Dear Friends and Family,
After a full summer of fun, school began. With that came the realization that we are now parents of a High Schooler. Where did the time go and how do we navigate these waters? KCS is a very small school and family participation is an expectation, so we are learning to set boundaries and compromise since we do not live within an easy commute to the school. The boys are still working out the balance of all they learned in Japanese school and now attending an international school that uses North American standards. Elijah started his second semester of fourth grade and balancing the needs of a High Schooler with the needs of an Elementary student is a challenge at times. Everyone needs to compromise. We are very proud of the boys and the way they have adjusted to everything, the way Elijah continues to go with the flow. We are so very blessed. But, most of all the joy of my heart is when they walk through the house with worship songs on their lips. Oh that they would truly fall in love with Jesus and be men of God, be who God made them to be. That is Paul and my hearts’ cry. Please continue to pray for them.
I hope many of you can relate when I say, “where have the last few months gone?” Our months have been filled with school, church, and daily activities. As many of you experience each week, we too, go through the schedule and discuss the game plan. Who is going where, what time will one need to be at the train station, what time does the event finish, what are you planning to do after the event? Or driving for soccer games, teaching days, Bible studies, church events and staff meetings. We often find a day off is spread through out small increments of time within the week.
Shan Reed and I have recently been blessed to be able to participate in an EWI seminar (Equipping Women Internationally) sponsored and taught by Barnabas International. It was even more exciting because it was held in Chiang Mai, Thailand. I wasn’t sure what to expect and was even slightly unsure about going, but I am so thankful for the opportunity to attend. It was a great joy to meet with 14 other women from around Asia for study and fellowship. And in God’s great care for us, He even had two other missionaries from the Tokyo area come for us to meet and be bonded together as sisters in Christ. Please meet our new friends and sisters, Shannon and Yuka.
Our time together spiritually refreshed me when I didnt even realize how much I needed it. My heart is so full from the tears, laughter and love that we shared. I am thankful to Paul for letting me leave for ten days and all the church people who came along side him to help.
Please continue to pray for the Komyo Church. Pray that people will be courageous for God and talk to their friends, co-workers, and family members about the joy they have with Jesus. As Christmas approaches, pray that they would share the true meaning of Christmas and invite people to the many events planned for the season.
Please be in prayer for:
December 6: Movie Night with Kids Christmas Gathering
9: Ladies Stamping Cards
13: Caroling at the Nursing Home
JBC Kansai Area Men’s Christmas Gathering
20: Gospel Café
24: Candle Light Service
25-27: Hi.B.A. Christmas Camp (all denominational youth group)
Our hearts are blessed knowing that we are supported by your prayers and love. We pray for you as well, that you will find the joy of Jesus, live courageously, and love unconditionally.
Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas, and many blessings,
Paul and Melissa