2012
had some big challenges for me, but it was also a year that marked a spiritual
growth spurt in my life. I learned the
importance of putting on the armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18) every day,
especially as I worked to teach others about Jesus Christ. The more I stepped out in my faith, the more
the enemy tried to stop me. Also, I remembered
how difficult circumstances in life are often beyond our control or ability to
change them; what is in our control, though, is how we face those
circumstances. We can become bitter,
resentful, and refuse to change when life seems unfair, or we can ask others
for support, make a commitment to do our best, and turn to God for the strength
to keep moving forward. Adversity and
growth seem to go hand in hand for me, and that was definitely true in 2012.
2013
is going to be full of many major life changes for me. I want to make the most out of the time
remaining for me in Japan since I’m moving back to the U.S. at the end of
March. I’m trying to spend as much time
as possible with friends, co-workers, and students. I know I have many farewell speeches in
Japanese and difficult goodbyes ahead of me.
The transition back to America will be full of mixed feelings, moments
of reverse culture shock, and challenges.
It’s a bumpy road that I’ve traveled before and will again soon. In the midst of all of that, I will also
tackle finding a new job, moving, and starting over again in a new
community. I don’t really like changes,
but they’re an unavoidable part of life and probably a common theme for me this
year.
I
know that I can’t face 2013 alone; I need strength and support from God, family,
and friends. I am excited to see God’s
plans for my life unfold this year. I’m
glad that even though I have so many questions about my future, I can trust God
to be with me every step of the way. Now,
I have a big favor to ask: please keep
me in your prayers this year as I journey into the unknown and face transitions
around every corner. May God bless
you and your family in 2013 too!
