Because it’s been over a week since my arrival, I thought I should post a quick update. First of all, for those of you who don’t follow my Twitter for Facebook: Yes, I’ve safely arrived in Japan.
I arrived back in Nagoya on Saturday night, September 4. Since then I’ve been getting over jet lag, having many happy reunions, unpacking and settling into my new apartment. I really like the new apartment my church has provided for me in our building here. But of course, all the un-boxing and arranging and shopping involved in moving in kept me pretty busy for the first week. Thankful for my church’s generosity and help.
Of course the other major task has been getting back into Japanese studies. Being re-immersed in the language has helped me get motivated; it shows me both how far I’ve come and how far I’ve still to go. My first language class was yesterday; I’ll be going twice a week at the same YWCA school as I did before.
As for ministry: I’ll be taking part in a retreat this weekend, playing in the band and helping lead the youth session. I’m also on tap to play guitar in the AM service at my church on Sunday.
As I’m back in Japan and getting back into the swing of things, I’m reminded afresh of my need for prayer. There are some new ministries I’m working towards starting, and I really need God’s guidance. I’ve got a head full of ideas, and it would be easy to just dive in. But God seems to be telling me to slow down, pray and listen for His guidance. It could be that He’s got something in mind I haven’t even dreamed of, and it would be a shame to miss it. I’d appreciate you praying with me…
Meanwhile, it’s good to be home.
As I said when I started this new blog, I don’t plan follow any particular updating schedule. But now that I’m actually in Japan I think I’ll try to post something at least once a week. So follow the RSS, Twitter or Facebook feed if you don’t want to miss anything. Or just check back here once a week or so.
(posted Wed. Sept. 15 2010)