As we consider various ways in which culture(s) may influence our spiritual formation, I would like to introduce you to Sookyung Kang, a North Korean defector who fled her homeland in order to pursue religious freedom:
Link: https://youtu.be/62lH2G3nKkQ
Sookyung’s experience may have been very different from our own, and yet she is our sister in Christ. We praise God that He rescued and redeemed her from political and spiritual darkness. Sookyung’s story reminds us that while we may speak different languages, wear different clothing, prefer different foods, our unity in Christ bonds us to one another. As Paul wrote, “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Gal. 3:28). Sookyung’s experience under the oppressive dictatorial regime of North Korea continues to have a profound influence on her faith and calling. While culture does not define her identity, it has certainly provided context and themes to her story. This week I would like you to respond to two questions:
In what ways has culture influenced your own understanding/experience of spiritual formation and spiritual disciplines? In what ways has it been helpful (e.g., providing opportunity and support), and in what ways has your experience of culture been challenging or harmful?
As ministry leaders, how do we influence/speak into the culture? What is our role and responsibility in providing care for those who are being harmed within a culture?
Respond to the questions based upon your own experience, previous knowledge, and readings from this week’s coursework (especially Peacock) by 11:59 pm ET on Wednesday. Your response should be at least 400 words and include a fully-developed, separate paragraph responding to each question.
