For such a time as this...

"And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?"

... said Mordecai to Esther as he implored her to speak with her husband (the King) about the imminent destruction of her people (the Jews).

Esther, a marvelous story of God's providence ironically illustrated with no mention of God's name in the whole story.

Life can be that way quite often... through hindsight we look back and see the obvious patterns and circumstances which show the craftiness and creativity of God's work in life.

Even things which were painful where God seemed distant... it's all a part of His plan!

Granted we don't always get the opportunity to look back and see how situations have worked out for our good and His glory... but when God gives us a glimpse, it's a real gift!

In Korea I am still adjusting, but it's been an incredibly easy transition- by God's grace of course.

I took time to reflect yesterday as I was observing one of the classes I will be teaching (starting on Friday), and I realized just how many things I'm encountering here already that God has prepared me for.

Recognizing these little preparations is a huge encouragement- it comforts me to know whatever the future holds, God is in control...and He is the Master Storyteller.

What a beautiful thing.

For example, in the past year I have been learning how important it is to allow others to teach me. Even in situations where I feel like I can figure something out on my own, I have recognized the beauty of lettiing someone else step in and offer me assistance. This doesn't have to be a degrading thing...in fact, many times it brings more joy to the "teacher" than it does to me as the learner. When you allow someone to come in and use their gifts to show you something, it becomes a great encouragement to them! So the humility of letting peopel teach you- even simple things- can be a great sign of love.

In Korea it has been good to let people teach me things that I could have probably figured out on my own. The director I work for took me to the grocery store to buy food for the first time, I allowed someoen else to teach me to cook a little. While I could have surivived without this assistance, I believe it was best to allow it.

Also, while I was in New York I began to realize the need for community-oriented living, and what it looks like to be servant-hearted. This just comes down to being observant: does anyone need assistance? Is there something you can do for someone? How can I be selfless right now?

I spent the summer before I came to Korea at home in Minnesota with my family. In my alone time, God began to teach me the need to rest in Him. Trusting that He is in control, and that my entire being, identity, and existence depends on Him. Only in Christ can I find purpose, and it is in Christ that my purpose is most glorious.

As I get ready to teach on Friday, I am certainly nervous, but also comforted in the realization that my purpose is found in Christ. This frees me to teach with a focus on the kids and the school, rather than on what my teaching will say about who I am.

I also spent a lot of time with my family, saw some family dynamics that I wasn't privy to (since I hadn't lived at home for so long). I realized that authority and order are good things, but they can be manifested inappropriately because of sin. And I learned that there is need for grace, even when you think you've been treated unfairly when authority is manifested inappropriately.

Here in Korea, authority is HIGHLY emphasized. There is great need to listen to those older than you, and show great respect for their opinions and desires. Individualism exists, but the hierarchical structure takes precedence.

Finally, even in the "minute" things I have seen God's hand of preparation. While I was home for the summer, I had to sleep on an air mattress..not the most comfortable thing to sleep on for almost 3 months.

In Korea...the beds are really hard- not at all like the american super soft plushy beds. Traditionally, Koreans would sleep on a thin mat placed on the hard wood floor. Their beds manifest this style while attempting to look more like a bed.

Also, my room in MN seemed to be the "spider central" of the house. I would often go to sleep with the knowledge that there were many spiders making their webs above me as I dozed.

In Korea, due to the weather and location of my apartment, spiders find great joy in keeping me company.

Needless to say, these are all beautiful (and some comical) examples of God's Master work as an Author.

Prayer requests:

- I am beginning teaching tomorrow... it should be a fairly easy day, as the classes I am taking over have exams tomorrow. But pray that the transition for me goes well.

- After class tomorrow, the school actually goes on a 1 week vacation! (Great timing for me to arrive :) ) I have been asked by the director if I want to go camping with her church in the mountains... if that all pans out- pray that it would be a fruitful experience.

-Pray that my love for the Korean children I will be teaching would grow, manifesting patience and desire to teach well.

- Finally, but most importantly, pray that my peace and joy would grow in Christ, finding rest in God above all circumstances.

Thanks guys :)