A very late update...
Hello friends,
We're back! It's insane how fast this month flew by, we are happy to be home but we were sad to leave. We are finding comfort in the prayer that we may return. We are resting in Him and seeking His leading as we reminisce and ponder all that has happened.
In this update I will share some of the things we did and at a later time we will share some more personal thoughts and lessons. So much happened in such a short time and looking back it is truly incredible to see in hindsight how God's hand was and is working.
I believe where we left off last was right after International work camp, the following Sunday we had the opportunity to be involved with the English camp. It was a relatively small camp but that created a special setting where we could really play and interact with the kids. Some of the kids attending go to church while others has never been, although I admit we played Uno at least one to many times it really was a blessing to be able to share our time and God's love with the kids. Luke had the chance to share the gospel message with the children so we can really be praying that God will cause the seeds planted to grow and flourish!
Once the English camp ended Jared returned mostly to doing outdoor work and I returned to the kitchen. With our very, very limited Japanese we were not able to be much help at the Bible camp or teen camp which took place the following week. It was unfortunate that this was the case but God blessed us with a joyful spirit as we were happy to serve wherever needed.
Although much of Japan is urban God's handy work is still vividly evident in the lush vegetation and amazing scenery. We had the chance to go on a day trip to Lake Towada and Oirase Gorge, both of which were absolutely stunning.
Working in the kitchen with Christina, Vilte and Yuko was wonderful and venturing out into Aomori city to run errands was also a fun perk. Just chatting about different things and hearing each others stories was inspiring and enjoyable. I really thank God for the relationships that He created while we were in Japan. It's so special meeting people who are in a similar stage as you and from a different part of the world, while also having the commonality of being a believer. One evening was especially fun, Yuko taught us how to make Gyoza (dumplings) which are definitely in my top three favorite foods. They were so, so delicious! That evening we also had the very cultural experience of going to a public bath (or Onsen as they call it). It was definitely a different experience but actually quite enjoyable once you get over the fact that no one is wearing clothes. We thought we may as well embrace the opportunity especially considering that we feel God is calling us to go back to serve the Japanese people.
God truly blessed us on our trip. We are so thankful that you all covered us with your prayers. He opened up doors to meet and talk with many long-term missionaries and provided the opportunity for lots of special experiences. He also showed us the great need in Japan. He brought along friends and gave us encouragement and strength when we needed it most. He never left our side and we're so grateful that He walks this journey of life with us.
If you would like to keep praying for us here are some specific requests:
- Pray that God would cause the seeds planted during the camps at ACC to grow!
- Pray that God would send more full-time missionaries to Japan as it is a very unreached country.
- Continue to pray for revival in Japan! Our God is able!
- Pray that Jared would adjust well as he goes back to work tomorrow.
- Pray that Lily would enjoy and learn lots at her 10 day dance intensive in Calgary (for her Certificate in Ballet Teaching Studies). Pray also that she would pass her exam at the end as it is very difficult.
- Praise God that we have almost recovered from jet lag.
- Praise God for all that He has taught us and for keeping us safe.
We're back! It's insane how fast this month flew by, we are happy to be home but we were sad to leave. We are finding comfort in the prayer that we may return. We are resting in Him and seeking His leading as we reminisce and ponder all that has happened.
In this update I will share some of the things we did and at a later time we will share some more personal thoughts and lessons. So much happened in such a short time and looking back it is truly incredible to see in hindsight how God's hand was and is working.
I believe where we left off last was right after International work camp, the following Sunday we had the opportunity to be involved with the English camp. It was a relatively small camp but that created a special setting where we could really play and interact with the kids. Some of the kids attending go to church while others has never been, although I admit we played Uno at least one to many times it really was a blessing to be able to share our time and God's love with the kids. Luke had the chance to share the gospel message with the children so we can really be praying that God will cause the seeds planted to grow and flourish!
Playing games at English camp
Once the English camp ended Jared returned mostly to doing outdoor work and I returned to the kitchen. With our very, very limited Japanese we were not able to be much help at the Bible camp or teen camp which took place the following week. It was unfortunate that this was the case but God blessed us with a joyful spirit as we were happy to serve wherever needed.
Although much of Japan is urban God's handy work is still vividly evident in the lush vegetation and amazing scenery. We had the chance to go on a day trip to Lake Towada and Oirase Gorge, both of which were absolutely stunning.
Exploring
Working in the kitchen with Christina, Vilte and Yuko was wonderful and venturing out into Aomori city to run errands was also a fun perk. Just chatting about different things and hearing each others stories was inspiring and enjoyable. I really thank God for the relationships that He created while we were in Japan. It's so special meeting people who are in a similar stage as you and from a different part of the world, while also having the commonality of being a believer. One evening was especially fun, Yuko taught us how to make Gyoza (dumplings) which are definitely in my top three favorite foods. They were so, so delicious! That evening we also had the very cultural experience of going to a public bath (or Onsen as they call it). It was definitely a different experience but actually quite enjoyable once you get over the fact that no one is wearing clothes. We thought we may as well embrace the opportunity especially considering that we feel God is calling us to go back to serve the Japanese people.
Making Gyoza
God truly blessed us on our trip. We are so thankful that you all covered us with your prayers. He opened up doors to meet and talk with many long-term missionaries and provided the opportunity for lots of special experiences. He also showed us the great need in Japan. He brought along friends and gave us encouragement and strength when we needed it most. He never left our side and we're so grateful that He walks this journey of life with us.
If you would like to keep praying for us here are some specific requests:
- Pray that God would cause the seeds planted during the camps at ACC to grow!
- Pray that God would send more full-time missionaries to Japan as it is a very unreached country.
- Continue to pray for revival in Japan! Our God is able!
- Pray that Jared would adjust well as he goes back to work tomorrow.
- Pray that Lily would enjoy and learn lots at her 10 day dance intensive in Calgary (for her Certificate in Ballet Teaching Studies). Pray also that she would pass her exam at the end as it is very difficult.
- Praise God that we have almost recovered from jet lag.
- Praise God for all that He has taught us and for keeping us safe.
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