We also need to pray for those people who oppose our missionaries. Henri J.M. Nouwen in the book Compassion describes prayer as a hospitable gesture by which we invite our neighbors into the center of our hearts. Prayer converts the enemy into a friend and is thus the beginning of a new relationship. There is probably no prayer as powerful as the prayer for our enemies. But it is also the most difficult prayer since it is most contrary to our impulses.
Letters help the missionary feel supported and connected to the people who they have left behind.
A lot can change while they are gone. Letters and photographs help them feel less like strangers when they return. Another benefit of letters is that they are durable, and can be read over and over. Tell them about what is happening in your life. What God has been teaching you recently.