Captivated

Eyes on Him. Life can seem pretty overwhelming at times when I fail to keep Jesus as my focus. Doubts arise, fears break in, and I am reminded that we were never promised that life would be easy. But God. His grace is sufficient and His strength is made perfect in my weakness. Choose to set your mind on Him today and every day.

This week held a lot of joy and laughter with friends, as well as much-needed quiet time. I'm thankful for God's mercies which are new every morning!

Last Saturday, we went to Hachioji to spend some time with friends at a street festival. I learned that most street festivals haven't happened in the last three years due to covid, so, this being the first year for Japan to do things like that again, they seem to be making up for lost time - so many people! We enjoyed just walking around and eating tasty food.

After that adventure we went to the Klaus's house to sing while they had some family visiting from the States. So good to worship God together!

With Summer break going on and families being gone on vacations, church has held a smaller crowd lately, but I enjoy the bond over God's nearness where two or three are gathered. After church, I went for a nice quiet walk in the rain. Oh, how lovely it was! As I walked, the sun peeked out too, so everything looked glittery. A wonderful display of God's creative fingerprint, even in the small things!

Rain was in the forecast every day this week, so I didn't make many set plans. When Monday afternoon cleared up, Faith and I jumped on the opportunity to ride our bikes to Kichijoji to explore a park there. There were nice walking paths all around this beautiful lake, and it was shaded so the August heat wasn't unbearable. This might just be a place I visit more frequently in the future, especially when it cools down some.

Tuesday, I had a very laid back morning, and in the afternoon I felt the need to go on a walk by "my" river. It was a good time to reflect and take it all in. Sometimes it still hits - I live in Japan. But God. In times of feeling overwhelmed while processing things, He never fails to meet me in the quiet.

Feeling pretty blessed that these are the views I can enjoy in my own backyard, so to speak!

Faith and I spent both Thursday and Friday afternoons with Charity. We enjoyed more delicious food, and more singing at the Klaus's house! We left that full evening with full stomachs and full hearts.

God is so good. I'm so undeserving. Praying for a soft heart that stays fixed on Him, and is ever captivated by Him. God is near.

You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.

Isaiah 26:3