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  • The Joy of Fitting In

    The Joy of Fitting In

    (A note about terminology: In China, people from other countries are referred to as “外国人,” “foreigners.” In English, people like me are comfortable calling ourselves “foreigners.” However, I would never use the English term to… Read more

  • Of Tissues and Toilet Paper

    Of Tissues and Toilet Paper

    My favorite tissue brand here in China has a lovely name. As the cover photo shows, the emoji leads consumers to add heart to heart (The first character also means “heart.”) and think of the… Read more

  • You Invited Me In

    You Invited Me In

    Jesus was talking to His followers about the final judgement (Matthew 25:31-46, New Living Translation). But when the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit… Read more

  • The Power of Weakness

    The Power of Weakness

    After living in my adopted country for more than 20 years, I sometimes feel more at home in China than I do the U.S. Comfort is nice, even good, but has its drawbacks. Familiarity with… Read more

  • Table Talk

    Table Talk

    My family lore includes a story about a nephew. When he and his family pulled into the driveway at my parent’s house one American Thanksgiving Day, he was first out of the car, first into… Read more

  • A Seat at the Table

    A Seat at the Table

    A few years ago, deep in the heart of rural China, I was sitting in my student Ling’s home. While her mom and sister-in-law prepared lunch, Ling, her dad, brother, and nieces entertained me. Once… Read more

  • Here I am. Send me.

    Here I am. Send me.

    An old song came to mind the other day. It’s based on Isaiah 6 when God was commissioning the prophet to be His spokesperson. Isaiah heard the voice of the Lord,and he said, “Here am… Read more

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