Gratitude

Has this week been extremely hard? Absolutely. Has this week held incredible beauty? Yes. Praise God!

Last week, I mentioned dealing with some medical concerns. For two weeks now, I have had headaches on and off every day. There are times I feel fine, although worn out, and times of excruciating, almost debilitating pain. I have been to the doctor a few times, to figure out what is going on, and it's still a work in progress.

I have wondered what I'm doing here. This isn't how I expected my third month in Japan to start out. This doesn't fit my expectations. BUT - God doesn't need to meet my expectations. God sees the future. God knows what He's doing, even when I don't. God's plan is good. {And I am sure of this, that He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:6}

The beautiful part of this week is that I have been able to see God at work, even through the pain and the scary unknowns. His word is powerful and comforting. Songs of praise and songs of surrender have touched my heart in a new way this week. I have received so many encouraging emails and texts from people reminding me that they're praying. God hears those prayers! {As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. John 15:9}

I am thankful for the times I have felt ok. I'm thankful for Makoto and Anna helping in more ways than I will ever be able to count. I am thankful for the opportunity to praise God with friends. I'm thankful for laughter. I am thankful most of all for Jesus and His overcoming grace for each moment!

So I throw up my hands and praise You again and again, 'cause all that I have is a "Hallelujah, hallelujah!" And I know it's not much, but I've nothing else fit for a King, except for a heart singing "Hallelujah, hallelujah!" ~Gratitude, Brandon Lake