Reality check

Here is an article that was sent to me about the state of welfare in Kitakyushu. Tragic...

My Testimonial: Justin

<- the team w/some our favorite ppl


Missions Testimonial: Japan 2007

Hello Everyone,

Praise the Lord! Amen? What an incredible summer it's been! And with this Fall season approaching, or already here, i felt a need to write this letter now rather than wait another day or two in which could very well turn into another month! So as this is a Testimonial, i just wanted to thank you all for being such incredible supporters in my trip to Japan. This being my second year going to Japan, I felt even more so that God's presence and leading upon me was to an even greater degree! I believe that this was because of your prayers and so i thank you once again, and again i will do so over and over because i've been so blessed by everyone who has supported me. So to start, since coming back from Japan, i've had several opportunities to share what God has been speaking to me about and im just so excited to see that every time i've done so, those who have heard the word are blessed by it. I've also started my second quarter at The King's Seminary in which i am taking on a full load and already trying not to let the overwhelming amount of work overcome me! So with that said, excuse me for being a little brief as i talk about my trip Japan.

At the end of last year, i really felt like God was telling me to go back the next year, which really wasn't what i had hoped to hear after having prayed all pretrip before for God to tell me what He wanted me to do in Japan. And so this year, I as i headed back to Japan, my mind was filled with even a little bit of confusion. Though i knew that God wanted me to go back, i really had no idea why. I knew only that by going, i was doing God's will. Not that i didn't have a passion for the people, it's just that I really didn't know what God was going to speak to me about through this trip. I think i was just hoping he would tell me a little more about my actually calling in Japan and so forth. I think three main experiences really really spoke to me, and are the experiences in which have really solidified what i believe is God's calling for me, at least in part. The first experience was that in Tokyo. While in Tokyo, my team visited two churches, one called the "Jesus Life House church", founded by Hillsongs in Australia, and the second called "New Hope Life church" founded by "New Hope Life" church in Hawaii. What was amazing to me is that after both services, which were both very amazing, the pastors actually spent time afterwards to speak with the team. We we're all very blessed by how willing and eager they were in encouraging us to continue on in our efforts to reach Japan. What spoke to the most about what each pastor was telling us was that ten churches in the area were united in their endeavors to reach Tokyo. Some of those churches even met in this one building! Sharing facilities and everything! One pastor even told us that if we were ever to plant a church in Tokyo, they'd be willing to support us! Amazing right?... first that ten churches in Tokyo are so willing to work with one another, and secondly that they're so willing to help out others. I think in the Valley alone there are like 30 churches, yet not even two of them are truly united as these churches in Japan are. Amazing right?

The second experience i had was simply just seeing those people in whom met the year before. People like my half Japanese, half Scottish friend Stephen, who serves as a youth coordinator at the main church that we work with. I was just so filled with joy seeing all of the little kids and parents that I so eagerly wanted to see again. Especially so, Stephen represents to me my first real friend in Japan, someone in whom i can relate with since we're the same age and he's able to speak perfect English since he was raised partially in Scotland. There was something about this trip though, that unlike last year, felt very much like being "at home". And this is just one of those experiences that have shaped what I believe God is using to speak to me.

Thirdly, During my last night in Japan, i was treated to this amazing dinner in which about 20 or so people had come too. At the end of the meal however, the host asked me to speak a short message. I was so caught off guard because I had nothing planned or written out to say, but I knew that God was telling me speak about something that has been on my mind since February, that being Christs reliance upon the Holy Spirit. I was nervous partially because I had a little over twenty people staring at me, and also because I was about to speak a message that normally takes about forty minutes to speak into ten minutes! As my translator spoke after me, my mind raced to get out what i'd be saying next, all the while looking to see if the Japanese people were getting what i was trying to say. I was a little discouraged at first, because if you know Japanese people, they kind of just stare at you with little expression. So there were no, "Amens" or "Hallelujahs", just maybe crickets in the background. After the message, and I had gone back to my home stay, i sat on my bed a little bummed about the message i gave, second guessing the order and content in which I chose to present my message. But this changed the morning after as i met up with my team, i was told that after I had left, a non-Christian mother and son had gone up to the translator and told her all about how the message i gave really encouraged her and made her feel closer to accepting Jesus as her Saviour! Hiro, my translator and fellow team member told me that they even spent an hour so talking about her faith and how the message really applied to her. Praise God!... So in this God used me to speak to me them in a powerful way.

So out of these three experiences this is what I feel God has spoken to me. I felt God's leading for me to plant a church in Japan, His peace in being there, and in His wanting to use me in speak to His people in Japan. Amazing right?

I wish I could have spent a lot more time preparing and then writing out this testimonial, but I hope that at least some of my joy and excitement for what God is calling me to do in Japan has rubbed off on you. My plans for next year does include going to Japan again, but eventually if not this next year I actually hope to lead the team. So ya, again i know this letter is not written very well, but because of the work load I'm under I really needed to write this quickly without much editing. Thank you so much once again!

God bless!
Justin Huang

Role Call

My name is Hannah
I like bananas
I don't eat breakfast
I heart Japan

Role call shibuya sha-sha-shibuya x2

My name is Paul
I like the fall
I wear nice jeans
So gimme a call

Role call shibuya sha-sha-shibuya x2

My name is Jean
Don't like red bean
I'll take yo pictcha
My eye is keen

Role call shibuya sha-sha-shibuya x2

***

That's how far we got as we traveled through Tokyo. We then went to Osaka, took the Love Boat to Kyushu, and now we are back in the Osaka area [near Kobe] for our last stretch of ministry. Today is a day of just preparing and shopping. Tomorrow, we have a woman's tea time where we are sharing our testimonies and fellowshipping with Christians and non-Christians alike. We will then have a Kid's English Bible camp for a few hours where we will teach them songs, crazy American games, and a craft. And then, we're back to the States. Brrrr.

It is difficult to think of something to blog about as we have been having such a wide variety of experiences the past few days. Please continue to pray for us, and more so, for the Japanese and the Japanese church. In particular, for the Kita [North] Kyushu Chapel, the word of "remnant" kept coming up. Like the Israelites, though they are surrounded on all sides by opposing forces, and though they are a minority, they have remained steadfast and faithful to the Lord. The Word was shared this past Sunday by the outgoing pastor of Isaiah 42:3-4. And while it was in reference to his own experiences, I saw it as a Word for that whole church as well. God will not snuff out their smoldering wick, and yes, the islands of Japan WILL put their hope in His law. So please join us in praying for that chapel, all of the other Christ Community Church chapels, the ZK community members, and the nation of Japan.

"A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out. In faithfulness he will bring forth justice; he will not falter or be discouraged till he establishes justice on earth. In his law the islands will put their hope." - Isaiah 42:3-4

Us with some of the members of the Kita Kyushu Chapel


***

And in case you were not at the Garden on Sunday, here is the video that we sent over...

His glory is falling down on this nation

Hi, our supporters.
In a past few days, we have felt His presence in every place in Tokyo. Now, i really feel finally, finally, Japan is open to the Gospel. It is very crucial timing for us to be in this nation although we will stay for only two weeks.
I still remember when i was teenager, i was looking for churches in Tokyo. However, i could not find any church there. I was sad. I needed to know His unfailing love. I felt i was walking in a desert.
God is so faithful. We visited one church last sunday and i didn't know which church we would visit until a day before. Do you know what kind of miraculous thing God has made happened? The church is in the same town i was looking for churches 24 years ago and the building the church was in used to be a bookstore back then. 24 years ago, i was sad because i could not find any churches in the town and stopped by one bookstore to get my first Bible in my life. 24 years later, God built the building on the same place and put the awesome church in the building.

While we were at the service, i could not stop crying. A lot of people were worshipping at the church. Some of them even danced over joy. I felt He was talking to me, " Look at the people, Hiro" He knew I was sad when i could not find a church in the town. He knew exactly how i felt. 24 years later, He brought me back to the exactly the same place and showed to me what He has done.

He is so faithful.

PS: WE arrived in Osaka safely this afternoon. Thank you for keeping us in your prayer.

First Blog form Japan!!

It's been only 2 1/2 days and we've seen so much. I've included a few pics to show. Small cars, lots of trains, tall buildings, driving on the wrong side of the street. We are 16 hours ahead, so it's been interesting waking at 4am and crashing hard at 9pm. We're in Tokyo till Wed (in Japan). We've visited (2) churches here and it was really great to join them worship our God. It's hard to write in words what is seen and felt. It really is amazing to be in a country different than what we're used to. People here are so courteous. I think we make up most of the noise wherever we go. Americans. We had a chance to meet with our very own Hiro's mom. She's such a sweet person and we had a chance to just spend time with her. Our touching Japan begins here, and our hearts are so excited to see the Lord opening closed hearts. And there will be a praise report in this story. The city is beautiful. Unbelievable really, how so many people live here with a respect for each other. I wish we had this in the States. But then I wish there was more grace here. It's coming, cuz He's coming. We are doing great! it's hot and humid, but it's Japan! So bring it on! Thank you for the prayers. This is the first! See you soon again soon.

Send off at LAX


Tokyo


Dinner with Hiro's mom (Jean's taking the pic)

Where's my change?!

The Final Countdown

For those of you who watch "Arrested Development," that's the Gob song. I think it's fitting for our last few days in the US. As I've been running around doing last minute things, it struck me today how I have this feeling that I need to say goodbye to everyone. Not that I'm never coming back or anything, but I can't explain it.

Perhaps the convergence of my birthday, my unemployment, and this trip is going to cause something crazy to happen in my life.
Perhaps I'll be so inherently changed through this trip that I will come back a different person.
Perhaps I'm standing on the brink of something grand, peering over the edge, knowing that something is going to happen if I jump.
Perhaps, perhaps, perhaps...

Bring it, Lord. I want ALL that You have for me and for all of us.

No Common Act

"It is not what a man does that determines whether his work is sacred or secular, it is why he does it... Let a man sanctify the Lord God in his heart and he can thereafter do no common act."
-AW Tozer Pursuit of God

If I "un-complicate" my life, life is pretty simple, huh? It seems simpler and clearer as the trip draws nearer.

6 days to go.

There is His will behind...

I appreciate God made my accident (i got a hit-and-run last week) happened. Oh, maybe you are concering like, "oh, Hiro hit the head? She is out of mind?" Not at all. I am physically fine! I appreciate even this hit-and-run because until then, i had been distracted by so many things... Yeah, this time, spiritual attacks have been so intense. I was knocked down ( almost ) and diescouraged in many ways. seems like Satan really does not want to see our mission happening. He hates what we are doing... so, until the accident, i was so weak that he kept attacking me ( especially, he kept trying to discourage me). After the accident, i verbalized that God has protected me. He protected me from the accident physically and spiritually. After the accident, i realized satan failed completely because He is always with me.

Thank you for the hit-and-run, Father!!

Hiro

Another prayer with 8 days left to go

Father, we thank you for our friends and family who are supporting us through finances, support, love, and prayer. Please help them see that they are not simply someone who writes a check, but as someone incredibly vital to this trip. We pray that they would be blessed immensely as they do not simply watch us go, but go with us.

"I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow." [1Cor3:6+7]

We all have different roles, but have the same purpose. So we thank You for every member that is faithful to their part. As our family at home has been faithful to their role, may we, as the physical travelers, be faithful to ours as well. And above all, may Your Kingdom come, Your will be done in Japan.

In Jesus' name, amen.

Exciting!

I'm super excited that our Missions trip to Japan is coming up so soon. There's still a lot to do before we need to head off, but im so happy to be apart of something that i know God is going to use greatly for his kingdom. As i told the team yesterday, i dont feel fully ready to go yet. Not that i have any pressing matters to attend to first, its just that, i have this goal that i want to attain before i head off... This goal being to pray even more fervently for the Japanese people with each passing day until we leave. So ya, i really feel convicted to be in more prayer as i believe our faith in what God will do with the team will dictate what God is going to do by our prayers. lastly as our team is heading off in less than two weeks, i ask that you who read this be in prayer for our finances as for the most part, we are in need of more financial support. thanks!!!

Inspiring

These past two weeks have just been so amazing! starting with my friend's arrival back from Japan, i found myself just renewed and hungering for prayer! To pray with certainty without doubt that God is going to do mighty things in my own life but also in the lives of many others that God has put on my heart. I feel invigorated in the knowledge that my prayers have true impacting power! Not in it of myself, but by the Power of the Holy Spirit... God who is Lord over all things. And What better time for me to be going through this personal revival than now, when in just under two weeks i'll be heading to Japan! Sugoi!(awesome) ne?(Right?) Im just so pumped to be going for i know that God is going to be doing such incredible things through our missions trip =) God bless... And oh! thank you Thank you THANK YOU CG for being such an incredible encouragement to the whole team. What awesome brother and sisters we have. God Bless!!!!

Guard it jealously

"The most important aspect of Christianity is not the work we do, but the relationship we maintain and the surrounding influence and qualities produced by that relationship. That is all God asks us to give our attention to, and it is the one thing that is continually under attack." - My Utmost for His Highest

Our relationship.
It's the source.

Challenge Course Pics

July 28th: UCLA Challenge Course with our CG's

Everyone on this side to that side. and everyone on that side to this
side. Using those 2 planks. Arrrrg....


The zigzag. whew...


Our fearless leader and J.Crew model


it's pretty high. the telephone crews.


Thank you, Juna. And our CG's, you guys are the best!

We have a great supporter and sister

Cortney, I have been always blessed by you since i met you for the first time. Even though you are in LA, you are on your mission and you are in our prayers all the time.
On behalf of the J-team, thank you so much for your encouragement. hope see you at our send-off party.

Thank you so much, James ( Hannah's friend?), that you always check our website

God is good. Last year,I really learned it does not matter who is a goer and who is a sender. We are bonded in Him and care about non-believers all over the world.

I love you all
Hiro

Only in Japan #5392

Designer rice paddies. Woaw.

23 days to go!!

All Caught Up

Lately i've been very bad in reading the material that my team has been assigned to read. I kept telling myself that i'd read a certain chapter or pgs by a certain time a date, only to find myself hanging out with my friends and missing yet another weeks worth of reading... I know... Bad JUstin! =P Gomenosai... BUt Gomenosai no More! i've finally caught up! i Spent the whole day read our In Pursuit of God book as well as our other hand outs because i felt convicted that my procrastination these past few weeks has kept me from really being "in-step" with my other team members... especially those in whom have kept up with the reading this whole time. So ya, i'm all caught up!...mostly that is... haha i've still a bit more to read... but ya anyhow... i've learned a lot from the readings... especially about the chungryun community that we'll be reaching out to on our missions trip. So ya... im really happy that i read most of everything and im excited to read more as my excitement for our missions trip is really starting to stir up again! woo hoO!!!
i love this picture!

Kitakyushu city- my second hometown

When i heard we were going to this city ( i didn't know it until very recently), I was speechless because so many memories came back to me. The old good one. Yes, I had lived in this city for five years.

I feel a little bit weird ( in a good way) because i am going to this city, in which i had lived for five years, as a short term missionary with the team. God will bring me back to the city and the nation for His purpose, not for my sightseeing.

I am pretty sure when i land this city ( we will take a ferry), i would cry. It would be a good crying. How do you feel you are going to your second hometown as a missionary ( even ST missionary)? I used to see the fireworks from this blick-made building in every summer. I love driving to this city ( it took for 20 min by car from my apartment) sunday afternoon. God is wonder.. He brought me here, the states, to get to know Him and He will send me back to my memorable second hometown. Not only can i speak the standard japanese, i also can speak "their dilect". I love this city because people are so passionate and nice. I remember so many people's faces. My friend's dad was working at the station ( in above pic).

I will invite my friends to the church we visit. I will introduce my team and Jesus Christ to them

FOCUS

Was reminded of this verse when taking care of some Japan stuff this evening...

"Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchmen stand guard in vain."
[Psalm 127.1]

LORD, without You, it's just a vacation.

an encouragement from up north

hey team,
this is actually an encouragement from my cousin to our team:

Isaiah 58;11 -- And the Lord will be your guide at all times; in dry places he will give you water in full measure, and will make strong your bones; and you will be like a watered garden, and like an ever-flowing spring.

i hope you're as encouraged as i was. the Word always has a tendency to do that. ;)

I've come to realize how important we update our blog to express our thoughts or write our prayer requests. I met several sisters and brothers i don't see so often and found out they keep reading my blog. "Hiro, i am so encouraged by your blog" or " I am so excited about your japan mission!" That is so encouraging to me. These days I got caught by my "busyness" so i don't update so often. From now on, i will keep updating regularly.

Last night, we were at LAX to send off Oxaca team. I really like being at LAX to send off/welcome mission teams. I learned to be a good sender because i ended up not going on any mission last year. I also like seeing people who are just about to leave. I see their excitement and appreciation to God. He make the missions happen. These missions are His, not ours.
When i gave hug each members in Oxaca team, it really hit me that we will leave in 4 weeks. Yes, we are leaving for Japan. Wow... it will finally happen.. I feel a little bit weird about it because i am going to the nation, which i was born and raise, with my good fellow, hannah, Jean, Teresa, TJ, Paul, and Justin.

I still have to raise fund for this mission. I am not worried about it because i know He will provide us whatever we need for the mission. If God wants us to go, He will make a way. I trust Him.
I saw one miraculous thing... I heard that all members in a mission team at another church lost passports. The person who told me this story and i prayed for them this saturday. When i sent off our oxaca team, i saw the team, in which all members lost their passports. I saw them leaving for their mission, too. God is amazing!!!

I wonder wonder wonder..

In the living breathing cosmos there is a mysterious Something, too wonderful, too awful [i.e. `awesome'] for any mind to understand. The believing man does not claim to understand. He falls to his knees and whispers, `God.' The man of earth kneels also, but not to worship. He kneels to examine, to search, to find the cause and the how of things. Just now we happen to be living in a secular age. Our thought habits are those of the scientist, not those of the worshipper. We are more likely to explain than to adore. `It thundered,' we exclaim, and go our earthly way. But still the Voice sounds and searches. The order and life of the world depend upon that Voice, but men are mostly too busy or too stubborn to give attention.
I WISH i wrote this. It's actually a para from Tozer- the Pursuit of God, ch 6. So profound. READ IT.
Today as I was watching some Planet Earth like program on insects, I was wondering how people could refute God- I dont want to explain how one caused me to think of the other, you'll think Im weird. My friend once said "religion was just made up by man so that we could feel at peace about what happens when we die." I could see why that would be reason for people to get to know God, but what about everything else? Why do people believe in karma or coincidence or luck only? Why can't they accept the fact that there is a purpose for everything and that God is behind it all? The Earth works in wondrous ways- some things are too perfect to be considered just science. And what's up with this "mother earth" business.. insects just don't evolve on their own.. the food chain wasn't made on its own... It's kinda like the chicken and egg dilemma, how can people possibly explain everything. How did the dung beetle come to like dung? How come the mayfly lives for less than an hour and has no mouth? It's human nature to be curious about life and purpose and value and supernatural beings but sometimes things can't be explained unless God is in the picture. You know what's crazy, people are trying to play God now.. controlling the weather n whatnot. PISHPOSH. God is going to break down their Babel.
I feel like one day it's all going to come together. There will be this era where everybody goes AHHH! or I get it! or That makes sense! light bulbs will go off and people will realize that God is the only answer. I mean God, the Bible, Jesus, Christianity is all around us and finally when non-believers get over that little hump of whatever keeps them away, there will be revival. Goosebumpy!
I don't doubt that God is mysterious, and sometimes unexplainable, but isn't that part of what makes Him so amazing and GOD? Man I love Him.
Can't wait for Japan.

Surprises?

Ya Surprises... I feel like God has been surprising me a whole lot lately... first with starting me off in a relationship!! Yayer... But also in some smaller things like, receiving a check from school because of an advance i gave them a while back (That was totally awesome, and i guess kind of like Tj's story), really becoming closer to some of my managers at work (Praying for them and telling them that im praying for them), Losing 7 lbs in the past almost three weeks!, and and.... well it's just going to keep on going but ya, i think you all get the point... just so many amazing things have been going on, and im just so privileged to be a part of it =)

TJ Holding Hannah... lol! (Inside joke)

A small miracle

Just wanted to share a quick testimony...not like a life-changing miracle per se, but definitely evidence of God's mighty hand. I've been praying a lot recently about battling my flesh and living by the Spirit first. It's been humbling and relentless to say the least, but my eyes have really been opened to see how fiercely the flesh fights back. With that said, one area that I have been battling the flesh is in the area of provision. It's the whole conflict of trusting in my own (in)ability to save vs. God's provision in all circumstances. So I've been continually surrendering that to Him, asking Him to teach me to trust Him, even when my bank account is anemic and this $2200 trip is looming.

Well last night, I was going through a giant, 2 month old stack of mail and saw a random letter from my car insurance folk. Thinking it was a change of policy or something boring like that, I opened it and lo and behold, there was a check! Not a crazy amount, but there it was! I then thought it was one of those tricks where you cash the check and they sign you up for some service, but as far as I can tell, it was just free money. Who gets money from their insurance company saying "because of a good financial year and blah blah blah, we wanted to give you a refund on your premium"?! Obviously, I can trust that He will provide for me through my friends, but through a selfish insurance company? Nonsense! More than the money itself, I immediately saw God's hand at work. There it was, a gentle reminder than He is in control and that I can trust Him.

So remember that He is able and that He is GENEROUS. He is not stingy so that He can save up for a plasma or something, but He is "stingy" in our eyes to teach us whatever He wants to teach us. And I am so thankful He is smarter than me. *sigh* It's like honey. MmmmmMMmmmmMM...

P.S. Only four more weeks!!

P.P.S. Justin kinda looks like Fez. HAHAHA!

Earthquake in Japan... Let's Pray

Here is a link to a video I found - although we cannot understand what they are saying (except for Hiro) it shows the damage that was caused by yesterday's earthquake. Please join us in praying for the people who have been affected by this incident.

Hey you people out there!

Just a few miscellaneous things to all our supporters out there...

- Save the date!: Our send-off/thank-you party will be Sunday, August 12th at 5p-8p. It will be held at The Garden Christian Fellowship, 20745 Nordhoff St., 91311. Please join us for some authentic Japanese food, fun, and prizes as we get ready to go. We just want to thank and bless all of our supporters through this night.

- Email list: If you would like the latest and greatest from the team before, during, and after the trip, please send an email to gardening.in.japan [at] gmail [dot] com. We promise not to mail bomb you!

- Comment!: If you're out there and reading this, drop us a comment so we know that we're not just posting for our teammates!

We can't go without your support and love, so we thank you for partnering with us in this endeavor from the Lord. Hopefully, this little blog will allow you to get a glimpse of what's going on through your prayers and support. May you be RICHLY blessed as we are by YOU.

The movie/novel which represents me is..

Shusaku Endo's novel, "Silence".http://www.amazon.com/Silence-Shusaku-Endo/dp/0800871863/ref=pd_bbs_2/102-8718575-6196169?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1184565731&sr=8-2 The story is about the tragic confession of European Christian missionaries who came to Japan in the 16th century. Some of them were persecuted by Shogun/samurai. When I got persecutions/rejections from the Japanese people, that reminds me of this novel. When I met Tku's dad, he mentioned about Endo and he was interested in how Endo's novels have influenced the Japanese people. Now, my memory came back! I read this book when i was 17 and afterwards, i started looking for churches. Thanks, Arigato- Endo san!

Today's training really made me realize we really will go on the j-mission soon! Arigato- TJ, Jean, Paul, Justin, Hannah, and Teresa. I also appreciate Perry/Jean's CG people. They just stormed in our meeting room and bombed so many snack/cute boxes for everyone with their love. Arigato-!!

i second that!

i'm raising my hand high to getting a beatdown by the fat old humility stick! not necessarily because i want it, but because God wants it for me. another teammate reminded me that God's pruning us and preparing us and building our characters, not only for our lives, but looking short-term, for this mission. so team:

Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.~1 Timothy 6:12

Helloo!!!

Hellooo!!! as miss Doubtfire would say. i'm doing pretty good. Since coming back from Iowa last thursday, i've been privileged enough to spend a lot of good time in fellowship with my friends and J-team. I love my friends so much.... I say this without reserve that i have the best friends a person could ever desire. They encourage me when im down, lift me up when others try to take me down, help me when i need help, and even rebuke me when i am in need of rebuking. I thank God for helping me remember what joy there is in having such great friends... It's my friends that God has used to do great things in me, and it's through my friends that God will do even greater things! In my car yesturday...or the day before....i forget when, but as i was pondering the many things that i like to ponder.... haha..... i came up with a conclusion after having pondered Ecclesiastes, that "Meaning found me".... everything is meaningless... a righteous man will die as any wicked man, and sometimes a righteous man receives what a wicked man deserves and visa versa. But God brings meaning... And it was not i who found Him, it was He who found me... that's why i say, it was Meaning who found me. Praise God! amen?? anyhow... Peace out yo!

Ouch

Is anyone else getting a major, continual beatdown with the humility stick? It sure does hurt, but I know that it's crucial in following Jesus. Today's word was John 3:30: "He must increase, but I must decrease." I want a reprieve, but I also want all the pride to be beaten outta me. Like the song says, "keep it comin', HUH!"

It just occurred to me today..

that we're going to share God's love through service and testimony.
This whole time, we've been training for missions, but it really hit me during today's training why we're going. It happened specifically when we prayed for the ZK [Ks living in Japan] community, which by the way, i really didn't know much about, so sorry if my prayer didn't make sense. My heart broke because these people don't know Jesus and His love. My heart broke because I was thinking about how El Norters don't have the privilege or freedom to praise God freely in El Norte (there are N. and S. Koreans in this community).
Today's message was awesome. Roy is like a comedian-pastor-cartoon character all in one. God really put a wonderful word on his heart today. It was about the 11th hour christian (Matthew 20:1-16). Even though we are at the bottom of the barrel, worthless, and sinful, God still rescued us and gave us grace, wave upon wave. *when Roy was giving that image of laying on the beach, having wave upon wave gently wash over you, I couldnt help but wince because all I could imagine was swallowing salt water, getting water up your nose, and having some jelly fish or seaweed all over you, but i got what he meant*
I am a sinner, and yet God still has use for me. He's gonna get some glory out of me. I truly felt that i was hand-picked by God to go to Japan. I felt a wave of grace upon me today during prayer, and it slowly grew. God has salvaged my life, and now I'm being prepared to share His love with others. It's a beautiful thing.
I pictured myself entering the ZK community. google it if you dont know who they are. I pictured myself talking to an old woman in my broken korean/japanese, but still we were able to communicate. I pictured myself hugging her, and silently praying for her, hoping that the encounter we had that day would have an impact on her and that later on she can see that God was speaking to her right then and there.
Gnite.

Yes, I have to admit i am worn out. The things really get hectic at my work and although i say to myself, " its okay. It should be because i have to get things done before i leave for our J-mission", my fatigue engulfs me and my energy level is really low these days. The physical tiredness leads me to be weak in many ways. I know satan loves using my fatigue to discourage me because i don't think he likes what we are/will be doing.

he also know my weakness is "my visa status" It has been always always the issue since i started going on missions. About a year ago, i talked to my lovely sister in Christ ( she is at another church)

JK: Hiro, what is your prayer request? i want to pray for you. so, your prayer request is about future boy friend/husband? career?
Me: My prayer request is my visa status.
JK: Excuse me? What did you say? Visa? so, you mean a Green card?
Me: Yes, i want to get a green card soon so i can go on missions!
JK: Oh, okay, i see your point. Oh, i have never heard these kind of prayer request. haha.. Okay, Hiro. I will pray for you.

I know not a lot of people know about visa issue. okay, when i was in Japan, I had never ever thought of it because i am citizen there. sometimes, it is difficult for me to explain to people about it not because of my language skill but because of something else. Last year, i ended up not going on missions mostly because of my visa status. One guy ( from another church and we barely know each other) kept asking me why i would not go. I kept explaining to him. and finally, he said, " Hiro, i am very disappointed in your decision. i thought you were mission-minded and cared about Japan, your country. i wish you could go on missions to be a great TRANSLATOR"

Since then, i just stopped explaining to people about my visa. I am really afraid if i sound making excuses not to go or something like that. I got hurt. I really got hurt. and i have no expectation that people would understand why i could not go on j-mission last year. I don't care if people think i am not faithful based on that i didn't go on mission last year, please do so. i am really tired of taking care of this issue.

I am thankful to the Lord that He has given me a H-1B visa. I know it is from Him. Not because what i have done. He is so faithful and almighty. Yes, two sisters already left for their countries because they did not get H-1B. I know how painful it would be.
God is so good because i have learned so many things from my visa experiences. If i had gone on missions last year, i would not have learned so many things i learned. I learned a lot.
But sometimes, especially, when i am physically worn out, satan always tries to use this issue. He does not use.. let's say.. boy friend/spouse issue because he knows i don't care much about it. In other words, I sometimes envy people who have a green card but never ever envied a friend who has a great boy friend/husband. I am just happy for them but never thought, " i wish i had a boyfriend/husband/kids...." maybe because i am not sure if i want to get married or not. I am just not sure if it ( that i will get married) is God's will or not.

God purposely gives us a challenge. I know my visa status is my trial to grow. He wants me to grow so he still gives me this issue.
Okay, i will pray for my financial status because i need $5000 to apply for my green card. Now, i can apply with my H-1B. I am ready to do that except money.
I know God will give me a green card in His timing, not mine. yes, i am frustrated but i have decided to surrender all to Him. He has everything in His hand.
To tell the truth, when i saw a demonstration about immigration law this afternoon, i saw my bitterness in my mind. They are illegal and have not paid tax. However, they automatically can get a green card. I am legal and have paid tax. I have to hire lawyer to apply for that. I still think it is very unfair but i will try to pray for the illegal one. It is still difficult but i will.

Thank you for being there with me, the Garden J-team!

.....

I just spent 20 minutes writing a post and it has disappeared. I am not too thrilled. Further proof that I am not at all computer savvy.

Maybe this is God's plan because to be honest I think I was rambling a bit too much anyway.

I do want to say to Teresa that Transformers will never be better than Harry Potter.

Now on a more serious note: I am really hoping that God will burden me more. That I would have an urgency and an intense desire to see the people of Japan come to know God's love. Of course if we didn't have that initial burden we wouldn't be going. But its different... I feel like there should be more from me. That my heart should really wrench when I think about Japan... for now it just makes me happy to go.. and that isn't bad but it doesnt feel right either. I need a new perspective and to come back to knowing His burden. To know what HE wants, what breaks HIS heart... I need to let go so that there is none of me and an abundance of Him. Like in the bible when people would tear their robes from despair or an intense longing for something. I always thougth that was weird but I think I understand it. When you really desire something so badly that you can't do anything but just clench your fists and cry out. I will not be tearing my robes... but I hope for that same passion for God to send a burden down that I can feel His urgency. I know that He desires so much and we are going into a dark place where darkness is real and that the battle is just ahead. Lord - prepare us!!

Another glimpse

I came across this article about Japanese hospitality, and was reminded of the ridiculous attention to detail that the Japanese are so very fond of. It feels so "Japanese" to me how they even take out a single match to make it easier for you! But this attention to detail, this inordinate desire to be hospitable is, oddly enough, a blockade that prevents God from coming in. They do not want to upset others, upset the group, stand out at all. I remember how we played line charades last year with some of the kids, and one of them absolutely refused to be the team leader and be singled out. In a land with such a small number of Christians, it is going to truly take a divine force to push against hundreds of years of culture and society. But if anyone can do it, it's God.

Pray for the nation... there are many who try to reach Him but keep failing... pray for the nation God shakes passionatelly to open to His words... pray for the nation people are suffering its high suicide rate... pray for the nation...

Transformers, robots in disguise!

Go watch it. I loved it. I even cheered when the robot did cool moves. I don't care what you think. It's good.
This has nothing to do with Japan.. or does it?
So I went with some friends to go see this movie. Earlier that day we were having a small lil bbq get together. Somehow the word "Christianity" came up and I couldnt help but eaves drop. I do that anyway, but this time i wasn't hiding it. One of my friends said to another friend: "Don't be bringing your christian-ness here." It sounded like he was kidding, but i wanted to inquire. So I jumped in and was like "What's wrong with being christian?" And he was like "Oh nothing, i just dont like it when they push their beliefs on me." He's Muslim.
So I was like ok, sure. Here's where Japan comes in. I wonder if that's how they all feel. Im sure some are more open, and some are actually looking for answers, but how can we get to those who dont even want to listen? The conversation kept going but the topic changed. I didn't say anything about his comment. Awhile back, a friend asked me, "Can a non religious person be considered moral?" and i was like "Of course." That is true, so everybody can show love through kind actions. So if they dont want to listen, and our kindness is not unique, then how do we share about Jesus? It sounds simple, but at the time, i was sorta stuck.
Lately, I've been surrounded by people who are opposed to Christianity, but they are my good friends. I don't compromise my beliefs around them. They respect my beliefs, but they def. dont share them, so how do I get to them?! How can I get to the Japanese people? How can I get to my brother? These thoughts are always around me. One thing I know: Pray. but what else?
This is what I need to be praying for. I've been telling everybody that Im going to Japan for missions, but at the same time, Im unable to tell them what Im going to be doing. I gotta let go of my inhibitions and let the Spirit lead. I'm only beginning to know what that means.
That's all.
Side note: I think it'd be awesome to have Japanese transformers in the next sequel. Not all rice-rockety, but more like samurai/ninja like. It'll be cooler than Harry Potter. Yep, I said it.

let it burn

seeing the magnificent fireworks last night reminded me of the hanabis we lit in japan. these and a few other amazing ones were the ones we lit last year!

and somehow, remembering that, i was also reminded of the picture God showed me last year. it was a picture of a metropolitan city, with people scattered all about it. they were formless, pillers of ashes. but in a slight moment, what looked like sunlight started to beam across the city from the left horizon. the instant it touched the pillars, the ashes began to flutter away, giving color and shape and an identity to the beings. this time, the most striking part of the picture was the brilliance of the light. it clearly plays a dominant role in this motion picture, but just how much of it, i didn't realize before. last year, without even question, the light represented the believers touching out to this nation (as we should be the light of this world), but more and more it's becoming clear that Jesus, God, Holy Spirit is this light, that only by their love and grace and brilliance can they touch a nation as such. and with that, i'm humbled to pray more, t0 have more faith, to desperately depend on God for this mission.

Hey!!!

Hey hey! gomenosai!(sorry!) i forgot to post last week! doh!!! but here i go... Having come back from Iowa last night at 1am!! was uhh.... tiring? but mostly nice. Not saying that meeting all of my step relatives was bad... NOT AT ALL EVEN!!! it was actually really really cool getting to see them all and know them better. But ya, it wasn't bad, i just really missed you all! my Amigos! my brothers and sister from another mother! haha... Plus, seeing acres and acres of nothing but corn was being to drive me crazy. Though, i do have this strong craving for corn... =) anyhow, i really wish i could have gone to the j-team retreat, but alas... there's always next year i suppose.... =P Anyhow...how am i doing? Well IM GLAD YOU ASKED!~!!! gosh it's like reading my mind or something. I'm doing well! man, by not having been surrounded by the mass amounts of advertisements and media that we have here, i really felt a little rejuvenated. it's like there's something about mass media that bogs a person down without you(i mean me) realizing it. Also, since i didn't spend much time doing anything aside from just talking a whole lot about myself to my relatives, i really got to spend a lot of time in prayer while reading my bible. Spiritually i feel very rejuvenated, and so i'm thankful that though i wasn't able to be with the rest of my completely awesome team in San diego, God still did a similar work in me through this trip to Iowa. God bless everyone!!!

more of it!

THIS is how big the cup was!
















TJ & Hannah, gearing up for Japan!



















Tku, not so much...hehe
















need i say more??








mmm...California Burritos
(for those who don't know, there are actual french fries in them!!)















and while the fellas laid out,
the ladies played a little catch







































one of my favorite pictures!












we missed you, Justin! we'll have to photoshop you in! (that's been our team's theme)







aww...God picked a good group, a very good one.

Beautiful San Diego with beautiful people.

We begin with breakfast at Literati Cafe. Justin is missed. But Hiro and I drank the biggest cup of coffee in his honor.

Our hotel in downtown Sand Eggo, as shown by our very own, Jean-takki Mushroom!

Painting supposedly worth $10,000 each! there are 2 of these paintings in each room! i think someone got ripped off... it's nice work. but not $10,000 worth.



















Our fearless leader....and Hello Kitty. Hello Kitty.

It was a great trip just enjoying the beautiful avenues of His grace that each of us are to one another and to this team. What a team!

We played sequence! Lost both times.

oops i did it again,, literally

double love from tk.

finally, the last team member

Nicknames: Tku, TK, T

Person in the bible you like most//most want to be like: Im assuming this is besides Jesus, that's given. I suppose, Noah. Not because I love animals or because I just watched Evan Almighty, but because he took a leap of faith and built that insanely huge ark even though everybody was against him. He was obedient and the Lord provided.

Favorite Japanese Thing: Language. I love the Japanese laguage. I wish i could speak it fluently.
Favorite Japanese food: oh no. there's too many. I love shabushabu, I love sushi/sashimi, I love that sweet tamago (egg), I love mochi balls, i love green tea, i love tempura, i love soba, etc. conclusion: it is impossible to have a favorite japanese food.

What are you looking forward to the most? I have no idea. I want to see the city, I want to see what a Japanese house looks like, I want to see a lifesize doraemon, I want to eat Nato. JUST KIDDING. those things are great, but im actually looking forward to just meeting people. I cant wait to talk to the lil kids- I love kids. and cute lil Japanese kids?! omg im going to melt. also, i'll be able to talk to them more easily since my J is like 5th grade level. :)

What are you looking forward to the least? The hot car. Sea sickness.

Expectations: Great ones. like the book. to be more specific, i just want to make friends. I expect that our team will grow close and that we'll have a better sense of where God wants to use us over there. Everything is going to be wonderful.

I love you, the Garden J-team

I can't verbalize how much i appreciate each member on the Japan mission team. I just can't express my feeling in any language. yes, it is not a language issue. I also can't express how much i have been blessed and inspired by each of them.

Our skit was "sukiyaki" on the mission ministry lunch/silent auctions. I love our skit because we are like sukiyaki ingredients which make a delicious sukiyaki. We need meet, tofu, eggs, vegetables.... each ingredient is needed for sukiyaki.

Of course I am excited about the mission but still feel a little bit weird in a good way. " Wow, i am so excited!! Is that true?" God is smiling at me and says, " Yes, it is. Hiro" He will send us to the nation which i was born and raised. He knows how much i tried to reach Him when i was in Japan. I thought no one knows how sad i was when i gave up looking for a church in Japan about two decades ago. He knew it. Now, I finally go to my motherland as one of the J-team. And i am so thankful to the Lord that He has given us this opportunity. It is His mission. Not ours.

Thank you for being one of "ingredients", everyone!!

Support your local mission team!

Konnichiwa! We are selling our church's mission shirts to raise funds for our trip, so if you'd like a new black t-shirt, please let us know or leave a comment by July 8th. $12 per shirt, and all the proceeds go to our team's general fund. Arigatoo!

a prayer warrior

though we're all brimming with the fondest memories of japan, as i pray more and more for this mission, i'm reminded of one precious memory of the time we met with the Mukonoso church to pray together. though our tongues were nations apart, the Spirit of unity was there. One specific prayer request i remember was for the history of barriers to break down. it was not only for the ill history between korea and japan, but also the history between believers and non-believers. God's been convicting me more and more to pray for the falling of these walls! and with that, a greater desperation to depend on Him is building. thanks, God.

this was the woman that prayed that profound prayer. her heart and faith inspired me:

Like a Broken Record

FINALLY finished Job. Reading through chapters and chapters of bunk advice seems a bit pointless by the time you hit the 20s, but the payoff at the end is worth it. Seriously, what the heck do we know about anything? God is wayyyyyyy bigger and powerful-er and worthier to be feared than we can imagine. Man is seriously ignorant and stupid when it comes down to it. Who are we to rail against the one that knows all and created all the intricate mysteries of the universe? So again, I was brought to the place of HUMILITY. Not only a key word for this mission trip, it is definitely a key word in the life of a follower of Jesus. He could smite us in a second, and yet chooses not to for some reason.

Flying by....

2 months to go! It's crazy to think we will be in Japan so soon. Time is just really flying by. The other day I was looking at pictures from Japan and I got so excited. Why do I love Japan so much?? But as I was looking at the pictures God was telling me to leave my expectations at His feet. This trip will not be the same as the last and I have to let go of any pre conceived notions about this summer's mission. He desires a new thing and that makes me both nervous and excited. A familiar feeling. Either way though I am looking forward to our time in Japan and wish we could leave sooner! (For some reason that use of "sooner" doesn't seem grammatically correct)

I wonder if it will be really hot and humid like last time or if it will cool down since we are going later on in the summer. Hiro??

I'm Paul

Nicknames: Pavilion, Luap, Pwawl, Chupa, Cha-dol.

Person in the Bible most like you // most want to be like: King David: tender with the Lord at times // Want to be like Paul: to know his Lord in intellect but more so in spirit. not to just understand, but to really know the Lord.

Favorite Japanese thing: Miyazaki and Kurosawa films. And "Shall We Dance?"

Favorite Japanese food: Sesame chicken (w00t!)

Why Japan?: God really loves his people in Japan and he wants to show them through my hands and feet and heart. :) so i gotta go. and i really want to go. He put that in my heart 1 year ago and it's been simmering since.

What are you looking forward to most?: Flying overseas. Seeing Japan, its cities, villages, its people, meeting with the churches there, playing with the kids, singing and praying, sharing and laughing with people, meeting new brothers and sisters.

What are you looking forward to least?: Flying overseas. Not being able to communicate well enough.

Expectations: Have a fun time with brothers and sisters there. To make new friends. Be like church in Acts; real family.

I'm Justin

Nicknames: Jay
Person in the Bible most like you // most want to be like: Maybe Moses? But, i'm not sure why // David: He represents to me a man who passionately Worshiped God with no reserve.
Favorite Japanese thing: Animation
Favorite Japanese food: Everything!
Why Japan?: God taught me so much by going to Japan last year. I just cant wait to see what he has in store for me this year
What are you looking forward to most?: Seeing everyone i met last year, eating the amazing food, and just having fun!
What are you looking forward to least?: I agree with TJ, the humidity is not something im looking forward too.
Expectations: I expect to see God's will be done.

Oh...em...gee........

Random Cuteness

japanese scarecrows are not scary! they're so cute!!

Reason to love Japan #254

Legal fireworks! This video almost brings tears to my eyes as I recall all the emotions associated with these fireworks. Tilt your head 90 degrees to the left to view...

My name is.... have you seen the TV show "Heroes"?

I have only one picture so far.... oh, i must buy a digital camera before the mission. that would be my first camera in my entire life. Yes, yes, i came from Japan.. haha...

Nicknames: Hiro, Super-Hiro da! ( from the TV show "Heroes", do you know the Japanese guy's full name? Yes, it's funny...), you are my hero ( thanks for your complement), Macrophage ( when i was in a dental school. because i eat like a horse), Korean-food lover (addicted), Coffee-lover... hmm... yeah. every nickname tells you "who i am"

Person in The Bible most like you//most you want to be like: Barnabas. My former Bible study group leader told me i reminded her of him. I love this complement because he is very encouraging. I try to be.

I also want to be like Joseph because of his forgiveness and faithfulness.

Favorite Japanese things: My friend Stanley has taught me how beautiful/sophisticated Japanese classic movies ( Ozu and Kurosawa) are. I fell in love with Ozu's movies.

Favorite Japanese food: Sushi and Hakata tonkotsu Ramen ( i came from Hakata (Fukuoka)). I usually cook Japanese and Korean ( sort of ) food every day. My dinner table is " Japan-Korea reconciliation"

Although i am not a snack-eater, i love Maccha (green tea) ice cream. that is "to die for".

Why Japan?: I still remember when i was non-believer living Tokyo, i was looking for God's presence. I could not find Him at that time. I'd love to help people to find Him and I am willing to be used by Him to tell j-non-believers how amazing He is.

What are you looking forward to most: I look forward to seeing how miraculously/amazingly God is working in Japan. I felt He was shaking Japan, which used to a unshakable mountain, when i went there last time. It is NOT an unshakable mountain ANYMORE! Praise the Lord!!

Expectation: I am just following Him with our J-team members. I want to be flexible for Him.

jean.young.choi

hey, so i realized that i don't have too many, if any at all, self-portraits! so, sorry to all those in the picture with me, i had to smudge you guys out!
but here goes, the oh-so-interesting tid bit about me!

Nicknames: Beanie, Beanie-Baby, Beano (yes, the gas medicine), Jeangle, Jeanie in a Bottle, Jeaners, etc, etc...you get the point

Person in the Bible most like you // most want to be like: I'd probably say I'd most want to be like Ruth. It is her gentle obedience and loyalty that stirs me. Either that or a woman version of Daniel. But the favor Queen Esther had is a bit appealing..hehehe

Favorite Japanese thing: Oh man, the green tea madness! Green powder tea, Green Tea Wafer Ice Cream Bars, Green Tea Snacks!

Favorite Japanese Food: Anything noodles, really. Which is fortunate for me because a lot of it is! Yakisoba, Soba, Ramen, Udon

Why Japan?: Like Hannah mentioned, actually going last year had not only sparked, but lit ablaze a huge fire for this nation, and for the people in it, believers and unbelievers alike. And I once shared that in all honesty, I have never prayed for a specific nation, and for specific people so much before, during, and after (till this very day) the mission trip. So I know it's not a self-proposed conviction, rather a divine one.

What are you looking forward to most?: Oh gosh, where the heck do I start? I'm looking forward to seeing how God will use this new, fresh team this summer, because last year was just incredible, and to think, what incredible things will He do with this new group? So excited. In addition, I'm SO STOKED about seeing the people we met and partnered up with last year! Oh, it'll be all smiles!

Expectations: As contradictory as this will sound, I expect so many things because our God is THAT huge, and yet nothing at all because I can't begin to fathom His greatness. But I guess to simply put it, that His heart will unveil itself on this journey.

I Made it onto the Interweb!!

Ok so I have NO technical ability or skill whatsoever. It's taken me this long to figure out how to blog again and also recover my sign in information.. then link it to gmail. This is just too crazy for me... I like the old fashioned pen and paper - but I suppose this is more public and more "hip" - haha ok so if you don't know me I'm not really old... i'm just not technical. Anyways before I start writing about my personal life, thoughts, etc.. I will follow TJs lead and give you some info about me-

Nicknames: Hansa, Hansel (lets leave that one alone), Hanny...
Person in the Bible most like you // most want to be like: Hannah the mother of Samuel. She was a woman of prayer and great faith and I really admire that. She also reminds me of my mom.
Favorite Japanese thing: HELLO KITTY!!! oh and the apple juice. Jean Choi can second me on this one... it just tastes different. Sooo good. Oh and of course MATCHA! My other favorite discovery - matcha time, all the time.
Favorite Japanese food: Okonomiyaki and I've taken a liking to jelly :)
Why Japan?: Good question. God somehow put that seed in my heart and a conviction for the nation and people of Japan. Going last year only grew the seed and now... I am c0ntinuing to seek out how He desires to use me in the future for Japan. I have a feeling He's not done using me yet...
What are you looking forward to most?: Everything...literally everything is so exciting to see over there.
What are you looking forward to least?: Nothing - I enjoy it all.. even the stifling humidity. It's all part of the experience.
Expectations: None. Just that God will move our team and reveal why He desires to send us.

Oops I forgot

Jeff sent me this:

These firefox extensions bring up dictionary entries in their respective languages when characters are highlighted

Chinesehttps://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/3349

Japanesehttps://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/3343

Just in case you wanted to get a head start.

maestro please...

Have you guys seen that really stupid commercial with 50cent? He's the guest conductor who is conducting the orchestra to perform his played out-not even tite-sorry lyrics-rap. Anyway, the commercial is dumb and it does nothing for Smartwater. I dont know if it was from this commercial or whatever, but I was realizing how God is like my orhcestrator. This past week, I've been pretty chill considering it was my last week and that all my assignments were due n stuff. Let me give you a synopsis of what went on in my brain: (caution, this may not make sense to you if cannot comprehend incorrect grammar)
SO monday, Im like great....when is friday going to be here. I cant wait till its all over. I have all these deadlines to meet.. i have a paper due tomorrow and im nowhere near done. Im going to stay up all night. AND THEN, my computer jacks up and starts shutting down on its own. The 2/10 page paper i wrote is now unavailable. for some reason I dont freak out.. instead im like "great! i can use this to get an extension!" and BAM, on Tuesday i got an extension. PRAISE GOD. so then ok, thats taken care of. Tuesday night we have a senior girls night out with dinner at the stinking rose garlic breath for a week restaurant and stuff.. I got home that night and I was like Crap! i have to write up a protocol for tomorrow's lab. But i have research lab at 8:30AM. again no sleep for Tk. So the next morning i travel on over to lab, and my PI is nowhere to be found. So i bitterly walk back home thinking, he could have at least emailed me and told me not to come. but after 1 minute of disgruntledness, I was like PRAISE GOD i can work on my protocol and be done by 1 for class. Again, God to the rescue. That same day, i got my computer fixed at ackerman. i smiled in my sleep that night. So now, Thursday, I got 99% of my paper done and I go to OH and she tears it up like a wildebeest.. its really 50% done. That night I have accountability with raina, candace and minky and since its our last one we went to raina's and cooked dinner together. We had so much, but i got home around.. 11 and had to start on my paper. So this time.. i actually didnt sleep. My former roommate Thuy came over and during one of our chats she asks "where are you living in the summer" and im like "iono" and shes like "you can room with me, my roommate needs to find someone to take her spot" and im like "ok." BAM, God provided me a place to stay. CHACHING!! On friday, i finally turn in my paper. Discussion gets cancelled so i got to work on my last lab report and turned it in with 20mins to spare. It was my last assignment as an undergrad. I thought i was going to get all sappy and sad about it, but i shoved it into the turn in box and zoomed off. I was so happy I couldnt tell I was happy. ya feel me?!

A reoccurring theme was that even though I didnt deserve any of God's grace.. I got it in abundance. I was totally expecting to have at least 3 sleepless nights and no fun but i got the opposite. Also, if you didn't notice, if it wasnt for God's mercy i wouldnt even had time to do any of my assignments.. i only got them done cuz God gave me time. God orchestrated this whole thing so that I was able to get everything done + enjoy some time with my accountability group and the senior girls. He provided me a job, and now He provided me a place to stay. it feels good knowing that God is the one behind it all, small or big. He is the only one i was able to attritube my success to. How refreshing.　神様は一番です。(God is #1)

random thought: i need to raise 2000$. God?

TJ

Nicknames: Ummmm TJ?, Tito, Tyrone, Taejinah-san
Person in the Bible most like you // most want to be like: Elijah::Black&white [e.g. choose God or Baal = hardcore], emotional, not a big talker, loner // Daniel::Influential leader, man of integrity, culture-changer, fearless
Favorite Japanese thing: Ninjas
Favorite Japanese food: Tonkatsu
Why Japan?: God put a seed in my heart for Japan about 6 years ago, and I have yet to see what that means for my life. Why would He put a love in my heart for a nation that I had never been to? Why would He allow that love to multiply after going last year? What role do I play in God's endgame for Japan? Inquiring minds want to know!
What are you looking forward to most?: Seeing those beautiful Japanese smiles. And okonomiyaki/ramen/yakisoba/curry!!
What are you looking forward to least?: The humidity, of course.
Expectations: To receive greater vision for my life in regards to Japan, and to fall deeper in love with His people.