12 Hours Till Take-Off!
Tomorrow’s departure day! The past few weeks have been an absolute whirlwind. Penelope Panda’s Peculiar Family was published, I graduated with my Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, moved my entire net worth back to Tennessee, and have been quickly preparing materials for this summer’s work.
Shaking hands with Dr. White at Graduation!
There have been a lot of different emotions during this season of transition. Closing a chapter in life is a lot like finishing a good book or a favorite movie series. There’s a degree of apathy because you know something great has ended. But, it’s accompanied by a satisfying feeling of accomplishment. Life often comes with this mixed bag assortment of feelings. Christians are able to enjoy wonderful blessings in this life, but it’s underscored by humanity’s brokenness. Just take a look at any major social media platform. You’ll read someone’s engagement announcement then scroll down to find a political rant spewing hatred. Or you’ll find a news report on a recent natural disaster coupled with funny cat videos. It’s emotional whiplash to say the least.
Even so, there is great purpose in the rollercoaster of feelings. In the midst of Paul’s direction on Christian character, he commands: “Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep” (Romans 12:15) There are many similar commands in this passage such as to hate evil and love good, to show kindness to your enemy, and to rejoice even during trials.
This rather perplexing juxtaposition enables Christians to be the “Salt of the Earth” (Matthew 5:13). Our character ought to be so wildly counter cultural that people can’t help but stare at us. In doing so, they will be staring at mini reflections of Christ himself!
It is my prayer that Romans 12 functions as the basis of operations during my return to Japan. It would give me no greater joy than to be a mini reflection of Jesus in whatever way possible! But for now, I say goodbye to the States for the next three months.
Expected projects include:
Translating Penelope Panda into Japanese
Collaborative dance/music performance with Anna Gardner
Another street photography collection
Women’s church retreat
Helping Grace City Tokyo Church settle into their new permanent building!
Japanese Language School
And much, much more…
Please be praying that the Lord works through the four interns in Tokyo this summer, that His kingdom be expanded, and that we are able to help the full-time missionaries get some much needed rest and encouragement.