Day 14

As our short-term trip draws to a close, I find myself lingering over the lessons God has pressed on our hearts during these past couple of weeks. This morning, our team gathered around Acts 17:30-31 and John 4:1-26, reflecting on the joy of knowing Christ – and being forgiven by Him. The woman at the well left her water jar behind, running – unashamed and unburdened – to proclaim the Savior she had encountered. Do we share that kind of joy? Not because we have all the answers or perfect circumstances, but because Christ knows us completely and has offered living water by sheer grace.

We asked ourselves: How do we extend this same love, holding fast to Christ's grace and truth without neglecting His righteousness? The answer isn't found in mere sentiment, but in a cross-shaped love that both welcomes and transforms. In Japan, where the gospel light feels faint and Christian fellowship can seem rare, we're reminded that God's truth and grace never conflict – they are perfectly united in Jesus.

Caleb brought the Word to the missionary kids, leading them through Matthew 14:13-21 – Jesus feeding the five thousand. He reminded them that our calling as Christ's servants doesn't depend on being noticed or recognized by others, but on the surpassing worth of Christ Himself. United to Him by grace, we are called to serve before an audience of One. It's all too easy to serve only when appreciation or recognition follows, but true service perseveres even in obscurity, trusting that the Lord sovereignly uses every hidden act of faithfulness according to His purposes. Whether or not our efforts are seen by others, we serve for the greater glory of God, confident that in Christ our labors are never in vain.

After our morning ministry, we spent the afternoon in fellowship at the beach – yes, "GRC style": volleyball, volleyball, and more volleyball. These moments and the stories we share of God's work remind us that Christian joy is found not just in mission and hardship, but also in simple, grace-filled rest together.

As our trip nears its end, we are tired – some of us dealing with cold symptoms and exhaustion. Please pray for sustaining grace and for God's healing hand upon each member of our team. Tomorrow is our last full day in Nagoya. Pray for rich, meaningful time with the Jensen family, for our interactions with MKs and university students at the weekly Hospi dinner, and for God to make us a blessing in these final hours in Japan.

We're deeply grateful for your prayers, encouragement, and partnership. May we run – like the woman at the well – not from obligation, but with the joy of the redeemed, eager for others to meet the Savior who knows us and loves us still.

Soli Deo Gloria.