I started Korean language class yesterday afternoon, just a few hours after landing in Korea. Regardless of extreme jet lag, I actually did learn something. The Koreans have this concept called 우리(uri), which means "our". They use it with everything - even with something as personal as "my father," they would say "our father." The most common way to find this concept of uri is when they talk about their nation, 우리 민족 (uri minjog). Koreans are so proud of being Korean. And, I suppose because of that, they have an extremely strong sense of national unity. They will do anything for each other. They think nothing of giving away their possessions if they see someone else who needs it, or even simply wants it. It's really quite astonishing how much they care for and support each other.
So then I got to thinking about my country. Today we celebrate our Independence day. But it's interesting that almost every American in the country will choose to spend at least part of today with thousands of other people, or at least family and friends. Telling, isn't it? Even in America, arguably one of the most individually autonomous nations on Earth, we need each other.
That's how it should be. Especially as Christians. God never created us with the intention of having an army of Lone Rangers. None of this "I worship better at home" nonsense. We were made for community, made to support each other, made to be and to keep others accountable, made for interdependence. Of course we all have our strengths - but we also have our weaknesses, and it is only by being the body that we were meant to be that we can truly be strong.
So on this Independence day, as we celebrate our nation's freedom, our military's bravery, and our citizens' courage, don't forget that freedom does not mean autonomy. We are still dependent on each other.
So then I got to thinking about my country. Today we celebrate our Independence day. But it's interesting that almost every American in the country will choose to spend at least part of today with thousands of other people, or at least family and friends. Telling, isn't it? Even in America, arguably one of the most individually autonomous nations on Earth, we need each other.
That's how it should be. Especially as Christians. God never created us with the intention of having an army of Lone Rangers. None of this "I worship better at home" nonsense. We were made for community, made to support each other, made to be and to keep others accountable, made for interdependence. Of course we all have our strengths - but we also have our weaknesses, and it is only by being the body that we were meant to be that we can truly be strong.
So on this Independence day, as we celebrate our nation's freedom, our military's bravery, and our citizens' courage, don't forget that freedom does not mean autonomy. We are still dependent on each other.
1 Thessalonians 5:10-13
10 He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. 11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. 12 Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. 13 Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. 
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