City Life Starter

How long have you been going to CLC?

I’ve been attending CLC with my family since August 2012. We tried to aim for the hottest possible weather when we came to Houston, and I think we pretty much hit our target. Initially we didn’t realize that there was an Every Nation church in Houston, but one more search (on the EN site, if I remember correctly) brought up CLC as a search result. When we saw the movie theater, we decided to keep coming back!

What do you enjoy the most about writing for CLC Starter?

I love the opportunity to comment on God’s Word, because it is life changing. I also love the dynamic that I’m far from perfect, yet God can use our writing to strengthen others.

If you had to comment on your writing style, how would you describe it?

I tend to write a bit meticulously each time. I try to identify the biblical author’s original meaning and context, and then unpack the meaning as plainly as possible. I try to achieve a balance between providing too much detail vs being too brief. I also try to explain the central themes that are in the text.

Tell everyone your favorite verse and also favorite book of the Bible?

It’s really tough for me to have a favorite of anything; I usually like many kinds of ice cream, not just one kind. But I often think about 1 Peter 1:3-4: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you” I love these words so much that I could probably recite most of the chapter.

I also love 1 Peter 4:10-11: “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: 11 whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.” It has a command, a Spirit filled encouragement, and a doxology all packed neatly and tightly into 2 short verses. Amazing.

Favorite Christian book that you would recommend?

Here are just a few amazing books: Knowing God, by J.I. Packer, God’s Outlaw (The Story of William Tyndale and the English Bible) by Brian H. Edwards, and New Bible Dictionary from InterVarsity Press.

Favorite non-Christian book that you would recommend?

The Gift of Asher Lev, by Chaim Potok. It’s about a Jewish boy who felt compelled to become a great artist. This clashed with the Jewish traditions and beliefs of his family and community and continued to be a tremendous struggle throughout his lifetime.

If someone would want to get started with writing, what would be your one recommendation?

I joined a group of artists and writers while I was in Shanghai to discuss art, writing, and faith. We also had a lot of coffee. It was extremely helpful to share ideas and get inspiration. Joining other writers is a great way to get started.

Tell us your favorite hobby (besides writing)?

As I mentioned, I don’t have a favorite of most things, LOL. But I enjoy gardening (more the aspect of seeing the plants grow, rather than the endless pulling of weeds). I also enjoy walking with Sasa, playing chess with the kids, riding bikes, camping, and grilling steaks, just to name a few.