It can be said that life isn’t predictable. There are plenty of countries in the world where one needs to be careful about expressing one’s Christian faith – as readers of some of my previous articles can testify! – but sometimes God can work in very mysterious ways. If you work in China you get used to the fact that you will never become totally fluent in the language – even after over two years study! You get used to similarities (both countries have long histories – and both are proud of an ancient wall that was built to keep out northern ‘barbarians’) but can never quite get used to the differences, or the surprises that can come your way when you expect to be teaching English as my friend explains:
‘“You’re a Christian – you can teach world religions!” said my colleague, as he explained what would be involved in teaching human geography. I hadn’t studied any geography since I was 14, and didn’t even know what human geography was. But world religions… what a challenge and opportunity! With a lot of help from friends who sent resources and discussed ideas, the students and I had a great time. We looked at the major world views and how they affect culture, had lively discussions and watched movies. It was interesting to see the students relate to animist worldviews better than atheist ones. And almost all the students at the end of the course said that they had been challenged to think about their own world view….’
Life in China is never predictable and that goes for teaching assignments too. There is incredible demand for English teaching, and for many university-level subjects to be taught in English. Human geography is not a common request(!) but there is a wide range from accountancy to medical specialities. Teachers are greatly respected and teaching English is a wonderful way to get to know people, learn about their country and culture, and make an appreciated contribution. China is a rapidly changing country – buildings are being pulled down and put up at a rapid rate – but God is very much at work, and we can be sure that He has good purposes for the people of that great nation. It’s a great privilege to be involved – and you never know what you might be asked next!
For more information about opportunities in China, see omf.org/omf/uk/asia/china/serve_in_china
Tags: China