September 2003

 

 

 

 

Text Box: BACK TO KOREA … Summer back in the States went by much too quickly. Vicki and I were able to travel a lot and see several of our loved ones and relatives in several states, as well as drop off Brandon at Abilene where he is beginning his major in Youth and Family Ministry. The flight back to Korea on August 22 was longer than usual, especially because our plane had to be diverted to Cheju Island , to wait until the thunderstorm passed Seoul . So I arrived at the Incheon International Airport at about 2:30 in the morning instead of 9:30 p.m. as originally planned. I slept for a couple of hours, and then attended the closest Church of Christ to my apartment, the KangSeo Church of Christ. This fall, I finally learned the meaning of “KangSeo.” I had used the word for years as a place name for this part of town, but never knew what it meant. It means “ West River ,” so things on this part of town are located along the western side of the beautiful Han River which cuts through the middle of Seoul . The next morning, I took the city bus to the K.C.U. campus to see my former friends and co-workers, as well as discover my teaching assignment for the fall semester. I knew that I would be teaching “Revelation,” “Pauline Letters, Part Two, “Gospel of John,” and “Acts of the Apostles,” but I did not know when they would be offered, nor the number of students in my classes. Last spring I had the opportunity of teaching mostly Freshmen students, none of which were Bible majors. This fall, I am teaching upper division students, and almost all of them are Bible majors. From the first class on, I noticed the difference in these students. They were here for a purpose, to be trained for future church work and ministry. Last Spring, I taught about 260 students. This Fall, my numbers have been cut back to about 110 students. This is still a lot, considering that for most of them their English skills are lacking, and I must try doubly hard to communicate the material in ways that can be understood. As John McKeel once told me of his experience here with similar students, “You find yourself getting chalk dust all over you, and being extra dramatic to make your points.” So far, I think most of them are receiving what I am trying to deliver to them. Also to help as much as I can, I am utilizing a Website “message board” for each of my classes. On the board, I leave special notes for each class, songs, announcements and other materials. Students can also post messages and questions here. I promised to answer each of their questions quickly. Listen to the comments of one of my Gospel of John students in his own words.  He writes: Greetings in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. A pleasant website ! I love our class, Gospel of John and Don Kinder professor. :) You are absolutely great man in the Lord! I am saying that Professor Don Kinder's lectures are very enthusiastic !!! Many thanks for your hospitality.. every minute ..every hour..everyclasses!! I hope we will remain nice friend in the Lord! Bye for now. Click here to check out these boards: http://bible.or.kr/kcu LANGUAGE AND CULTURE I continue to study the language when I can, sometimes informally rather than formal study. My friends and co-workers here are constantly giving me new words and phrases to use. Some I remember, and some are like eggs sliding off a Teflon pan. I am also experiencing more of the Korean culture, and knowing what is expected at different situations. Already this month, I have attended two funeral visitations. The first was for the mother of a KCU teacher who passed away suddenly. The other was for the mother of a preacher I have known for years. Both were fine Christian women, but still there is much grieving at the loss of someone so dear. PRIVATE ENGLISH INSTRUCTION  My three English students seem to be happy to see me again. In fact, they asked if I could teach them two times a week. Since I am already teaching two evening classes at KCU, I declined, and we returned again to the once a week schedule. I gave each of them a copy of the Power for Today booklet, as a way to introduce some spiritual thinking into their lives as well as a new language. “BIBLE ENGLISH” finishes 5th Year The radio program, “Bible English” still airs on CBS radio every morning at 6 am . Next month, it will see the completion of its 5th year. Thinking back, I have written “Don and Vicki” dialogues for more than four of those years. Wow! That’s over 1400 dialogues! I can’t fathom this thought myself. Nor can I understand how the grace of God continues to open up more doors for opportunities. The television producers are still considering my weekly half hour television show, but because of budget constraints, looking into other possibilities as well, perhaps a similar theme and content in a radio format. I am waiting on them to make some decision in the near future. At present my hands are more than busy enough to keep me occupied. Since Vicki is now 10,000 miles from Seoul , it is not possible to record Don and Vicki dialogues for awhile. The show really wishes this segment to continue, so I have agreed to continue writing dialogues, but let a husband and wife team at the military congregation in Seoul record them. So, same ideas with new voices. SUNSET STOPS BY One of the highlights of September came at the end of the month when three brothers from Sunset International Bible Institute stopped by on their tour across Asia . In the group were Rudy Wray, the Dean of International Development, Royce Sartain, the Dean of International Recruiting, and George Carman, the Dean of International Development. It was great to see Rudy Wray again, and to meet for the first time George and Royce. Because they were on campus, the President of Korea Christian University took all of us out for the best Korean food of my life. Their visit was encouraging, and it is always great to know that specific people in the States are thinking of you and praying for your work. Sunset is still attempting to find another person to join me in the work here. Pray for their efforts. EVEN MORE OPPORTUNITIES As I mentioned, the opportunities here are more than I can begin to describe. I am now in discussion with others about beginning a new congregation here in Seoul . It would serve the needs of those wishing to learn English, as well as provide a more biblically based model for so many churches of Christ that are struggling to maintain their unique identity when denominationalism is so strong. We are looking at a beginning date, either later this fall or early in the spring of the new year. Korean falls are gorgeous. The hot, muggy weather of the summer is gone. Leaves are just beginning to turn. Everyone says that the Fall is their favorite time of the year. I can’t wait to explore more of the countryside. PRAY... In your prayers, continue to pray for my work here, and my family in the States. Brandon loves his new school, but is still undecided about his future career. He is seeking the Lord’s direction. Someone has offered me a used car to drive around town. However, the upkeep and insurance rates are making me think twice about such a gift. The subways and buses get me around town well enough. Anyway, I was surprised and honored that someone thought that highly of me. Until next month, keep me in your thoughts and prayers. You are never far from mine. Home
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