we’re moving again. thank you mexico. getting ready for The OC.
**this post is to inform those of you who have been journeying with us this past year and to avoid confusion going forward!**
we are moving back to Orange County, CA on September 22!
this has come to pass through a series of events and realizations but we couldn’t be happier and we couldn’t be more sad, either!
you see, we spent this past year here in Mexico City wondering if we’d ever love this place like we did our previous homes in different countries. we have been stretched beyond our normal capacities, been at the brink of giving up (many times), and have had our patience tested more than ever. . . yet, here we are now, preparing to move and feeling unexpectedly grateful for our time here. we have made new lifelong friendships and have been transformed (for the better) — again. we have experienced a taste of heaven in a place that once felt like purgatory.
we have witnessed miracles here, especially in our team’s work against Human Trafficking. we were part of the final renovations in the safe house for young victims of trafficking when we first arrived and have since been doing life with the house’s first 5 girls in the last 5 months. we have seen life change happen week to week at The Well in conjunction with many painful setbacks and obvious spiritual attacks.
we helped build and develop a cafe in Coyoacan, a key public square in Mexico City where people from all walks of life intersect.
we facilitated the first Justice NOW in Mexico City to mobilize local churches to get involved in the fight against Trafficking. 450 people came out to the inaugural gathering, many made decisions to volunteer and give of their time and resources to make a difference. an army was raised and darkness was pierced, so much so that the darkness tried to make an audible peep that night in the form of extremely inappropriate noise . . .which we now consider affirmation of our work. the light was too much to handle and this audible manifestation was a desperate last-second attempt to try to ruin whatever good was taking place. pretty amazing stuff (ask me about it)!
our view on Church and working in a vocational capacity at church was in some ways renewed and affirmed during our time here. which leads to why and how we’re coming back to Southern California.
last winter, we made a visit to California during the holiday season and had some important conversations about our calling. i began to think about my calling. what was it? i thought at one point it was music and vocational ministry.
and at the end of the day, it still is.
around May of this year, i started to come back around to the thought of my calling, which is very much related to gifting, passion and energy matrix (FLOW, baby). i realized that i am one of the few (and together, many) people around the world who are actually made to do music within and through a ministerial context.
i am going to rejoin the staff at Newsong Irvine and this time i am doing so with:
- a greater sense of confidence that this is indeed who i am and where I’m supposed to be
- a perfect knowledge of the fact that i am also not limited by my vocation. the sky is the limit.
- a realization that this is what i want, what gets me excited, and where i’m most effective
- the conclusion that my time in Mexico was necessary in order to bring me to this place of complete assurance and maturity
- a determination to grow and get “better” at what I already feel I’m good at
- the resolve that justice work and “missional” living will always be what we do no matter where we are. it’s who we are.
- and more . . .
Another key component of our move this time is this:
for the first time ever in our marriage, we have a sense of peace in putting our roots down and building a home in a place for longer than 2 years! we are so incredibly excited for what’s to come!
thanks for reading and continually journeying with me and my family!
dk
Hear Ye, Hear Ye
I’ll be the first to tell you that I’m a horrible listener. How horrible you ask?
Well, for starters, I slept my way through college. One minute I’d be wide awake in lecture, excited that my determination to stay awake is proving to be powerful and effec— whaa?? When did I leave this drool puddle on my desk? Where did everybody go? Who’s that teacher up in front?
Story of my life.
A few years later I married the love of my life. We lay in bed on certain nights to talk, sharing stories and reviewing our day when all of a sudden, I’m being asked something like, “do you know what I mean?”– only to realize that I have absolutely NO idea what she means. I missed the last 5 minutes of a heart being poured out and I’m horrified to know that my mind, ears, and body decided to shut it down when they were needed most. Cue the first in a series of late night talks that end up in dumb fights because I failed to listen. I suck.
Fast forward a couple more years to the time I got into a conflict with a friend. Instead of really listening to her (yes, as you can tell, I am an all-star with the ladies) and dealing with the issue, I decided to inform her how simple our current problem was and in so many words, told her to “get over it.” I didn’t see the need to linger on a problem that had such a “simple” solution. As a result, our conflict lasted a few months and it wasn’t until about month 8 when our friendship finally started getting back to normal.
The key to this one? I finally listened. I listened and I gave validity to a pain that I didn’t understand. This created the bridge to change and healing.
I think we’d all be more effective as leaders, husbands, wives, parents, friends, teachers, pastors, musicians, and human beings if we chose to listen better instead of being
defensive
preachy
short
simplistic
unreasonable
black and white
Because each person is different and the answers aren’t always what follow questions.
My commitment to journey with my friend in processing through our conflict on her timeline instead of just mine changed everything. Sure it took a great deal of pride-swallowing and just a bit of sacrifice but I’m glad it happened.
Sometimes you just gotta shut up and do nothing else but listen. Either that or be better at staying awake and engage with the person who needs your ear.
Unto Us a Child is Born (and thus, a truth)
This past Friday, May 6, 2011 my daughter was born weighing just over 6 lbs! She is a tiny bundle of joy and we couldn’t be happier!
As she sleeps, sleeps, sleeps, eats, sleeps, sleeps, poos, sleeps, pees, sleeps, sleeps, eats, and sleeps… one phrase keeps surfacing out of my mouth over and over again.
She’s amazing.
Amazing.
Amazing?!
How can anything that does just about nothing be considered amazing?
I don’t know. This is the mystery and beauty of a new life. Something within me is stirred to a place of wonder, awe, gratitude, peace, giddyness, and joy –
All from staring at a newborn who’s only job description right now is to simply be.
Maybe this is just a little bit too simplistic (or too profound?!) but I think that’s a task in life I need to embrace every once in a while: to just be.
When I am who I am (or as Popeye would say, I Yam What I Yam), I think the universe rejoices.
It’s good to know that even on our days (or seasons) of doing seemingly nothing but eat, sleep, and s—, our mere existence has brought a smile to someone’s face– whether it be our parents, lovers, or God.
I think I know a little more of what it means when I hear that a Father rejoices over me, sings over me, and loves me just as I am. I suppose it takes one to know one.
How is it that such little things can point us to such great truth and beauty?
DKdanielkim.com is giving away iTunes and Kindle Gift Cards!!
**I am going to give away some iTunes music and apps, as well as iBooks or Kindle reads but you must read this thoroughly to find out how!**
Hi Friends,
First of all, I want to say thank you for those of you who have been following my blog, especially during the last few weeks! This giveaway is for you!
In lieu of a regular post today, I want to get a little bit serious and have a DK blog town hall with you. As you know, I have been on a tear recently with new daily blog posts that started on Ash Wednesday (the start of the Lent season) and I must be honest with you, it’s been challenging but incredibly fun and invigorating as well. I just might continue this trend (but a little more toned down) even after the 40 day period is over.
When I started this commitment to blog daily, I wanted to do it for me. I didn’t care who would read my posts or who wouldn’t, I just wanted to get my thoughts out there and dedicate myself to the discipline of writing.
This is half true.
As much as bloggers will say that they do it for themselves, they also hope that others would engage in their thoughts and contribute to the greater discussion that they want to facilitate through their posts.
Ever since I started the daily routine, my blog has been averaging around 110 daily hits with a spike of 2oo+. This is not a very impressive number for those of you who sell ads on your pages but considering I’m not famous, it’s not bad! Of the 110+ hits I receive daily, only about 2 of you decide to actually engage on the topic and leave a comment on my page. What this tells me is that this blog has its share of devoted readers (THANK YOU!) but very, very few choose to take it to another level and contribute. I’m not upset about this. . . I just want more of you!
Consider this my Stimulus (and Thank You) Plan:
Starting today with this VERY post, I will be holding a contest which will end on Monday, April 25 at 11:59 PM PT and 2 random winners will be announced the next day. How do you qualify? Very simple. Just react by leaving a note in the comments section whenever you feel compelled to or feel like it (Mon-Friday) after reading my post for the day.
“WHY RANDOM WINNERS?” Well, if there are 2 clear winners (meaning, 2 people who have left the most comments), the prizes will go to them. The prizes will be random in the event that there is a tie.
“DO MULTIPLE COMMENTS ON THE SAME BLOG COUNT?” While I really appreciate and welcome you helping me moderate the comments, only 1 “point” will be given per day.
“CAN I LEAVE A COMMENT EVERY DAY?” Sure! Although, I understand that sometimes you will have nothing to say or that occasionally a post will seem lame to you (we’re all entitled to our opinions!) so you don’t have to always force a comment out… but some others may do it anyway, and you’ll lose…
“WHAT ARE THE PRIZES?”
This is a blog on MUSIC, LEADERSHIP and CULTURE. That’s why the 2 winners will have their choice of an iTunes gift card (books, music, and apps!) OR a Kindle gift card. You must also know that although I wish I could spring for a much more lucrative amount, the prizes will be worth $15 each and they will be sent electronically since I am all the way here in Mexico City! The phrase “better than nothing!” really is appropriate here.
So what do you say? I think this is a pretty easy way to score some free music and books!
Oh, and by the way, consider today’s post an opportunity for you to “register” into this contest and receive 5 points. Yes, today’s comments are worth 5 points instead of the normal 1. Do it.
With Love,
DK
The Miracle of Life and Olive Garden
I mentioned on Twitter/Facebook a couple days ago that we ate at Olive Garden for our final meal before departing for Mexico City again. We go to Olive Garden for fine, authentic Italian food much like you would go to PF Chang’s or Panda Express for real Chinese or to Del Taco for hole-in-the-wall style Mexican (thanks Facebook friends for the input).
Nothing brings people together like good food.
The end of our meal at The Olive Garden
I don’t know if you notice it but this is a picture of 2 families– in-laws to be exact–that have come together to share a meal.
I am realizing how rare of a picture this is when placed next to some of the unfortunate realities of life.
Divorce
Death
Separation
Bitterness
Bad-terms
Non-speaking terms
Denial of forgiveness
Infidelity
and the list goes on.
Our families are not perfect but in this moment, we celebrate life and we celebrate togetherness.
We celebrate our 2 year old son who brings these two families willingly together– and gives our parents something to coo at and admire when the conversation at the table goes quiet or awkward.
Good food brings people together.
A Redundant Question, & a Racy Photo… of ME (fun Friday)
Thank you for reading my recent wave of blog posts as I try to write every day for a 40 day period.
After a week of so much serious business, I thought it would be appropriate to lighten the mood a little while opening your eyes to a different side of me. You have been warned…
You see, I’m back in California this weekend for a really quick trip with my family– a final visa run before my wife gives birth in Mexico in mid-May — and it seems every time I’m back, people ask me the same exact question: “Did you lose more weight?!?!”
For most of you, such a question would make your day but for a person that’s already skinny, you might as well say: “What is wrong with you? Your skinny body disgusts me! You need to eat more, Skinny Bone Jones!”
My answer for now and forever more is, NO. No I did NOT lose weight, I DO not lose weight… and I do not want green eggs and ham.
Perhaps it’s just the tighter clothes I’m wearing. Maybe you have gained weight. But for the last time, I am not losing weight.
I have weighed the same for the last 10 years. I am a picture of consistency. How can I lose weight every time I’m away from you? I’d be a shriveled corpse.
On our last trip back to California, a Korean lady actually said this to me and my pregnant wife: “Wow! It looks like you need to eat more and your wife is eating everything.” (translated)
WHAT?! Dang it, Korean people. That’s the most creative, one-take, double-whammy insult on a couple I’ve ever heard in my life.
All that to say, I know it’s inevitable. I’m going to get concerned questions again about my weight. I need to brace myself.
But for the rest of you (who read my blog), I want you to look at the photo below and tell me who should be concerned (scroll down):
[WARNING: Partial Nudity]
[Full Disclosure]
[Potentially Alarming]
[Or is it inspiring?]
[I had give it all I got in this one]
[Here you go]
We Are All Responsible – some thoughts on Alexandra
It shocks me every time I come across racism. I can relate to Madonna when she sings about being “touched for the very first time” granted she is talking about something completely different in the song. I, like a racist-rant virgin, am touched in a very negative way for the first time, every time.
The year is 2011 so one would think that after all that our country (the grand ol’ US and A!) has been through, we’d be a little more educated, a little more understanding and a little less racist. This is not the case. Yes, we are progressive and on the cutting edge but that doesn’t stop one from carrying an iPhone in one hand and still slant-eye gesturing someone with the other. Painfully sad and deeply upsetting to say the least.
Some of my friends and I were shooting some recent stories and examples of racism via twitter this past weekend and right on cue, this video surfaces out of UCLA. Most of you have probably seen it by now but in case you haven’t or you need a refresher, take a look below. May I present to you, Alexandra:
Lucky for you, I am not about to unleash my wrathful thoughts on racism here on this platform. I think enough of that has been done and will continue to be done on the youtube page as well as in private conversations. All I want to do is offer some observations laced with some opinion and hope for a good discussion afterward.
Let me start off by saying I feel sorry for Alexandra. I really do. I think the poor girl was just trying to be funny, amusing, and provocative but everything just came across a bit racist, ignorant, and dumb (and by “a bit” I mean VERY). Her insensitive and inane comments regarding what’s happening in Japan were distasteful to say the least. I wonder what life on campus is/will be like for her, if she’ll even be able to continue her education at UCLA, and if her life will ever be the same. If she indeed is racist, she chose the wrong place to go to school. If you’re allergic to peanuts, do you go work for Planters?
I wouldn’t be surprised if she feels a little bad about this given the overwhelmingly angry response she is getting from the public– including death threats. I just don’t know what else she could have expected though. My man Antoine Dodson said it best: “You are dumb. You are really dumb. Fa’ real!”
The unfortunate thing that happens with things like these is that the conversation quickly becomes an “us against them” thing. In this instance, I suppose it’s “The Angry Asians vs. The Racist Blonds.” I don’t know if that’s necessarily fair nor helpful.
I say this because I love my white folks with all my heart. Some of my favorite people in the world and best friends are white. My favorite foods, actors, musicians, leaders and clothing stores are “white.” As much as I hate to admit it, Brad Pitt is one good looking guy and my wife has every right to comment on that fact– as long as she reminds me she loves me more. I love Conan O’Brien, flannel shirts and cardigans, In N Out, and Blake Griffin (he sorta counts, right?).
What is my point? I am American. My parents may have immigrated from South Korea but “this land belongs to you and me.”
My friendships remind me that one Alexandra does not merit a generalization against an entire race of people.
To Alexandra and those like her: for every Asian you encounter with bad manners and annoying accents, you will meet plenty more who don’t fit your awful picture of who we all are. I think I’m pretty fly for a non-white guy. Please, think before you speak, diversify your friendships, try a little kimchi, and cover up when filming a video that’s about to go viral. By the way, it’s not too late– you can make things right but it will take some time. Hope you’re game.
To my Asian folk, how we respond to things like this will either perpetuate the racism issue or help solve it. We hold incredible responsibility in our hands as well.
A CHALLENGE
Finally, if there are any Asian UCLA students who come across this blog entry, I wonder what it would do to Alexandra’s world if you found out where she lived, not so that you could meet her face with a fist, but rather to invite her out to a lunch conversation? That may sound crazy but I think crazy issues require crazy solutions. I challenge you with this.
What do you guys think? Am I being too calm about this or is what I am saying resonating with some of you?
This is an issue we all have to work together toward resolving, whether your hair is blond or your eyes are small (like mine).
my joy in obscurity
Last year, when i left my dream job of working at Newsong Church as the guy who gets to do music full-time, i knew there was something else in store for me but i also had an inkling that it woudn’t be exactly what I envision or picture. I had this fantasy that one of my songs I had previously written would get picked up by a major artist, movie or TV show (like Gossip Girl, One Tree Hill, or Sports Center) and that through the life-time royalties I receive, i’d be able to travel the world with my family and never worry about money in the bank again. Never mind the technicalities of this type of thing; it’s just fun to think about, no?
I guess I got one thing right. Ever since I left my job, I literally haven’t had to worry about money in the bank. I’m experiencing miracles every month by receiving cash from random, unexpected sources while being backed by a group of supporters who believe in us and the life we’re trying to live in Mexico City. Every time I feel a little antsy about money and start getting just a tiny bit stressed about how we’re going to pay for this or that, I am left feeling ashamed a little later for ever doubting. I think God has been trying to drive a point home to me time and time again: my life is in His hands. What a great place to be!
This post, however, is not about money (although I will definitely make future posts on this topic) but rather it is about what I feel we’re really down here in Mexico City for. I had a conversation not too long ago about the whole idea of living overseas and how it seems to be over-dramatized, over-glorified and over-publicized, especially within the church context. Though this may be true at times, what I am experiencing here is rather to the contrary… and I couldn’t be happier.
We talk a lot about how “our identity is not in what we do but in who we are” and never has that saying been tested more than in my time here. I feel that my identity is being shaped constantly through what I feel is a season of obscurity, anonymity and irrelevance. Though this sounds incredibly depressing and sad, I honestly say this with great joy! Over here, I’m not known as the music guy, justice dude, laker fanatic or the whatever guy. I have no label or classification. I’m just DK. I’m one of the guys that show up every day to paint, install dry wall, prime, sand, clean and install fencing at The Well trafficking safehouse or Cafe NEO– our new space in Coyoacan. I’m a family man, doing all I can to love and take care of my pregnant wife and suddenly hyper-active 2 year old kid. I’m a friend, trying my best to support and encourage my other friends here in Mexico City who have been at this for far longer than I have. I’m a flawed human being, in need of constant work on my character.
There is no glitz, glamor, or glory in what we are doing right now. I don’t think extended manual labor was ever in my picture of what we would do down here but it’s been great. It’s actually been… fun.
I think the greatest thing that accounts for this joy and perspective is the end-picture that I see. I am driven by a love and desire to set things up for greater change to take place. Though it might be way more fun to report back with stories of busting up sex trafficking rings and child rescues with guns a blazing, for now I am humbled and honored that I get to set up and build the safehouse where these girls will find healing. I find “glory” in being the best human being and agent of change I can be without the evening news doing a special on our work or people tweeting about me. I find great satisfaction in being a more-than available husband and father to my wife and kid.
I read a Malcolm Gladwell book that included a quote which I will paraphrase: “hard work is a prison sentence only when it lacks meaning.” How very true. I can take joy and pleasure in whatever it is I do because I find great meaning in the labor. We are building towards life-transformation and a better future. I’m honored to be a part of a process that also helps shape me.
I will admit though that at times this road has felt lonely and it hasn’t been an easy journey. There have been times where I have felt ignored or misunderstood in times of my greatest need and darkness, as well as in times of some great joys. Any time you’re a part of something that requires a pioneering spirit of sorts, it is easy to get into seasons of feeling alone and isolated. Thank God that this isn’t necessarily true!
Francis Chan is a very respected leader around the world and he recently made a decision to step down from a major position of influence to seek out what may be next for him and his family. His decision was met by a great deal of scrutiny as well as support from around the country. It seems many are waiting to see what becomes of him. In one of the interviews I watched, he mentioned something about his impression that perhaps God was calling him into a season/life of greater obscurity. Meaning, he would become “less-famous” in the name of serving in a more quiet capacity, doing what he feels is needed in the greater Kingdom picture. I love that and it has definitely given more validity to the things I’m experiencing and learning right now.
I still have a ways to go in my own journey of the heart. I never want to share these things as an expert or as a person who has arrived in this mode of living or thinking. I never want to discount the many beautiful things that are going on around the world and especially back home in the States. I am not a critic of fame nor am i cynical of those who operate over very large platforms and audiences. I believe these are actually gifts, and when employed with love and humility, I believe that “relevance” in terms of being “popular” can be a very good and powerful thing.
For now, I am grateful for the things I get to do every day– things that are very normal, sometimes-tedious, and un-celebrated. It is a privilege to be here in Mexico City. It is an honor to be a husband to Sadie and a dad to Micah. I relish the challenge of being a good friend and neighbor. I am thankful to be a fighter of freedom for those exploited against their will.
thank you for reading! this is part of me, in the flesh…
dk
live like you matter
hi buddies.
i’m taking a little time-out of EP/album promotion to bring you this little thought:
Live like you matter
let me clarify by giving you an example.
I love watching movies and TV shows with my wife because she gets really into it and she reacts to everything. The best is when the main character is in danger (gun pointed at his/her face, he/she hangs by a thread off a 100-foot cliff, etc) and my wife braces herself for the worst. That’s when I get to swoop in, uncover her eyes, put my arm around her and reassure her that NOTHING is going to happen… “that’s Jack Bauer,” I tell her. “He’s survived several seasons of this. He can’t die. This is only episode 1…”
I don’t know about you but the fear and concern that my wife feels in these moments of stress (no matter how fictional) is actually the kind of thing that cripples us from living the life we are all supposed to live.
You see, you are the main character of your story. A problem occurs when you live life like you’re TV Extra #105 with barely a part written out for you– destined to die in Act 1, Scene 1, of Season 1. Such a sad way to live.
When you live like you’re the main character of your story, you begin to realize that your limits are only self-imposed. The things that you fear most (failure, rejection, death) can be cast aside because you know that you matter.
I don’t see this as an arrogant or reckless thing– of course we need to exercise common sense and take precaution when we need to. If I jump out of a plane without a parachute, I deserve to die. I’m an idiot.
However, some of us need to move on from Act 1, Scene 1, Season 1. You’re not going to die. You thought your story was going to end at the pilot episode but you have a life of complete season DVDs to be lived.
What’s been crippling you? Don’t forget who you belong to, who chose you for greatness, and who has your back. Take nothing for granted, of course, but move on and live like you matter.
My DEBUT album. Available NOW.
After years of dreaming and months of recording, my new EP is out and is available for a special pre-sale! With your purchase, you will be supporting our efforts in Mexico City for the next 2 years. Thank you for giving this album a chance and thank you for spreading the word. This CD is ONLY $8 and it includes all shipping costs (to anywhere in the United States). If you order today, the album will be mailed out to you starting on June 4, before the official release on June 6*!
*NOTE: If you live in Southern California, the EP will be made available for purchase at Newsong Irvine during all three services on June 6, 2010. You can make your purchase in person for $7 without worrying about shipping. If you place your order online, the album will be mailed to you and you won’t be able to pick it up in person*
NOTE: Online sales have closed but look below for the link to iTUNES!
All songs were written, produced, and performed by me with the help of many of my amazingly talented friends. I don’t know if I would feel comfortable asking people to pay for something I didn’t believe in so I can confidently say that this is an inspired project. No “filler” tracks and no wasted time– just FIVE loaded tunes with words and sounds inspired from our Newsong journey. I hope it is an encouragement to you!
The Tracks (click on the player to hear a sample of each song!):
1. Heart Transformer
2. You’re Everything (feat. Sadie Kim)
3. Unleash Your Beauty (acoustic version)
4. Water
5. Hey
BONUS: For chords and lyrics click HERE
CLICK BELOW TO PURCHASE ON iTUNES NOW!
a dream come true
Hey Friends!
It is with great joy and virtual tears that I share with you the news of the upcoming release of my first studio project. This is something I’ve wanted to do since I was in my teens and at the tender age of 29, it has finally come to pass!
This project was made possible by many different people and seriously, the divine hand of God! I’m so amazed at how everything came together at the right time with the right people. I feel so lucky to have worked with such great talent.
After a few private releases, this CD will be available for purchase here on this blog starting on June 7 for a limited time. Please send me a note if you want to reserve a copy before the official release.
I am extremely pleased with the results of this project and I have a sense that you’ll enjoy it immensely as well. I hope it is an encouragement to you all.
the reason for fewer posts
hey everyone,
there’s a big reason why i haven’t been posting as much and it’s because of this:
i have alluded to our transition in previous posts but we are finally going public with the news and it is so that you can join us and support us. The new blog site chronicles the current journey that my family and I are in the process of. for those of you who are too lazy to click on the link above, here’s a pasted page out of the site:
LETTING GO
this story starts back in October of 2008. Sadie and I were expecting our first child in a month and we were rocked when we got this sinking feeling in our souls that we were supposed to let go of my “job” at Newsong Church. we didn’t know why we felt this way and the prospect of this reality was just so darn scary, we did what any normal person would do in this situation– ignored the thought and held on to the job. After all, it was a “calling” and “dream job” to be where I was at and if we were honest, we held on because the job brought us a meager yet steady paycheck, health insurance, predictability and comfort. It would be stupid to step down from a job I found meaning in, especially during these tough economic times… right?
Well, as we all know, life is full of surprises and curve balls. this is especially so when you pledge to live a surrendered life. we forgot about this amidst all the comfort and predictability of a life in Orange County, CA. a surrendered life requires everything. EVERYTHING.
Fast forward– we hit financial bottom in early October 2009 (just a few months ago) and it’s really a mystery as to how that happened. We were never extravagant or foolish with our money (except when we paid to see “The House Bunny” at the theater– it was the dollar theater but still a foolish investment nonetheless), and our debt was extremely minimal. Yet here we were, savings account down to about $50 and no idea of how we would pay for the month’s rent. The only explanation and illogical conclusion we could come to was that God was throwing down a crazy hint that He wanted us to lay down the job (and the underlying security and sense of identity it brought us) and trust him blindly with what would be next. We had questions of what I would do if it wasn’t church ministry, how I would provide for my family, how we would pay for Micah’s doctor visits, etc. and etc.
This financial rock-bottom forced us to realize we had no other choice but to let God surprise us and lead us. After about a year of wrestling with the thought, we finally decided to stop taking pay at my job and be completely open to what was next; whatever it may be. The biggest risk of our young lives. Perhaps the stupidest thing ever? We would find out soon enough.
MIRACULOUS AFFIRMATION
The day we firmly decided this was October 10, 2009– the day of Newsong’s annual one-day conference called “Unleashing Beauty.” As the day came to a close and we were cleaning things up, a friend of ours came up to Sadie and handed her a generous sum of cash that would help us pay rent and replenish a little bit of our savings. He had no idea what our situation was and didn’t know we had just made a decision to take a leap into the unknown. To him, it was a random gift of love but to us, it was more than that. It was and still is, an affirmation from God saying, “See? Just trust me on this one. I’m going to take care of you guys.” It was a real-life miracle. It was a sign of things to come and a prelude to adventure.
UNEXPECTED PATH
We took a trip to Mexico City in early December 2009 to help with a Human Trafficking awareness event down there called Justice NOW. It was our first international trip with baby Micah and we were excited to see a new place and play some music. An unexpected proposal was made by my friend Benny Yu on our last day of the trip and he basically invited us to consider moving down to Mexico City to be a part of the team down there. I personally didn’t feel ready to make a move out of the country again. I thought my next steps would be contained in California. In any case, we decided to take our time with this and were grateful that we were returning home with an option.
There were a couple other things that we considered to be options for us but they all fell through. All the things that I felt were reasons to stay in Irvine turned out to be mere illusion. Everything was pointing to Mexico City. After much time, in early February 2010, we decided to make the move to Mexico City and commit to 2 years in the city.
WHY MEXICO?
We always talked a lot about living a life immersed in social justice. That’s also the reason why we named our firstborn Micah (act justly, love mercy, walk humbly). Mexico City gives us a chance to put our words into action. We will be working with women who have been brought out of trafficking into a safe-house that our friends have acquired and renovated. We will also be working with some of the amazing young artists to help raise up a generation of indigenous activists who will exercise their right to creative extremism to bring about lasting change.
HOW CAN I HELP?
If you’re a praying person, you can help by remembering us in your prayers. Safety and protection are big concerns for us, especially in light of what we heard about the drug cartels and kidnapping epidemic throughout the area. Also pray that we could witness change during our time there.
The other way you can help is by supporting us financially. We are moving down there 100% supported by our friends.
We are projecting our move to happen sometime in early to mid-June, 2010.
Let’s do this thing together and change the world, one city at a time.
Reflections from Bangkok, Thailand
Greetings from Bangkok, Thailand. This place is my home. I just looked at my wife and kid who are sleeping next to me in my friend’s home and I am convinced that I am a rich man. There aren’t 2 more beautiful people in the world than Sadie and Micah.
I’m writing this entry on my last night of staying in the “other” City of Angels. The people here are amazingly wonderful and I don’t know if any other place in the world will ever love us as much as Bangkok does. We are indebted to the people here. My life is different because of this place and no matter what happens in my life, whether rich or poor, I am truly wealthy and no one can take my joy away from me.
Things have changed here but things are still good. I learn what it means to live a simpler life, to love people and to value moments when I come here. Human nature is that we long for things to stay constant, stable and predictable. My family situation here in Thailand has changed, in unfortunate as well as beautiful ways. I learn that we roll with punches, deal with pain and move forward with hope and even knowledge that things will turn for the better– and worse, and better again.
I am thankful for the seasons in life for without them, my life would be incredibly bland. I am thankful for my friends out here who teach me a different way of looking at life. I am thankful to my God for His favor on a life that is so undeserving, shallow and so incredibly stupid at times.
I feel that it’s been so long since I’ve really given till it hurts me. I’ve been in a period and circumstance in which I’m having to receive and receive. It’s difficult because I feel like such a freeloader, moocher, and dare I say, beggar. I long for the day when I can give back a hundred-fold to the friends of mine who have given to me more than they could imagine.
I am blown away by generosity at the moment and I am flabbergasted by grace. I am rich beyond words and not many would know this by looking at my bank account (which is embarrassing), but I declare today, I am blessed and I thank You for it.
can you handle MY uncertainty?
i just read this great post by my friend Mike Foster over at People of the Second Chance. He talks about how we all love to hear and share stories with perfect, beautiful endings but the truth is that life is almost never that way. i completely agree.
my first song upon the return from BKK
i randomly came across this video when i was browing youtube. forgot it was uploaded. it was the first song i wrote along with my friend Caleb Whang in 2007 and it’s called “Miracles”. Can’t believe it’s been over 2 years since this one.
i believe 2010 is the year of miracles.
To BE or DO? That is the question…
i feel troubled at times because i feel so far from where i need to be as a leader, husband, father, son, artist, and human being.
recently a really caring brother exposed a part of me that had been somewhat of a blind spot. really made me think and i was brought to a place of, “man. I really suck.”
how in the world do you deal with all the things that you need to DO with all the things you need to BECOME?
both are extremely important and can happen simultaneously but i would argue that what you are BECOMING is ultimately more important than what you are DOING.
what do you think? would love your wisdom and stories…
my latest song: “Hey”
hey dudes…
please do me a favor and pump this up on your head phones. reason being, the quality SUCKS and you’re just gonna dismiss this song in the first few seconds unless you stick it out with some headphones turned up! (also, i need a haircut and i look like a bum so you may be better off minimizing the window as well when you listen.)
another favor… if you like the tune, please feel free to spread it AND let me know what you think below. as you know, i don’t get paid for my songs so the only “currency” that flows in this economy are words. yours are precious to me. THANKS!
(on another note, if you do want to support me financially, there’s a donate option to the right on my sidebar… thanks)
wrote this one on 11.12.09. Thanks for giving the ghetto-fab production a chance! just doing the best with what i got!
one of my ugliest pictures ever
everyone’s taken a photo or two (or hundred) that they’re not proud of.
don’t know about you but i have enough incriminating photos to put myself in the running for one of America’s Top Un-Models.
but before you look, let me give you some words to chew on as you scroll down towards the picture:
street cred – why don’t we care more about it?
Street Cred – no one’s ever born with it… You earn it!
Recently I realized a new “greatest fear” after hearing this chilling statement dropped by Erwin McManus at the Unleashing Beauty conference in Irvine, CA last week (and I paraphrase):
“the more popular you become in the Church world, the less credible you become with the world at large”
I don’t know if that scares you church leaders but that freaks the crap out of me!
If we’re honest, many of us don’t mind the “popularity” that comes with increased influence in the Church realm– besides, the pay is not that great, our home lives are taking hits daily, why not take whatever perks come our way? If the “perk” happens to be increased popularity, then so be it! (more…)
“Unleash Your Beauty” – the complete song
hey friends,
almost 2 weeks ago, i shared my song in progress “Unleash Your Beauty”. At the time it was just the chorus and bridge but at the bidding of my friend Sam Song, I finished the tune in the next couple days and shared it that same week at Newsong on Sunday. here’s the live, complete version– acoustic style. hope you like. excited to share my process and progress with you. thanks for listening.
latest song: “Lost Time”
i wrote this song this morning and it was one of those times where everything flowed out and i was able to have 2 verses, chorus and bridge happen in 1 hour… a (relatively) complete song.
i recorded this RIGHT after i thought i finished it so it’s raw, shaky, and even a plane flies by in the middle of the song. hope you can envision this song at its best despite the quality and performance!
a song about the longing we all have to know and be known by our father (both senses of the word).
don’t forget about LOVE
a good friend of mine tells a story of a time when he was on staff at a mega church on the west coast. They were having a strategic planning meeting and the pastor in charge posed the question, “what are the essential qualities of a leader?” Many things were said and were being written on the board. Good things I’m sure, like strategic, bold, charismatic, wise, and above-reproach…
my friend was dozing off when the pastor called on him and asked “JOHNDOE, What about you? What do you think?” Flustered yet sincere, my friend answered with “umm… loving?” to which the rest of the staff began to chuckle. His answer of “loving” was reluctantly written on the board but it might as well have been written off completely. Not quite the strategic answer the staff was looking for.
This is Not a Christian Blog
This is not a Christian blog.
I think it would be very easy to gear and fashion my posts to fit this mold, but I don’t think we need another “Christian” blog. There’s enough good ones out there anyway!
Some may find this disappointing, especially when you know that I am technically a “missionary” in Mexico City and recall that I was a worship pastor at a pretty amazing church.
If you have been reading my blog and you never knew this, I hope this revelation isn’t shocking or detrimental to our online relationship. Stick around, please! I have more to share. I love you. I need you! You complete me.
I think there are many amazing blogs out there that are more blatantly “Christian” but I just don’t feel like that’s my “calling” as a blogger… or as a person. Call it a conviction?
I’m also sure that there are a lot of great blogs out there written by atheists, agnostics, Jews, Muslims, Hindus and people who are far-removed from any sort of faith background. As for me, I can’t deny or hide the fact that I’m pretty heavily influenced by Jesus. He’s my homie, He’s changed my life.
This blog is neither Christian nor atheist. I write about things that matter to me and hopefully to the society at large. I just write and my values ooze out in the posts. Grace, redemption, love, freedom, justice, humor, and (at times righteous) anger. Christian is who I am, not the agenda I push or the blog I write. I don’t need to slap a label on anything or wear a banner that shows I belong to some sort of club or belief system.
I think it takes a bit of courage as well as discipline to venture out of one’s subculture to intersect with the world at large.
We could use a few more blogs (and people) who are willing to engage people from all walks of life. We need words of love, hope and inspiration to reach far outside of any bubble or barrier we unknowingly (or knowingly) create. This requires writers to choose our words carefully and avoid content and jargon that is merely understood by a few. Code language. Drop it.
This is a challenge that not enough people of faith are choosing to accept. They would rather say what’s “Biblical” without connecting with the world, get a few “amens” (perhaps in the form of a dozen comments) and call it a night. Easy if you ask me.
**It’s ok if you disagree because these are just my opinions, not facts… although I sometimes wish my words became facts. That would be freakin sweet.**
So all that to say, I relish the challenge of writing about things that matter culturally and spiritually, and I love trying to communicate in ways that invites anyone to participate and understand. I want to link the divide between pop-culture and faith, between atheism and “Christianity.” I want to challenge everyone to think deeper, to communicate clearer, to help make this world a better place and become fans of the Los Angeles Lakers. (last part optional)
So whether that’s Christian or not “Christian” enough is besides the point. Call this blog whatever you want! I’m thankful you read it and find it worthwhile.
Maybe you have something to say on this? What scenarios do you see some of these challenges at play in your own lives? And more importantly, do you agree or disagree with me? Because if you disagree with me, you are no longer welcome here… just kidding.
April 7, 2011 | Categories: Commentary, Personal | Tags: atheists, blog, christian, non christian | 9 Comments »