It’s no secret that millennials who want to be involved in missions often encounter obstacles like debt, funding and education — but perhaps the most obvious obstacle is generational differences. However, being a millennial in missions is not a bad thing. Why would it be? No, millennials aren’t perfect, but neither was my generation. And yes, millennials will look back 20 or 30 years from now and see their own mistakes — maybe as the next generation points them out! What else is new?

If Jesus has called all of His followers to invest His truth in others and make disciples (which He has), then He expects all of His followers — even millennials — to do it. No exceptions! So, being a millennial in missions cannot be a bad thing.

What, then, should millennials be aware of or concerned about as they pursue disciple-making in the least-reached marketplaces of the world? What are some liabilities that you, as a millennial, will likely face? I can think of two from my experience of helping send and support millennial disciple-makers.

1. Too much of a good thing.
   I’m grieved when I see how many millennials are passionately pursuing missional activity in their 20s, but become burned out by the time they hit 30 years old. Our world’s context and culture is setting millennials up to fail. Too many times your youthful energy and zeal are exploited in the now, with no thought for where you will fall in five or 10 or 20 years. Do you wish to be a rocket booster or a fireworks rocket? Both take off with a whooosh. The fireworks rocket explodes into a waterfall of colors that decorate the night sky — and then nothing. But the rocket booster expends itself for a lasting purpose: to launch a space shuttle.
2. Learning in isolation.
   Growing up, you have learned many things very easily (particularly in media and technology), but you don’t necessarily see what you don’t know and you haven’t yet learned valuable lessons about life and ministry. This isn’t unique to you as a millennial; unfortunately, it was just as true for my generation. If you invite older disciple-makers who have “been there and done that” to help you process where you’re at in life, we can help you interpret what you’re experiencing with a long-term perspective. We can help you avoid being a fireworks rocket!

During my time overseas, I learned a proverb: “Under the big tree, the little tree won’t grow.” My desire and my personal passion is to help millennials who come to Crossworld to become the “tree” God intended you to be without having to live in my shadow — or the shadow of my generation.

Don is an MK and former cross-cultural worker who helps disciple-makers from all generations be effective in life and ministry overseas.