Ethnic Minorities
Ramadan and the Gospel
When we celebrate with our Hui friends, let us not treat remembrances of either our God or theirs as quaint cultural relics, but as points of connection to God and his gospel. These are powerful gospel prompts.
Interfaith Dialogue in a Chinese Village
A few years ago when we were living in China, I “accidentally” ended up having an interfaith discussion with two imams which was actually very helpful. Here’s the story of one of those discussions.
Sober Optimism
Opposition and Opportunity
This conversation did raise for me, two important questions. How do we view the world around us, and particularly its political and social institutions? And how will God’s redemptive plan, God’s kingdom, be ushered in in all of its fullness?
Sharing the Good News with Hui
Know Thy Hui Neighbor (9)
What not to do and suggestions for getting started.
Hui Disciples of Jesus
Know Thy Hui Neighbor (8)
A look at three threats to Hui disciples and three paths they might take as they follow the Lord.
Hui Weddings, Funerals, and Other Rites of Passage
Know Thy Hui Neighbor (7)
Rites of passage are supposed to be passed through—they serve as gateways to the next stage of life. Yet too many of our Hui friends see them as closed doors, barriers to entering new life in Christ.
May They Dream of Jesus
Know Thy Hui Neighbor (6)
This is the time of year when Muslims are most in tune with spirituality and when Christians who love Muslims pray most fervently for God to reveal himself to them in the person of Jesus the Messiah.
The Two Eids and Other Hui Celebrations
Know Thy Hui Neighbor (5)
This month, our Hui neighbors observe Ramadan—the Muslim month of fasting which culminates with Eid al-Fitr. Yet even for Hui who do not fast, it’s a special time of increased spiritual awareness. Let’s look at four annual festivals and how they might lead to gospel opportunities.
The Princess Bride and Ramadan
If you’ve ever read or seen The Princess Bride, there’s a character who responds to every assertion the other characters make with “Inconceivable!” And this is just how my Muslim friend responded the other day. She said, 不可 思议 which my Chinese dictionary translated as “Inconceivable!”
Hui Food, Clothes, and Greetings
Know Thy Hui Neighbor (4)
How did you feel the first time you visited a “foreigner’s” home? Were you nervous? Did you find yourself wondering what to wear, what food would be served, and whether to bring a gift? Perhaps you are more often the host. How do you help your cross-cultural guests feel at ease?