Brief initial thoughts on Jayson George's book, Ministering in Patronage Cultures
I am currently reading Jayson George's book on patron/client relationships, Ministering in Patronage Cultures: Biblical Models and Missional Implications published in November 2019. My reading concerning the patron-client relationship is minimal and so as I read and learn I will be going back and reflecting on the past 20 years here in Thailand. I have lived in Northern Thailand, Eastern Thailand, Southern Thailand, and Central Thailand. Currently I am back in Eastern Thailand. Understanding the patron/client relationship as well the honor/shame ideas would have been a tremendous help in navigating, evaluating my experiences and relationships, and understanding Thai culture over the years. I hope newer missionaries will take the time to read George's books. Patron/client relationships are woven in the fabric of Thai society and so they are unavoidable and part of every person's experience here, local or transplanted in (foreigner). My first encounter with such a