what saying yes means

around 7:45 p.m., the pilot's muffled voice came rushing through the speakers asking us to buckle our seat belts and prepare for landing. all i could think was, "am i really here?". but before the question even had time to repeat itself over in my head, this familiar stirring in my soul welled up all over again. my mind began to race through

moments of assurance and confirmation over the last 8 months. i think the first little reality check was seeing the first sign in view as we stepped into the terminal which read, "welcome to hong kong". we were greeted by the most amazing team on the planet. and of course they were accompanied by bright yellow posters.

it's here, and i'm sustained by peace that passes all understanding.

"He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy,

carrying sheaves with him"

.psalm 126:6

before venturing out into the city, Katie read from a book that has a little encouragement for each day of the year. today's (august 25th) could not have been more perfect. it was titled "what saying yes means" and the verse above was the verse for the day. God has been so evident in the details of this journey for our team individually and collectively; and this passage today was just another tangible example of how intimately involved he is in our everyday. my first day here in hk was no exception. we were encouraged by the stories of a local professor and student; learned how to use our octopus card on the mtr & bus; given incredible insight by a new friend named Sam; exposed to the bustling streets of mong kok; enjoyed pizza at new town plaza; and laughed alongside great friends. i absolutely love it here and as the process of adjusting to living life on the other side of the world has started, i am learning what it means to lean fully into his strength and provision.

here is my first day in hk, snapshot form:

[matt, april, jason, scott, cat, katie, maik: thank you for all you have done/are doing to make this transition easier. thank you for teaching me new things and planning ahead for me. thank you for praying for me. thank you for loving me well. i'm honored to serve alongside you]