Team Update 314

Welcome to Nantou, the center of Taiwan where anything and everything happens. Well, might happen. This semester has started out relatively well, all of us are completing the process of acclimating to our schools, teachers we work with, and students. We have a new program we are working with this year, teaching an "after school English class" in some of our schools. So far, I think it will both stretch and encourage us. When we first started, it was a little unclear what the purpose of the program was, and what was expected of us, but after a little time spent working things out I think it will work very well. My after school classes have been fun so far, but I get a lot of help from the teachers at the school I work at. A very big blessing, believe me.

Although our teaching schedule is quite busy this semester, we have had many opportunities to go out, and see friends and do activities together. As some of us are starting on our third year teaching in Nantou, it is hard to go anywhere in the area without seeing someone we know, or at least someone who knows us. This year I have been thinking a lot about what the impact is that we have here. Sometimes it seems frustrating when we don't see the results of our labor right away, or the opportunities to share about the Lord seem few and far between. I know the Lord sees the bigger picture, and the affect we have on those around us when we can't see it. He has us here for a reason, and He knows what He is doing. I guess it is easy to forget that planting is just as important as watering and harvesting. Don't get me wrong, though, it is just my desire that I do all that is expected and required of me.

For my first update of this semester, I would just like to say it is so good to be back. The time I spent in America this summer with my family and friends was so encouraging and refreshing, and now I feel ready for another wonderful year. It is really hard to explain everything that goes on here, and what makes it so special. So let's just say that this is where God has us to be right now, and so it couldn't be better anywhere else. Pray with us for all of our students, the teachers we work with, and all of our other friends, that they would see their need for Jesus Christ in their lives, and that they would accept His salvation, and live for Him. Also pray for our health, and strength, spiritually as well as physically.

I am really looking forward to the rest of this year, and all of the new challenges and blessings the Lord will place in our lives. My team is always a great encouragement to me, and I thank the Lord for their desire to serve Him in whatever way He calls us to. And for all of you who pray for us, and let us know that people on the other side of the world are involved in supporting us, thank you so much. You are a blessing to us in many ways.

In Christ,
from Nantou,
Joel