A video update from Julia. Enjoy!
Friday, July 24, 2009
Thursday, July 23, 2009
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
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Japan #3 - July 22
Hello from Toyohashi, Japan.
It's Wednesday night here, and we finished a long few days of English classes. Tonight, we participated in THCC's weekly Wednesday prayer meeting. There was an amazing cross section of the church represented there. Young and old alike gathered to pray. It was an awesome experience that really gave us a glimpse of the beauty of a family church.
This morning, we shared two things: "In what ways do you see God moving", and "How is God calling you to move alongside Him?" The things people shared are definitely encouraging. It's amazing the breadth of ways we have seen God moving in our midst and especially in THCC. Again, we look in anticipation for the amazing things He will do and is doing.
John Wei also arrived and joined us today. It's definitely good to have him back with the team. It eases some of the pressure from other people, and it makes the team feel... complete.
Yeah, I have to keep this one short. It's going to be a long day tomorrow. Keep praying for us. God is so amazing.
-In Him-
Japan 09
Asia #7 - July 22
(from Nancy)
Nihao and Ahnyounghasehyoh to everyone!
Thanks so much for Pr_ying for us throughout our entire journey. Our whole team is very grateful for the brothers and sisters who are fighting alongside us around the world, and we know that G is listening to your pr_yers, so keep 'em coming -- especially in these last two weeks!
The two-weekers left on Saturday, and it was a bittersweet departure as we sent them off back home to tell the many test*monies of how G is working in China and NK. We really P that they will hold onto their convict*ons and that G will use their stories to encourage and ed*fy the ch*rch back home!
Since the last update that Michelle sent out, we have busied ourselves with a volleyball and badminton tournament (both of which English House dominated), a presentation by an M in NK about her work there and her life story, many hangouts with our roommates playing games or going out to Karaoke, watching the YUST dance team's showcase, and so much more. On Sunday, we had a joint s*rvice with the Korean professors, and it was really powerful worsh*pping with them, singing songs like "Sh*pherd of my soul / I give you full control / Wherever you lead I will follow" and knowing that these Ms have listened to G's voice and ob*yed and followed. Worsh*pping with them gave my heart a boost to genuinely desire those things for my own life. Also, on Sunday they announced that PUST (the YUST branch in NK) will officially open on Aug 27! All of us were so happy to hear that this dream is finally becoming a reality. After 13 years of pr_yer and preparation later, G has finally opened the door and is preparing His work in NK!!!!
Regarding the M from NK, I wish I could adequately tell you what an encourag*ment it was to hear her stories of G's fa*thfulness and how He is actively and powerfully moving in places like NK and Yanji. So many doors are opening, and so many K*ngdom workers are being raised up to be sent -- this truly is the time for the J*shua generation! Let us continue to P that G would send his workers into the field, for G has so much in store, if only we would respond to His calling.
On Monday night, one of the full-time staff invited all us volunteers to his house and his wife cooked us Mexican food, full with tortillas made from scratch and sour cream from scratch!! When I bit into the soft chocolate peanut butter cookie that she made, I almost teared because I was so happy! We all devoured the food like ravenous wolves and were immensely grateful for their hospitality and for a taste of home :) It was really awesome being able to fellowship with the other volunteers and the families, playing the Wii, DDR, and Settlers. Yesterday, Michelle and I gave a presentation about Australia and NZ. Karen helped us make costumes for different animals, such as the koala or the kangaroo. The students loved the costumes and are all now aching to visit Aus/NZ! Awesome! Or should I say, "AUSome". Puahaha. :D
We have our English House talent show on Thursday night, and on Saturday we are planning a trip to the China/NK border! I hope everything works out and that we are safe....
In terms of what I am learning, I think G is really challenging me to stand firm and give myself fully to the work of the L*rd, because I know that my labor in the L*rd is not in vain. (1 C*r 15:58) Sometimes I may get discouraged when my roommates are never in the room or that I haven't had B studies with my students like other volunteers have had the privilege of doing. But, G is telling me to be obed*ent and fa*thful with what He has entrusted to me. Even though the four of us are doing essentially the same things, we are going through completely different experiences and learning very different things. It's always cool hearing about what G is doing in their lives!
Please continue to P for our team that we will run hard these last few weeks. Time is so short and there seems like so much more work can be done. We are all growing to love our students more and more, so please really P for more opportunities to share our lives and our fa*th! Thanks!
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Japan #2 - July 19
Hello again!
We finished our first full day here in Japan. It was Sunday, so the team dressed up and headed into a full day of events. We attended youth service, the second adult service, a welcome party, and the evening dinner/welcome party. It's amazing how hospitable and friendly the people of Toyohashi Hosanna Christ Church are.
There were some worries as to the difficulties in the language barriers, but God definitely provided. There were enough people who spoke at least a modicum of English. This is definitely a blessing for us in the midst of this mission.
One of the questions we had to answer through journaling, after everything was done, is the question, "What is one thing that God taught you today?" One thing God taught is that He transcends boundaries.During the various times of service, we would worship with THCC. We sang the song, "I can sing of your love forever". It was a surreal moment where we saw the kingdom of God move. Beyond culture, language, age, size, and so forth, the people of God worshipped the living God.
Another prayer request is definitely needed. In the midst of all that is going on and how hospitable and great this church is, pray that we would be focused with a missions mentality. Pray that we would seek to preach the gospel in any and all circumstances and that we would be bold in doing so. Please pray for fertile ground during the English classes, that those can be used as a spring board to bring people closer to Christ.
In Him,
Japan 09
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Japan #1 - July 18
Hello from Toyohashi Japan.
First off, we'd like to thank everyone who has been praying or us and the mission in general. It's a comfort in knowing that we're not endeavoring in the move of God on our own, but that we have a family that is working with us through prayer.
It has been quite a rollercoaster ride for us these past couple of days. One of our team members had an issue with his visa and had to be left behind. Not to worry though, he will be joining us in a couple of days. Also, when we arrived to Nagoya, there seemed to be some issues with another one of our teammates' passport. It was all worked out and the delay lasted only 40 minutes.
Through all this, we're being reminded that patience, trust in God, and faith need to be built. This is God's mission and we're just participants in it. If it is His will that our ministry here is to be fulfilled then He will be faithful to carry it through. All we have to do is discern His voice and submit to His will.
We're looking ahead to see what God will do among us, through us, and with us. It's exciting because we literally have no idea how it's going to look. Even today, with our first church service about 2 hours away will be something new for everyone.
Well, that's about it for now. Please continue to keep us in your prayers. Remember, the prayers of a righteous man (and woman) are strong and effective. Please pray that we will grow in: Discernment, unity, submission, and joy... within the team itself and with the people of Toyohashi Hosanna Christ Church.
In Him,
Japan 09
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