Merry Christmas, everyone! Boy oh boy, do I have some updates for you all! The challenge here being not what to write about, but to remember everything that's happened! Let's start at the beginning, as one does...
We got some serious snow here in Ayashi! Last year was pretty drab. Little bit of snow mixed with mostly rain, making it a wet and grey Christmas. However, this year we've been blessed with some truly lovely snowfall, with more to come this week! Check out some pics of it below:
Truly a winter wonderland for all! And speaking of season's greetings, guess who got to dress up as Santa again this year?
The local church here in Ayashi asked me to spontaneously dress up as good Ol' St. Nick for their Children's Christmas service on the 13th. They had a full outfit ready to go and everything! And yes: Santa did wear a mask. Gotta stay safe while delivering the presents! It was fun being a total ham and amusing the kids and parents for a bit, while trying to maintain breathing through the layers of fake beard and mask covering. Perhaps I should purchase my own outfit and lend my Santa services to the churches of Sendai. Start a franchise.
Speaking of children ministries, we worked as volunteers at OBJ's (Operation Blessings Japan) after-school program Christmas special! We taught the children there how to make Christingles, a Christmas treat from the UK, and explained the meaning behind Christmas. It was the first time I've made one myself, so here's a handy pic to show what a Christingle is and what it represents for Christmas:
Reminds me of those old paintings of Jesus holding the golden orb. He indeed has the world in His hands!
For this Christmas, the team and I had a little Christmas party in the evening, full of cheer, food, and presents! I even got little Kai his very own Wooloo! And since today is Gary's birthday too, we had some tasty cake courtesy of Janet!
Overall, it was a wonderful evening with my YWAM family! A most Merry Christmas indeed!
I must admit, as fun as this Christmas season has been regardless of COVID, I can't help but feel a tad bittersweet. For those who don't know, I did plan on visiting the USA in the fall way back in January. But alas: it didn't work out. It's heartbreaking to hear and see so many people around the world suffering because of the pandemic: losing jobs, canceling plans and dreams, and even losing family and friends to the evil virus. Hearing and experiencing so much bad news all year-round... It can be hard, if not nearly impossible, to have a Merry Christmas.
But if there is one thing I do know, is that today is a day to celebrate Christ being born on earth, in the most humble of beginnings, in order to save us all from ourselves and from the powers of hell. And though we do face suffering and trials in this time, we can hold onto true joy and hope, knowing that Jesus is alive and with us in all things. As long as we look up to Him, we can face the darkness with fulfilled hearts, peaceful minds, and a soul praising thanks to the Creator above. If there is anything I can pray for, please let me know. Never give into despair, but give into the love and power of Jesus!
As always, I can never thank you all enough for your prayers and support this last year, even during one of the worst years ever. I pray that each and every one of you will remember Jesus' gift to humanity, and have a most safe and Merry Christmas! Love you all!
John 1:14
"And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth."
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