Mooch-ionaries?

Raising support is not begging for money; it is seeking eternal partnerships. One of the biggest roadblocks I had to overcome before surrendering to be a missionary was the idea of raising support. I remember joking about “mooch”-ionaries giving the “missionary handshake” (an outstretched beggar’s hand). I like being independent, not dependent. Then I met Missionary Mark, and he said, “David, that’s just pride. You’re not begging. God’s not begging. What you are doing is offering people back home the opportunity to be involved in something awesome—something they could never touch unless they touch it through you. Consider yourself the rich one, giving them an opportunity to mooch some of the reward." He was right (if not almost on the arrogant side). My hesitancy was just my pride. And the new mindset helped me to overcome my self-righteous self-sufficiency.