Jesus' Parables: Perfect Stories That Speak Profound Truth

Everyone loves a good story. If I talk about how Megan and I fell in love, how we were led to adopt our three children, or how we moved from a Chinese city of 15 million to Southern Indiana, people are all ears. It doesn't matter if the person is seven or seventy, Jew or Gentile; people of all ages and all walks of life find good stories engaging, prompting them to think and feel deeply.

Jesus, of course, knew the power of stories. He was the master storyteller, and He frequently told stories to teach truth in a way that was relatable and easy to remember. These stories, called parables, may seem simple, but they have deep symbolic and spiritual meaning. Over 30 of them can be found in the Synoptic gospels of Matthew, Mark, and John. 

You don't have to be a Christian to be familiar with some of the parables. Many people can tell you a little about the Parable of the Good Samaritan and the Parable of the Prodigal Son. Do you have a favorite parable? What is it about that parable that you like so much? If you have children, consider discussing this with them this week. A conversation like this will probably stick in your child's mind longer than a long list of do's and don'ts.

So what's up with all the parable talk? Well, it happens to be our theme for this year's chapels. At our SIX chapels (preschool and prekindergarten, kindergarten-1st grade, 2nd-3rd grade, 4th-6th grade, 7th-8th grade, and high school) at Evansville Christian School, we'll teach six popular parables from the Gospel of Luke. Please join us if you can! I also want to encourage you to read and study these parables on your own and with others. If you have a genuine hunger for the Lord, I assure you that you will be blessed with divine truth that can help you live a life honoring to God. To God be the glory!

And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart. Luke 18:1

Beatitude 8: Are We Teaching Our Kids that Believers Will be Persecuted?

Like most people, I love to be comfortable, so when I moved to South Korea in 2002 and then to the Middle Kingdom the next year, it pushed me out of my comfort zone. I left a middle school teaching position I absolutely loved, sold my ranch home out in the sticks, and gave away my dog - like a classic country song. I moved to a nation where the language sounded nothing like English, ate a ton of fermented and spicy food that worked my system, and accepted a low-paying, not very stimulating job. When I moved to a much bigger East Asian country the next year, American comforts dropped even more. I spent time on crowded buses and smoky taxis, struggled to communicate what I wanted, and received lots of stares. 

Despite the challenges I faced, I can't say enough good things about my 14 years outside of America as an adult. I grew tremendously in my faith, and I learned so much from the community-first approach and service culture I saw in East Asia. There is much we can learn from visiting and living in countries around the world; things that can't be taught in books. Another thing I learned was how easy we Christians have it in the States. I hear some American Christians talk about the growing opposition we face in our country, but this pales in comparison to what many of our brothers and sisters face in many parts of Africa and Asia. This doesn't mean we won't face persecution. It just looks different. 

Christian persecution in extreme cases results in physical harm, imprisonment, and death. Think North Korea, Somalia, and Yemen. While you and I may not experience that kind of persecution, we might be disrespected, excluded, mocked, or have hateful words hurled at us. If you've experienced any form of this due to your beliefs in Jesus Christ, you've experienced persecution. Is this something we're teaching our children, or are we sheltering them from the hardships of reality? Jesus promised that if we follow Him, we will be persecuted (John 15:20). We must prepare our children to understand that followers of Christ will sometimes be ridiculed, rejected, teased, or yelled at for believing what the Bible says. A paper might be graded lower, playing time may be reduced, or a job promotion might not happen due to our beliefs. Do we ALL understand that this is part of God's plan, or do we complain and cry when we've obeyed God's commands and offend the world?

Let's remember Jesus did everything perfectly yet experienced pain and suffering. Let's remember what Matthew 5:11-12 says: Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. As believers in Christ, we can pass through the fiery trials and tests that come our way with the all-powerful Holy Spirit. Let's do that. Let's give God the glory!

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:10

Let's Not Forget About Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving is next week, but many Americans have been in Christmas mode since November hit. While I'm a fan of Christ-centered Christmas celebrations, let's not forget about Thanksgiving. Thankfulness is a major Bible theme, and we have much to be thankful for! James 1:17 tells us EVERY good and perfect gift is from above; therefore, we should thank God for all the good He gives us. And 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, it's God's will for us in Christ Jesus to give thanks in ALL circumstances. 

It's easy to complain and question God when hard things happen, but giving thanks should be a lifestyle for Christians. Those close to me know that my family has been experiencing some bumps lately, but through the Holy Spirit, we can still give thanks to our Heavenly Father. Thank You, Lord, for the finances. Thank You, Lord, for the insurance. Thank You, Lord, we don't have to get on a plane to visit our family. You are good. All the time.  

So how can we cultivate a heart of thankfulness, especially when life is challenging? Three years ago, I wrote a blog post about this, and I want to remind us of five simple spiritual practices that can help not just during Thanksgiving, but all the time.

1. READING God's Word - I can't emphasize how much being in my Bible has helped me to better understand how to be like Christ and give Him thanks for my family, church, job, and life. Read your Bible, and you'll realize it has much to say about how God's people should be a thankful bunch.

2. REMEMBERING God's Goodness - God has been so good to me. I've been able to adopt three children from China, watch our two daughters get married to godly men, celebrate over two decades of marriage with Megan, encourage all kinds of people in their Christian walk, and more. Take time to thank God for all the good He has done for you!

3. REFLECTING on God's Splendor - We need to stop dwelling on our ever-changing circumstances and look to the awe-inspiring, glorious God who is the Beautiful One. When we think deeply about who Jesus is, the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of His nature (Hebrews 1:3), we can be thankful people who reflect Christ to others.

4. REQUESTING God's Help - We aren't made to be independent, doing life on our own. Our Triune God created us and wants us to trust Him with our lives. When believers are humble and cry out to God as the Psalms instruct, God hears us and can provide comfort and peace during difficult times. This helps our hearts to be thankful regardless of the storms of life.   

5. RESTING in God - Are you a doer and fixer like me? Are you trying to control things and make sure everything is nice and neat? Well, life gets messy at times, and we must always trust Christ to be the source of our strength. If we don't, we will fall apart. Let's slow down, be still, and surrender ourselves to our Sovereign Lord who has everything in control.

There you have it. Read. Remember. Reflect. Request. And Rest. Nothing earth-shattering, but five ways that can cultivate a thankful heart. Who doesn't want that? May your heart be full of thanks this Thanksgiving and every day. To God be the glory.

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever. Psalm 136:1

Seven Ways To Glorify God Through Sports

My dad gave me my first soccer ball when I was six while we lived in São José dos Campos, Brazil. As a high schooler, I traveled to numerous states and several European countries with my club team and played on two teams in Puerto Rico. Later, I would coach five high school soccer programs and participate in competitive adult leagues in South Korea, China, and right here in good ol' Indiana. I've been blessed to coach my daughters and son in the beautiful game and served as a middle school wrestling and track coach for a few years in the 90s and early 2000s. I even coached middle school volleyball and basketball teams before coming to ECS. I could see myself coaching soccer again, but I'll be shocked if God leads this 5-foot-5 man back to coaching court sports! 

God has blessed me massively in the world of sports, and I'm thankful sports have been such a significant part of the lives of my three kiddos. I'm grateful I have children who like to run, kick a ball, hit a pickleball, and/or shoot hoops. Josiah Lee and I also enJOY attending sporting events, talking about the latest March Madness scores, watching our Colts and Pacers on TV, and competing against each other in basketball, football, and soccer games on the Xbox. Josiah Lee can't stand losing to me, but I must show him who the Big Poppa is! Sports have provided me with countless wonderful memories. Unfortunately, I also have sports memories that I'm ashamed of. For much of my playing and coaching career, soccer was my identity. There is much I would like to do over, but that's simply not possible. What I can do is share my mistakes and provide ways we can glorify God through sports. 

Below are seven things you can do to honor God when competing or cheering in sports. Through the Spirit, we can do it. Let's do it! Let's be different and develop a radical reputation so individuals and communities are transformed for the glory of God!

1. Cheer for ALL hard-nosed play at competitions. Don't just cheer when your kid or the team they play on does well. When the competition does something impressive, say something nice. Imagine what this world would be like if we were kind and tenderhearted to our opposition (Ephesians 4:32). 

2. Congratulate your opponents when they play well. When the opposing player plays great D on your daughter, or the crosstown rival pulls the upset and defeats your ranked team, tell them good job. Be a Barnabas and encourage them after the game.

3. Correct your kids when they boast and brag. Don't allow your kids to do a muscle pose after they hit a bucket or gesture they're number one after they score a goal. We are to humble ourselves in the sight of the Lord (James 4:10) and remember that apart from Christ, we can do nothing (John 15:5). 

4. Teach your kids to help their opponents up when they knock them down. I want my kids to be the toughest on the field and court, but I also want them to be the kindest. Teach and train them to be like the Lion of Judah AND the Lamb of God.

5. Don't complain about the officiating. You're sinning (Philippians 2:14). Being a ref or umpire can be tough. They're going to make mistakes. They might show some bias. Bite your tongue and meditate on Scripture. Let your speech be seasoned with salt (Colossians 4:6).  

6. Thank the coaches for instructing your kiddos, and get your kids to do it after every practice and game. The men and women instructing your kids are likely spending a ton of time coaching and getting paid little or nothing. Saying thanks can go a long way.

7. End your day praising God, and let's not allow ourselves or our children to play the victim. Stop listening to your heart so much and go to Scripture. Thank God for the bodies He gave your kids, the finances that allow your kids to participate in sports, and the ability to pass the tests He gives.

So what do you think? Tall order, I know. It will require a lot of prayer - perhaps before every practice and game. But it's worth it. I would love to hear other ways we can glorify God through sports. Post a comment, email me, or give me a call. To God be the glory! 

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:1-2

EnJOYing Freedom in Christ

Fourth of July is just around the corner, and countless red-blooded Americans will celebrate our Declaration of Independence from Great Britain. From San Francisco to New York, we'll have pitch-ins, parades, and pyrotechnic displays of grand proportions. Although I'm not a huge fan of all the noise, crowds, and fireworks debris, I enjoy the food and fellowship. Our country is far from perfect, and the political polarization in America is at an all-time high; however, there is still so much God has blessed us with. As the son of a Navy veteran who exposed me to unique and diverse cultures, I was always taught to be thankful that we are Americans. Consider these facts:

1. We don't face the armed conflicts that numerous African and Middle Eastern nations do on an everyday basis.

2. Travel advisory levels in America pale in comparison to those in much of the world. 

3. Sharing your faith in North Korea, Kyrgyzstan, and numerous other countries is illegal, but we can assemble freely at church on Sundays. 

4. Although too many of us are overly critical of our government and can be complete jerks, I'm thankful we can share all our views, unlike many nations worldwide. Government criticism in many nations can get you locked up or even killed.   

5. Despite our rising cost of living, we are still the go-to place for hardworking people looking to escape poverty. Few countries have our kind of wealth.

While I am grateful to live in a rich and relatively peaceful country with the freedom of religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition, having freedom in Christ is far greater. 

Freedom in Christ means freedom from the penalty, power, and presence of sin. I don't have to put my head down in shame for my past sins. Because of Christ, I'm a new creation, sinning less and becoming more like Him. I can put my head up, praising my Father for helping me fight sin through His Spirit. And when it's all said and done, because of Christ, I will be in a beautiful, perfect, and sinless Heaven.

Freedom in Christ is freedom from the Old Covenant law and people-pleasing. Christianity isn't a set of dos and don'ts where you try to win the favor of your fellow men. When you truly know God, you have a relationship with Him and follow Him in faith alone based on Christ alone. You have an audience of One and desire to bring God all the glory alone. That's what freedom in Christ does. 

Freedom in Christ is the freedom to enJOY God with fellow believers and glorify Him forever. Life is not meant to be lived alone. When you come to know Christ, you join a family of believers with whom you do life with. Life can be hard, but through Christ, we can have peace and joy regardless of the circumstances. Christian freedom is about enJOYing God now and forever with others.

Do you have this freedom in Christ? Do others clearly see that? This Fourth of July, let's not just remember the courage and faith our founding fathers had in their pursuit of liberty; let's remember what our Heavenly Father gave us and the sacrifice of His one and only Son. Let's enJOY freedom in Christ.

There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. Romans 8:1-2

 

Why YOU Should Join A Small Group

When we moved back to Indiana after serving in Tianjin, China, for over a decade, Megan and I had much to learn about the American church. We desired to connect with others and build Christlike friendships. It was easier for me because I started working at Evansville Christian School immediately. For Megan, it was a little more challenging because she started a part-time teaching position nearly half a year later. We learned that if we wanted to build relationships, it would require more than just worshiping on Sunday mornings. Things changed for us when we joined a small group.

What is a small group? A small group is a group of at least three people (and probably should be limited to a number where you don't start saying your group is kind of getting big) that meets regularly (weekly, biweekly, and at least monthly) where you do Christian life deeply together. Small groups meet (1-3 hours) to grow closer to Christ. How does a small group do that? Below are five ways our small group has helped us grow closer to each other and God.

1. We pray with one another. In a small group, we talk about what's happening in our lives and thank God for the good He is doing and going to do. Through prayer, we cheer each other on and remind each other of God's amazing attributes.

2. We study God's Word or a solid book that helps us better understand God's Word. Studying God's Word in a small group helps us see things we aren't seeing. We need to surround ourselves with smarter and wiser people who can teach us a thing or two.

3. We serve one another. Life can be hard, so when we need a reliable ride, a trustworthy babysitter, a warm meal, job suggestions, or a listening ear, being part of a small group can help. Good small groups consist of Christlike servants who often set aside their rights. 

4. We share our junk. Life can also be messy, and we need accountability. A small group is a place where we can confess our sins to people we trust. A good small group will consist of people who will love us well and display Christ to us.

5. We build friendships. We laugh, and we cry. We encourage one another and point each other to the cross. Over time, God knits us together and builds strong relationships that bring Him glory. In a world filled with gossip and grudges, good small groups bring joy to the heart.

Although I often like being alone, I'm so thankful for my small group and all they do to help deepen my faith. How has a small group helped you grow closer to Christ? I would love to hear what you love about your small group and why others should join one!

The Importance of Family Worship

Before Megan and I adopted Rosalie, Grace Noel, and Josiah Lee, we were blessed to observe godly families we served with in China having family devotions in the evenings. Their beautiful example helped us understand the importance of family worship. God should be worshipped not just on Sunday mornings and during Bible class and chapels at a Christian school; He should be worshipped all the time and in every place. I can't just allow the local church and Christian school to teach my kids about Jesus. I have the enormous responsibility (and privilege) to lead my family in worshipping God in our home. 

Family devotions have been a regular part of our lives, and over the years, they have looked different depending on the age of our kids. When our kids were younger, we sang and danced more. Today, we often watch Bible study videos on RightNow Media. We've catechized our kids, read from God's Word, memorized Scripture together, and used a wide selection of Christian devotionals. We always end our devotions in prayer, and we pray in the same order every time. If we have guests over, we include them in our devotions.

A special time to hear Scripture, pray, and talk about Jesus at home doesn't have to be long, but it needs to happen. Dinnertime or before bed has worked best for us because we wake up at different times. Our devotions have typically been in the living room or at the dining room table, but there's no rule saying they can't be done in a bedroom or bathtub. Be sure to use age-appropriate resources and try to get your kids actively involved in the devotions. Lecturing them for ten minutes probably isn't the best, regardless of how theologically correct you are. You want your kids to enjoy learning about Jesus in hopes that they receive Christ as their Lord and Savior and grow in His grace and knowledge.

Regrettably, I've made some mistakes when leading family devotions (e.g., failing to get family input, being too serious, lack of consistency). What's most important is that you're Bible-based, Christ-centered, and Spirit-filled. If you have family devotions at your home, I would love to hear what you do and what resources have helped your family. If you would like to discuss this topic further with me, please email me or give me a call. I would enJOY doing whatever I can to help your family create more meaningful times around God's Word!

And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. Deuteronomy 6:6-7

So What Does It Mean To Love Jesus?

Next month, we celebrate Valentine's Day, so the sale of cards, candy, chocolates, carnations, and candlelit dinners will soon increase exponentially. The National Retail Federation says that Americans spent nearly $24 billion dollars for Valentine's Day last year. 24 BILLION dollars. That's a lot of loot!

I would enjoy sharing my love story of how I met Megan or how I messed up on our first Valentine's Day date in China, but those stories will need to wait for another day (feel free to ask if you see me). I want to talk about a greater love - Jesus' love for me, which enables me to love Him and others (1 John 4:19). 

The Pew Research Center says there are over two billion Christians; however, this can't be right. It's much more accurate to say that over two billion people claim to be Christians. There aren't over two billion people loving Jesus on this planet. So what does it mean to love Jesus? Let's see what Scripture says. Specifically, let's see what the one who is commonly identified as the disciple whom Jesus loved wrote.

1. John 14:23-24 says, Jesus answered him, "If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. Whoever does not love me does not keep my words. And the word that you hear is not mine but the Father's who sent me. To love Jesus means that we obey His commands. If we aren't in His Word, though, how can we know His commands? We can't. If we truly love God, we will read His Word regularly, constantly thinking about it, and delighting in what He says (Psalm 1). 

2. John 15:12-13 "This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. To love Jesus means that we love people. Even the messy ones? Yup. Even the messy ones. But we're never messy, right? So whether you're an introvert like me or an extrovert like my wife, we must be upward and outward-focused and engage others. We must serve people with joy (1 Peter 4:10), encourage whom we can (1 Thessalonians 5:11), and point them to Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20). This isn't an option. Just do it.

So there are a couple of MAJOR points in what it means to love Jesus. Loving Jesus means you are a doer of the Word (which means you need to get in your Bible) and you love people. Easy peasy lemon squeezy! So, how are you doing, loving Jesus? I would love to hear from you about what you are learning, what has worked, and what has been messy!

And he said to him, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. Matthew 22:37

Happy Birthday, Carol!

It has been over 1.5 years since I wrote a blog post here, but I thought today was a most excellent day to write something that others should know about - it's my mother-in-law's birthday! It's hard to believe that I met Carol 25 years ago when I started teaching geography at Frankfort Middle School (FMS), home of the Hot Dogs. Carol taught choir at FMS, and Fred, my father-in-law, taught math there. Megan and her sister Mindy graduated from Frankfort High School in the early 90s. Yes, we were all once Hot Dogs. :-)

Carol used to supervise a study hall in my 6th-grade classroom, and I can remember her pointing to the massive world map and telling me how her daughter taught in China. I thought that was interesting, but I never in my wildest dreams thought that only a few years later, I would also be teaching in the Middle Kingdom and that Fred and Carol would visit me as my in-laws. God is AMAZING!

Carol has been a huge blessing to our family and me over the years, and I wish everyone could meet her. Below are just a few ways Carol displays Christ and gives God the glory. If you know Carol, I'm sure you will wholeheartedly agree with me!

1. Carol understands long-suffering. That sentence should be in ALL CAPS. God has chosen Carol to live a life that clearly shows others that she follows the Suffering Servant, Jesus Christ. She is strong in character, wise in her decisions, and patiently persevering despite what her circumstances may be. Carol focuses on the cross and lives a gospel-centered life. 

2. Carol possesses self-control. Sometimes people are mean, foolish, or even worse, both (never me, of course). Regardless of how people might treat Carol, Carol is the definition of calm, cool, and collected. She is one of those people who you wonder when she sins. While I want to smash people like raisins for the most minute things, Carol doesn't get overly emotional and irrational when the going gets tough.  

3. Carol is loyal. This is an understatement. Carol is loyal to her church, husband, family, and friends. She's an extremely hard worker who puts others before herself. We never have to be concerned that Carol won't help her loved ones, despite the situation, and even when most wouldn't. She is clearly dedicated to loving God and loving others. 

4. Carol is often joyful. While I have to tell my face to smile on occasion, it's an uncommon sight to not see Carol smiling. She is super positive about life, and it shows. Carol smiles when she meets people, when she is watching something entertaining, and she definitely smiles big when she sings. I need some Carol to rub off on me!

Carol - We are looking forward to seeing you soon and celebrating your birthday! God is good!

For you formed my inwards parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. Psalm 139:13-14

Wick's 2020 Highlights

2020 was a wacky year, but 1 Thessalonians 5:16 says to rejoice always. Below are some ways that we rejoiced this year. If you're looking for more, here are past Wickersham highlights: 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, & 2019. Rejoice!

January - Josiah Lee plays in his first-ever organized basketball game as a member of the Huskies in an Upward Basketball league. I can't say enough about how Upward Basketball is a slam dunk.

February - Grace Noel and I go to Memphis, where she guest plays for an older Sporting SI squad in a college soccer showcase. She knocked in her first goal for the club, and the team left with two wins and a tie.

March - Schools close their buildings, and Megan and I start providing emergency remote learning. I tap into my Japanese side and create a YouTube channel for school purposes, and learn how to use Google Meet and Zoom.

April - I get the honor to give the middle school & high school Easter chapel talk at ECS. I continue to learn that I strongly prefer speaking to a live audience instead of into a camera. Despite my introverted ways, I really do like seeing people.

May - Megan and I find ourselves doing activities we haven't done in ages. Occasionally, I skateboard with Josiah Lee, and Megan and I visit the tennis courts. I don't ever remember as a 16-year-old getting sore from skateboarding. What happened?

June - Josiah Lee and I go camping and fishing at Beall Woods State Park in southeastern Illinois, and the entire Wickersham clan visits Gulf Shores, Alabama, at the end of the month. Everyone enjoys the beach, and to my delight, I catch several new species.

July - We make a stop in Montgomery, Alabama, and meet up with some old "China" friends. I also decided to accept a club soccer position that allows me to coach Josiah Lee and see him hit the back of the net and dish out some assists. 

August - I complete my third two-week course and earn an Evangelism & Leadership in Crisis certificate from Wheaton College, Megan's alma mater. My soccer squad loses its first three matches, but they win four of its six matches in October. HUGE improvement.

September - We are thankful to see Rosalie and Grace Noel competing on the soccer field together. ECHS has a dream season and goes 9-1-1 during the regular season and finishes with a #7 ranking in Class 1A. Rosalie served as one of the captains again and was named ISCA Academic All-State for the second time.

October - Despite nearly getting into a panic after I spotted a bear, we had a great time during our fall break in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. At the end of the month, ECHS wins the NCSAA soccer tourney, and Grace Noel is named to the all-tournament team.

November - Josiah Lee starts playing basketball for ECS, and I give a presentation about Eric Liddell at Faith Bible Church. Grace Noel has a match that Sunday morning, but we leave it early so she can hear me talk about the "Flying Scotsman." 

December - We celebrate Christ's advent with Megan's parents. Fred comes home from the nursing home on Christmas Eve, and we drop off some gifts with my parents. God is good.

Wick's Highlights of the Past Decade

A new decade is upon us, and I have been reflecting on the past ten years. There were certainly some tough times for us in the last decade, but God blessed us with much. Below are some of those highlights.

2010: It took 3.5 years, but Rosalie became an official Wickersham and an American citizen. Shortly after that, I started an M.Ed. in educational administration before starting my new job as the middle school principal at TIS.

2011: I baptized Rosalie, and later in the year, unbeknownst to us, Josiah Lee was born.

2012: I received a picture of my son. I never wanted a boy or a third child, but God radically changed my heart.

2013: We adopted Josiah Lee, and I completed my degree at CIU. Megan provided me critical support and helped me see the choices I needed to make.

2014: I returned to the classroom and got to teach and coach Rosalie. I also coached Grace Noel in her first soccer matches.

2015: We told family and friends that we would be moving back to the States in 2016. I added middle school boys' basketball and volleyball to my coaching resume and conducted soccer camps for Indy Eleven in the summer. I coached a boys' soccer team for the first time since 1996, and it was announced that I would coach the TIS high school girls' soccer team the next season - my first high school team since 2003.

2016: I'm hired as the 6th-9th grade assistant principal at Evansville Christian School, and we moved back to Indiana. This is the first time our kiddos have lived outside of China. I was overseas for 14 years of my adult life, and Megan was in China for 19 years. Megan eventually lands ESL positions at USI and through Vincennes University.

2017: Just a few weeks into the school year, it was announced that I'm now the Cullen Campus principal. I wasn't sure if I would like being a principal again, but it has been a great fit. I'm thankful to be able to work in a growing community of believers who desire to know Christ and make Him known.

2018: We watched Grace Noel get baptized at Faith Bible Church. I'm regularly reminding my children that all of our accomplishments amount to nothing if we aren't following Christ and bringing God glory.

2019: This year's highlight was all the time we got to spend with our family and old friends. We are grateful when friends from other parts of the country or world visit us, as well as God's provision that enables us to visit amigos in Central Indiana, Ohio, and the Deep South.

2020+: We do not know what God has planned for us, but I know that He is good and will bring what He began to completion. We must trust Him and strive to bring joy to our Father.

to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:21

Wick's 2019 Highlights

Now that we've been in the States for 3.5 years, it's safe to say that all of us have adjusted to life here. God was, of course, good to us again. Here are past Wickersham highlights: 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, & 2018.

January - After using a gift card at a local Mexican restaurant, Megan and I enjoyed our first Cirque du Soleil production (Corteo) in Evansville. The tickets were a Christmas gift I gave Megan.

February - I started taking an online biblical leadership course through biblicaltraining.org. I would enjoy taking Bible classes at a seminary or college again; however, that's not how I feel led to use my time and finances at this stage in my life. Perhaps in the future.

March - Megan and I attended a marriage retreat at our local church, Faith Bible Church. We're thankful our church hosts such events to help people have Christ-Centered marriages.

April -  Josiah Lee played in his first soccer match since the fall of 2016. He didn't want to play organized sports again until I said I would coach him, and now he has the confidence to suit up without dad shouting from the sidelines.

May - Rosalie and I ran in our first 5K together, and she beat me. Although I still have some speed, I have never been much of a runner. I'm trying to change that somewhat.

June - In an effort to get in better shape, I purchased a mountain bike. Occasionally, I ride my bike to work just like in my China days.

July - We took a trip to South Carolina to visit friends Megan went to college with at Wheaton, as well as people we did life with in China. We also stopped in Newnan, Georgia, to visit the LDi corporate office and hang out with old friends.

August - Our good friends, the Scroggins, paid us another summer visit. The previous month, the Strongs and TJ made the trek to Evansville. We love to reconnect with our TIS amigos.

September - Rosalie missed a PK in a soccer match that would have put ECHS up 1-0 (they ended up defeating Tell City 3-1), but she scored the game-winner against Washington's JV squad off a nice free kick. I'm thankful to be able to watch my kiddos contribute on the pitch.

October - Megan and Grace Noel went on the 8th-grade class trip to DC, a trip Rosalie and I went on when she was an 8th grader. Grace Noel got the honor of participating in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

November - A super cold soccer showcase in Indy allowed us to spend time with our parents and my brother. Grace Noel also competed in a showcase in Cincy, and the two of us, of course, made a stop at Skyline Chili.

December - Before having a fantastic Christmas break with our families in Avon and Frankfort, Indiana, we spend the night in Nashville and attend Zoolumination, the country's largest Chinese lantern festival.

Seven Ways My Seven-Year-Old Points Me to Jesus

A couple of weeks ago, we celebrated Josiah Lee's Gotcha Day by zooming down a hill on sleds and eating some tasty steakburgers. We also spent time thanking God for the gift of adoption and prayed that we would see Josiah Lee's biological parents in Heaven. It's hard to believe Josiah Lee has been a Wickersham for six years now.

Megan and I adopted Josiah Lee in 2013 in Wuhan, a Chinese city of over 10 million people. I wasn't planning on adopting a third child, especially if it meant a boy; however, God changed my heart. I'm so thankful God rules my heart. God is sovereign and fashions us according to His will. As a result of God's work in me, I now have the privilege of training a little boy to be a little Christ.

Although Josiah Lee is only seven, he actually displays Christ better than me at times. It's ridiculous, but sometimes I wish I were more like Josiah Lee. Yes, he sins every day just like me, but by God's grace, he is doing some things right. Below are seven ways my seven-year-old points me to Jesus.

1. Disappointed When He Disappoints Us - Josiah Lee doesn't give us the eye roll or talk back to us; he's genuinely disappointed when we aren't pleased with his behavior.

2. Filled With Joy - I often allow my circumstances to steal my joy, but Josiah Lee can often be found smiling or laughing. He's definitely a joy to be around.

3. Gentle - I forget that toughness isn't a fruit of the Spirit. Not Josiah Lee. He has a gentle heart, and I have much to learn from him.

4. Obedient - Josiah Lee routinely does what we ask of him. I'm sure when I was seven, my teachers wouldn't have said the same thing.

5. Patient - Josiah Lee was born with one hand, so some things are just going to be harder for him. Try tying your shoes, peeling an orange, or casting and reeling a fishing rod with one hand. I'm amazed at how he doesn't express frustration when things take him a little more time to figure out and do.

6. Quick To Forgive - Sometimes I'm not a very good daddy, but Josiah Lee is quick to forgive me when I'm a little frustrated or barking out orders. Josiah Lee is definitely a Colossians 3:13 guy.

7. Servant's Heart - Josiah Lee frequently asks if he can help the family. It can be cutting veggies in the kitchen or raking leaves in the yard. Josiah Lee wants to help.

But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, "Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it." Mark 10:14-15

Wick's 2018 Highlights

It's hard to believe that we've been back in the States for 2.5 years now. God continues to shower his blessings on us. Here are past Wickersham highlights: 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, & 2017.

January - We celebrate five years of having Josiah Lee in our family. Where did we celebrate? At a Chinese restaurant, of course!

February - My dad turned the big 80 on Groundhog Day. I'm thankful to have a dad who has been very supportive of me throughout my life.

March - The Wickershams take a mini vacay to Nashville, Tennessee. This might be the closest we get to the Parthenon in this life.

April - Grace Noel makes a public profession of faith by getting baptized at Faith Bible Church. There were lots of tears of joy.

May - We take another mini vacay and enjoy the rides at Kentucky Kingdom & Hurricane Bay in Louisville. I'm grateful for a job that provides the finances and time to get away with the family.

June - I get a nice suntan while directing three ECS soccer camps, one of which Josiah Lee attends. It was especially cool to have Rosalie & Grace Noel assisting me.

July - I help chaperone a youth group trip to Cedar Point and Scene75 Entertainment Center. I had no idea roller coasters could hit 120 MPH in four seconds. Woo!

August - We finally became members of Faith Bible Church. A humongous shout-out goes to my Heavenly Father for giving us a church that is Bible-based, Christ-centered, and Spirit-filled.

September - We end our first season of ECHS girls' soccer with a tie against Owensboro High School. Although we didn't have a winning record (3-4-1), I'm pleased with the team's effort and see the program headed in the right direction.

October - Rosalie and a classmate represent ECHS in UE's Changemaker. I'm glad Megan was such a big support in this innovative project.

November - Old friends we worked with in China, the Headricks, pay us a short visit. It's great to catch up and share how God has been working in our lives now that our families are in the States.

December - Megan and I throw a 50th-anniversary celebration for her parents. They are an incredible testimony to a life dedicated to being doers of the word, and not hearers only.

Our First Three Years: A Long-Distance Relationship

Megan and I got married on July 10th, 2004. This was almost three years after our first date at Ruth's Chris Steak House, and a year after I asked Megan to marry me. I wanted to ask Megan to marry me sooner; however, I lacked some spiritual maturity and waited for a summer break to ask Megan's dad for permission to propose to her.

During our first year of courtship, Megan lived in Changchun, China, and I lived near her hometown of Frankfort, Indiana. Megan taught English to university students in a Chinese city of three million, and I taught Western Hemisphere geography to 6th graders in a small Indiana town. Our worlds were just a little bit different.

During the start of our second year as a couple, God brought me a little closer to Megan when I started teaching English at a hakwon on a Christian university campus in Cheonan, South Korea. During this time, Megan and I were able to visit each other a bit more since our flight time went from roughly 22 hours to two hours.

During our year of engagement, I found a sweet social studies job at an outstanding international school in China, and Megan accepted a new position in Beijing. We were now only 1.5 hours apart by train.

Having a long-distance relationship during our first three years together was tough, but it was good in numerous ways. I'm thankful for how God planned it out and wouldn't want it any other way.

1. We got to know each other better via email, messaging, phone calls, and letters. Megan taught me how to be a better listener (I'm still working on this) and how to ask questions (about how she felt).

2. We had a deeper appreciation for the time when we were together. We often were in two vastly different worlds, so when we did get to spend time with each other, it made it that much better.

3. Being apart showed me how much I wanted us to be together. We complement one another. I'm an ISTJ, and she's the exact opposite - ENFP. Where I'm weak, Megan is strong.

4. Most importantly, Megan taught me much about myself and drew me closer to Christ. We read and discussed the same devotional books and memorized the same Bible verses. I had to pray more than ever and apply what God was teaching me. God certainly used Megan to shape me and point me in His direction. To Him be the glory.

He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the LORD. Proverbs 18:22

Megan, the donkey, and I took a pic at the El Sol de Tala Mexican restaurant on the east side of Indy.

I Have a 16-Year-Old

Rosalie turned the big 16 on Friday. Where does the time go? Below are 16 interesting facts about my oldest child.

1. Rosalie used to have a British accent and occasionally used words that we didn't know.

2. One week before Christmas, Rosalie entered our family as a 4.5-year-old; however, it took 3.5 years before her adoption was finalized.

3. During Rosalie's first-grade year, Megan homeschooled Rosalie in core subject matters.

4. Like her brother and sister, Rosalie's middle name is Chinese - Jinmin. The "Jin" comes from the city she is from, Tianjin, where we used to live.

5. Like her dad, Rosalie has consumed salted scorpions. Yum, yum to the tum, tum.

6. Last year, Rosalie participated in cross country, swimming, and track & field. This year, she has returned to the soccer field and is playing on my high school squad.

7. Rosalie was placed on a "B" team for an open futsal tournament in 7th grade, and she ended up leading the team in goals and helping the team win the tourney. Her coach was a short, intense dude who wouldn't shut up.

8. I served as Rosalie's assistant volleyball coach during her sixth-grade year, her first of two years of playing organized volleyball.

9. Rosalie played on the middle school basketball team at her international school in China for two years. Despite standing at a gigantic 5'2", she still can't dunk a basketball.

10. Rosalie has a TCK blog that she started in 8th grade. I've encouraged her to keep writing, but I think she needs to hear that from others.

11. Rosalie played the French horn for five years and once left her $3600 horn in the back of a taxi. I praise Jesus for the help we received from our local friends, the expat community, and the police in retrieving the horn. Did I mention how crazy expensive French horns are?

12. Grace Noel and Rosalie have always shared a bedroom, and although they may prefer having their own rooms, I think this brings them closer.

13. Rosalie has done well in some elementary Bible memorization competitions and has forced me to work on this spiritual discipline.

14. This past year, Rosalie took Chinese language lessons on Sunday afternoons. I went fishing instead of participating in language studies.

15. Rosalie will be getting her learner's permit soon. Pray for us.

16. I baptized Rosalie in a hotel pool several years ago. I'm thankful for the privilege it is to train Rosalie in God's ways and hope she will always seek hard after Jesus and bring Him all the glory.

12 Years Ago on June 12th...

12 years ago on June 12th, Megan and I adopted our 12-year-old, Grace Noel. Below are 12 interesting facts about my first child.

1. Grace Noel is our first child. We adopted her when she was nine months old, and six months before bringing Rosalie into our family as a four-year-old.

2. Grace Noel is from the southernmost part of the central province of Hubei. Her village of one million people is surrounded by rice paddies and water buffaloes.

3. Like her little brother and big sister, Grace Noel's middle name is Chinese. It's Siyuan, and it means to remember your origin.

4. Grace Noel's favorite sport is Association football or soccer. I might have played a part in this. She also participates in track and field and recently attended a basketball camp.

5. Grace Noel is a much better middle school student than her dad. Unlike her daddy, she didn't get paddled by the principal for fistfighting.

6. Like her daddy did, Grace Noel plays the alto sax. She took piano lessons for many years when we lived in China. She can also play a mean recorder.

7. In China, I've been mistaken for Grace Noel's English teacher. People sometimes found it confusing that she spoke English so well.

8. During her fourth-grade year, Grace Noel earned second place at an international school badminton tournament. A little birdie told her to play.

9. When Grace Noel was two years old, we rode our bikes to a nearby stadium and watched some Women's World Cup matches. The next year, we rode our bikes to some Olympic soccer matches.

10. Grace Noel has lived in five apartments (all in Tianjin), one townhouse (Newburgh, Indiana), and one house (Evansville, Indiana) in her twelve years of life.

11. On her "All About Me" kindergarten poster, Grace Noel said beef tongue was her favorite food. Moo.

12. Grace Noel was recently baptized, and she's a God-given gift that I don't deserve. I'm thankful that God chose me to be her father, and I look forward to seeing what God will do in her life as she grows in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Our Homes in Tianjin, Evansville, & Heaven

It's hard to believe, but one year ago today, we closed on our home. I'm really not sure where the time has gone. Didn't we just move to the States?

When we moved here from China in the summer of 2016, Megan found us a newly renovated two-bedroom condo that worked for our family. The girls shared a huge bedroom, and we put a bed donated by our home church in the loft for Josiah Lee. Older kiddos probably prefer more privacy, but I delighted in the fact that four-year-olds couldn't care less about their sleeping arrangements.

God has always blessed us with nice homes in China and the States. Our homes have been vastly different, and we're thankful for all that God has provided. Regardless of where we have lived and what we've been given, we've built our homes on the precious cornerstone and solid foundation, Jesus Christ. We want our homes to be used to serve others and bring God glory. Additionally, we remember our homes are temporary and that new homes are being prepared for us.

Below are some of the similarities and differences between our homes in Tianjin and Evansville. I look forward to seeing what God will provide next here and in Heaven.

In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? John 14:2

1. Our last apartment in China was on the 9th floor, and now we live in a brick ranch home.

2. An elevator opened up to a mudroom where I stored my mountain bike. Today, we enter our home through the back door on our deck.

3. We had three balconies that overlooked a ton of high-rise apartments. Our neighborhood today is surrounded by one and two-story homes with well-manicured yards.

4. Our apartments in China (seven in 13 years) and our home in Evansville are within walking distance to hospitals, restaurants, banks, and other businesses.

5. We never had a dishwasher or fireplace in China, and a dryer was a luxury we owned for less than two years.

6. In China, we locked up most of our bikes and my motorbike outside. Now we park our minivan and a full-size car in our garage. We also have a yard shed which stores our riding mower, wood chipper, and other lawn equipment.

7. Ducks and geese are commonplace where we last lived in China and where we live now. One difference is that we used to see peacocks on occasion, and now we see squirrels and rabbits all of the time.

Unique Food I've Eaten Abroad & in the States

When I lived overseas, I got the opportunity to eat lots of unique food: cicadas, duck bills and feet, salted scorpions, entire fish, starfish, seahorses, and snake on a stick, every organ imaginable, and even rocks. Some of it was great, and some of it, well, tasted like rocks.

Although American cuisine isn't what I would call adventurous, I've been able to chow down on a few delectables these past two years that aren't considered your everyday fare. Check out below what I've been able to eat in my home, order on the street, or have at a restaurant.

1. Wild boar - This winter, Megan made some burritos with some wild boar that we were gifted with, and they were definitely restaurant-worthy.

2. Frog legs - Surprisingly, I've been able to eat frog legs at a couple of different Chinese restaurants in town. Ribbit.

3. Brain sandwich - I ordered one of these sandwiches at the Fall Festival here in Evansville. They're kind of like scrambled eggs.

4. Beef tartare - My little bro ordered us this raw meat dish, and I found it to be da bomb diggity! I've eaten a ton of different kinds of meat raw, and this was by far my favorite.

5. Venison - Although I'm not a hunter, I'm thankful for those who hunt and share their game with mi familia.

6. Pizza with mussels - I'm a big fan of seafood and a big fan of pizza, so why not put them together?

7. Chicken hearts - I used to get chicken hearts every time I ate at Brazilian steakhouses in China, and I was happy to recently get some at a Chinese New Year festival.

Were you aware these dishes can be consumed right here in the good ol' U.S. of A? What unique foods have found their way to your stomach? The next time you see some food that looks or smells a little funky, why not give it a go? Don't knock it until you've tried it. Bon Appétit! 

So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31.

I'm eating saltwater smelts filled with eggs galore. Yum.

Why I'm Thankful to Live in America

Presidents' Day is on Monday, a day to honor the incumbent president and all previous U.S. presidents. During my time overseas from 2002 to 2016, we had two very different presidents who led us through a great deal of change in America. Some of the changes weren't the best; however, there is much about this country that is a big-time blessing. I'm thankful that my children can receive a Christ-centered education now and later as adults. We can listen to Christian radio and even get our dance on. Below are five more reasons why I'm thankful to live in the US of A.

1. There is no shortage of churches in this country. Each month, there are 214 churches and Christian properties destroyed around the world.

2. We have access to a million Christian resources at local stores and libraries. Over 200 million African Christians don't own a Bible, and millions of leaders lack written materials to equip their ministry.

3. I'm free to witness and share the gospel with others. Approximately 215 million Christians experience significant persecution.

4. Christian websites aren't blocked. I haven't always had that free online access.

5. I don't have to be concerned about hosting Bible studies in my home. That's certainly not the case where I used to live.

Yes, there is much we could complain about America, but it certainly could be far worse. What ways can you give thanks for living in the States? What's preventing you from giving thanks for your life in this land of opportunity?