Gene Wood on Glocal

Rain Cancels Bethlehem - Still Two Nights Left

2009-12-12T23:02:00.001-08:00

Each of the past 5 years we have hosted a Walk Through Bethlehem Show. We normally run it for only three
days Friday, Saturday and Sunday. This year the event has continued to expand. We believe it may be
one of the finest "free" family Christmas events in LA County.

Due to rain Friday we are will open if from 5-9:00 p.m. on Sunday and Monday night (12/13-14).

When you pull up to the entrance located at 1515 South Glendora Avenue you'll be welcomed by the Wise Men's camel. Stop with the children and take a picture.

The Roman Guards will politely ask you to fill out a census card. A word of warning. They will be polite on the outside of the palace. But once you enter failure to comply could land you in the Roman jail. As you make your way by the Inn with no vacancy, through the hoard of street hawkers and shop keepers attempting to separate you from your shekels you will find some of the animals from outside the manger area.

Once inside you will be greeted by the shepherds and the story of Christmas will be replayed. All the important characters are present. The shepherds, wise men, Mary, Joseph and of course the baby.

Exiting you'll be given an opportunity to have your pictures taken in one of two galleries. The portrait will be emailed to you in a couple days.

See you Sunday or Monday night. 5:00 - 9:00 p.m.

It is FREE.

Flood Relief and More

2009-11-28T07:15:00.000-08:00

Have completed another season of travel for GFA. A couple of lasting impressions which merit sharing.

FLOOD RELIEF: The lasting trauma from natural disasters is something defying imagination. I refer especially to the typhoons in the Philippines. Yes, I know that sounds like yesterdays news - if you recall the report at all. But for 20,000 homes in the greater Laguna area which are still under water, it is quite "current" - please excuse the sorry pun.

I'll include a few pictures here for you to peruse. The flood releif continues and when families live in the water the initial needs for blankets, food and water are also giving way to need for medical treatment and innoculations.If you are able to help this Christmas season please do so. GFA has released $30,000 for this purpose and have a number of trustworthy partners working there now.

DESPERATE FOR HELP: I had an interesting experience in the Visayas area of the Philippines a couple weeks ago. The public schools are desperate to help their high school and college students avoid sex and drug addiction. So much so that they invite speakers such as myself to come to a school assembly and address the topic. No restrictions regarding religious or spiritual comments and invitations. The words of one principle was, "we have a major problem, anything you can do to help is appreciated.

"Wonder how long before America will reach this point!

GROWING FRIENDSHIPS IN CHINA: Our long term commitment to working openly and legally in China is beginning to bring rewards. Trust is built slowly but once established it does certainly open many doors for service. Attached are some pictures. We spoke recently at the largest church in China. This new 10,000 seat auditorium was filled with enthusiastic worshipers. What struck me most as the contemporary form of worship. The first such experience we have had in a CCC church. This is a most welcome and encouraging movement.
We also were honored to share for a morning at Union Theological Seminary in Nanjing. Our topic "The Essential Ingredient for an Effective Three Self Church." I addressed the need for pastors to teach their people the biblical priniciples of stewardship. While a new subject, the response was apparently positive.

We are hoping to assist the seminary library by shipping many boxes of books to help fill the shelves. If you have some good books and are looking for a strategic placement please let me know.

Pictures from China Trip

2009-10-26T09:02:00.000-07:00

Speaking at the Largest Church in China: October. 11, 2009

Speaking at Jin-Ling Seminary: October 9, 2009

Manila CBAP Bi-Annual International Conference: October 2009

Lanzhou Training: October 22, 2009

Jiangsu Si Hong Bible College Study Tools: October 2009

Jiangsu Provincial Bible College Training: October 2009

Hua-Mei Pastors' Conference: October 20, 2009

China update

2009-10-25T05:34:00.000-07:00

Forgive my lack of communications. No reasons, only excuses.

Arrived back home yesterday from an extended focus on China. 31 people gathered together for these projects including my wife.

Tomorrow I'll insert some pictures which cover among other things our speaking in China's largest church in Huai-An, Jiangsu, lecture at Union Theological Seminary in Nanjing and several other leadership training events.

If you are interested in being included in our mailing list please contact us. In our hard copy publications we are able to share more detail than we choose to share here on www.

The rate of change in China is staggering. Pleased to see so many people benefiting by the solid economy. My assessment is there is a growing middle class. I also suspect materialism will quickly replace persecution as the number one impediment for the growth of the church in China.

One of the new opportunities which most pleases me is the ability to now place quality study tools in the hands of pastors and teachers. These are printed in China. Completely legal. Up until now however, the price has made these tools out of reach for most teachers. Unquestionably this will prove the most effective and cost efficient means of enhancing the quality of the church communities. Good Chinese pastors are the answer for the church in China.

As mentioned you can check in tomorrow afternoon for some pictures and more details.

Again forgive me for the lengthy delay in sharing with you.

Another Glocal Gathering

2009-07-17T17:39:00.001-07:00

Glocal 10 years ago was a dynamic experience by governments and large corporations. No longer. Now every morning when I wake up I experience it. Overseas friends writing, pictures, questions, plans, shared stress. 100 feet or 7000 miles makes little difference.

But last week as we gathered once again for common objectives I smiled at the diversity of those seated at the table:
Two couples from UK. One with their early twenties son. A retired gentleman and one young single man from California. Our GFA leader who was born in China, living in California. A young single woman raised in the most rural areas of China, going to college there and now working with us. A woman whose husband is working in Shanghai but they live in Taiwan.

All at one table sharing a common objective. What is most impressive is not that such a gathering happened but it is becoming normal. After brief introductions friendships formed and we were ready to tackle the work in front of us.

Each trip into the far East, I am increasingly aware of how clothing styles are blending. Music styles are becoming indistinguishable.

While differences between countries may be escalating the differences between individuals are surely decreasing. My interest in this is not sociological or futuristic. What I hope more and more people will grasp are the opportunities this glocal change affords.

A couple sat in my hotel room. He works for the Chinese government. Recently we had the privilege of hosting his daughter for a month in our home. He is a friend. Beautiful family. As we talked about his child and my children he made an astute observation. "When it comes to our families, we all have the same challenges and same feelings."

I suspect that is true.

Mourning and Remembering

2009-06-26T20:48:00.000-07:00

This week we lost a great person. His legacy is remembered by thousands. Perhaps millions. Those who were touched by his performances were changed for ever. Though unique. Though perhaps not a classic handsome man he was loved and will live on in the lives of all who knew him.

No. He never moonwalked. To my knowledge he did not sing. His performances were anything but gyrations. In fact some might have deemed him boring.

When I was 18 years old and going to school in Portland Oregon I sat under Dr. Roger Congdon for only one semester.
I'm not sure what his IQ was but surely it was off the charts. He was a brilliant.

At a convention in Michigan this week someone mentioned Dr. Congdon had passed away. He evidently continued to speak and teach past his 90th birthday.

As I recall he had 11 children. If I am missing some details please forgive me. I only sat under his teaching for one semester. That was 40 years ago. I was a student. He the professor. Perhaps that is what makes this so meaningful.

The power of a teacher to impact a student 40 years later. A reminder to all professors, preachers, teachers, and coaches. Because you cannot see the impact at the time does not mean there is none.

I won't miss the moonwalking. I do miss solid men and women of character who pour themselves into an apparently inattentive and unappreciative college freshman.

Great Book

2009-06-20T05:28:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago I was doing some training at Messiah College. The day before flying home Peter Greer, CEO of Hope International graciously allowed me to come and spend a couple hours at their headquarters.

For the past two plus years we have been dabbling in micro financing. By dabbling I mean one hundred percent trial and error. I realized GFA was over their heads and we desperately needed direction from an experienced and successful organization.

The two hours spent with Peter and Kevin in the office were immensely helpful to me. I discovered that we are at least now asking the right questions after finding out what either does not work or works marginally well.

Hope International has about $30 million out in loans now world wide. Believe they said around 250,000 loan recipients. The repayment for this MFI is over 99%. I judge that successful.

Before leaving, Peter handed me an 8.5 x 11 manuscript of his new book "The Poor Will be Glad." I sat down and devoured it in one sitting. It is a primer for all organizations who have the desire to help the world's poor by making loans available to provide sustainable livelihood.

Hope International is different from most MFI in that they intentionally address the physical and the spiritual components of healthy living.

Peter's new book will be published by Zondervan in the coming year. I will be giving a copy of "The Poor Will be Glad" to everyone we work with.

This morning we will gather with around 70 guests for our first GFA "Teach a Man to Fish" luncheon. If you have interest in knowing how you can invest any sum of money and see it work again and again, don't hesitate to contact me. Helping the poor is not easy but it is possible and for those of us who have been blessed - it is right.

Defining Glocal

2009-06-08T20:29:00.000-07:00

Just finished a great planning meeting last weekend. About 23 of us spent some hours talking about the next year and setting some goals.

I asked each participant to write on a 3x5 what they felt "glocal" meant. Received 23 different answers.

Obviously it is a hybrid word combining global and local. Although at one seminar overseas one person looked at the title of my book "Going Glocal" and declared "that is so arrogant,"Global and California." That made me laugh.

No question the word is going to be around for a while. The fight is now how we will define it.

Most all agree it should define the shrinking of our world due to technology. Most agree we have a fresh responsibility to the entire world now due to: awareness, access, and ability to meet needs.

The word certainly cries out with the assumption that the difference between what we do at home and what we are doing overseas is more one of perception than reality. The globe IS our home now. We are inter-related in more than theory. Our economy, illnesses, air-quality, educational systems and religious endeavors are all one and the same. If we fail we all fail.

I wish to add a vital component for glocal practitioners. In this tiny world, we must celebrate the ability we have as individuals and local organizations to craft projects and events directly. The technology and accessibility is present so we are able to streamline the mission.

Even smaller organizations/churches/clusters can connect with others of like mind around the world. Communications technology make it possible now to create, strategize, agree, negotiate, evaluate, and recreate visions and achievements, which just a few years ago, was left to the mammoth agencies.

By working through local established churches and organizations already in place in strategic locations, we may accomplish what was unimaginable a short time ago.

Dream it, find someone already in place dreaming the same thing, do it.

How would you define glocal?

Glocal Comes Home

2009-06-01T21:20:00.000-07:00

Been too long since I've talked to you here. Excuses? Plenty. Most of them are glocal. Been a busy past month.

Was in Pennsylvania for LTC training last week. Hosted by the national conference of the Evangelical Church denomination. . Wonderful group of people. Thoroughly enjoyed their company and good sense of humor. Perhaps that's why they invited me.

Had a chance to visit while in Harrisburg with former staff members from the distant past (Ez and Peggy Scheffel) and more recent past (Geoff, Susan, Connor and Baylyn Ellsworth).

Now my excuse for not sharing more often. We have had house guests for the past several weeks. Glocal guests.

First Richard Cai, CCC vice president from Sichuan China stayed with us. We hosted the the Hua Mei board meeting in the USA for the first time. Important step for a board made up of leaders from the East and West.

Admire Richard's courageous and wise leadership. Also proud to know he and his lovely wife named their son "little Gene" (at least his English name). He is a HANDSOME boy.

When Richard left a pastor from Manila, Val Natcher moved in for a couple weeks. We have developed a good friendship over the past years and he wished to spend a portion of his sabbatical here looking over what we are doing.

The day he left Ivy moved in for three weeks. She is a delightful and intelligent young lady. Student at Purdue University studying Pyschology. Her father, Mr. Gu is director of the RAB in Jiangsu Province and encouraged her to come to California for her summer break. We are enjoying her refreshing perspective on life.

This is glocal living. Travel is two way. We share business, conversation, food, and when relationships grow we learn to share one another's homes.

Enough excuses. Will write more often.

Another new Look

2009-05-11T21:54:00.000-07:00

If you have not checked out the www.graceforasia.org sight in a while I'd encourage you to take a look.

Alina has done some great work for us and is trying to bring some freshness in an effort to help us share the
glocal story in a more effective and enjoyable manner.

I'm especially eage to take out "Provision Financing" opportunities public now. For the past several months we
have been working hard behind to bring our existing files up to where we want them to be. Believe we are 95% where we want to be with those.

With 2.9 billion people living below the poverty line today - that is -living on less than $2.00 per day - it is time to reach out and make a difference. Helping the poor is the responsibillity of all who have been trusted with resources.

I was at a conference in Seattle this past week. I heard much about holistic efforts. Unfortunately some well intentioned friends seem to have a hole in their holistic approaches. People are body, sold and spirit. Unless we address ALL the components we forfeit the right to claim a holistic title.

In the next few blogs I'd like to share how "Provision Financing" is a step beyond micro financing.

Hope you''ll enjoy browsing the new sights

Glocal World Realities

2009-04-16T21:06:00.000-07:00

Interesting to pick up a newspaper throughout travels and see daily evidence of this new glocal world. Basically glocal means we live in a tiny world. The boundaries are breaking down. Please don't dismiss this as "more theory" and philosophizing. It is real --- very real.

The bible indicates we can expect to see two unprecedented changes.

A one world religion. Certainly that is happening. In this age of tolerance it is increasingly unpopular for any belief system to say "they are wrong and we are right." The mood is "we are all right." Not very logical since religions teach diametrically opposite viewpoints. Nonethelss political correctness demands to pretend everyone is agreeing even when we all know that is ridiculous.

A one world government. Now what needs to happen for that to occur? Unified military. When pirates attack a US ship and held a captain hostage the court of world opinion shouted "do not take unilateral action but work through the U.N." Glad we did not listen. That poor man would still be floating on a row boat.

Eventually we must have a one world economy. That likely means a one world currency. Read in the South China Morning Post today (Hong Kong newspaper) that Asian politicians are talking more and more about moving to a new currency called SDA. Basically it would be a composite index of the U.S. dollar, Chinese yen, Euro, and Japanese currency.They would each be assigned a percentage and the universal currency would reflect that.

Guess there is nothing wrong with this but just a few years ago the thought would have been nothing more than meaningless discussion. Prediction. It will happen. Possibly in my life time.

A personal story. Met a man in the restroom of a hotel. Asked where he was fun. He said Inida and asked about me? I said "USA--your good friends." He said "not such good friends! The USA makes us poor."

I had no idea what he was referring to but chose the path of least confrontation. "Oh we like one another in India and USA. The problem is all the politics." This actually brought a knowing smile. He agreed "yes it is just the politicians."

People world wide do want to get along. We realize we cannot build a wall around us any longer. Those days are gone. Therefore the pressure will continue to build to break down all barriers.

We can either run from this glocal movement or embrace the positive aspects it brings. While not willing to change any of my fundamental beliefs I'm choosing to embrace it as an opportunity for effective service. Our backyard is bigger. Our ministry focus expanded. What doors should you be walking through.

Look forward to seeing Stan Smith and his team over here in a couple days.

Think you have a tough job?

2009-04-09T07:33:00.000-07:00

All humans have feelings.

Attended an NBA game a couple nights ago. The woeful Clippers. I've followed this team for many years. I'm numb. There is not much which surprises me. Several years back Sports Illustrated had a cover article entitled "The Worst Team in Professional Sports." You guessed it---our L.A. Clippers.

This is year is no exception. Their won-loss record will be among the lowest three in the NBA and they deserve it. Injuries sure. Players don't want to play hurt so they were down to only two reserves on the bench by the end of this game. Lost to one of the other 3 worst teams. It's bad.

The last quarter the home team fans began to shout in unison "FIRE DUNLEAVEY.' He is the coach of the Clippers.

Mike Dunleavy was a pretty good ball player. Probably not a bad coach. What any long time Clipper fan knows is that it really does not make any difference who coaches the team. Ultimately it matters who owns the team. That would be Donald Sterling. A rich playboy who doesn't show his face much around the arena. To do so might be dangerous.

I sat and listened to the chants and though as frustrated as any fan and wishing at least one season we would not be embarrassed I found my self feeling bad for coach Mike.

He'll probably claim he does not hear the fans. Impossible. He hears them. He'll probably say "I understand their frustration." But can you imagine going to work and having thousands of people shouting for your to be fired. Ouch. Tough job. Sure a few million dollars a year softens the blow but nonetheless that is hard.

What is my point? Guess if I have one here it is to remind myself and all my friends that humans hurt. Had to wonder if Mike Dunleavy's wife was sitting there.

Let's be kind to one another---even public figures. We buy a ticket and reserve the right to express ourselves but good grief. Nothing wrong with being nice.

By the way. Believe it was about this time of year on our calendar a thoughtless group of people shouted "Crucify Him. Crucify Him." Wonder if some of those were thoughtlessly joining in the lynching?

Let's think before we speak or yell. The consequences of not doing so may not only be hurtful but regretful.

What Unites Us

2009-03-26T20:31:00.000-07:00

I am completeing our last leg of this trip here in Shanghai. Staring down at the maze of roofs below stretching as far as the eye can see--at least my eyes. Here in the worlds fourth largest city which boasts 3 million "floating" population. That is not the number of people who live here but the estimated number of visitors and transient people. Truly an amazing mass of bodies.

As we complete another set of projects I find myself most impressed with what all people have in common. We have met the most rural farmers--most who admit to have never seeing a foreigner before forget about a white one. We have worked alongside of ex-pat business men and women earning in excess of $400k per year. We talk with ex-pats working in the country of China. Church leaders, lay-leaders, service people, professional drivers. A pretty good cross section of human beings.

Without commentary let me share a few items which draw all those created in His image together.

1) We hurt when betrayed
2) We all seek to find purpose, significance and meaning
3) We all love our families and seek their security
4) We are all sinful by nature and know we need help to be what God made us to be
5) We are concened about the world's economic shake-up and the threat of loss or unemployment
6) We are usually way too busy but favor that to boredom
7) We are aware of the small world we now live in. Whether this comes by having your first foreign visitor or by the 24 hour a day emails which flud our inbox the world is starting to accept how small the globe is on which we spin.

Looking forward to being back in California tomorrow. Good ole USA.

End of the World

2009-03-23T06:55:00.000-07:00

Today I traveled with my son Tony to around 8 sights. Our target is always the most unserved areas. I believe all the places we visited admitted "we have never had a foreign guest here before."

I consider it to be quite an honor to be present in such locations. You might wonder where these places are. I wish I could tell you. Frankly I have no real idea.

One location stands out. we traveled along the side of a mountain for close to 30 minutes on a one lane road. Finally descending into a valley. There was a village with a rushing creek through the middle. We parked and crossed a walking bridge to the "main street' of town. Picture Indiana Jones meets Jackie Chan and you have it.

Narrow street with home on both sides. Doors open. Inside the homes were clean but bare. The group we met was nestled in a small building. A bare light bulb dangled over the middle of the room. On small boards sat around 40 people.

Behind the meeting room was another room. It was piled high with bags of husks for fuel and carefully cut sticks stacked to the ceiling.

We were invited to stay for lunch at the local restaurant. A bare concrete floor with a table prepared with the finest foods available. The owner sat with us. He graciously stated it was a privilege to serve the only foreign guests they had ever received.

Finishing our work we left. Reminded once again there are wonderful Christian people all over God's world. One of the hosts who lives in China casually quipped 'this is the end of the world.'

I was reminded of what was written 2000 years ago. Take my good news "to the ends of the world."

This is not literally it but I believe the mandate will and can be literally filled --- if we all work together.

2009-03-21T08:18:00.001-07:00

Just Keeping in Touch

2009-03-21T08:07:00.000-07:00

Today began in Jinan. Met up with five good friends at the airport. The Watkins are doing fine here as they work on literacy research for a minority group. Found Nate sitting in the hotel coffee shop strumming a guitar. Then met Eric Lansford from California who flew in with the Martins from Shanghai.

Great time of chatting. What a neat group. They are off on a four hour drive to continue the work nearby.

Then flew to Shanghai to meet with my son, Tony. His first trip to China. We took a short fight to meet our local hosts.

At the Shanghai airport I ran into Rev. Cao Shengie, recently retired President of the National CCC. We were privileged to work together in 2006 to bring the first ever Chinese Bible Exhibition to the USA. She looked as vivrant and energetic as ever. Was a delight to see her once again.

Deboarding from our final flight we were greeted by a Provincial CCC president and the City Religious Affairs leader here in the city where we plan to spend the next three days. Chatted and got better acquainted for a while.

Tomorrow we'll be guests in the largest church here in this major city. Once done the projects will begin for three days.

Weary of traveling but good to be a part in good things which happen when friends gather from around the world.

For those of you who are following our work for many years--just wanted to say "goodnight" before turning in.

Glocal Finances in China

2009-03-18T23:41:00.000-07:00

Writing from Shandong Province. It is the home of Taoism. Destined by govenment design to become the new "cultural center" of China.

Yesterday was a long day. Quick overnight in Shanghai and then trip to airport. One and one half hour flight to Jinan and then four hour drive to our location. Once arriving we went to work.

Found something amusing in the China Daily. For those of you who may not be aware it is a nicely packaged paper for foreigners complements of the Xinhau News Service. While certainly slanted to give the official position on most everything it is revealing to see the ever increasing openess even they are allowing.

A front page article was titled "Govt may have lost $80b in equities." To summarize "It appears the government agency wanted to diversify into equities early in 2007 and, rather than being deterred by the subprime crisis, it continued to buy."

The report comes after Premier Wen Jiabao said last week he was a "little bit worried." The government has lost over $80 billion on holding of about $160 billion in overseas equities.

Now for the humorous part. The investments were made by the State Administration of Foreign Exchange or-----SAFE.

Just goes to show us. In this world there is nothing SAFE. Think they might need to change those initials to NSSAFE or "Not so safe"

So for all of you who have looked at your portfolios recently and seen a drop don't feel too badly. Even the most brilliant minds at home and overseas may not have done any better.

Interesting times in this glocal world. Why are the Chinese so interested in home prices in Southern California? They owned your mortgage!

700 Wins

2009-03-15T23:34:00.000-07:00

Just returned home from a banquet honring the coaching achievements of long time friend Mike LeDuc. He passed the 700 win mark this year for varsity High School basketball. I estimate around 400 people gathered for the 4.5 hour dinner and roast.

He graciously invited me to share a couple brief words and offer the Invocation.

You can quickly do the math. If you win 30 basketball games per year how many years does it take. He began in 1980. Before we sat down I offered my personal congratulations. He quipped "have to be pretty old to get that many wins and they should be remembering all my losses." Mike's self-deprecating attitude is one of his trademarks. One I enjoy as do many others.

I like basketball. I have some Clipper tickets. Shows how sick I am. I am even more enthralled however with excellence in leadership. Coach Mike is a far above average leader. I watched it as my son played for him during the late 1990s.

A few of his leadership traits were extolled throughout the evening. I extracted what seemed most important to me. The word choices are my own.

1) Passion and persistence
2) Know how to motivate players. Coaches do not score points.
3) Have a plan. Work your plan.
4) Develop the ability to get good people to work alongside of you
5) Don't take yourself too seriously. Take what you do seriously
6) Life is about people not things or wins
7) When you find something which works keep doing it. Do it long enough and the exponential curve works in your favor. Note: How do you win 700 basketball games? One game at a time.

Suspect all seven of these leadership principles for success are glocal.

International Partnerships

2009-03-10T16:47:00.000-07:00

When people think of glocal, they most readily grasp that it is a manufactured word based upon a combination of global and local. That's the easy part. The glocal advocates acknowledge the shrinking of our world, and the opportunity and inevitability of working with people from around the world on a daily basis.

Glocalists accept our shrinking world and embrace -- not shy away from -all that it means.

The number one dynamic which made this happen in the past 7 years is the common usage of the internet and related technology. It is not enough for it to exist. It must be widely used to become relevant.

Today we communicate routinely with those on the opposite side of our spinning mass the same as we do with those across the hall way in our office. Data, personal words, and video images come to our hand held communications devices as we sit, walk, drive, and fly.

Today, I just want to comment on a personal observation. The unity of technology is far ahead of cultural oneness. While we can communicate readily with one another in words and pictures we still face a giant chasm of cultural assumptions and systems of thought. Philosophy and training in realm of mores, priorities, values and social custom still stand in the way of smooth and successful partnerships.
When only governments and large corporations interacted globally, they sent the experts to do intercultural work. Today, at the glocal level with everyone communicating cross culturally, it is easy to find ourselves embroiled in agreements which both sides express themselves ready to move forward but neither side has fully comprehended what the other is actually thinking.

Just one example... Are leaders in countries formally labeled as "third world" adjusted to the concept of entering into relationships as full partners? Are they ready to accept the responsibilities of daily accountability? Or is the assumption still one of "we take", "you give" and everyone "understands why that is necessary."

I am slowly learning. Slow in part because I don't want to accept it. Paternalism is still alive and well. Perhaps it is fed by USA's thinking and vocabulary. But it is equally the refusal of glocal partners to accept full accountability to perform whatever is agreed upon.

This may be greed. In some cases, yes. But I believe it goes deeper. It may be years of learned thinking. Cultural attitudes.

No solutions here today. Just sharing the glocal musings.

Building Teams

2009-03-06T15:26:00.000-08:00

Spent a great 24 hours up in the mountains with some of our full-time colleagues this past week. Was great. We tossed the frisbe-Zack is the champion. We sat by the fire place and wondered why wet and green wood does not burn easily. We eventually succeeded at our task and had the smoked saturated clothing to prove it when we came home.

We had a tremendous meal on the way up at A & W Rootbeer. No wonder that franchise has thrived over the decades. Where are the girls on roller skates?

We dreamed a bit, chipped golf balls onto roofs of cabins in the distance down the hill, threw snow balls, ate, sat, talked and relaxed.

We did come up with some pretty creative ideas. Proving once again, 11 heads are better than any 1.

Good to work together and have some time to relax as well.

Wednesday, I went with a buddy to see the Clippers play some basketball. Not the best brand of basketball but I appreciate the Clippers. They make NBA affordable. Hey! Maybe the Clippers need to get away to a mountain retreat.

All for now.

Have we Helped?

2009-02-24T18:10:00.001-08:00

Several events and conversations have converged the past couple days which are making me rethink some activities.

In no particular order they include:

1) Visit from the new director of Hope Again in Hollywood. This group does a tremendous job of reaching out to druggies, abused, alcoholics and others who end up homeless in the Hollywood area. They deal with psychological, physical, educational and spiritual issues. Goal is always to put them back out in society as a productive and fully functioning participant of the human race.

2) Knock on my office door after hours from an obviously inebriated man who insisted we come and give him food, for his two small children (who were no where present). When I told him he would need to return during office hours, he ended up wandering through an open door and began exploring a kitchen in our E building.

3) A 2 minute video clip from Mindanao sent by Stan, who is there looking over some of our micro-financing projects. We saw pigs. Lots of pigs. Big pigs. From a meager start, farmers now are about to harvest the first batch. Unbelievable how fast one male pig and five females can produce bacon. This is all part of helping people have a livelihood instead of giving them a handout.Hmmm.... Why is it that overseas we have concluded giving handouts is really not helping anyone yet we keep doing it here at home? I don't know how many tons of food we send out our doors each year. I do know there is a steady stream of people. Surely feels good to know that hungry people are getting food to eat.

But in Hollywood, Hope Again, insists the deeper issues of unemployment and sobriety be dealt with. They don't just give handouts. In Mindanao we have concluded handouts from the USA is no long term solution. Meanwhile here in Glendora,we just keep giving out food with no long term additional support.

Just some glocal thoughts. Hmmmm

Sea to Shining Sea

2009-02-16T20:43:00.000-08:00

Traveled today from the Pacific to the Atlantic. But did not actually see the "shining sea" on either. It was pouring rain when I drove towards the Pacific at 5:30. it was pitch black when pulling into the Oak Island, North Carolina conference center here on the Atlantic.

13 hour travel day. Tend to grumble about security. Grumble about crowds. Grumble about the food. But pretty great time to be alive when you can travel coast to coast in a day and keep conversations going almost perpetually with friends, colleagues and team members almost the entire time you are en route. Our worlds are so connected.

We all know the changes brought about by technology. But when we experience illustrations of it in the course of a work day it paints the glocal reality.

Our generation has an unprecedented opportunity to serve a wider community than any previous. While the 10 hours of training and lecture I'll be doing over the next two days is not generally considered relaxing, it is rewarding.

The conference center, with no phone and no television in the rooms, with vistas overlooking the rugged Atlantic, promises to be a therapeutic change of pace. It would be almost monastic, except they provide wireless access for the laptop and of course our phones follow us everywhere. Suppose I could go on the blackberry tonight and watch the Late Show. But that would be cheating wouldn't it.

Ah the positives and negatives of our times. If you like running at hyper-speed this is a great time to be alive.

Religious People as Minorities

2009-02-13T03:16:00.000-08:00

Had a wonderful time with the officials of SARA yesterday. They were warm, fun, wise, and quite hospitable. They do their job with excellence. I am grateful for their welcome and counsel they provided regarding working relationships in mainland China.

I received a copy of the Olympic Bible from Director Ye. Ms.Guo Wei, who was a warm hostess for our time. Their building is a memorable historic site. It was the birthplace of the Last Emperor. Situated on a lakeside and marvelously rennovated. A wonderful site to receive guests.
One fascinating observation are the words at the entrance. My interpreter pointed out that it says, "religious and minority affairs."

This reminds me of what I was told 10 years ago by SARA officials, "Religionists are a minority in China." Therefore, they require some attention by the government in order to assure their rights are protected.

This was a new concept for someone from the USA where religion is normal. Most everyone I know in the USA is religious. We are the majority.

I suspect each of you reading this has an opinion of your own as to the implications of this observation and I will leave that to you to sort out. But it is interesting.

Years ago most people in Europe were religious. Not so today. Will this happen in the USA? Will those who believe in God become a minority? Hmmmm....

One encouraging word from our visit. A ranking official mentioned that when she begain with SARA most people viewed people who were religious as somewhat strange. Today, she said, not so much. People in China who worship God are not thought to peculiar. They are respected as being academic and intelligent. Progress I think.

See you back home.

Good Friends

2009-02-11T02:53:00.000-08:00

For those of you who know me this note will mean something. Other guests from around the world may find it less enlightening.

In Beijing for a couple days. Today we met with good friends and spoke of growing partnerships.

Tomorrow morning will be meeting with Director Ye of SARA (State Administration of Religious Affairs). We plan to introduce the work of GFA. His office has graciously extended an invitation to chat and enjoy a luncheon.

I hope we can adequately convey our sincere desire to work openly and legally in China.
This has been our commitment for the past 10+ years. In 1997 Han Wenzao challenged me by saying "good friends always deal with one another honestly. If you wish to work in China do so legally and openly." We accepted his challenge. He also said "because we cannot do something today does not mean we may not be able to do so later." This word of wisdom has continually brought patience.

I am honored someone of Mr. Ye's stature and standing would make time in his busy calendar for us. I am also hopeful this will be yet another step in our growing friendship.

If you read this and have a moment to say a prayer for the meeting it will be greatly appreciated.

The weather here in Beijing is quite pleasant. The people just as inviting and warm.

See you back home soon.

Saying No

2009-02-03T06:01:00.000-08:00

One thing the world is sharing in common today is financial concern. I often share here some perspectives from the overseas view but as I sit here in Southern California some of the solutions seem rather simple to me.

This Sunday night at 6:00, I and two friends will be sharing some principles for "Surviving Tough Financial Times."
If you are in our area--please come. It's free.

But just for starters what are a few things we could all do to take the edge off. Here is my top 10 list:

1) Stop eating out. A sit down meal is easily $20 per person on up.

2) If you eat out why not "eat down"---try to cut the meal to $8-10 per person.

3) Wash your own car at home in the drive way.

4) Have your hair cut at home or extend the time between hair cuts one week.

5) Cut your cable service to the basic channels.

6) Turn your heat off at night. No one will suffer frost bite in Southern California.

7) Watch a DVD at home and avoid the movie theatres. If you go to a movie sneak in your own popcorn and snacks.

8) Stop buying toys. It's time to grow up.

9) Car pool and look for gas on weekends.

10) Buy a used car. Buy a car with higher MPG.

What I find so fascinating about this list is it requires absolutely NO PAIN. Yet following through could mean hundreds of dollars per month for a family budget.

Financial Crisis

2009-01-31T04:18:00.000-08:00

Sure I'm concerned. If what I hear overseas is an indication this is a sincerely global financial melt-down and no one country is going to fix it.

Read a editorial in the Hong Kong paper however which is helping me greatly to find perspective. I summarize:

Workers are being laid off. Housing values are tumbling. Retirement investments are in decline and retail food prices are escalating.

All true but the vast majority of the world's people do not have bank savings, shares, their own homes or salary-paying jobs.

Non-industrialised countries account for 3/4 of the world's people. It is easy to forget almost half of the total 6.7 billion population live on less than $2.50 (USD) per day. 80% less than $10 (USD).

For these people our talk of fiancial turmoil is met with a shrug and confused "What crisis?"

For many of these people they cannot get any poorer. 4 out of 10 do not have adequate sanitation, almost one in six did not get enough education to be able to read and write and a quarter of humanity live without electricity. They are not too impacted by loss of refrigerators, flush toilets and televisions. Nice to have but not considered a necessity.

Here in the Philippines, where I'm writing now, a help wanted add helps bring this into perspective. There are some jobs. But competition is tough. A Pizza Hut in Aalamba City says "Qualifications 18-25 years old, at least 160cm tall for femailes 165 cm for males, must be at least in the second or third year of college in any 3-5 year course, maximum of 18 units currently enrolled, good communications skills with pleasant personality, smart and agressive.

So...if you don't have money to go to the university, are not young, tall, good looking and a linguist, you cannot deliver pizza.

Tough world out there.

Sure I am as eager as anyone for this recession/depression (whatever it is) to end. But come on now, let's keep perspective.

Behind on blogging

2009-01-29T20:52:00.000-08:00

I made a commitment here to keep in touch 3x per week. I am woefully behind in this. And it is still January.

I spoke in Manila last Sunday on the theme "The dot or the line?" Stole this thought provoking question from Randy Alcorn an old seminary buddy. Do not however blame Randy for the rest of my message.

The message was requested by my good friend Peter Tanchi--senior pastor of CCF a 20,000 member church. They are beginning construction on a new 8000 seat auditorium. We need to pray for their success.

Part of their vision is to use this sight as an "Asian Training Center." There, they can house and train leaders from all over Asia and in particular a focus on China. Success will have a major world wide impact.

Back to the title. One of the major focus now of GFA is "Provision Financing." We wish to offer zero interest loans to rural people. This is done through local churches in the provinces. Not only will these people have sustainable livelihood they will be taught to tithe back to their churches which moves that work forward.

I briefly mentioned this endeavor during the five services as one approach to investing in the line (eternity). Before leaving Manila, Pastor Tanchi called to say simply, "CCF wants to join in this Provision Financing concept."

We already have an existing relationship with CBAP in this arena. They have over 600 churches scattered throughout all regions of the country.

Together we can make a dent in poverty (address the dot) and keep the main thing the main thing...focus on the line (eternity).

If you would like to know how you can be a part please contact us.

By the way, was good to be over here for Fun Hei Phat Choi. Welcome the Year of the Ox.

Poverty brings danger

2009-01-17T05:49:00.000-08:00

I leave tomorrow for a brief overseas trip. Suppose the better part of wisdom is to not share the itinerary prior to going. Isn't that a shame.

Just signed off on an email from a friend who lives in the country of destination whose last words were "Be careful. Lot's of kidnapping there now."

Last trip a trusted friend told me that the business men and women in his church will never be on the platform or allow their names to be in a bulletin or website since they are in constant fear, for themselves and their families, of kidnapping.

The following day I walked to the bank to transact some business. My next stop was less than one-quarter mile down the street. Weather was nice so I decided to walk. It was 10:00 in the morning. The area is a major metropolitan business district.

For some reason I glanced over my shoulder to see a newer model bright red SUV keeping pace with me not more than 4 feet over my shoulder. I looked into the car. The windows were tinted. Could see nothing. Probably because of the previous day's conversation I immediately walked backwards a few steps to see what it would do. The SUV slowed. Thought it was going to stop. But it kept moving...very slowly. A cab came along and I took it.

Another friend who has family in this country met me at the condo. We left to meet a group for dinner. They had released their driver. They asked how I planned to get to the restuarant? I said "taxi of course." I found out later. Even though they had lived in this country for many years and visit often it was their FIRST taxi ride. Fear of being set up for robbery---or worse.

Such is the fear and paranoia millions live with every day of their life.

Poverty brings out the worse in people. When there are no jobs, no way out and no hope of anything better people do evil things.

Feeling bad helps no one! One strong focus of Grace for Asia is "Provision Financing." We work through trusted partners who help us identify good people who simply need WORK. We offer zero interest loans. By the end of 2009 we are hoping the number of people being assisted will grow into the hundreds. So far these loans are being repaid allowing us to reinvest again to provide hope to people who only need a chance.

Will this keep me from looking over my shoulder. No. But we change the world by meeting one need at a time.

If you are interested in participating in this Provision Financing you can locate us by going to http://www.graceforasia.org/. Love to share more with you.

Gene Wood is pregnant

2009-01-10T09:02:00.000-08:00

Imagine my surprise when I opened my email to read: "Gene Wood is pregnant."

It was 5:00 a.m. and as I had not even sipped my first cup of coffee. My first thought was another spam email selling something bizarre.

But the note was from a denominational leader in Mindanao Philippines. I had known him for years. He is a trustworthy and respected friend.

Here was his note:

"Congratulations Gene. You are pregnant. When I first heard this I was doubtful. But then a pastor from Manila visited Arakan and says it is true. He has seen it.

Do you remember a couple years ago when you were in Davao doing a training seminar for pastors? Some of the attendees approached me and asked if I could help them with transportation. They travel all over the mountains by foot in Cotabato. It takes so long to visit the churches. You took some money out of your pocket and gave it to them to buy a horse.

Well, to remember the gift they named the horse Gene Wood. It is true Gene Wood is now pregnant. So congratulations!

Pastor Johnny Dilisay, Davao Philippines

Gene Wood is pregnant. The fun of glocal friendships.

Glocal Goals

2009-01-06T15:45:00.000-08:00

We're into the first week of 2009. Despise goal setting if you like. To your own loss. As January 1,2009 approached I pulled out my faded file on goals.

I wish I had been more disciplined in my life but I did find a written history of goals set going back to 1982. I like to divide them into three sections. First professional goals. Second personal goals. Third private goals.

Perhaps there should be no difference between the last two categories but I discovered for myself unless I make this distinction I am unwilling to set the final category of goals and those matters deal with the character issues. What are some of those matters? Well they're...private.

An interesting discovery over the past quarter century of personal goal setting. I often was unable to achieve the one year goals but totally underestimated what could be accomplished in three to five years. Lesson. Just keep moving forward. Growth in most every field is exponential. We strive for the most simple things seemingly without movement and then presto the same effort produces unexpected results.

One of the exciting results of continual effort has been the results of purposeful networking.
Most of us readily admit that at the beginning of our careers it is not so much what we know as who we know. I'm not sure that reality ever truly diminishes in life.

At the end of the day we are largely a compilation of what we read and who we hang around. So it makes a great deal of sense to set goals in both those arenas of life.

By the way---one goal for 2009. Communicate more regularly with you via this blog. I've been horrible. Why would you check in if I'm not writing.

So here we go--a personal goal in public. I'll write something here no less than 3x per week. Might open the blog for your comments. If not, those of you who have my personal email address are invited to write me with your impressions, thoughts, responses and of course words of undulated admiration.

Talk to you in a couple days.

Walking Through Bethelehem

2008-12-17T11:31:00.000-08:00

Just completed our 4th Annual Walk Through Bethlehem presentation. Three nights. More than 7000 guests enjoyed the experience. Nothing like seeing, tasting, touching and smelling Bethlehem without leaving Southern California.

Bert the camel and the petting zoo section assure the smell component.

Great weather. Good time for families. What I enjoy most is watching the eyes of children as they come through. For those under six I suspect they actually think they have entered Bethlehem.

Share some pictures here for you.

Hope you are each enjoying your preparations for Christmas Day. What a day it was!

Walk Through Bethlehem!

2008-12-08T09:26:00.001-08:00

We are delighted to host the premier Christmas experience in the San Gabriel Valley each year.

Walk Through Bethlehem begins this Friday night and runs for three consecutive nights (December 12,13,14) from 5-9:00 p.m.

If you've attended previously, I'm confident you'll return. If you have not found your way to 1515 South Glendora Avenue in Glendora, California - pack up the family and come on over. The line moves quickly and the experience of walking through first century Bethlehem will be a memory you'll keep for the remainder of the season.

Be prepared for the rantings of Herod, the pushiness of Roman guards, the smell of animals which would have pervaded the manger scene, and have your picture taken with Bert-the-camel. The Beduin shop keepers and beggars may try to separate you from your money but a polite "no thank you" usually sends them scurrying.

I spent a day at Disneyland last weekend and while the Christmas Season was in full swing, there is a notable absence of the "Christ" part. Kind of empty actually.

If you are looking for something fun to do which won't cost you much---like FREE---then this is what you want to do. Bring the family. Bring the neighborhood. See you at our best ever WALK THROUGH BETHLEHEM.

*For more info on Walk Thru Bethlehem, please go to www.grace-church.com

Earthquakes, Typhoons and Fires

2008-11-18T15:12:00.000-08:00

Last week while in Tampa Bay some people ask me how bad things were back home in the LA area with the fires. At the time I had not seen the news so I responded nonchalantly, "Fires during the Santa Ana winds in LA are like hurricanes on the coast of Florida. They are bad if they hit your home otherwise most people are almost unaware."

My apologies. This year is worse. Hundreds of homes lost and the fires are spread across amazingly diverse neighborhoods.

However, there is reality to what I originally said. Looking back over the most recent catastrophes of 2008 we see this. Not one but perhaps hundreds (of lesser tremors) hit central China. To the outsiders it seems only one quake hit and that was in Chengdu. Nothing could be further from the truth. The quake damage was in several provinces and many hit over months. While those hit most severely are still suffering greatly, the larger population continues life as normal.

Typhoons in the Pacific Rim are a routine of nature. They are often followed by flooding and mud slides on the hillsides illegally harvested of timber. People die. Homes are destroyed. But the larger communities take it in stride and move on.

Fires in Los Angeles are part of our eco-culture. We have a long dry summer. Normal. We also have a 12 month growing season. One friend told me regarding landscaping in Southern California, at first you fight to get plants and trees to grow. THEN you spend the rest of the time just fighting them. Everything grows. Sun and underground sprinkler systems are a pretty effective combination. No winter dormant season here.

So~ long dry summers. Brush growing on the hillsides. Then the Santa Ana winds hit blowing the dry wind at high speeds. Strike a match and suddenly the hills are ablaze and not with the sound of music. Just a bad combination of factors.

When one's house is destroyed it is a true catastrophe. Few can really afford to fully insure their homes. Too expensive. The law of averages dictates fires will probably not touch your home. Take the risk.

What must make the loss of your home and everything you've worked a lifetime for and were counting on for retirement even worse is that most of those around you move on without missing a beat. Ouch.

Adding to the hurt in Southern California is our relative wealth. Unlike Katrina and mud slides in poor countries, few feel too sorry. Truth be told. How do you find pity for people living in million dollar homes?

Here you are possibly waiting for me to pull together some principles or moral lessons. I'm trying but all I have today are some realities observed.

I do know life is not fair. Learned that as a child. I do know bad things happen to good people and some pretty bad people seem to escape unscathed.

I also believe it probably does not hurt for us to reflect upon a old question. "Who is my neighbor?" The answer offered originally was, "If someone in my scope of awareness has a need...regardless of the reason for it...and I have the ability to help. I should."

Setting Sun

2008-11-13T14:44:00.000-08:00

Here in Tampa Bay for a few days this week. My publisher, Churchsmart Resources is hosting a training event. My role is two and one-half days of facilitating a seminar on leading turnaround.
Great group gathered here from 32 different states. It is good to meet with such a diverse group of hungry leaders.

They have hosted us at the Historic (translate old) Belleview Biltmore Resort. It is actually quite impressive. The halls are double-wide and literally stretch for over 150 yards. I found myself wondering if I could roll a bowling ball from one end to the other on hard wood floors with my best effort. I doubt it. Could I throw a baseball from one end to the other? Not sure.

At night there are a lot of doors with padlocks on them. Not sure what is behind them.

OK perhaps I have a little too much time on my hands.

Made it here the first night to watch the sun set over the Bay. Had a momentary pause. How could I be watching the sun set over the ocean when I'm on the East Coast?

Don't worry, I figured it out. It's a Bay. But it reminded me that sometimes small things (inlets) in life can give the wrong perspective. Sometimes when I am certain where I am yet encounter short-term challenges, I don't necessarily need to conclude I'm on the wrong side.

OK enough philosophizing. I'm going to go out and see if I can find a bowling ball.

Three Days After

2008-11-07T10:53:00.000-08:00

The elections are behind us. You know what I know. Just feel compelled to share some of my feelings.

Confess I went to bed Tuesday night feeling a bit sick. Not sure how much of the nausea was the results of the elections and how much was serious jet-lag. Just arrived back home from Asia 72 hours earlier. My wife was gone so I fixed my own food. Perhaps it was the Wienerschnitzel. Whatever!

I am thankful three states voted to recognize what the Bible declares fact. Marriage is between a man and a woman. This is the way God ordered it and at least for the moment our country is affirming this is best for society, mental health and for our children and grandchildren.

I am thankful to live in a country where we can elect a black president! This shouts loudly how far we have come to break down destructive racial barriers. This makes me proud.

I am thankful to live in a country where we could have elected a woman to a position one heartbeat away from the highest office in the land. That makes me proud.

I am thankful to live in a country where we can host a peaceful change of power without blood shed and violence.

I am thankful to live in a country where we can proclaim our beliefs loudly and without fear of reprisal to our families when we do so. It is healthy to be able to post signs in our front yards which differ in sentiment to our neighbors.

Do I have some fears? Certainly. Do I feel some sadness. Yes.

But the benefit of waiting three days to step back and evaluate the landscape helps. My glocal travels leave me convinced the USA is still the best place on the earth to raise a family, serve one's country, and proclaim truth. I'm thankful to be in America.

I'm thankful I waited three days to write this blog.

End of the World

2008-10-28T04:38:00.000-07:00

Still Some Places

2008-10-28T04:21:00.000-07:00

I visited a location in Southern China last week which defies description. Might be able to put some pictures on soon to help describe it for you.

We rode to the end of the road then hiked straight up the side of a mountain on rocks until we encountered a group of people singing.

We eventually descended. I sat at the bottom with my interpreter who lives in Shanghai. The other group a young group of courageous men and women from Corona California made the second hike to deliver the "literature" promised.

While waiting for two hours we engaged them in conversation. They let me know they had never had a white visitor. I apologized for my strange pale complexion. They kindly extended an invitation to "stop by again next time I was in the area."

I then explained that was unlikely. They asked how far away I lived. I told them "it takes 30 hours to travel from Los Angeles to Shanghai to the airport nearest their location." They said "Oh, did you come by train?"

Obviously they had no idea of the other side of the globe.

They asked "how much did it cost to come?" My interpreter informed me they measured distances by how many RMB it costs to travel.

I shared "Probably about 20,000 rmb."

The man who led the village marveled. He matter of factly stated "that would last us for a life time."

I marveled equally at the remote nature of their location. I asked him "how long have your relatives lived in this valley?"

He said with a smile. "Since God created the earth!"

A few days later we were taken to another location to see our first micro-financing sight. This is in the Northern Section of China. We parked the van then hiked once again along the ridge of a mountain. The people lived in caves. I stood on a crest looking down at their "sub-division" and thought I have never seen a sight which could have been exactly like the living conditions of the 1st Century.

There we found 53 acres of licorice planted. Good news. Those sponsored by the project are Christians. While planting the crops about 50 people had professed faith in Christ. A church and school has been started.

Readers. Forgive me for taking so long to write. I hereby commit myself to write more often. Please check back in.

Love to have you share my life and experiences. Not all will be so unique. Most of my life back home is as mundane as yours. But welcome you to this blog.

First Hand Olympic observations

2008-09-04T02:06:00.000-07:00

I have observed the progress of China for the past 10 years. I remember seeing the digital count down announcing "Only 325 days till the Olympics."

I have seen first hand the amazing - probably unprecedented in the history of the world - transformation of a city here in Beijing.

I have watched as 1.3 billion people set their minds to making a statement to the world.

Now that the Olympics have ended, we all are aware of how one country has marched from a single Gold Medal in Los Angeles in 1984 to 63 Gold Medals in 2008.

China should be justifiably proud.

Last week I happened to be staying at the Grand Stanford Hotel in Hong Kong. Our servers casually mentioned that the eating area would be off limits to guests for 30 minutes as they briefly provided welcome refreshments to some special guests. Those guests included all 63 Gold Medal winners from China and the Olympic committee. I had the opportunity to stand in a receiving line in the lobby at 12:30 that afternoon and cheer and clap as these modern day heroes entered. I was thrilled for China.

I wish I had some interesting story to tell you like how Gua Jing Jing stopped and shared with me personally the thrill of her 3 golds. Or the entire men's gymnastics team stopped to take a photo op. But such would be lying. The security was heavy from the night before. Someone on the internet threated a bomb. If I was not staying there I would not have been within 100 yards. Their itinerary was full and they were quickly ushered to behind closed doors. Why not? This group represents a national treasure. And probably as much collective worth now as the USA national debt.

It is good to see progress celebrated. Now, many young children can watch their television screens and have hope. China is now, too, a "land of opportunity"...for some.

Lest you think I'm being a little syrupy and naive, you should know the work of G4Asia focuses almost exclusively on the rural countryside of China.

Many villages we visit - perhaps half - state we are the first foreigners they remember visiting their home. I have seen poverty. More than I wish I had. I understand vividly the great divide which still exists between the wealthy citizenry and the vast majority of the Chinese.

But that does not alter the reality that China is changing rapidly and for the good.

Today, we visited the Birds Nest. An amazing athletic and event center which will be the sight of many more world events for decades to come. The para Olympics begin in two days. At lunch, in the Crown Plaza within walking distance, we saw many competitors in the public areas.

Signs of accommodations for the physically challenged are everywhere. This, too, is good. China does wish to take a step toward all their citizens.

I see how traffic has been at least temporarily controlled and air quality is visibly superior to even one year ago. This, too, is good. The massive modern buildings constructed in Beijing during the past decades are mind blowing.

I want to think that soon this vision and change will sweep out to the 800 million who still live below the international poverty line.

Years ago, Dr. Han Wenzao challenged me with the words, "If you want to know what is going on in China, come and see." I am coming and I am seeing.

All good people should be celebrating the positive changes in China. The progress of this country is worthy of our support.

Do we have to agree with or like all the policies in China? Of course not. But negativity and uneducated and uniformed criticism does nothing but build walls. Walls curtail communications. Without communications, none of us can help.

Final footnote: We were able to coordinate the efforts of 10 medical professionals in Henan Province this past week. It is amazing to see the good that can be accomplished when we work with our friends here in China-openly, legally, honestly.

Much good going on. What can you do?

Doing More

2008-08-23T16:14:00.000-07:00

I just finished speaking at a conference in a serene mountain setting not far from San Jose, California. It was hosted by a Filipino group.

We discussed money, family life, dreams, spirituality and frustrations. We ate together. We laughed a lot. If you know the Pinoy community, you understand that is guaranteed.

Because of our focus with Grace for Asia, of course, we talked much about home; Philippines. We now have a condo in Manila. Many of the attendees have been gone from the country for 10,20, or more years. But no matter how long they have been absent, it is still home.

As we visited during breaks we discovered common experiences, common friends and most of all, common needs and hurts.

In time, our conversation turned to exactly what can be done to "fix the Philippines!"

Answer seems obvious, but tragic. Nothing can be done until the government there stems the epidemic tide of corruption.

Why start a business if double-taxation will drain it dry?

Why send medical equipment and supplies in to assist those who cannot pay for medical treatment as long as custom officials extract 20, 30 or 40% for their own pockets?

Why educate young people if jobs are not given to the most deserving, but to the most connected?

Why send more OFW overseas who must send all their money home when those at home refuse to work and simply waste the funds on a lazy lifestyle?

Why vote if the votes won't be counted?

After 10 years of hearing the same statements and frustration I admit it is tempting to give up. But I return to a couple basic premises which should drive all efforts. Not just in the Philippines, but around the world.

1) Because we cannot help everyone does not mean we should help no one.

2) Teaching people to fish is superior to giving them a fish.

Grace for Asia will continue to do all we are able. Just sitting here in another airport (will be in 23 during the next 16 days) and feeling a bit wistful. Wish I knew how to do more. Feeling so strongly I would like to do more. Sharing the angst of those I have just been with.

We can do more. If we all work together. Let's not give up.

President Bush's comments on Religion in China

2008-08-13T03:04:00.000-07:00

Like millions of viewers, I watched President Bush's interview with Bob Costos two days ago.

The president was pushed repeatedly on whether he continues to confront Hu Jintao on matters
of human rights and religious freedom. President Bush said, "Yes." He even offered that he made a point the previous Sunday to attend a church service in Beijing.

International politics are far beyond my pay scale. But I simply must make one comment regarding a specific comment. President Bush said he has encouraged Ju Jintao to: "Allow the house churches to register."

This is one matter we know a little bit about. We just came out of China last Saturday and spent some time with friends of the CCC (Protestant registered church) and RAB (Religious Affairs Buruean) in several provinces.

There is nothing preventing house churches from registering. In fact, according to notable leaders within the CCC, there is a campaign being initiated from the top down to encourage all house church leaders to register. Many of them are. Many more house churches are working closely alongside of the approximately 55,000 registered Protestant churches.

I am not here arguing these house churches should register. That is a complicated matter. Rules
and policies vary from Province to Province. Some may be able to register, operate legally and find virtually no change in their operations and ability to govern themselves with great autonomy.

Other house churches may find the restrictions brought upon them would be intolerable.

Those are internal and personal issues which the church in China must resolve.

For the record, however, our president, though surely well intentioned, mis-spoke himself. It is not that the Chinese authorities will not allow the house churches to register. The house churches, or at least many of them, have decided they would prefer not to.

2008-08-04T07:15:00.000-07:00

China prior to the Olympics:

We are having a wonderful time here in China. The country has never been cleaner, safer, or better prepared to receive guests.

However, there are a few balancing observations.

First, as we travel from city to city, there is an obvious absence of the number of ex pats (foreign workers) one normally sees here in the major cities and hotels. I am not sure what number of VISA were granted for this summer but suspect the number is lower than last year during the summer vacationing season. As a regular visitor here in China, when I walk through public plaza areas and sit in the lobbies of hotels I am struck by the absence of white faces.

Friends who operate travel agencies in Beijing bemoan the lack of foreign guests and the hotels are not booking anywhere near the number of guests they had hoped for.

Second, the opportunities and open doors we usually enjoy have been decisively and suddenly shut. Each of our Chinese friends says sadly, "Be patient. After the Olympics we can enjoy the relationships we had previously."

Third, one must appreciate the control the central government exercises here in China. There seem to be few corners which have not been touched by central policy. For the first time in 10 years a host mentioned as we were escorted to our hotel room, "The PSB may come to you door this evening and ask you what you are doing here and where you are headed." They did not. The fact we needed to be prepared is significant. The public security is marvelously efficient and certainly is monitoring all activity not only in the large cities but throughout the countryside.

Fourth, our hosts on one occasion encouraged us to leave the city sooner than planned because of phone calls they have received. Another location gently suggested it would be in everyones best interest for us not to show up. We are happy to oblige but it is sad to see them feeling a loss of face in needing to ask this of old friends. We love our friends and wish them all the best.

Finally - all should be in prayer now for a successful, peaceful and harmonious Olympic Games.

For a short period politics and routine activity can be put on hold. It does not serve the people of China nor the world well to have the event disrupted. It certainly is the authorities right to govern as they deem best.

The overwhelming number of citizens here simply want to be good hosts and have the world come to appreciate the amazing progress their country has made in the last decade. We wish them well.

All for now--5 days before the Olympics.

Leadership in a Recession

2008-06-09T22:56:00.000-07:00

Yep. The recession is real. As most leaders of non profit organizations I have been sitting quietly and hoping/praying the recession would fly over us and not touch down. Sort of like home owners when tornadoes blow into their neighborhood.

We expected gas prices to go up, but not from $1.85 to $4.20 overnight. Wow! I was on an overnight bike cruise with some other "Wild Hogs" last week. We rode 850 miles in a day and a half. Along the coast near Big Sur, we filled up at $5.40 per gallon. What a sense of savings we enjoyed at the next station when it was back down to $4.40.

We expected inflated housing prices would correct. But not by 20% in a year. The building boom and all industries related to it seem to have hit the skids.

Add in the presidential elections, a protracted war in Iraq, increasing college tuition, a couple of unprecedented natural disasters overseas, to say nothing of the price of Cold Stone ice cream and we have ourselves a good old recession.

As mentioned, I work in the non- profit world (and we prove it every day). What should religous, humanitarian, and social service providers do?

I'll share some commitments I want to make:

1) We will not become stingy. There are too many hurts and needs which must be met. If required, the dollar amount may go down, but the percentages will not. Note: I'm quite concerned the fuel prices are going to challenge our ability to do as much good overseas. Might drive some creative alternatives.

2) We will seriously evaluate where we get the most bang for the buck. This means, of course, as we prioritize, we will also de-prioritize some things we might otherwise wish to do.

3) We will look for and give high commitment to other organizations who share our values and vision and come to the table of service as sharing partners. I'm learning most organizations can be divided into two categories. Those who are taking and those who are giving. In lean times, we must find those who can offer parity. Synergy between two giving entities is powerful.

4) We will live within our means. Simply we will not spend what we do not have.

5) We will accept that survivorship is a worthy goal during difficult times. Recessions are not pleasant. Like you, I wish they did not come. But they do. They will force us to evaluate what is necessary to achieve our goals or calling and what is dispensable. When the recession ends, and it will, we will be prepared and structured for even more effective service and growth.

Would enjoy hearing from some of you if you have a list of your own for such times. What would you add? Found any articles on this topic?

Children's Day

2008-06-02T04:17:00.000-07:00

Irony that this past week brought Children's Day in China with thousands of little children dead from the earthquake and thousands orphaned. Be a bit difficult to celebrate or should it be?

I have my personal feelings regarding China's one-child policy. I also have feelings about what is happening in other countries with a birth rate far beyond the people's ability to care for, nourish, provide medical care or education for the children being conceived.

I'm delighted to see the theme of "children" surfacing during this time of catastrophe. Somehow children touch us more deeply than adults. Are they more valuable? Probably not. But there is something in our human DNA which cries out for justice, fairness and protection for a child. Decent human beings love children and rush to care for them.

I pulled up in front of the house of my colleague (John Dix) to pick him up for a weekend retreat last Friday. His children rushed out to the car. "Hey, can you bring us home one of the little orphans from China?" I smiled. The reality is the agencies in Sichuan are receiving thousands of calls per day requesting these children. Being blessed with one of them would be like winning the lottery. Because of the one-child policy, they are highly sought in China. The rest of the world loves children, too.

Perhaps in some unexpected way this recent tragedy will alter the governments policy. I have no inside reason to suggest that. Just a gut guess--or perhaps a hope on my part.

Please join in praying for the children of China, all of Asia, and the world. They are the hope.

Friedman suggests in his book "The World is Flat" - the difference in the world is no longer between East and West. The big difference is between young and old. Put all the young people together and leave them alone they will quickly bond and become unified."

Thanks for caring about the children. If you would like to help we will send 100% of your donations to Hua Mei International and if you desire, desginate it exclusively for the children.

Our Most in Times of Crisis

2008-05-23T05:28:00.000-07:00

From Manila:

Like most of you, I've received no short supply of opportunities to help serve the suffering in China this past 12 days. I have no desire to start questioning the integrity or credibility of anyone of those who have written to me. But, I would like to share some of the guideposts I choose to prioritize where funds will be sent in times of crisis. You might refer to this as "glocal guidelines."

1) Was the person or agency already on location prior to the disaster? Amazing how many groups seem ready to capitalize on other's misfortunes.
2) In extreme cases, perhaps those at ground zero are unable to serve because they are disabled by the event. In that case who is closest to the scene? They will probably have the most passion due to personal acquaintance with those suffering. They already know the culture, language, and knowledge to ferret out the truth from the bola bola (that is a tagalog expression, but most of you can figure it out).
3) How much of the money being asked for will go for travel expenses? And how much will go directly to those most deeply touched by the tragedy?
4) What is the capability of those traveling to the sight to actually help? Are we going to look or do something? This is one reason I decided NOT to travel to Chengdu; though I was only 2 hours away and have friends there.

Years ago when we lived in Ohio there was a tornado which passed close to our house. We sheltered in the basement with the children till it passed. The next day I loaded the family in the van and drove through the neighborhood where it had touched down. Whole tops of houses were ripped off. It looked like a war zone. People were standing dazed in the front yards either trying to clean up a little or search for lost belongings. As we cruised through the neighborhood our window was down and one man obviously beside himself looked at me and said honestly, "If you must come here you can at least get out and help."

That was many years ago. His words still haunt me. Am I going to look or do something?

Some countries such as the one I sit in now (Philippines) are a perpetual disaster zone. The GDP grows. The Asian market stated it is the second cheapest country to live in. Yet the ability of the general populace is not able to afford to live. What does it say? The money is in the hands of a very few. The country is in crisis.

We don't want to come and just look. We're hoping to provide jobs. I had a conversation with a person today which indicates we can join another foundation for still bigger things. We may fail. But don't want to just look.

Glocal and Provision Financing

2008-05-21T05:26:00.000-07:00

I'm in Manila tonight. Meeting today with our Provision Financing team.
They have just returned from visiting four quite diverse sights. Fair to say
they are excited with the possibilities, though weary.

We have crafted some guiding posts to help us in this endeavor. What we will do is quite similar to the more customary micro financing plans well established but include some distinctive features. Let me share an abbreviated list:

1) We agree it is more important to teach people to fish rather than give them a a fish.
2) Because we cannot help everyone does not mean we will help no one.
3) We will charge no interest. That's right - zero interest. This means those who participate in funding loans are using gift money, not investment money.
4) Those who loan will never take their money back. However, they will be ruthless about expecting results. Results mean those who receive the loan become capable of funding their own employment after the loan into perpetuity.

More to come on this matter, but expecting some tremendously fulfilling results in this arena. Already the stories from our first tests are encouraging.

By the way, the gap between the rich and poor appears to be widening here in the Philippines. Be great to see an increasing middle class.

The team just called to say they took a taxi home - five in one very small cab. 45 minutes later they found themselves on the other side of the city at the Mall of Asia. Opposite direction from our condo. It is pouring rain and hard to find a taxi at all. Before they arrive home they should know what sardines feel like. :) Ah, they joys of traveling away from home!

Just a few thoughts to share tonight.

Time to Mourn

2008-05-19T03:27:00.000-07:00

Human suffering! We watch here in China with bated breath to hear the last death toll figure.
50,000 now and sure to climb.

As the taxi took me to the hotel the flags are flying at half mast. I've never seen that in another country. A country mourns.

As I checked in at the hotel they informed me "we" have just begun 3 days of government dictated mourning. For 3 minutes - the time of the earthquake - we will observe silence. No mention of prayer.

For the next 3 days there will be no entertainment in the hotel. No music. No movies or frivolous television shows. Only news (and hotel promotion).

There will be plenty of time for dissecting the tragedy here. Why did so many schools collapse and government buildings remain standing? Why so long to allow foreign aid? Why...?

But for the moment there are millions of human beings in need of fresh water, emergency medical care, and some parents --- or children --they will never see again. For the moment it is good to congratulate the Chinese government of the level of transparency they are allowing. For the moment we should pray for the hundreds of thousands of Chinese military, emergency crews and common citizens who are going without sleep trying to minimize the damage of this act of nature.

For now surely we can take at least 3 days and mourn together. But as we mourn let's not forget the emptiness of saying 'be warm and be fed while doing nothing."

Because we cannot help everyone does not mean we should help no one. What can you do?

Famous Chinese Hospitality

2008-05-18T05:36:00.000-07:00

I have just completed a long day of celebration at the new Amity Printing Press in Nanjing China. This is boasted to be the world's largest bible printing press. It is capable of printing 12 million bibles per year.

That is not to say 12 million bibles will be printed. The current number is much less and many of those are exported to other countries. Currently, the alloted number for Chinese bibles is at 3.2 million.

It was a great day. I estimate 250 were in attendance. The new leaders of the CCC were present. Rev. Gau, head of the CCC, is a wonderful gentleman and scholar. We shared dinner tonight. He has a delightful personality and I'm expecting he will prove to be a superb leader for the Protestant Church of China. Elder Fu is the new leader for TSPM. We have been honored to host him at Grace Church and it is good to see him moving into leadership as well. He expressed the heavy burden this position brings and has asked for our support.

Sometimes the hearts of leaders are discovered in the small symbols.Throughout the celebration were repeated expressions of concerns for the people of Sichuan.
In fact the planned banquet was canceled so those funds could be channeled to assist in the relief effort. The United Bible Society which has partnered with Amity press since the beginning has committed to funding all the bibles necessary for those who have been displaced in this disaster.

I have traveled in China for the past 10 years. I am sensing recently that a positive change is in the wind. Younger leaders are assuming positions both in the church and in government roles.

I cannot help but recall the words of Thomas Friedman in his book "The World is Flat." He declares, "The difference in the world today is no longer between East and West, but between the young and the old."

I will go to sleep tonight encouraged as to what the future holds in China.

Just a word of encouragement. Would you join me in praying for a peaceful and successful Olympic Games in Beijing? Regardless of political views it serves no purpose whatsoever for the Games to be disrupted by violence or tension.

Chinese people sincerely wish for the world to see the best of their culture and to be good hosts to the world in this coming out party.

I had a good day. Hope you did as well.

50,000 Dead - China Earthquake

2008-05-16T19:27:00.000-07:00

Liping Lan, our Director for Grace for Asia, carried on a conversation with our Director of Hua Mei International in Chengdu last Sunday night at 10:00 PM. Future plans were casually discussed. Then she said goodnight. All was normal.

One hour later, the Wenchuan Earthquake hit. The next night Richard (director), his wife, and little son (whom they gave an English name "Gene") were sleeping on the street because their home, though still still, intact was deemed unsafe due to the aftershocks. The epicenter was 60 miles from their home

As I sit in Nanjing this morning with the news playing the background, I am reminded again of two basic truths.

One, how tenuous our lives are. We reside in safety and normalcy one moment and find our world turned upside down the next.

Two, how small the world has become. This is the new glocal reality. While many may not have heard of Chengdu, for many of us this is close to home. I travel to Chengdu at least once a year for board meetings. It is the home of Hua Mei International a registered Christian NGO.

They newspaper here in China edited by Xinhau News Services ran the headlines "50,000 Feared Dead." At least 4 million people are homeless.

It is refreshing after the recent SARS scare to see how the Chinese government has responded to the need. President Hu Jintao and Premier Win Jiabao are both visible and compassionate. They have mobilized at least 130,000 military troops to assist. There is no cover up but what appears to be a transparent and sincere desire to meet this catastrophe with all the resources of the nation. Evidence, at least to me, of the positive progress inside China.

What can we do? Of course we can and should be praying. Additionally we should help. Words of concern without action are neither helpful nor Christian.

For some you may wonder how you can maximize your giving so that the love you express is offered in the name of Christ. If that is your concern then we welcome you to consider donating to the crisis through Hua Mei International. They are in the midst of the situation and as the ONLY Christian NGO in Chengdu will be ably equipped to serve as your arm for this purpose.

If you wish to donate please go to www.grace-church.com and more information will be available there.

This is not an organization which has suddenly sprung up to capitalize on a crisis. Hua Mei was begun years ago with an eye to serving the community of Sichuan in the name of Christ. I was able to be present for the founding meeting of the board. The principals live there. They are perhaps uniquely situated to serve at this time.

Glocal Happens

2008-04-05T10:04:00.000-07:00

Sat in Shanghai and had dinner a couple of days ago with a wonderful mix of people:

...my publisher and his wife (from Illinois), a young couple from Texas, a business man from Singapore, a couple living in Shanghai---(she is originally from Hong Kong but met her husband in Minneapolis), a Chinese citizen born in China, a farmer from Pennsylvania, two business men from Manila and myself.

Now that pretty much illustrates the power and reality of glocal. We flew from around the world to join hands for a common purpose. Race, distance, and backgrounds blurred as we focused on a common goal.

Just getting back from China and am still in an airport and feeling a bit jet-lagged. But anxious to share some of the lessons I am learning about this new glocal reality.

By the way, if current prices are any indication of what is to come--you may want to avoid Beijing this summer. Wow!

Gene

2008-03-12T13:53:00.000-07:00

Effective "Glocal" Involvement at the 2008 Beijing Olympics
Subtitle: It's all About the Toilets!

A couple of weeks ago, I was invited to sit with about 36 individuals for a briefing in Hong Kong at the Chinese University. Most were Chinese. I was among the handful of white faces. Therefore, I understood my role was to learn. I believe I achieved that goal and walked away with an enhanced understanding of the continuing changes in China today and what it is going to take to serve effectively alongside our Chinese partners.

The final presentation was by Peng Liu. He is a communist. He also serves as a consultant for the Chinese government in matters regarding Western Religion.

His speech was pithily titled: "The impact of Religion Upon Sino-American Relations-Problems, Root Causes and Solutions."

To begin with, Liu demonstrated an accurate understanding of how we, in the USA, view religion and human rights. He then pointed out how devastating it is from the Chinese perspective when all negotiations at any level eventually end up with a discussion of religious freedoms.

Liu stated that when government officials (and remember Religious Affairs personnel are government officials) are asked, "Why don' t you change your laws on religious matters?" it is a conversation stopper. Not because the Chinese have no opinions or thoughts on these matters, but because China has NO LAWS governing religion, freedom of speech or freedoms of the press. There is nothing in their constitution and by-laws to change.

What China has are policies and regulations on these matters. One of the challenges is that these vary from province to province and city to city. He asked, "How many various regulations do you have in the USA - at the city, state, and national levels - on such matters? Do some of these conflict with one another?"
The answer is an obvious "yes."

His concluding challenge to those of us who wish to have long-term relations in China was as to stop worrying about changing China's laws and focus on a kind and on-going dialogue with those we have good relationships with inside of China.
He says "Chinese will hear the words of their friends." If enough people present strong arguments and seem concerned about a particular matter, in time, it is likely changes will occur.

He left us with the following illustration. Years ago when China opened up to tourism, millions flocked to see the Great Wall. Many foreign guests expressed concern because there were not Western toilets. Word came that some guests even waited until they returned to their hotel in Beijing to go to the bathroom.

To the Chinese this was amusing. They had been visiting the Great Wall for hundreds of years with no complaints.

However, as more and more guests expressed interest in the lack of Western toilets, the Chinese people, as good friends, responded. Today when you go to the Great Wall during the Olympics, you will find some of the finest toilet facilities in the world waiting for you when you go to your bus.

"That" said Liu, "is how change comes about in China!"

For the work of Grace for Asia, we are going to keep signs posted where all are reminded: "REMEMBER THE TOILETS!"

Owing a Debt

2007-12-06T20:56:00.000-08:00

From China:

Completing a series of meetings with religous officals in various cities inside Mainland China.
We are enjoying the benefits of 10 years of guanxi (relationships/connections). Much easier to sit down and talk with a leader here when their close friends and classmates have already vicariously introduced us to them. In fact this may be the absolute necessity for effective service in China.

In one city located in the central part of the country a top leader listened patienty as we shared what we would like to do someday. He then responded "why have you waited 10 years? You owe us a debt."

It was a cultural way of saying "what are we pussy footing around for? Time is wasting. Let's get busy." While not everyone is quite that quick and ready to begin partnerships it is becoming rather typical of the attitude we encounter.

Grace for Asia never and I mean NEVER had anyone say something like that 10 years ago, or 8 years ago, or even 6 years ago. Instead they would make speeches explaining the "realities" in China and then listen patiently to whatever we shared. Usually these hours were followed by a lengthy dinner. When we left we had no commitment from them except "hope you will come back and see our city again."

What changed? Most bascially 10 years. True China is changing (do not confuse that with "has changed." There is a greater openess and receptivity to foreign partnerships. More importantly 10 years of trust and relationship has occured.

I don't pretend to understand all the cultures of the world. But I suspect that people are pretty much the same. Trust takes time. We must learn before we serve. We must prove ourselves before we partner and certainly before we can lead.

So if you are thinking about a glocal partnership somewhere this may be one of the crucial secrets to learn. Start now. You'll make some mistakes. Become a student of the culture. Then settle down and keep going back. Build relationships. Be patient but keep moving forward.

In "Going Glocal" I talk about signature relationships. This means a partnership which has your finger prints all over it. It is unique to you and your ministry. No two are identical. One thing this will require is time. If groups are hopping all over the world they may have a great travel experience but it is unlikelly they will deepen relationships to the place where real significant ministry and partnerships can be formed.

Pehaps this trip I learned one more indication that guanxi has been acheived. You sit down with a total stranger overseeing 300,000 Christians and he looks at you saying "what took you so long to get here--you owe me a debt."

Talk later from California

It is a small world

2007-12-03T02:08:00.000-08:00

Today I sit at the Sheraton in Urumqi. Never heard of it? Don't feel bad. It is the last major airport city in the NW part of China. It is pronounced WOO LU MU CHI. That is your trivia for today.

Flew in today to disucss partnering possibilities. The area was originally settled by the minority people, Wei Wu Er. Historically they have been predominantly Islamic. This makes the area especially sensitive to any foreign presence.

While visiting with a couple of leaders for the first time we found out how much we have in common. They are about the same age as myself. One is a seminary graduate. They have two children the same age as my older two.

The church they lead had 4000 in worship last Sunday. They are proud their son is actively involved in ministry to young people.

We discovered that we have at least two signfiicant mutual friendships. The man who challenged me to work openly in China was the same gentleman who lobbied hard for the pastors ordination years ago when attaining such was difficult to do in an Islamic area.
We both concluded that whatever we do in the future will be in memory of this great former leader, Dr. Han Winzao.

And most significantly at the end of dinner we all made our way enthusiastically to the ice cream buffet table.

Glocal reality. While a traveler from the West might feel they have reached the end of the world as they fly in to Urumqui there is no end of our world today. Not only is the globe we live upon round the cultural interaction and cross-pollinization of ideas os circular. We learned from one another today.

Meanwhile I look forward to viewing at least one more NBA game before heading home.

Before departing I had a chance to share our plans for the third annual Walk Through Bethelehem extravaganza (see www.grace-church.com) as we said our goodbyes in the lobby of the hotel here in China--- by the Santa's gift shop, 30 foot Christmas tree, and Silent Night playing over the speaker system. I felt at home.

Clipped a great article in the China Daily. "Think global, but read local for culture." Sounds glocal to me.

See you soon in California. Getting ready to speak there Sunday.

By the way to those of our USA friends who arrived home yesterday please take care of that

Again....

2007-11-23T10:29:00.001-08:00

The Winning Team

2007-11-23T10:13:00.001-08:00

Every leader desperately wants a team that can win. This is certainly true for profit ventures. It may be even more deeply coveted in non-profit endeavors. After all the desired outcome addresses our core values and convictions.

I can hardly remember the last conversation I had with a business owner, pastor of a large church or CEO of a non-profit organization which did not at some point surface the issue of staffing concerns. Where do we find the right people?

The current issue of INC. has a paragraph buried in the middle worth the price of the issue. A business owner shares they give quarterly reviews to all employees. Each employee is evaluated in four areas:
1) Attitude
2) Flexibility
3) Aptitude
4) Initiative

Each category can receive a high of 25 points. The employee is rewarded for any score over 75. Two quarters under 70 means dismissal.

I began to ponder these four selected check points according to the grid we use. The transferable ingredients were amazing.

1) Attitude-----speaks of Chemistry (does the person seem to fit? Are they happy? Do they make the people who must work with them happy?"
2) Flexibility---speaks of Configuration (do they fit the mix of gifts, personalities, strengths and weaknesses of the others on the team. Are they willing to bend a bit when called upon to make the human mosaic work?)
3) Aptitude----speaks of Competency (do they have the skills and training required to get the job done they were hired to do?)
4) Initiative----speaks of Competitiveness (once they grasp the vision and goals of the team are they willing to step up and do whatever is necessary to win?).

As I pondered these four essentials of an effective team member I realized there are at least two more that should be added to the list for the non-profit sector.

5) Communications skills. While not everyone is called upon to do public speaking all must be willing to communicate well. Willingness to share with other team members, let others know what they are doing and what they need to be effective is crucial. People who wish to function as an island are liabilities. This includes tech people. We must also consider the necessity of written skills. With computers front and center on every desk virtually everyone needs to learn how to write well.

6) Character. Lack in this area will eventually bring down any organization.

Some initial thoughts here. What do you think?

Would like to noodle a bit on the #4 item soon. Is the term "competitive" too strong? I think not. We want a team full of competitors--as long as we can remember who the enemy is.

Those little kids

2007-11-15T20:57:00.000-08:00

James 1:27 suggests that pure religion, untainted by the world, will focus on the plight of orphans and widows.
Don't have to travel much to have your heart touched by them.

My son and daughter-in-law are camping out with us for a few days while they wait for their house to open up. Great couple. Love having them. The package also includes the little 1 year old grandson. This complicates things a bit.

My wife has been pestering me for years to get a hearing aid. Finally I did it as a present to her. Bad timing. Every time I put it in here at home that child is screaming. No way I would have survived raising three kids of my own if I had heard well! Had no idea the decibel level emanating from those little vocal cavities.

All which brings me to this point. Kids require massive amounts of attention. My wife and I are dumbfounded at the energy, patience, and hours our children put into their little one. And they seem to be ok. In fact so ok--they are having ANOTHER one.

Kids require attention. Lots of it. And tomorrow they need more. And the next day. And the next day. Love is spelled time. Time is life. Kids need to have others pour their lives into them to survive and thrive.

But--what about the kids in our world without those parents. They are called orphans. There are lots of them. One source suggests a new one every 14 seconds.

I spent a little time yesterday tracing through the references in the Old Testament to orphans. Found at least 35. One thing is very clear. God loves orphans. He promised to be their father, to avenge/defend their mistreatment and provide for them.

They are every where we travel today. In many countries we stop at the signal and they are tapping on the window selling--whatever. One lady told me as we sat with a group in a restaurant watching those children her own story.

Her father was long gone (the bible often refers to the fatherless). Her mother was a prostitute. She and her sisters were required to go out and sell garlic or flowers. If they returned before midnight without selling enough they were spanked and sent back out. Leaves a scar for life.

In India when the psunami hit the government was left to care for many orhpans. Probably meaning well they offered $1150 to anyone who would come and take these children from the camps. You can imagine what happened to many of them. Exploitation and abuse is the common lot of little ones with no one to love, care for, and give them attention.

Question. How does God parent, defend and provide for the orphans? The answer is simple. Through His people. In the Old Testament He specifically scripted how this would take place. Each year the tithe was set aside for them. Grain was carefully "forgotten" during the harvest and left for them laying in the field.

How does God care for them today? The answer is simple also. Through His people. You and me. I know we cannot solve all the problems. But we can solve some. We cannot do everything but we can each do something. God wants us to give them some attention. This is the evidence of true religion.

Was at the beautiful campus of Mount Vernon College--outside of Columbus this week. On the bulletin board in the commons building was a flyer. It showed the picture of a little girl. The words said it all. "I can be bought for $300. I can be saved for $3.00 per day."

She needs our attention. Who can we help?

NO BUFFALO JUMPING ALLOWED

2007-11-12T17:01:00.000-08:00

What you can expect here is a series of articles written from wherever I am involved in ministry at any given time. The best way to introduce myself to you is to refer you to a series of websites. This is the simplest way to introduce the rationale driving the themes.

http://www.grace-church.com/
http://www.graceforasia.org/
http://www.glocalpartners.com/
http://www.leading-turnaround.org/

A quick purusal of these sites will help you understand most postings here will deal with church leadership strategies. Whether in the USA or overseas makes little difference in this glocal age.

I missed the airplane last week in Great Falls, Montana. Missing planes is not ususally a big deal--just catch the next one. But this was Great Falls. It was 7:00 a.m. and groaned when the UA clerk informed me the next flight out was 4:10 that afternoon. I fully intended to be back in Glendora in the office by noon that day. "Oh no, I'm stuck in Great Falls all day!" He responded sympathetically "I know how you feel. I've been stuck here for 11 years."

With no other choice I determined to grab a car and at least enjoy the wide-open spaces. Usually I speed by those little road signs indicating "historic site." But with nowhere in particular to go I actually followed them. I eventually found myself on a gravel road for a distance of 15 miles. At 8:30 a.m. there was no one in site. I followed it to the Uhlm State Park. I turned left, crossed the cattle gaurd and followed the road to the top of the hill.

There were signs posted regarding the prarie dog cities. Quite educational Organized little guys. Then a path. I followed it to what was simply labeled "buffalo jumping site." As you walked through the meadow of grass it seemed as if you could walk over the rolling hills for miles without interuption. But it was deceptive.

Without warning there was a precipice. I mean without warning! If you were running at full speed you would likely be unable to stop before plummeting over the edge. And that is the essence of the buffalo jump.

The natives would stampede a herd of buffalo. They were in the direction of the cliffs by young men in buffalo hides. At the end those brave hunters would find a ledge about 3 feet over the cliff, dive onto it, and crouch as these monstrous animals hurled over their heads to their death below. To assure the harvest less courageous hunters waited with speers and arrows.

As I drove away I reflected on a question I am asked often by church leaders. When is it time to leave?

I'll save the full answer to this for my sequel to "Leading Turnaround Churches." But, I have a new chapter for that book. "NO BUFFALO JUMPING ALLOWED." An ethical shepherd leader cannot lead the congregation towards a cliff with a personal escape plan in place. That places us in the catetgory of shepherds referred to in Ezekiel 34.

If we believe the church we lead must go through major change in order to assure long term effectiveness and health the so be it. Lead the charge. This may involve style of music, preaching, times of services, moving to small groups, or any number of other matters.

The one thing the congregation must believe however is that the one leading the charge is willing to go with them to the end no matter what that might be.

Once a church has been burned by a leader who led them in a change of direction and then deserted them when things did not turn out to be easy or pleasant the buffalo (sheep) which remain will probably never ben inclined to follow a leader again.

So, leaders, next time you begin a stampede please ask yourself. "Do I have an exit strategy in the back of my mind?" If you answer yes then you probably should not lead the charge.
NO BUFFALO JUMPING ALLOWED.

The Glocal Reality

2007-11-10T18:03:00.001-08:00

The world is shrinking due to technological advances, the break-down of travel barriers and the ever increasing usage of English as an international language. Today, we have opportunities which were almost unimaginable a few short years ago. This is what I've come to term the "Glocal Reality"

The Glocal reality lays before us an incredible new journey... the journey of partnership. Because of the glocal realities mentioned above the need for expensive agencies and long standing missionary accounts is no longer a prerequisite for global influence.

Today the church can influence the farthest reachest of the world simply by partnering with like minded bodies of other regions. Finances are liquid, philosophies shared, and impact exponential as churches combine their specialties in sharing the truth of Jesus Christ.

I'd encourage you to check out our website http://www.graceforasia.org/, read a few pages of our book Going Glocal, or send me your thoughts as we begin this journey together....