"Racial Identity Hermeneutics"

I received a copy of this book, which contains my chapter, "Racial Identity Hermeneutics." In it, I explored the notions and strategies for reading scripture through the complexities of race, politics, and culture.

 

Implications of Adversity

At the Jongmyo in Seoul, Korea (2024)

Uncertainty arises from various precarious life situations. No one is exempt because life is inherently unpredictable. Everyone experiences different levels of uncertainty or anxiety, and some individuals have a long history of adversity. The key question is how each person responds to these challenges. According to the study, if managed properly, these moments of uncertainty can serve as opportunities for awakening and steady progress. "Children with autonomy-supportive caregivers tend to be more successful, motivated learners who experience high well-being" (Uncertain: The Wisdom and Wonder of Being Unsure, 187). However, we cannot overlook the negative impact it can have on our souls, particularly for minors or vulnerable individuals. When this happens, a significant healing process is necessary, which may not be achieved in a single effort.

Parables of Jesus

I love Jesus's parables because they provide alarming insights into how to live justly, individually, and communally. There are 27 parable videos on my channel. 

New Year Hope

Uncertainty as a Gift

–Yung Suk Kim

I perceive an amazing azure sky

with glistening dazzling trees coated in snow.

I find hope amid uncertainty.

Embrace uncertainty as a cognitive tool for rethinking

and as a time and space for awakening and progress.

Don't stick to what you already know.

In effect, you think you know something.

But the reality is bigger than you.

Wonder about the mystery and miracle of life.

*Meaning of Education and Uncertainty

new year poem "uncertainty"

Uncertainty

–Yung Suk Kim

Human life is filled with uncertainty.
We all are born with crying — the first acknowledgment that we are nothing.
We cry for help.
By crying our soul starts off on our tortuous journey.

We smile, seeing the scary world not so much as a threat but a malleable one.
But soon our comfort zone evaporates since things are not going how we wish.
We lament and seek justice.

In lament, we falter to the ground, hard breathing and seeing no hope in ourselves.
We are listless!
But there is insuperable power surrounding us and the world: the irresistible grace of God.

In lingering uncertainty, I am not crushed.
I am I.
I find regeneration through the power of uncertainty.
Feeling on the edge, I sense a greater power than me.

I feel safe sailing not because there are no storms or tempests
but because I know there is a way of grace beyond me.
I am reborn with turbulence.
I move with uncertainty, through which I am alerted and awakened, and find the true light for a path forward.

 

Thanks to God!

Thanks to God, a new book project was conceived based on my lectures in Korea. I extend my gratitude to my colleagues and supporters who attended those lectures. This book will honor their hopes.

The recap of my travels to Korea (Dec 2024)

I just returned from my travels to Korea. I blogged about my experiences there. Thanks to all my friends, colleagues, and participants in Korea.

1. Hanshin Church https://drkimys.blogspot.com/2024/12/blog-post.html
2. Yonsei University https://drkimys.blogspot.com/2024/12/lecture-at-yonsei-university.html
3. Ewha Womans University https://drkimys.blogspot.com/2024/12/lecture-at-ewha-womans-university.html
4. Jeonju City https://drkimys.blogspot.com/2024/12/speaking-jeonju-2024.html
5. Politics https://drkimys.blogspot.com/2024/12/dec-14-2024.html

Visit to Korea 2024 Dec

I had a truly memorable experience during my visit to Korea. The stability of democracy is dependent on the active participation of ordinary citizens, with a particular emphasis on young people. I am reassured to see Korean democracy avoiding a return to the instability that characterized the country 45 years ago when a military coup traumatized me. The impeachment of Yoon is a significant development. On a separate note, it is noteworthy that young people, primarily those in their 20s and 30s, are becoming increasingly awakened. This generation witnessed the tragedies of the Sewol Ferry and Itaewon Crowd Crush. Moreover, they are the children of parents who fought against military dictatorship. Han Kang asks: Can the past help the present? Can the dead save the living? The answer is Yes. Those who sacrificed for democracy saved people in the present.

Short video

Video 1

Video 2

Video 3

Video 4

   

Speaking (Jeonju 2024)

I am glad to have shared thoughts about the Bible and transformation in Jeonju City (Jeonju Joongang Church, Dec 12, 2024). I explored the importance of critical, contextual interpretation of scriptures and reiterated the power of the self in one's life. The self must be rooted in God's love without which one cannot stand. YouTube video

Spotify

 

Lecture at Ewha Womans University (Dec 4, 2024)

I had an excellent time lecturing and talking with these young brilliant students at Ewha Womans University. I will always remember it. Their questions were timely and sharp. My topic was Paul's Theology, Community, and Women. Professor Kyungmi Park extended an invitation to me. Long live Ewha! 

*Photo courtesy of So-Jeong Yoon (Teaching Assistant)