Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body. Hebrews 13:3
Just finished reading “God’s Double Agent” by Bob Fu. I have to admit I didn’t expect myself getting so hooked as soon as I started reading. From a former beggar’s son, to top student leader, to Communist party school lecturer, to house church planter, to prison, to the founder of China Aid in the U.S., Bob’s story gives a bigger picture of God’s great plans through bringing one soul to repentance.
Growing up in the more developed east coast of China, I am very oblivious of what really happened in my parents’ generation. I heard bits and pieces when I was young about the famine and “Culture Revolution”. History class only briefly touched upon this sensitive period of time. Persecution was more like stories and it didn’t make much impact on me (or at least I think I was ready to skip that shameful era of history). As a little girl, I learned to be grateful for my time and even the Party (I received Atheist education and was taught to give the Party all the credit) and the future was bright. It wasn’t until I became a Christian, I started to become familiar with the term persecution. Becoming a follower of Christ in China seemed like the most rebellious thing I’ve ever done in my life! Thankfully, I was protected from any persecution though I was kindly warned about being tracked. Bob’s story not only made persecution so real and vivid, but also helped me better picture my parents’ background. It’s interesting that God has allowed me to understand my parents better in the States because of more freedom of speech and press. I know more details of what I didn’t know. I have grown a deeper appreciation of my dad’s protective love through his quiet ways knowing what they have gone through.
In some ways, it was easier to be a Christian in China, despite the possible persecution. I know we are different and we know what others have not known. When we left China, we had a desire to return but knew we needed to trust God’s timetable not ours. As the Lord’s will has become clear to us to stay in the States instead of returning to China, do I still have the mindset as God’s agent no matter where we are, or whatever form of persecution it takes? Am I willing to speak truth in love in this land of freedom? Will I? As my brothers and sisters are suffering in prison and being mistreated, am I going to allow daily mundane work to take away the joy from heaven? Will I be faithful in my role as a prayer warrior, sender instead of the front line soldier? Will I be content in my mission field as wife, mom and sister and neighbor? Am I willing to leave everything if God is calling us to GO?
“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:17
3rd Culture Living 