5 Questions With...Joy Wei

1. How did you first get involved with Friendship Presbyterian?  I am a native, but I have lived in Melbourne for 5 years. After returning to Taiwan from Australia, I was experiencing some reverse culture-shock. To help myself deal with this situation, I started to look for a church that could be a bridge between Taiwan and Australia, (and a place that would let me continue to speak English, otherwise it would get rusty.). I also wanted to find a place where I could establish connections with people who understood my situation. 

After attending the Sunday service in FPC, the worship and sermon really touched my heart. Therefore, I decided to continue to come and eventually commit to serving the Lord in this church. 

2. What do you do Monday through Saturday?  I am a graphic designer and have been freelancing for quite a while. During the weekdays (and on some weekends, too) I work for my clients and rack my brain trying to come up with creative design ideas. I also hit the gym on a regular basis to keep myself active. Did I mention that my family owns two very active dogs? I usually spend a portion of my day taking them out for a stroll or a run in the dog park. (the perks of freelancing!) So, I would probably say that my second profession is dog-walker. :D

3. What is something people might be surprised to know about you?  I was born in Aberdeen, Scotland and lived there for 8 years. People are usually surprised to hear it because now I have an American accent instead of a Scottish one. (I used to have a strong Scottish accent, but I lost it after my family moved back to Taiwan.)

4. What do you find most challenging about being a Christian today?  Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will (Romans 12:2).

It is a constant challenge for Christians, nowadays, when a lot of our values have been challenged by the world. Many times, when we are challenged/confronted, we do not know how to respond or even respond in the wrong way. In a world filled with sin, temptation, and distractions, it is so easy for a Christian to fall—even doubt their faith. Therefore, I think it is a lifelong challenge to stand firm in God's words and Jesus's teaching, and remain faithful, and to speak to the world with His wisdom in mind.

5. What is one of your favorite books of the Bible?  The book of Psalms. As a major in language and literature (a.k.a. English) in university, I have learned to appreciate the beauty of poetry and songs. The book of Psalms is filled with beautiful analogies, metaphors, and ways to express the human self—the turmoil of life, the cry out for help, the praises to God. What I love about these poems/songs are that they are still very relevant to our lives, and I can often read them as my prayer to God. 

On a side note, when I was two years old, my dad taught me to memorize Psalm 23. I often reflect on it when I am in need of God. It is still and will always be my favorite psalm in the Bible.