GlocalNet

I just spent 3 days with the Institute for Global Engagement Board, on which I serve. Chris Seiple is the President of the organization. Its stated mission is “To make Christ visible, Christians relevant on the cruel edges of the world.” I love that. And it’s doing just that. Learning to speak to different cultures and people of different faiths all over the world. Chris and I have traveled all over the world together on different occasions--from the Middle-East to Asia. We were at Osprey Point on the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland where the staff and board met. The staff are all very young and incredibly sharp. Not a single dud in the group. Right now, the opportunities that are flooding this “engagement and religious freedom” organization are more than it can handle. God has allowed Chris a place at the table of world leaders and influencers and he’s using it to make a difference. We’re having to decide which opportunities to seize and which not to--sounds familiar! Having to decide how to staff and how to fund--sounds familiar! Everyone should read about them at their website. Chris, you’re doing an awesome job. The best thing you’ve done however is assembling an incredibly gifted team. Megan, we couldn’t make it without you holding it all together. Your no-nonsense focus on details is what we need. Lucy, thanks for getting Chris and those programs organized, keep finding us sharp young people who want to change the world, since you’re real old yourself--22! Jared, you’re one of the smartest people I know--keep working hard in the place you are. Hen, Nikki and I are so proud of you--who would have thought when we met you a decade ago you’d be doing what you are. Josh, a brain and an adventurer, finish that PhD--a Father for a prayer warrior, a diplomat for a son--good combo! Except for Chris, you’re all in your 20’s. You’re the best generation I’ve seen so far for global engagement. If you are any example of those coming up behind you, this is going to be an awesome generation and century. I speak to pastors all over the US and try to help them understand how globalization is affecting them for good and bad in their lives and ministries--it’s hard. It’s fun and so refreshing to sit down with a group of people who really do live “glocally” and be able to not discuss is it real, but how it’s shaping us and where are we going with all of this and how do we respond. I love you guys- keep rockin!