Exemplifying Active Faith as a Government Official

Paul Yu, EurAsia regional leader for Christian Reformed World Missions, says one of the most rewarding parts of training church leaders as a missionary comes during follow-up visits to churches. Here, missionaries see how church leaders are putting their faith into action, church leaders like Dao.

Dao (name changed) works as a government official in his country, but his strong convictions as a Christian and a deacon in his church sets him apart from others in similar positions.

“In several Asian cultures,” explained Yu, “bribery is a common way to get a business license approved. Dao could easily receive bribes in his position.”

But Dao has resisted. Business owners who are looking to cut corners are puzzled when Dao rejects their bribe offers. They also fear that their rejection by Dao will have a negative impact on their future business.

Applying one’s faith to daily work is one of many topics that a CRWM missionary covered while leading a training conference at Dao’s church several years ago. Now Dao is doing just that every time he decides not to accept a bribe. He also brings the same integrity to his role as a church deacon.

Although issues of bribery and corruption have been prevalent, top officials in Dao’s country have recently begun to crack down on those who have received bribes. Many of Dao’s colleagues were alarmed at this news, but not Dao.

“People are praising Dao’s wisdom and self-control, fighting against greed and corruption,” Yu added. “Officials are beginning to see the Christian faith as a positive element of society. Dao is a great example of salt and light in a dark world.”