What wisdom, 智慧, did I gain from this second trip? I realized that some of the most effective ways to reach China and the Chinese are not vocational missionary efforts, but through: 1) scientific exchanges (hence, ministry among international students and scholars); 2) business and trade exchanges; and 3) western expatriate professionals in China who love their Chinese friends to such an extent that they will risk their own lives to save them.

This week we continue praying through China’s major cities with Xiamen in Fujian Province. One of the first cities opened to Western imperial powers in the 19th century and later one of the first special economic zones launched during the reforms of 1980s, Xiamen is a historic port and center of commerce. Today it is one of China’s top domestic tourist destinations with many seaside attractions and interesting food.

Last week, Xiamen was hit by typhoon Meranti. Along with other east coast cities, as well as Taiwan, extensive damage was done, people were dislocated, and lives were lost. An estimated 28 deaths occurred in Xiamen.

Recently when the crosses were coming down, I was thinking that these actions would show everyone in the world that in China, religion is not free. Maybe in the previous few years, few people prayed; but more and more people begin to pray for China when persecution happens. It is probably one of the motivating forces for the Chinese church. So when all the hearts begin to pray for China globally, that will bring new revival to Chinese churches.