by Peter Chow

Frances Hui is a college student at Emerson College in Boston.  Recently, an article she wrote made it to the Washington Post. Unfortunately, it also generated much backlash against her.  Her column was titled “I am from Hong Kong, not China.” It tells of how a conversation with a fellow bus passenger turned heated when she adamantly wouldn’t identify herself as from China.  That passenger then told her she needed to fix her identity. The article spurred two very polarized views. Those siding with Frances praised her for standing up to her identity and for encouraging citizens to fight for political independence from China.  The other side of the camp argued that all are Chinese and the need to identify with the rich philosophical and historical heritage that belongs to China. No matter what your opinion on this topic may be, there is much to learn from this.

First of all, in the society we live in today, we are frequently faced with taking sides on various social issues.  Whether at work or at school, we are asked to adopt our position on topics such as abortion, racial discrimination, sexual preference, etc.  While it is critical to know the Biblical stance on these topics, the story of Frances Hui reminds us that just as importantly, we need to love all those around us – even if their opinions differ.  When Jesus was on this earth, He interacted with all sorts of people – in a respectful and loving way. Likewise, we need to make sure our actions and words do not become so combative and argumentative that we lose the relationship with others.

Because everyone is sinful and falls short of the glory of God, there is no one single government or ruler that is perfect.  We can always find fault in any government. But as Christians, we have Good News! Our true identity does not belong to a country or a particular race.  Our true identity for each of us is a child of God. As a child of God, you are given privileges and resources that outshine any citizenship or identity that this earth can offer.  Let’s be clear about our identity and live life abundantly because of whom we belong to.

Who the Son sets free
Oh is free indeed
I’m a child of God
Yes I am
In my Father’s house
There’s a place for me
I’m a child of God
Yes I am