Greetings and salutations, everybody! Guess who's finally back in the USA for a few months?! Let me tell you: having a carnita asada burrito 20 minutes after exiting a 12 hour flight has never been more satisfying! I'm currently staying at my Grandma's house for a few weeks while I help her around the house, meet with people from my supporting church Lakeside Christian Church (LCC), catching up with family and friends, and resting with a few choice American comforts, like a Ceaser pizza and some ranch dressing. At the same time. No shame.
Speaking of food, after nearly three long years, I finally got to have a real American thanksgiving right here in America! We had a massive dinner with my relatives and some friends, consisting of cheese platters, pickled veggies, stuffing, mashed potatoes, turkey, ham, bread rolls, and a killer mashed yam dish that could even give Gordan Ramsey pause. I only ate two plateful of the feast, but it was enough!
By the way, on the 12th of December, I'll be giving a short Q&A at LCC where I'll talk about YWAM Sendai, Japan, testimonies, and plans for the future. LCC streams on Facebook, so if you would like to see me live then, let me know and I can send a link!
On a sad note, two weeks ago, our team rejoiced, because the Prime Minister of Japan had announced that the borders would be open to foreigners with work and student visas. Considering some of our "off-shore" staff have been waiting years to enter, it was cause for celebration. But it wasn't meant to last, heartbreakingly.
A few days ago, there was another announcement that a new COVID variant, Omicron, has been spotted in South Africa, and is quickly spreading across the world. There have even been a few cases in Japan, and the first American case occurred just this afternoon. In response, the Japanese government has closed its borders once again to all foreigners trying to get a visa. So far, foreign residents, like myself, are still permitted to enter, but already some countries in Africa have been denied entry, no matter what residential status.
I'm trying not to give into worry and let all my joy of being home be sucked out by this unexpected development, but it's hard. Please pray that our leaders around the world will not act out of panic and fear, but that the wisdom and courage that comes from our Father in heaven will rule over all. I don't want to think about the possibility of being closed off to Japan, but I know that no matter what, God is with me. He is my Shepard. I shall not want. Even if Japan denies me entry, I'm still a missionary, and will not cease to serve the will of Jesus.
Thank you all so much for your continued prayers and support. If I may ask for one more thing, please pray that I can return to Japan on January 21st, just as planned. Or if the worst was to happen, and I couldn't return, please pray for wisdom and peace to be upon my heart and the hearts of all those who so desire to serve in Japan. Happy Holidays!
Psalm 34:4
"I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears."
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