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The first three weeks are filled with training. We start at anywhere from 7 to 8:30 a.m. and finish from 9 to 10 p.m.. We observe classes, take classes and have even taught a couple of classes. This is all to prepare us for our teaching assignments. We will be teaching English to Chinese English teachers. Most of them have a good technical grasp of English, but have never spend any significant time actually talking. They will spend the next three weeks speaking English 24 / 7. It has been exhausting!
I have had some great experiences. I’ve gotten to have several meaningful conversations with the students. I’ve gotten really good with chop sticks. I’ve eaten more Chinese food in two weeks than in the past two years. The classes are designed to help the students really get involved in speaking so we play lots and lots and lots of games. I’m not usually a game person, but I’ve actually enjoyed it.
We even play hard. We went to the “Great Wall” last weekend and this weekend we’re going to the “Forbidden City” and Tianimen Square.
We have just started classes and I’m helping in one class and leading Bible Club. We don’t advertise Bible Club, but if a Christian student ask for it we can allow them in. We started with 7 and added one last night and another will be added next week.
I would like to ask for your prayers in a couple of areas. First, I went to the dentist just before I left, but I’ve had sore gums since I arrived. It’s not killing me, but a couple of times I’ve gotten up in the night to take Tylenol. I mostly want to ask that things won’t get worse. I’m not sure I’m up for going to the dentist here. Second, I’m having breakfast with a growing group of students. We eat breakfast and talk about the most important things in life. They are so open and looking for answers. I think it maybe the highlight of my day – even so early in the morning.
6 comments:
Doc, it gives me great joy to read about whats going on. You and your team are in my prayers, along with much praise for everyone's work!
Great pictures dad! That's so fun you got to go to the Great Wall. We're praying for you and are glad that you are having so much fun.
OK Doc, I'm sure I'm not the first to say it, but what's up with the Papa Smurf look? I echo Frank's comment-the account of your travels give me great joy. I count it such a privilege to call you my friend. Kev and I will continue to pray for your safety, your work, your family and all that God is doing through you. Teri
Doc Great pictures and you sound like you are tired but happy! That is great and I will continue to pray for you and your teeth and gums pain! God bless you as you serve our Lord where He has called you to be! blessings from
Praying for your endurance Doc and the fruitfuness of minsitry. As you know, I am at DTS studying the prophets. I am reminded of the words of Isaiah as I consider your work.
"“For I know their works and their thoughts; the time is coming to gather all nations and tongues. And they shall come and see My glory." (Isaiah 66:18, NASB95)
I pray this is true for your ministry. May they see His glory through your testimony.
Hi Doc,
This is Sabrina from TeachOverseas. We've exchanged a few emails - I'm so glad that Henry pointed me to your blog - amazing stories that remind me of my time in China 15 years ago (!). The same questions are there - for my Communist friends who were struggling with decisions to follow Christ, I pointed to I Cor 7:20 "Live as you were called." Don't know if that's exactly the right interpretation, but it seemed right at the time :)
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