3 more days until briefing

I’ve got like 101 things to do before this trip but as my dad says “There is always room for a break.” Just some thoughts about the up coming trip….Yesterday, Erina (my roomie and fellow team member) and I were able to hang out and shop for some gifts for the people that we will meet. As I purchased each one it was my prayer that the people we give them too will not only enjoy the small token but receive God’s love through our small service. I picked several postcards of Texas and was reminded of my Japanese Sister, Kaori, and how her dad had so kindly given one to me from Japan a few weeks ago. I hope the gifts I bring just as much joy or more than the one that I received.
During our stay in Japan our team of 12 will be breaking down into smaller teams of 4 and traveling to different college campuses and meeting people, speaking English with people etc. After a few weeks of crazy accommodations for all the special needs in the team breakdowns. David, our team leader, published the final decision. I will be with Barron, Debbie, and Marcelina. Please pray for our small team as well as our large. Pray for unity and clear communication among us. Also pray because our team is going to be the only team that does not have a fluent Japanese speaker….(very nerve racking…) at least Baron has been there before. Please pray for me. Because this whole trip has been very emotionally draining… breaking down into smaller groups has been very hard for me. I’m very thankful that my friend Debbiesita will be there with me. However, I realize that God knows what he is doing and I want to be a willing vessel in His hands. One more thing that points me back to Him and in which He not me can get the glory!! I am learning that when I am most uncomfortable or most unwilling yet do it anyway. He comes and brings tremendous breakthrough!! Last Sunday our pastor Jatin talked about when we suffer we should accept it as an opportunity to give a sacrifice to God. I pray that I may offer that sacrifice with joy!!!!
Other thoughts about what to pray for…
long term vision
team unity
connection with churches in Japan
where to do future work