Asia #8 - July 23

God is good.

It's amazing how in our attempt to understand Him, we package Him into our neat understanding, and, of course, God is bigger and better than what our understanding will ever comprehend, leaving us in complete awe of Him when we FINALLY realize just how the more you understand Him, the more you realize how little that understanding is. In China, this was a repeated theme. (please excuse my terrible English - all of our English has deteriorated considerably....and we're teaching English....please pray for us....)

We go to China to teach but of course He teaches us. [Knew this but really realized that] Short Term M work is really more for those going on the trip than those we are reaching out to. Hopefully, those we are reaching out to are blessed, but truly, those going on the trip learn so much more. It's really those who labor full-time that are truly the hands and feet of Him. We (short term folks) are just the occasional hand moisturizer or feet cooler.

We thought we'd go and teach and maybe get a perspective on how things are going in the city. Instead, we were privileged to speak to several Ms and even, through a series of obvious, God-appointed ways, met a random NK M (not part of YUST). She really confirmed what many of us were already thinking, articulated what was already on our minds. We were immensely encouraged by this woman. It was through her that we realized why our team was an all-women's team.

We didn't realize all the other volunteers who were going to be there. They were all truly a blessing. I could not have imagined this trip without them. They added a whole other level of perspective and understanding as well as encouragment.

And to us individually, we think we know the lessons we are being taught. Then He teaches us something way beyond it all. Or He reminds us of things that are so obvious but have not been at the forefront - for me it's love. Several times before and during this trip, I have been reminded of the importance of love (Matt 22 and 1 Cor 13). Loving God and loving others....everything else will fall into place from there.

For us 2-weekers, our last few days in China were complete whirlwinds. Thursday we met the NK M who gave such insight and shared her story. Unfortuantely, for the 3 of us, we had to leave that meeting half an hour early to make it to another meeting, a dinner that one of our "students" made for us. It was amazing. We definitely missed home cooked meals. When it was time to eat, we just sat in silence and ate. It was so good. It was also real great hearing the testimony of that "student." She really loves her life and has given it all to Him. Those 4 hours (NK M's and our student's testimonies) were probably the 4 most intense hours on the trip.

Friday was our last class. It was great to have been in this privileged position to come in and talk to them about the little we know about "business writing." They were so kind, humble and grew tremendously in their English writing skills. We were planning to have a picnic, but that was the one day it decided to rain. Ergo, we enjoyed some snacks in our classroom. We will miss them. They were so eager and patient, with themselves and with us. And while we were a good 15-25 years younger than most of them, they were so kind and humble; we were definitely moved by them.

After our class, our host took the 3 of us to the NK border. Surreal. It was so close. We actually got to go on a boat onto the river that separates the two countries. We found a resting point off a road that gave us a clear view of NK people on a old, quasi-train car returning from work. There was such a stark difference between the two countries; looking down the river, you can clearly tell which side was that of NK and which was China. The condition of the buildings in NK were more like unfinished structures.

When we returned to YUST, we said our goodbyes, hanging out with students, other volunteers, other M's, staff. And before we left on Saturday, our team got together one last time to pray. Prayer is amazing.

Us, two-weekers, have been back now for a few days. Not going to lie - definitely missed the comforts of home - I sat on my toilet for a good 10 minutes, just because I could ; ). But on this trip, another thing we were reminded of was that with all the blessings He's given us ('comforts,' ability to speak English, our education, our families, our church, abundant resources, understanding of multicultures, etc), that much more is required of us ('with great power comes great responsibility' - oh wise uncle ben). nevertheless, the moment the three of us arrived in Incheon, Seoul, South Korea, we're were blabbering "mission mission mission church church church" just because we could. we truly are so blessed.

To you all, thank you for praying with us Not only are you a part of what is going on in China and NK but you guys are also part of what's going on in New York or wherever God has called you NOW. Even though what you're called to NOW may not be the end-of-all-callings, one thing we've learned is that THIS, NOW is also our calling.

Please continue to pray for us 2-weekers, that what we've learned, experienced in China will be protected and become foundational to the rest of our lives. Please pray that we'd continue to prepare our testimonies and to be humble, giving due praise and honor to Him. As for the 5-weekers, please pray that they will use the additional 2 weeks for His purpose, that they'd be oblivious of the obvious fruits men desire but will truly store up treasures in Heaven. Please pray for physical protection and for strength to finish strong.

To God be the glory.....

loving God & loving others (or at least trying to),

susan