GlocalNet

Last night Nikki and I had supper with Phuc and Thao and their 3 children.  They’ve spent a lot of holidays at our home when our children were a lot younger.  Now it’s reversed.  Of all the people I’ve known in my life, I would have to say the rarest person I’ve ever known is Phuc Dang.  He has an incredible life story, as does Thao, his wife. Phuc and I are going to team preach a sermon at NorthWood in November. He has some of the most incredible people skills of anyone I’ve ever been around. Phuc and Thao came to NorthWood not long after they married.  First, as an intern, then a staff member.  He has pastored and worked with major NGO’s in the U.S. and Vietnam.  Everyone who meets him knows there is something about him.  Having known him for many years and worked with him, there are some lessons we can all learn from him. 
 
He sees the good in everyone.  Therefore, when he tells me to be careful or go slowly with someone or some group, I listen. I’ve never heard him speak ill of anyone, but he will say, “Be careful pastor Bob.”  When he does, I do.

He refuses to be discouraged or quit.  I’ve seen him in tough places, but he doesn’t give up.  He may shift to his circumstance, but he remains clear in his call and mission.  I’m not saying he doesn’t get upset or frustrated.  He’s not Jesus. 

He is a constant learner.  He’s working on a PhD right now in leadership.  He always studies God’s word.  He has a background in mathematics, and is always working on “God formula’s” and such.  I can’t understand half of what he tries to explain to me.  I was never that good in math!

He can adapt wherever he is.  He’s traveled with me all over the US as well as to Australia, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Egypt, and I can’t remember all the other places.  He always knows his context and knows how to handle himself. 

He values unity.  Be it the Church, or his Vietnam, whatever, he’s always trying to be a bridge builder to bring people together. 

Phuc is truly a global citizen having lived in Vietnam 19 years, and in the US the past 16.  His life story and circumstances have made him very unique and gifted.  Watch this guy and gal.  God has his hand all over them.