We know that urban mission and living on an estate can be deeply rewarding, but it often comes with its own unique challenges that test even the most dedicated and called. When you’re pouring your heart and soul into a community, yet see little tangible progress, it’s natural to feel discouraged. I want to offer some thoughts on how to keep going when it seems like nothing is growing, nothing is changing, and your work isn’t making a difference.
- Reframe Your Perspective on Success
In urban mission work, success isn’t always visible or immediate. Small, incremental changes can be significant, even if they’re not immediately apparent. Instead of focusing solely on quantifiable outcomes, celebrate small victories: a smile from a previously hostile neighbour, a child’s improved grades, or a community member taking initiative in a local project. These are all small wins. I remember when we were 6 years into living in Bow, someone who had been hostile to us, often talking about us to people, came to visit a community event and had a great time. This was such a small thing, but at the time we were struggling to keep our heads above the water. This small win led onto another 6 years of amazing work with this person. Success in long term urban mission is sometimes simply the softening of someone’s heart towards you.
Make a habit of acknowledging and celebrating even the smallest signs of progress. Keep a journal of positive moments or create a team ritual to share successes regularly. This practice can help maintain morale and provide motivation during challenging periods.
- Embrace the Power of Presence
Sometimes, your mere presence in a community is more impactful than you realize. By consistently showing up and demonstrating long-term commitment, you’re building trust and laying groundwork for future change. You may not realise it or feel it, but by being present you are being salt and light. Something is changing simply because you are there. I like the idea of salt being an antiseptic. In the same way your presence is being a holy antiseptic if you see it or not. Remember, transformation often happens beneath the surface before it becomes visible.
As 1 Corinthians 3:16 reminds us, “Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst?” It is the indwelling presence of God’s Spirit in us, both individually and as a community that is making the difference. Your neighbourhood now has a holy temple present within it because of the presence of God’s people.
- Cultivate Patience and Long-Term Vision
Urban renewal and community transformation take time. We need to adopt a long-term perspective, understanding that meaningful change often occurs over years or even decades. Set realistic expectations for yourself and your work, focusing on steady, sustainable efforts rather than quick fixes. So many people want to move into the urban estates and want to see change and impact in 5 years. Although we might see some impact it is far more likely that we see it over 50 years. In other words, some impact of our ministry may not see the fruit until the next generation or two. So slow down and plan for the long hall, set a vision that means you plan to be present and active over many years.
- Practice Self-Care and Maintain Boundaries
Burnout is a real risk in urban mission work. Prioritise self-care by setting healthy boundaries, taking regular breaks, and engaging in activities that rejuvenate you. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup – taking care of yourself enables you to better serve others. We have been in East London for 14 years. We were told that previous church leaders had burnt out or had a breakdown after 7 years. This was a clear wakeup call that ministry in this place is hard. So, we decided to go slower, rest well, take breaks in order to remain healthy and spiritually alive for many years. This has meant taking holidays or breaks away and getting mentors to speak into our lives.
- Reflect on Your ‘Why’
It is important to reconnect with your initial motivation for engaging in urban mission work. What called you to this path? Reflecting on your core values and purpose can reignite your passion and provide renewed energy during difficult times. Consider journaling or discussing with a trusted colleague your personal mission statement and how it aligns with your urban ministry.
Remember Jesus’ words in Matthew 9:36-38: “When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; therefore, pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest.'” Jesus reminds us of the compassion that often drives urban mission. We are also reminded that this is God’s work, and we partner with him. You are not the centre of this work, He is, and we are sent as his labourer. Our identity is found in Him and not in the work. It is worth asking how your life answers this call and embodies Christ’s compassion in the urban setting.
Regularly revisiting your ‘Why’ can help maintain focus, overcome challenges, and celebrate the impact of your life, however small it may seem in the moment.
Remember, the impact of your work may not always be immediately visible, but your consistent presence and efforts are planting seeds. By maintaining hope, practicing resilience, and staying committed to your calling, you contribute to a larger work of transformation in urban communities. Your perseverance today lays the foundation for future growth and change, even when progress seems slow. Keep going – your work matters more than you know.