Over many years in China, helping people parse out what it means to be an American Christian has been challenging.

Early in my time here, people assumed that all Americans were Christians. Since their contact with American society largely came from movies and TV, they were understandably confused.

A series of interactions with one colleague represent the kinds of conversations I had. I can’t remember exactly how our interactions began, but I think she expressed some surprise at my desire to honor Jesus with my body rather than engaging in random sexual encounters. She was somewhat unbelieving but also fascinated by some statistics I shared. At that time, if my memory is correct, 80-90% of Americans would claim belief in God, but only an estimated 30% or so appeared to be true followers of Jesus.

Not long after that conversation, my colleague had an opportunity to act as an interpreter for some Americans visiting China. Out of curiosity, she asked if they were Christians, and they indicated “yes.” Then, after seeking my advice about how to determine if they had true faith, she asked if they were followers of Jesus. They expressed discomfort with that assertion.

My colleague finally got it.

Today in China, something much more insidious is going on. People here have observed what’s happening to immigrants and refugees in the United States, and they’ve started sending their children to universities in other countries. What used to be the ultimate goal for their children is now shrouded in fear. Even worse, they cannot understand how a president (either of them) can show up in the Epstein files. If even presidents engage in such evil behavior, how many other Americans do too? All the more reason not to send their children chasing the American dream!

Most insidiously, people here see the U.S. government taking action in Jesus’ name, and feel confused. They saw the video of pastors praying over President Trump partly in relation to the war with Iran. “This is not faith; it’s politics,” they commented. “Are those real pastors?” some wondered while others asked, “Are they praying for more wars?” Some seemed to question why the praying didn’t happen before the war in order to prevent it.

Then, parodies like the ones in the cover photo started popping up on social media. In them, company employees are laying hands on a co-worker and “praying” for successful sales or on their boss and asking for favor and strength or steady income.

Some might look at these memes and feel indignant that they’re making fun of Jesus. I’m not concerned about Jesus. He is quite able to defend Himself. Instead, I look at the memes, listen to what people are saying, and feel deep sadness. People here see the hypocrisy, and it’s turning them away.

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I considered ending my post with the lines above. But Water for the Weary is intended as a place of refreshment. So, let me remind myself as much as you.

There is hope,
but not in social media rants
or clever memes.

There is hope,
but not in political platforms,
personas,
or power.

There is hope,
but not in public displays of faith
or religious shows.

There is Hope,
and His name is Jesus.

Hope reigns.

Transforms.

Forgives.