Losing Face & Finding Grace, A Guide by Tom Lin

Tom Lin reflects on his experiences growing up as one of the few Asians in his Chicago suburb, grappling with his cultural identity and personal acceptance. Initially, Lin distanced himself from his Asian heritage, believing that skin color was the only difference and that everyone was fundamentally the same. Despite his outward confidence and social ease, he felt a deep-seated shame about his parents’ culture and his own identity. The disparity between the Western ideals he embraced and his parents’ more reserved cultural expressions only deepened his sense of not belonging, both in his family’s world and among his white friends.

The themes of face and grace are central to Lin’s journey and resonate with many Asian-American Christians who confront similar struggles. The accompanying inductive Bible studies in this guide address critical questions about overcoming the pressures to earn salvation, balancing parental expectations with personal calling, and dealing with self-image issues exacerbated by cultural tensions. Through exploration of Scripture, readers may find both guidance and personal insight, offering help and hope in navigating their own journeys of faith and identity.

At a time when Americans from all creeds are wrestling with faith, identity, and a plethora of other questions, Lin’s guide is more relevant than ever before.