WHAT is a Gaijin?? Well if you don't know, then you're definitely one. I figured out the meaning of this word like an hour ago. SUCH a gaijin...
Gaijin= FOREIGNER.
I am one of the biggest foreigners here in Japan. I cannot speak a lick of Japanese. It gets even worse that I sort of look Japanese because people suddenly start expecting me to converse with them in their language, but I respond by nodding my head really fast and smiling awkwardly. And I end with "arigato" no matter what they say. I look like a fool. "Baka". (I only know the bad words :/) So what in the world am I doing in Japan??????
I've asked myself that countless times since I've gotten here. Even the Jesus Soldiers at J-House can get around and they look like foreigners! Plus, they have so much confidence in what they do- buildin' relationships, preachin', evangelizin', disciplin', they can do all. I couldn't help but to compare and doubt myself. "Why did you send ME to JAPAN?"
12 Beloved, do not be surprised at zthe fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice ainsofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad bwhen his glory is revealed. (1 Peter 4:12-13)
God spoke so clearly on the first morning of ministry through 1 Peter 4:12-19. Whatever struggles, insecurities, persecutions we face, we must REJOICE! When we are insulted for Christ, we are blessed. We must not be ashamed and give all glory to God! I was so rebuked of how much faith I was lacking in the Lord. I left the US, preaching to myself that He would use weak and foolish people like me for ministry, but I was already doubting in His power to use me. Yep, even a fool like me God will use. Through this confidence, I had a great first week of ministry!
Christine jibsanim, a member of our church, prayed for me before I left Japan and said to me, "You have the fruit of lips. Just keep speaking to everyone you meet, and don't stop talking. God will speak through you and give you the fruit of lips."
Literally, THE NIGHT before my trip, I read Hebrews 13 for my QT and the Lord convicted me with this verse:
15 sThrough him then let us continually offer up ta sacrifice of praise to God, that is, uthe fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. (Hebrews 13:15)
It's amazing how God is already moving. I am assigned to 2 universities: Tues/Thurs @ Kongaku and Fri @ Kandai. It's been interesting getting to know the perspectives/beliefs of the Japanese people. Usually, whenever we ask them about the purpose of life, afterlife, existence of God, etc., they simply answer, "Japanese people don't think about things like that." They are so comfortable with life that they don't find a need for God. Majority do not have any knowledge of Christianity. I am praying for a person of peace. Someone who is available, teachable, and willing to accept Jesus Christ. Currently, I am praying for a couple of girls who are being available to build a relationship with me. I have 6 months to do this. Through His strength, I believe I can do all things. Let Your will be done.
Mama<3 my biggest supporter.
Halmoni<3 she came so early and far to see me :')
My fellow supporters/brothers&sisters in Christ. Thank you for all your love and sending me off :')
First night I get here, they throw a welcome party for me and Chelsea at J-House! booing booing keke
SHOKO! My new bff Japanese friend here :) love her!
A day out with the Jesus Soldier sisters :)
Meet Chelsea from Indiana, Liz from Cali, and Nia from Tennessee! Americans<3
Colorful PIPES!!!! so hipsta
@ the coolest park in the world. First time getting scared to go down a slide
heh I made it down ^___^'
At Hep Five Mall! HUGE FISH ABOVE ME THAT I WANT TO EAT
Justin & Tomoko's baby girl Hikari! She's so amazed at webcamming
Authentic, cheap, BOMB Italian PIZZA!
With Nia on the train~ on our way to Kongaku!
LOL OTAH!! and Chris. HAHA
so cheap. SO GOOOD<3 tuna~
Kongaku University. Praying for this place
BOMBDOTCOM PANDA CHOCOLATE CRACKERS SDJFLSJA*! pandas *__*
AMI! New Japanese friend who I hope to meet with more often!
I FINALLY rearranged my room and such to make it my own :)
beautiful people
my desk ^___^
Justin and Tomoko took me to the best sushi place EVER! I can't eat sushi in America anymore.
you see what I mean...
It was the most delicious piece of fish I've ever had in my life.
I AM SO BLESSED!!!
HIKARI!!! such a cute baby always smilin'
finally visited the pet store in Japan and they had adorable puppies. If this one was mine I would name him Teddy
I made myself dinner tonight. Trying to be more Japanese.
This is the Jesus Choir Academy. It's a ministry in J-House where they set up a choir for non-Christians to join. They learn to sing and perform worship songs. Then, the meaning of the songs and the Gospel is explained to them. Those who want to join have to pay a fee to be a part of this choir. Such a great ministry! Finding people who actually want to learn about the Gospel! This choir has only 3/15 Christians. I was so blessed by their performance. I was in awe of non-Christians singing praises to God so passionately. This last song blessed me the most. All you Koreans should know it :)
