Foreword

One of the great road trips I took was a drive across the United States from California to Washington D.C. During the drive, I stopped at a monument simply called, “The Four Corners Monument.” What makes this place unique is that it is the only intersection in the United States where four states intersect: Arizona, Utah, Colorado and New Mexico. These four states share this common point.

In many ways, this book is like The Four Corners Monument. It is the intersection of several important and essential ideas. It is the intersection of culture and theology, present and future, first and following generations.

As DJ writes, the landscape our nation is rapidly changing. Asians are the fastest growing ethnic group in the U.S. But looking at the Asian American community is like looking through a prism—you get different colors, shades and light depending on which way you look through the prism. This book will give you a multi-faceted approach to what is happening in the Asian American community and church.

It is at this intersection we often ask the question of how to best reach this diverse and fast-growing group. While it is impossible to offer every possible solution, this book is a valuable map that can guide you through finding an answer.

This book is not just all theory; it is immensely practical through the lens of experience, observation and research. DJ skillfully brings it all together to help us look toward the future.

I have known DJ for over 20 years. Our paths have crossed academically at Dallas Theological Seminary, we ministered together at Ambassador Bible Church, and were missional associates in launching Ambassador Network. We have been friends, co-laborers, and most importantly, partners for the cause of Christ in reaching the next generation of Asian Americans and multiethnic communities.

With great enthusiasm, I am honored to endorse this book. My prayer is that this book will help navigate your journey so that your ministry will become more effective in reaching the next generation.

Dr. Raymond Y. Chang

Senior Pastor, Ambassador Church
President, Ambassador Network

 

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