Good things happen when...

Are you project-oriented or people-oriented? Or are you a happy mix of both?

If we can think of these on a spectrum, those on the project side like to get things done, achieve objectives...at times...no matter what the cost. They can run people over to get there. 

On the other side, folks oriented toward other people seem to live for the moment according to the most pressing need. In short, they're available...and...consequently, projects sometimes don't get done according to plan. I find that frustrating, because...you guessed it...I tend to be mostly project oriented.

What I have learned over the years is that when relationships are not healthy or are complicated, projects...or working toward some stated objective...can be difficult. Conversely, when relationships are healthy, good things can happen. For a good motor to work, oil is needed. Are not healthy relationships the oil that allows things (projects, objectives) to happen? 

Is there a happy medium between the two extremes on the spectrum? 

In some work activities, objectives have to be met or else the business fails. Customers don't come back...income diminishes...people start to lose their jobs. Not a good situation. 

Communities (families, social groups, businesses) need to indicate their reasons for being so that all understand what the stakes are if objectives are not met. Is it a loose-knit community with low expectations on personal involvement? Or are the stakes somewhat high and members need to held responsible for their part in providing a specific service to the public? 

What seems clear is that communication needs to be good. Expectations are clear. Objectives are agreed upon and measured. Personal responsibility toward the group is a value; and community concern for the individual is also a value. When relationships are healthy and communication flows, good things can happen for the good of the community and beyond. Maybe we can make a difference...

Another transition…from Niger to Switzerland!

Cutting the ribbon at the inauguration of the FEU building

The time has finally come to enter another phase of transition moving from Niger to Switzerland. Our six years of ministry there came to an end on June 17, 2012. We thank God for the opportunity to have served in the Student Outreach Center and at ESPriT seminary.
We decided to come back to Switzerland for our children’s education. Lilian and I have been in missionary service since 1991; thus, it is also a good time to be closer to our families (although visiting our family and friends in Virginia requires a little more organization). This does not mean that we will never return to Niger. It just means that it is a transition and an opportunity to serve in new places. God will show us in the future whether it is opportune to return to Africa.

We'll write more about what we are doing in Switzerland in the next posts...

Thank you for your prayers and support!

Economic growth and...ethics?

BBC News - G8 Camp David summit targets 'growth and stability'

Certainly there is some value to these meetings, but I have to wonder if any of these representatives consider the possibility that some economic problems have ethical causes.

I wonder what could happen if there was a G8 that focused regularly on ethics, the character or moral fabric of their countries. Which economies demonstrate growth and stability over a number of years because the majority of the people work honestly? Where the employers treat employees fairly? Where trust encourages commerce?

And which countries would compose the G8 of ethics? Might be some excluded from the present G8?

And yet this begs the question: Can morality be legislated? (Just be good to one another, people, and the economy will get better...). In the end, the choice to be a better nation depends on whether every individual (or at least the majority) assumes her or his responsibility to improve...gradually...for their own good and for their nation's good.

Another turning point in the history of the Foyer Evangélique Universitaire: our own building!

After 14 years of paying rent, we're finally independent! The waiting, prayers and hard work were well worth it. The Center is located in the Banga Bana quartier of Niamey, Niger. 

Here we are receiving our first student on the morning of April 2nd. Note the international aspect of our team in the photo: African, European, North American, and Asian. God has brought us together for a common purpose: to demonstrate the message of Jesus Christ by assisting university students and professionals especially in the area of training. 

Here's our beautiful new gate (enjoy it before dust and dents affect it!): 

Soli Deo Gloria!