I got back into Korea on Friday night. It was rainy and hot, but I was glad to finally make it back. Flying sure takes it out of me. I guess it's because I'm so old now.
I really enjoyed my time at home. It felt shorter than usual and I didn't see some people that I wanted, but overall it was a pleasant summer. I really enjoyed my time with my family - even bickering with my dad - and was encouraged by some contact with several of my nephews. I also shared lots of laughs with friends and was renewed and refreshed by my time at church. My pastor was gone for most of the summer, but I was able to hear him preach a couple of times and then I got to hear some other amazing men of God share God's word and how He is using them in their various places.
My mom and I shared about our "missions" at a small church in Hughes. I have to say it was an exciting visit, those people really know how to worship and pray. I've never been one to pray so fervently and so powerfully, I should learn a thing or two from those people.
Along with such a pleasant summer, I experienced some hardship, too. One of my dear friends, who has lent me her car for two summers in a row is now on her death bed. She along with her daughter and granddaughters have included me as one of their own. My heart aches for my friends during this time. My prayer is that they will be drawn closer to Christ through this difficult circumstance. I wish I knew how to convey the love and gratitude I feel for them, but all I can really do at this point is pray, like I promised. I'm asking those of you who are reading this, to also pray for my friends as well.
As I came back into Korea, I met a girl who was in Korea for the first time ever on her first trip outside of the States. She was coming to Korea to work at a summer camp and really had no idea what to do as she came through customs. It was interesting to me to see someone who has adventured out on their own, not really certain of what was going on. I can't say I was in that situation as I knew who to look for and had people here I knew. Thankfully, we found her bag and a sign posted with her name on it for someone to pick her up. She contacted me again, so hopefully I'll be able to be helpful to her during her few months in Korea.
For some reason today is signalling to me that new and good things are happening. God has been revealing some of the idols I've placed in my life over Him and I am trusting that by His power they will be destroyed. I'm looking forward to growing closer to Him through this process.
Some other things I am looking forward to this year:
Having Annalisa as a new roommate
Hanging out with my new buddy from Pyongtaek - Cheryl - she rocks my face off!
Seeing my students again and meeting new students
Getting my back fixed. We've been working on it in the states, hopefully I'll find the time, money, and energy to continue with my treatments in Seoul.
Having only 3 preps for classes, this will be the first time ever. Also getting to have a smartboard in my classroom! So fun!
Serving as youth Sunday school teacher and on the praise team at UCC.
Who knows what else is in store, I just feel like new things are coming. My prayer is that I'll remain grateful for each new gift and that I'll keep my focus on Christ as He breaks my heart of stone and molds it into one that beats only for Him.
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