Author Archives: Erik and Bridget Martin

As missionaries have always tried to live simply, but as with anything, over time (especially while living in the U.S.) we become more and more comfortable, and it is easy to justify extras. Soon our conviction to live in solidarity with the poor is compromised by settling with a lifestyle that is just a little more simple than that of the others around us . . . not exactly the definition of Gospel poverty!

So what have I learned? I have learned that the initial excitement and feeling of adventure of foreign missions has faded for me. But the good news is my intentions have been purified. I realized that a major motivation to go on foreign missions was selfishly motivated by what I got out of them. I now have a greater understanding of “It is better to give, than to receive.”