November 15, 2004
-
Barriers that Bind
Why Asian Americans are not obeying the Great Commission…
Parental Barriers (what parents say):
Filial Obligations:
1. We came over here to make a life for you. Look how much we sacrificed.
2. You need to be able to support us when we’re older.
3. If you’re over there, how will you take care of us in our old age?
4. You’re going to cheat us from getting to see our grandchildren grow up?Expectations:
1. You need to go to grad school and get a masters first.
2. You need to get married.
3. You need to buy a house (it’s a good investment).
4. You need a retirement fund (401K) to fall back on.If this is what is holding you back, you are seeking the Asian American Dream.
Personal Barriers (what I say):
1. I can serve God here… Why go there?
2. I need to get married first.
3. I don’t have the gift of evangelism.
4. God is not calling me.
5. I have a Masters/Ph.D.; God wouldn’t want me to waste my intellect on the field, would He?
6. I like my car, my house, my friends, my fellowship and having everything I want when I want it – with ease.But these are all excuses. What would happen if we were willing to go out on a limb by casting these obligations, expectations and personal desires aside and offer ourselves as true disciples ought and say, “Lord, please have my life and use it any way you choose.”?
I guarantee God will clear the obstacles, answer the doubts, and use you to do great and amazing things…
Look how much HE sacrificed. And it wasn’t just for you.
Comments (3)
What an awesome post Mary Ann. Wow. I’m saving this one on my computer for a good reminder for myself. Thanks!
good, good thoughts.
good post. You’ve articulated most of the excuses that people have these days. I hate the American Dream. I really do. Not that I have anything against people who have a house, a car and a dog. What i hate about it is that this idea exists and the society has convinced that American Dream is what you want. What everyone should want. That’s lame. That’s consumerism. It’s a lie. American Dream doesn’t ultimately fulfill us. That’s what I hate about it. It’s a lie. A lie that I have to battle with everyday.