More Love to Jesus

Let me just start by saying, our God is an awesome God, who is worthy of all our praise! Even in the highs and lows I experienced this week, my God never changes, and He longs for each of us to draw closer to Him!

There were so many blessings this week. I've enjoyed getting to know more people better, and seeing more of Japan. I am thankful for what God has called me to here, and really loved my time in the classroom this week! Quiet time at home is also appreciated, in moderation. :)

This week, I also realized how much I miss my people back in the States. Family, friends, church... I just miss them. I was reminded that even through the hard parts, there is still reason to praise God! Just because it's hard at times, doesn't mean it's bad. In reality, the reason I miss people so much is because I love them, and I know they love me, and that's pretty great. :) Our longing to be close to the people we love is a reflection of how God feels about us! It is a reminder to seek out and run after the One who IS love.

Last Sunday was SO special! We had visitors from Jamaica in church, and at one point I just had to sit in awe at the praise being lifted up to the Father in three languages at once, in such a small group! More love to Him!

After church I went with Anna to a bridal shower for a friend of ours. I am so often humbled by how welcoming people are, and I am thankful to have such neat relationships here already.

On Tuesday, I went with Javon, Faith, Rachel, and Charity to the beach down in Enoshima! It's been a very hot week, and Tuesday I think was the hottest, reaching 100 degrees! It was a nice change of scenery to be at the beach, although I did have to go back early to teach classes again that afternoon.

Wednesday, I went with my adult ladies' English class to a garden spot. It was beautiful! I really enjoyed spending that relaxing time with the ladies.

Friday night praise singings are always something to look forward to, and this week was no exception! We also enjoyed a game night afterwards, this time.

I praise God for the work He is doing! All for Jesus. He is my calling, and may my eyes ever be fixed on Him!

I was struck by this verse from the hymn "More Love to Thee." I felt it this week. Oh, that all I experience, even the times of being "homesick" and missing people, may draw me closer to Jesus!

Let sorrow do its work; Send grief and pain.

Sweet are Thy messengers, sweet their refrain,

When they can sing with me:

More love, Oh Christ, to Thee.

More love to Thee, more love to Thee!