I've been thinking a lot about the concept of culture lately. We've lived in a new culture now for a little over 2 months. It's much easier to detect the prevalent ideas in a culture when you are a foreigner, because they are so "normal" for the natives, but so odd for the foreigner.
In particular I've noticed the dominant Confuscianism here in Korea, even within the church. It's everywhere. Every relationship is affected by hierarchy. It's so strange. People are not seen as equals. It is perfectly acceptable for an employer, elder or anyone who outranks you socially to treat you like a child and publicly shame you or humiliate you in order to coax you toward what they deem as acceptable behavior or performance. I think it's really quite oppressive.
I've had a few encounters with it myself. It is so strange to me and it can be very hurtful. I realize that it is so normal for most Koreans that they don't even recognize that it is not congruent with the culture of God's kingdom. I also realize that I cannot talk anyone out of an idea that has been almost as present as the law of gravity, constantly a part of everyday life.
It does burden my heart, though. Koreans excel in so many areas. They are such hard workers. But, I'm beginning to wonder just how deeply tied their performance is to their fear of being shamed or "losing face," as many of them call it. (Although they don't seem to have any reservations about literally losing face, by having their jaw bones shaved down or changing other aspects of their physical appearance through various types of plastic surgery.) The irony is that they are such beautiful people. Gorgeous skin and hair, perfect proportions, etc.
For me, I guess this is all part of adjusting to a new culture. It really makes me wonder what dominant ideas foreigners notice about my home culture.
I know that as Believers we are invited to participate in the culture of God's kingdom. We're also instructed to obey the laws of the land. Even Jesus paid his taxes. So, I'm wanting to know how to think, speak and teach God's kingdom ways and live free from the oppressive constraints of man's cultural ideas whilst maintaining respect for its laws.
The word says to give honor where honor is due. The word says to respect and honor and care for your elders. These are all good things. But bondage to rules and formality is not scriptural. The word says that love must be sincere. I show respect out of love. I show honor out of love.
Also, Jesus said that the greatest among us would demonstrate that leadership through humble service marked by love and self-sacrifice. Leadership is not demonstrated by how many people fear or emulate you, but by your willingness to go low and continually look to the interests of others regardless of social status. Kingdom influence is marked by giving, not gaining. Holy Spirit, teach us to walk after Your ways and the example set by our Lord Jesus.
In particular I've noticed the dominant Confuscianism here in Korea, even within the church. It's everywhere. Every relationship is affected by hierarchy. It's so strange. People are not seen as equals. It is perfectly acceptable for an employer, elder or anyone who outranks you socially to treat you like a child and publicly shame you or humiliate you in order to coax you toward what they deem as acceptable behavior or performance. I think it's really quite oppressive.
I've had a few encounters with it myself. It is so strange to me and it can be very hurtful. I realize that it is so normal for most Koreans that they don't even recognize that it is not congruent with the culture of God's kingdom. I also realize that I cannot talk anyone out of an idea that has been almost as present as the law of gravity, constantly a part of everyday life.
It does burden my heart, though. Koreans excel in so many areas. They are such hard workers. But, I'm beginning to wonder just how deeply tied their performance is to their fear of being shamed or "losing face," as many of them call it. (Although they don't seem to have any reservations about literally losing face, by having their jaw bones shaved down or changing other aspects of their physical appearance through various types of plastic surgery.) The irony is that they are such beautiful people. Gorgeous skin and hair, perfect proportions, etc.
For me, I guess this is all part of adjusting to a new culture. It really makes me wonder what dominant ideas foreigners notice about my home culture.
I know that as Believers we are invited to participate in the culture of God's kingdom. We're also instructed to obey the laws of the land. Even Jesus paid his taxes. So, I'm wanting to know how to think, speak and teach God's kingdom ways and live free from the oppressive constraints of man's cultural ideas whilst maintaining respect for its laws.
The word says to give honor where honor is due. The word says to respect and honor and care for your elders. These are all good things. But bondage to rules and formality is not scriptural. The word says that love must be sincere. I show respect out of love. I show honor out of love.
Also, Jesus said that the greatest among us would demonstrate that leadership through humble service marked by love and self-sacrifice. Leadership is not demonstrated by how many people fear or emulate you, but by your willingness to go low and continually look to the interests of others regardless of social status. Kingdom influence is marked by giving, not gaining. Holy Spirit, teach us to walk after Your ways and the example set by our Lord Jesus.
2 comments:
Such a difficult balance, my friend. I'm praying for the Lord to guide your steps and protect your heart as you wade your way through the cultural rivers.
I love you dearly. You're constantly in my thoughts and prayers.
Wow that would be so difficult to deal with for me for sure. And difficult because you see such potential that they don't see. I wonder just how frustrating we are to God to deal with as well. I am praying for you and your family. Love you!
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