a focus on Hope International School in Phnom Penh, where Maaike played a leadership role. These schools aim to provide a supportive environment for MKs, helping families stay on the field long-term.For educators considering a global mission experience, Maaike offers insights into the profound impact they can have by teaching at these international schools. Esther adds her perspective on the importance of the community these schools provide for missionary kids helping them navigate the complexities of their identity and life transitions.Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply interested in the intersection of faith, mission, and family life, this episode offers a nuanced look at the costs, challenges, and rich rewards of raising children in the mission field.Links:If you are interested in serving with or supporting CMS find out more at www.cms.org.au

S6E02 - How much focus on global missions is too much? As followers of Christ, we're called to engage in local communities while also embracing God's global purpose. But how do we strike the right balance between local and global mission in our everyday lives and ministries? Rowan Kemp is a long-serving staff team leader of the Evangelical Union (EU) at Sydney University. Rowan, who has spent decades shaping the hearts and minds of university students toward both local and global mission, brings invaluable insights from his experiences. He shares how his own journey into global mission was sparked at a young age. This early exposure fostered a love for God's worldwide mission that now fuels his leadership at the university.During the conversation, Rowan outlines nine key principles for promoting a global mission mindset at the local level (see below). He explains the importance of setting a ministry horizon that goes beyond our immediate context, thinking globally while leading by example. Rowan also stresses the need for clear theological thinking about global missions, ensuring that it’s not just an obligation but a joyful response to God's love.This episode will challenge and inspire leaders, church members, and anyone with a heart for missions to think deeply about how to raise up workers for God’s global harvest while maintaining a vibrant local ministry. Whether you're just beginning to explore global missions or looking for ways to encourage others to think beyond their local context, Rowan's practical advice and experiences will provide a helpful roadmap.Tune in as we discuss how you can nurture a global heart right where you are!Nine key principles for promoting a global mission mindset at the local level – listen to hear how Rowan explains and uses these:1. Set ministry horizon 2. Lead by example 4. Theological clarity 5. Language to capture the vision 6. Empower some champions6. Embed global mission into regular program7. Increase firsthand exposure8. Praise God for the wins9. Failure is your friendLinks: If you are interested in serving with or supporting CMS find out more at www.cms.org.au