Not only do these students take their education seriously, they value each person and are not too cool to demonstrate their appreciation.

Recently, one of our students was saying her last goodbye with everyone she has known and come to love—she was moving back to Korea. International students say a lot of goodbyes, so it is important to give them a chance to acknowledge their feelings.

We spent 45 minutes discussing the good times, the bad times, the rough times, and the formative times in their shared experience. We also prayed for her. To be honest, I have never heard such sweet and meaningful prayers.
By the power of the Holy Spirit, her classmates interceded for her and her family, that this transition may be short on heartache and quick to bring new and rich experiences for the Kingdom. Through all the tears, even by the boys, there was the sense that these kids understood the source for the hope that lies within them and the responsibility that hope brings. These kids are truly meant for amazing things.

As a teacher, I have often experienced moments of nearness to my students, but this was beyond comparison. The unique challenge of being part of this community (for the families who serve here and for ourselves) comes at a cost, but the reward outweighs the difficulties. I pray that from this we may all recall God’s sacrifice completed once for all and the shared responsibility we have in reaching others.

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MAF has a number of overseas teaching positions waiting to be filled. To learn more about joining MAF as a teacher for missionary kids, visit http://www.maf.org/serve/overseas/teach.

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Yep, it’s Christmastime in the tropics!

The first Christmas that my family spent over here was a bit rough. A bit sad. My mind was assaulted with all the things I was missing: family, foods, familiar traditions, rows of houses decorated in bright lights, Christmas events, and more.

It was an abrupt change. An adjustment. Perhaps better said, a re-alignment.

Now, after several Christmases away from “home,” we have grown to deeply treasure Christmas. The simple, raw Christmas. The there-is-nothing-better-than-worshipping-my-King Christmas.

Being away from the comforts and familiarity of “home” has caused us to truly treasure Christ as the most desirable gift of all. The One who satisfies and fulfills all of the longings of our souls throughout the Christmas season (and all seasons). He is the treasure.

• *Jesus is our closest family in whom we can enjoy the sweetest fellowship and joyous celebration!

*Jesus is the Bread of Life in whom we can partake freely and lavishly!

*Jesus adorns this whole world with unique and specific touches of His majesty during Christmastime. In America it is beautifully laden snow, and here it is clear, turquoise waters!

*Jesus is the Light of the World, so whether our house has literal lights displayed or not, His light adorns our home and hearts always!

So, wherever you or I find ourselves this Christmas, let us remember and enjoy the gift that we possess that will be with us wherever we go—Jesus, our Lord and Savior!

Behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:10-11

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We live where freedom of worship is illegal. Where underground churches are violently raided and shut down. Where believers must hide in order to worship together. Where we must meet at a different location each week so as not to draw attention or suspicion from our neighbors.

Recently, my family and I were Stateside on furlough. During that time, we were overwhelmed by the incredible blessing it is to gather as a large group publically. To have the freedom to sing (and clap!) as loudly as we wanted. To hear and join in with the choir of voices that resounded from the multitude in praise to God. We had forgotten. And I was brought to tears.
Our church here is small, yet full of life in Christ. It, too, often brings me to tears. Each week we long for the teaching of His Word which we receive via podcasts. We joyfully unite our voices in song as we praise Him together for His precious grace. We humble ourselves before the Cross as we take communion together as the Body. We laugh and share a meal while encouraging and spurring one another on to love and good deeds.

While we’re here, I long for the openness of worship in America. Yet, while we were there, my mind would often find its way to thoughts of my brothers and sisters that are here worshipping our Lord in a small and hot room with the curtains drawn. My heart loves both contexts—the freedom of unhindered and exuberant corporate worship, as well as the intimate and deeply desperate fellowship of a band of brothers (and sisters) adoring their Savior. I look forward to the Day when both of these joys will be fully and forever satisfied in the presence of our Lord!

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