We have lived in Japan for 2 months now. I am sorry I haven't written before now. We have experienced so many emotions since we have been here. At the end of every day, I find my head spinning. Sometimes I'm thinking about what I've learned or have yet to learn, other times about the excitement of seeing Japan, but most often it's spinning with confusion and fatigue. So many days I don't know up from down. So many days I sit down to write to you, but my thoughts are so diffused that I feel they will be more confusing than informative. BUT I can say confidently that God still gently whispers that He is with us all the way. So many times I wish I would have written down exactly how He does this and exactly which prayers He answers, but I find myself wanting to bask in His love in complete silence and alone. I cannot do anything other than sit thankfully in and absorb the comfort of His love as He shows me very clearly that He is here and I am not forgotten. In a world where I am forgetting English as I learn Japanese and feel that I am mostly at a loss of words. In a world where I am learning everything like a child. In this world, I am feeling the language of silence & awe before God. "He says, 'Be still, and know that I am God...'" (Psalm 46:10). Today, however, something happened that makes me want to cry the goodness of God.
Right now, I am amazed at Him. I cannot express the extremity of prayers this experienced has answered.
It was a good day. It started on the way to school when I read an encouraging birthday email from my dad telling me that he was proud of me. Reading this gave me strength. I had a good day at school learning to quilt Japanese patterns. After school, my friend Akiko picked me up, and we went to an udon shop for lunch. We talked for about 2.5 hours, then she drove me home. When I got home, that's when the lately-so-familiar pang of loneliness hit. I remembered that Ryan has to work very late tonight (maybe 9pm or so). I knew in my mind that I am never alone, so I grabbed the book I have been reading. Reading has really helped me here. So far, I have chosen books written by Christians who reinforce my value in God and His love for me using the Bible. This writes the knowledge that I am not alone on my heart. Anyway, I grabbed my book and sat on the couch. I turned on the TV for background noise and to listen to/learn Japanese while I read (osmosis-ish maybe? haha). That's when my doorbell rang.
I opened the door to a woman with 2 small children.
Me: Konichiwa!
Her: Konichiwa! I hope we make friends!
Me: [kind of startled] I hope so too! [not knowing who she was still]
Her: I am sorry so sudden. English little.
Me: Dijobu desu (It's ok)! Sumimasen Nihon-go very little (Sorry, Japanese very little). Ytown ni sunde imasu ka (Do you live in Ytown [our apartment])?
Her: Yes! [she pointed to the next door. I realized she was my neighbor!]
Me: Ahhhh!! Hajime mashite (greeting when meeting someone for the first time)! Amy desu.
Her: Hajime mashite! [I already forget her name:( ] desu. [She pointed to her children and gave me their names]
Me: Yoroshiku onegaishimas (Nice to meet you)
Her: Yoroshiku onegaishimas, Japanese culture...ohinamatsuri?
Me: [confused] moichido (one more time [like "please repeat"]?
Her: [pulling out her phone & using a translation app] Ohinamatsuri decoration (Girls' Day Celebration decoration) [points at her door]
Me: [realizing she is inviting me over] Now?
Her: Hai (yes)!
Me: Daijobu desu ka (Is it ok)?
Her: Hai!
Me: Hai, arigato gozaimasu (Yes, thank you)! Choutto matte kudasai (Please wait a minute). I will get shoes.
She showed me her hina-ningyo decoration (ornamental dolls). Using broken English and her translation app, she explained to me that they put out this decoration when a baby girl is born. "Kirei (beautiful)!" I said. She asked if I knew about sakura mochi, a traditional Japanese dessert. I said yes, and she motioned to a chair at her table, as if asking me to sit down. I thanked her and sat. Everything was in very broken English, but I understood her asking if I wanted ocha (Japanese green tea) or cocha (Chinese tea). "Ocha o kudasai" (green tea please)! She gave me green tea and sakura mochi with red bean paste inside and wrapped in a sakura leaf. We were communicating back and forth trying to get to know one another and watching the kids play. Where are we each from, how long will I be staying here and how long has she been living here, what our occupations were, etc. She explained that she had also knocked on the door Monday, and I told her I was away at school. The kids were shy, but I tried to talk to them. "Konichiwa (hello)! Kore wa nan desu ka (what is this?)" while pointing to toys and trains, etc. I asked if her 2 year old son wanted to study English, so she got out his favorite DVD which was an English learning cartoon! Her 1 year old daughter liked a colorful calendar on the wall and kept asking to see it. She likes animals and liked the giraffe best. I kept pointing at her children and saying, "Kawaii desu (they're cute)!" She said again that she didn't know much English, and I told her again that I didn't know Japanese. She spoke into her phone translator and showed it to me. It read something like, "I studied English so I could hopefully talk to you." I wanted to burst into tears. I sat in silence while I stared at her phone and held back tears. Finally all I could say was, "Arigato gozaimasu (thank you)..." It felt like my heart had doubled!
What happened next, you really won't believe. You just won't. I still can't!
She was holding her daughter who looked at me. I smiled and reached my arms out, and her daughter walked to me. So I grabbed her, and her mom caught her breath! She pointed to her daughter with joy on her face and said, "First walking!"
WHAT?! SERIOUSLY?
Me: HAJIMATE (first time)?!?!?!
Her: HAI (Yes)!
[we were smiling and clapping with joy] Her and I witnessed her daughter's first steps!!!
Me: [to her daughter] GOOD JOB!
Me: [to her] OMEDETOU, OMEDETOU (congratulations)!!!
Her: Thank you!
ME: I am sorry your husband didn't see!
We laughed and shared the moment of joy together. It felt like my heart had tripled!
We visited for a total of 1.5 hours before I said that I should return home. She translated into her phone, "Please come back many times." I told her that I would and asked their names again. I apologized for having a hard time remembering names. She said, "Please ask again and again. Everyday [I am] here."
I still cannot remember her name, but I cannot forget these moments I shared with my beautiful neighbor. God, in His infinite goodness, has given me more than I deserve and more than exactly what my heart needs every day. How can He give me such an authentic experience when her and I could hardly communicate? Minutes after I felt the twinge of loneliness, He sent my neighbor. For all the firsts I've had here, I was able to share a first with her. For two months, we have been living next to each other. I have been learning Japanese to communicate, and she had been learning English. I really can't express in words the magnitude of this answer to prayer. Does that even make sense? Have you ever felt that way? My heart has its cry, but my mind tells me it's not possible and that my cries can't be answered. My prayers are so simple. His answers are bigger than words.
"Lord, I am lonely." He says, "You are not alone. I am preparing someone for you."
My heart says, "Lord, no one here wants to know me." He says, "Yes they do, and she tried to come meet you, not once, but twice."
I think, "Lord, I am sad." He says, "I will bring you much joy through others, you will share in their joy."
I say, "Lord, I cannot. I cannot communicate." He says, "Neither can your neighbor, but she will take a first step to show you it is possible."
I say, "Lord, do people here really care for me?" He says, "Yes, and she is learning a new language so she can tell you."
I say, "God, will I have true friends?" He says, "Yes, you will have friends. But first, know that I am your true friend, and I will remind you that I am here always by answering your prayers and reviving your spirit."
I say, "God, does anyone love me?" He says, "I love you, and I will answer your prayers exactly, specifically, and better than you can ever imagine."
For all the words that I have spoken above, today was bigger than words. This experience may seem simple, but it has overflowed my heart with reverence and my eyes with tears.
"To the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power, and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen." (Jude 1:25)
Love always,
Amy
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
Monday, January 6, 2014
God with Us (Isaiah 7:14-15), Christmas Eve 2013
On Christmas Eve, my family has a tradition of going to Kevin's and MB's house, wearing pajamas, and ordering carry-out. It's a night that I look forward to every year because it's total relaxation with people who I love and who I know love me. It is a safe place that rejuvenates me. These are the people who know me the best and think the best of me. It is a haven away from the hurt of my insecurities and the pain of brokenness. This year we did something a little different. Kevin & MB invited us to a candlelight service at the church they've been attending, Twin Oaks Christian Church, before coming to their house. Ever since we were kids, our parents would take us to candlelight services, and we loved singing into Christmas or the New Year, so I was excited to go.
Of course the holidays were more emotional for Ryan and me than normal, even though we plan to be home for Christmas 2014. Everything is so much sweeter around Christmas. There's so much more meaning to and reflection on being with those we love. When we're around people who we know love us, we can feel their love stronger. That night at Twin Oaks, my heart was overcome with emotions. My nephew, Graham, sat next to me and rested his head on my arm. I was sitting with my family, who I know would do anything for me. My heart was torn between staying home, where it is safe and where I am so full of love from my family, and going to Japan. It would be so much easier to stay home.
That is when the preacher, Randy Wheeler, started to speak. He spoke of IMMANUEL, God with us! He referenced a sermon given by Charles Spurgeon given on Christmas Eve in 1852.
I was reminded that God will be with us wherever we go!
"May God teach [me] the meaning of that name, GOD WITH US!" This is Hell's terror! Satan trembles at His name! If only I could learn the meaning of this name which makes the master of destruction tremble. I am comforted by this name. This is the ONE who holds me in His hand. This is the ONE who comforts me. When I am overcome with fear, confusion, and loneliness, if I but WHISPER the words "God with us," Satan will tremble away from me. This is the LABORER'S STRENGTH to help me go into foreign lands.
Immanuel is the
SUFFERER'S COMFORT
BALM OF WOE
ALLEVIATION OF MISERY
SLEEP THAT GOD GIVES
REST AFTER EXERTION
ETERNITY'S SONNET
HEAVEN'S HALLELUJAH
SHOUT OF THE GLORIFIED
SONG OF THE REDEEMED
I could stay in the safety of the known. But if I give up what is GOOD, "safe," and my way, God will be with me and will show my why His ways are BETTER and that He will keep me safe. Starting NOW, may I always remember that God is with me. And on the days when I don't remember that in my heart, may I remember in my mind to be ready with scripture on my tongue so that Satan would get behind me and I can push forward!
May you know the meaning of God With Us this year.
"Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel." (Isaiah 7:14)
Christ came into this world for all of us so that we could have LIFE more abundantly! He came into this world so we could have a relationship with Him. We can have a relationship that frees us from suffering, woe, misery, sadness, and entrapment of our own selves. We can have a relationship that gives us rest, a song to shout, an everlasting sonnet and composition, and hope in ALL things. If only we would all let go of OUR plans, OUR priorities, OURSELVES. If only we would follow the God of the universe without fear. If only we would recognize His plans as being far better than our plans. If only we would trust Him to have our best interest at heart. He will give us more than we could ever imagine. If only we would give up something good, for something BETTER. For the greatest gift known to mankind: IMMANUEL. CHRIST! GOD WITH US!
Love,
Amy
Of course the holidays were more emotional for Ryan and me than normal, even though we plan to be home for Christmas 2014. Everything is so much sweeter around Christmas. There's so much more meaning to and reflection on being with those we love. When we're around people who we know love us, we can feel their love stronger. That night at Twin Oaks, my heart was overcome with emotions. My nephew, Graham, sat next to me and rested his head on my arm. I was sitting with my family, who I know would do anything for me. My heart was torn between staying home, where it is safe and where I am so full of love from my family, and going to Japan. It would be so much easier to stay home.
That is when the preacher, Randy Wheeler, started to speak. He spoke of IMMANUEL, God with us! He referenced a sermon given by Charles Spurgeon given on Christmas Eve in 1852.
I was reminded that God will be with us wherever we go!
"May God teach [me] the meaning of that name, GOD WITH US!" This is Hell's terror! Satan trembles at His name! If only I could learn the meaning of this name which makes the master of destruction tremble. I am comforted by this name. This is the ONE who holds me in His hand. This is the ONE who comforts me. When I am overcome with fear, confusion, and loneliness, if I but WHISPER the words "God with us," Satan will tremble away from me. This is the LABORER'S STRENGTH to help me go into foreign lands.
Immanuel is the
SUFFERER'S COMFORT
BALM OF WOE
ALLEVIATION OF MISERY
SLEEP THAT GOD GIVES
REST AFTER EXERTION
ETERNITY'S SONNET
HEAVEN'S HALLELUJAH
SHOUT OF THE GLORIFIED
SONG OF THE REDEEMED
CHORUS OF ANGELS
EVERLASTING ORATORIO
GOD WITH US
I could stay in the safety of the known. But if I give up what is GOOD, "safe," and my way, God will be with me and will show my why His ways are BETTER and that He will keep me safe. Starting NOW, may I always remember that God is with me. And on the days when I don't remember that in my heart, may I remember in my mind to be ready with scripture on my tongue so that Satan would get behind me and I can push forward!
May you know the meaning of God With Us this year.
"Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel." (Isaiah 7:14)
Christ came into this world for all of us so that we could have LIFE more abundantly! He came into this world so we could have a relationship with Him. We can have a relationship that frees us from suffering, woe, misery, sadness, and entrapment of our own selves. We can have a relationship that gives us rest, a song to shout, an everlasting sonnet and composition, and hope in ALL things. If only we would all let go of OUR plans, OUR priorities, OURSELVES. If only we would follow the God of the universe without fear. If only we would recognize His plans as being far better than our plans. If only we would trust Him to have our best interest at heart. He will give us more than we could ever imagine. If only we would give up something good, for something BETTER. For the greatest gift known to mankind: IMMANUEL. CHRIST! GOD WITH US!
Love,
Amy
Thursday, January 2, 2014
Soon and Very Soon
Almost two weeks ago (12/22/13), the service at our church (Huron Hills Church, HHC) spoke straight to us. Our pastor, Ken White, spoke on "The Gift of Mystery" in Luke 2 of the Bible. The basic summary is that one of God's attributes is "mystery," and because God is infinite, around God there is infinite mystery. How beautiful!
There is the mystery of:
1) things we won't know (Deut 29:29)
2) things we don't know yet (Luke 2:12, 1 Pet 1:12)
3) the purpose of our lives (1 John 3:12)
4) things we know (example: the gospel of Christ, Eph. 6:19)
For more, check out Ken's sermon here!
In the past few months of our lives, we've been full of so many questions and wonder. We know God wants us to leave everything we know now and move to Japan, but there are so many questions: why? for what purpose? what good will it do? for what gain is this change? how will He use us? Yet there is so much beauty in this mystery. We long for the day when our eyes are opened to why He is moving us. Even if we don't understand it in this lifetime, we are excited to meet Him face to face and know all that He knows about how He weaved our lives for His purpose. We don't know why right now, but we know our Maker and truest love has chosen us and made a way for us to go. And the "why" matters. We could never ask God a dumb question or a question that He cannot answer, but we must obey even when we don't have all the answers to His mystery.
Among the worship songs sung that day was "Soon."
When we sang the words "soon and very soon I'll be going to the place He has prepared for me," it felt like my heart was torn open and had grown 1,000 times it's normal size. To THE place He has prepared, not just A place. I was overcome with the thought that He has prepared the place for us, not only in Heaven, but here...NOW...in Japan. HE HAS THE PLACE FOR US. We belong to Him. It has not been easy to give up everything we know and the comforts of friends, family, language, culture. But if I follow exactly where He calls me, I WILL SEE HIS FACE in the mystery that He reveals to me along the way! "I will be with the ONE I love, with unveiled face I'll see Him!" When I see more of Him, "there my SOUL will be SATISFIED!" I will give up the known for the unknown if it means that for an instant God will show me more of Him by revealing more of His mystery to me. I will leave all that I know if my soul is satisfied, and "there my sin erased, my SHAME forgotten." All that I've been, all that I ever will be, He will erase my sin and shame in the face of our Creator if only I will follow Him.
When we sang this song, I wanted to run around screaming the goodness of God and I wanted to fall flat on my face in silence as if I couldn't get lower and I couldn't be any smaller. My soul wanted to jump out of my skin if only I could be closer to Him. It was as if everything that makes me human separated me from everything that makes Him God and I wanted to get rid of it all to get closer to Him. Everyone, I have to tell you how real, scary, wonderful, and BEAUTIFUL the MYSTERY OF GOD IS! He has a place for you! You are fearfully and wonderfully made for Him and His purpose (Psalm 139:14); His works are good, and we must praise Him for who HE IS no matter who we are, were, or are yet to become! If you're experiencing the pain of loneliness, sadness, uncertainty. If you're experiencing the greatest days of your life. If you've never felt lower in your life. If you have questions, if you have answers, if you are full of praise, and if you are full of lamenting, HE will SATISFY the deepest part of your soul!
We continued by singing the song "10,000 Reasons."
This is one of Ryan's favorite songs. He heard it for the first time at his church in Shanghai, Abundant Grace International Fellowship (AGIF) [check it out here], and loved hearing the church sing it together. When we sang it at HHC, it was a perfect extension of the feelings of mystery and questions on our hearts. Why are we going? What is happening? On the hard days, why are we doing this? WE HAVE INFINITE MORE THAN 10,000 REASONS! When the sun comes up, it's time to sing His praise again. "WHATEVER may pass and WHATEVER lies before me, let me be singing when the evening comes!" We can rest assured that there is an answer to the questions of "why?" but we must bless the Lord and worship His holy name along the way. He's rich in love, slow to anger, His name is great, and His heart is kind. "For all His goodness we will keep on singing, 10,000 reasons for my heart to find" (learn the mystery of Him along the way). And "on that day when my strength is failing...still my soul will sing His praise unending!" We don't know why now, but we have infinite reasons to praise Him and say yes to His mysterious plan for us! We must let go of ourselves to draw closer to Him.
God is so good. Following Him can be the scariest thing at times. It doesn't always make the most sense in our human minds, but when He uncovers His mystery to us, nothing makes more sense than His perfect ways.
For I know the plans I have for you, " says the Lord. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope." (Jeremiah 29:11)
Nothing makes more sense than His perfect plans when they are revealed to us.
He has big plans, even if we do not know what He is doing. And to be honest, sometimes that can be frustrating. But we can rest assured that He is not trying to confuse us: "For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace..." (1 Cor. 14:33). I cannot wait to meet Him more deeply in the place He has prepared for us. In Japan, in Detroit, wherever He wants us to go, I want to meet Him there if only I can see a closer glimpse of His heart! "I WILL BE WITH THE ONE I LOVE, WITH UNVEILED FACE I'LL SEE HIM!"
The mystery of God. What a gift!
Love,
Amy
Wednesday, January 1, 2014
Happy New Year!
Happy first of the year! Wow, can you believe it's already 2014? We hope you had a wonderful time ringing in the new year with those most dear to you.
It was a low key night full of more food than we could finish with friends we love. We laughed until we cried and then laughed some more.
These friends are family! Mike & Erica Shanton, Ryan & me, Derek & Erica Moccia, Amanda & Bob McLaughlin, and MB & Kevin Michell (left to right)!
Amy's sister, Mary Beth (MB), invited us over to spend the evening with her family, Kevin, Graham, and Leah, and our close friends, the McLaughlins, Moccias, and Shantons. Everyone pitched in and brought something to build the biggest American junk food fest we've had in awhile!
We brought sushi (cucumber, tempura sweet potato, crab, and cream cheese)...
The Moccias brought all kinds of chips, pop, and snacks, perfect for munching. MB had fun NYE swag like initials on our drinking glasses and sparkling juice for midnight...
The Shantons brought yummy dips like spinach and artichoke and caramel fondue!
The McLaughlins brought a deep fryer! The guys stood out in the freezing cold (literally) and fried jalapeno poppers, mac and cheese, cheese sticks, zuccini, mushrooms, dill pickles, onion rings, and a TURKEY! Here are the guys braving the cold to feed the crew!
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| Bob McLaughlin, Mike Shanton, & Kevin Michell (L to R)! |
It was so cold that the turkey literally started to freeze again while waiting for the munchies to finish frying. Everything tasted so great!
We were so full from the appetizers, but still managed to eat turkey sandwiches. So yummy!
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| Admiring (& picking from) the turkey with Amanda McLaughlin! |
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| Could not stop laughing! |
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| Giggling selfies with Erica Moccia! |
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| Family photo! |
Our wish is that this year is full of fresh starts and that you find yourself rejuvinated with the hope of a new year ahead of us all!
Love,
Ryan & Amy
All Things Cars!
Yesterday (12/31/13) Ryan turned in his lease. We had fun flashback memories of him car shopping when he moved home from Shanghai in June 2012. He loves the pep & fuel economy of a 4-cyl turbo and the control of a manual transmission and has driven that type of powertrain since 2005. He also loves the "German/European style" tuned suspensions, so when it came time to pick a car in 2012, the Buick Regal GS was a natural choice.
He will miss driving it...
But he said it felt like he was cleansed of it when we left! Here's to new starts!
We also went to the Detroit Metro Airport (DTW) to pick up the rental car we will use until we fly out next week. We had no idea what we would be getting, but it was fun to pick something out! It reminded us of the "old days" when Ryan would visit home from Shanghai and would go to the exact same National Emerald Club aisle to pick something out.
The Ford Escape is a cool car! It's a good size and is very peppy to drive.
Next week, we'll head to AAA to get our International driver's permit so we can drive when we get to Japan! The permit will be good for one year. Within that year, we'll learn how to drive under the Japanese system and take their test to get a driver's license.
All things cars from the Motor City!
Ryan & Amy
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Movers Day 1: Japan Shipment
Today (12/30/2013) started our 3 day move/packing process. Palmer sent one man to pack up our containers to be shipped to Japan.
We were so thankful for Amy's Dad who was also here to help us out during the day. Having his calm spirit and relaxed composure with us made us feel that way too. [Whenever I (Amy) felt like a lost puppy, seeing Ryan & Dad so collected and hopeful reassured me that everything was going smoothly.]
Up until today, we have gone through basically every closet and drawer, separating out the items we want with us in Japan, items we'll put in storage, and items that we want to donate. When Robert arrived, we had already set aside what was going to Japan. Along with our closets of clothes, we hoped to fit our kitchen appliances, books, pictures, home decor, Christmas tree, guitar, sewing machine, computer, and craft supplies.
Robert came in and put his nose to the grindstone right away, working from 8:30am - 12:30pm.
We were each allotted one "D sized" container to be sent by air.
Each container was 58"x41"x45" and the combined weight we were allowed was 679 lbs. We weren't sure which would restrict us first, dimensions (the size) or weight of our stuff. Our desire was to take everything we wanted to remind us of home, but we were unsure if we would have to leave our "wants" in order to fit our basic "needs." We knew that whatever didn't fit into these containers would have to come with us in a suitcase the day we leave, and we can only take so many suitcases on the flight. Overall, we were nervous about this day.
Robert started in the closets, putting our clothes into "wardrobe" boxes which have a bar across the top so they can hang. We wish we would have gotten a picture of it; it was a pretty cool box. He also packed "laydown wardrobe" boxes with clothes that can be folded. After that, he worked through our household items little by little. Pictures, books, movies, decorations, craft supplies, crock pot, electric skillet, hand mixer...
Our Hass travel map...
Amy's guitar and sewing machine...
Until everything was boxed up...and we hadn't yet reached 679 lbs! Robert started another box, and we put shoes, more clothes, and coats inside. Whew! Less to put in a suitcase! With that we had 15 more pounds to go. We broke for lunch and literally walked around the entire condo looking for what else we could take. What a huge gift! We never thought we'd have to think of MORE things to take. So Amy went to the sink to wash and add our favorite tea kettle, stock pot, panini grill, pie & cake pans (just the right size for a toaster oven), and cooler containers (with dreams of picnics in bamboo forests).
With everything packed up, the real moment of truth awaited. Would all of these boxes fit into the D containers?
We felt like we were holding our breath as Robert took each box out to the truck. What if the boxes didn't fit? What if the types/shapes of boxes didn't fit together within the dimensions of the D container?
When empty, the D container looked small. With every box he put into the D container, the container seemed to look bigger. He kept filling and filling until every last box was inside!
Everything fit! We prioritized the items we wanted in order of "needs," and thank God, everything we NEEDED and WANTED is now ready to ship to Japan!
Done. We are looking forward to unpacking it in a few weeks in our Japan apartment!
Thanking God for helping us in our time of need. He provided peace throughout the day and saw that those things we wanted could get to us in Japan.
Days 2 and 3 coming soon. Happy New Year!
Love,
Ryan & Amy
Sunday, December 22, 2013
Merry Christmas!
There is something so sweet about the week of Christmas. As you spend this time with family and friends, we wish you the most peaceful Christmas yet, full of joy and memories!
We sent our Christmas cards last week which included a letter. After looking at it again, we noticed many errors that we'd like to correct. While we read it many times, we overlooked some pretty significant mistakes. Changes and additions will be in red.
Have a Merry Christmas!
. . . . . . . . . .
Christmas 2013
Hello & Merry Christmas!
We are thankful for many things in 2012 2013. The Lord has challenged us, but He has also refined us and begun preparing us for many changes ahead. What a year it has been!
We spent time traveling this year. In March, we took a trip to Florida Clearwater Beach Cocoa Beach Michigan Magic Kingdom Houston , TX Shanghai Shanghai
We are thanking God for one year of marriage and celebrated on August 18. How quickly one year passes! Ryan had a business trip to Germany Europe . We toured Germany Bavaria Berlin Leipzig Munich Alps , Oberammergau Austria Heidelberg Frankfurt . We spent our actual anniversary in Fussen , Germany Germany Paris UK London Stonehenge , and Bath Europe is as gorgeous as you would expect, and we highly recommend it!
Looking back into 2012, we began looking for a church in October where we could grow & serve in our community together. We found Huron Hills Church Ann Arbor 4 pastors (5 including a 2nd site church) 5 pastors (6 including a 2nd site church), all of which have given sermons and interacted with us in a way which draws us closer to Christ. We have learned so much and there have been some Sundays when we cannot take notes fast enough to capture the knowledge. We love the spirit and heart of the church and the way they equip us to go out and share the love of Christ with others. We love the freedom we have experienced in Christ through the church, the way we have grown in knowledge and truth, and the diverse community. Whether it’s a church service, theology class, or conversations with friends, both of us have walked away challenged, convicted, humbled, encouraged, healed, and with much hope!
We decided to join a small group right away and made good friends quickly. This gave us the opportunity to study the Bible more deeply with accountability. It has been a safe place for us to share our hearts, and we have been moved by how easily the people in our small group loved us without reservation, even before they knew us. This has been a great example of how to love more like Christ. We could not be more thankful for the church where God has taken us.
Very close family members have struggled with health issues this year, but we have seen hope in Christ through all of it. Our life plans quickly changed as we stared at how fragile life is and were faced with the question of what matters most to us. Amy’s Dad struggled with heart & health issues in 2012 and 2013. Ryan’s grandpa and Amy’s grandma also struggled with heart issues. Perhaps the most eye opening glimpse of life was seen through Ryan’s Uncle Paul. In late December 2012, we visited Uncle Paul and Aunt Denise in Texas
After prayer together, Amy resigned her position at General Motors on January 28. She was given a 6 month leave of absence to evaluate and reconsider. After working in an engineering environment for 9 years, it was time to change directions to focus on our walk with Christ, marriage, and our loved ones. It was time for a lifestyle that allowed support of Ryan instead of bringing home stress and burdens. In March, Uncle Paul lost his life to cancer at age 55. This had a huge impact on the family as he was a 2nd father to Ryan. Spending time with family and friends to mourn Paul, we also celebrated life: the life Paul had, the purpose he had every day, the joy that poured out of his and Denise's heart in marriage, and the role model he continues to be to us. This challenges us to remember how quickly life can change and to live NOW for our everlasting purpose.
In January, Amy's dad had his final surgery, another attempt at correcting an irregular heartbeat. There was much tension surrounding the months of medication and exams leading up to issues that had lingered for years. Seeing her dad in this condition had been hard. The year leading up to January was an emotional one. Learning of his diagnosis, experiencing his first semi-successful surgery in June 2012, Ryan moving home from China the same month, and getting married that August, we were anxious for January to be the final step toward healing. So far the surgery has been successful this time. Praise God that he is off all of his heart medication, and we are hopeful for a full recovery! Please join us in continuing to pray for his recovery and for him to regain his energy.
In the midst of these changes, Ryan's company asked if we would be interested in an international assignment to Japan Japan Japan Japan Asia , our excitement, fears, and concerns, and learned to make Japanese cuisine! They equipped us with contacts of people there and to a camp where Amy hopes to do volunteer work: Torchbearers International Yamanakako. God also gave us the friendship of neighbors, Jay & Rachael Kent. Shortly after meeting them, Rachael invited Amy over for breakfast. She shared their heart for ministry in Texas. We hardly knew each other, but she shared her fears, concerns, and her hope in God. As she said this to me, she said, "I don't know if any of this even makes sense." Amy said, "You have no idea how much I understand..." as she explained our opportunity in Japan. We only lived across the street from them for a few months until they moved to Texas Asia . We see very clearly how God put a church and specific people in our lives, even for a short time, as instruments to soften and prepare our hearts for Japan
After that, we looked at this opportunity with open minds, hopeful hearts, and excitement. In July, Ryan told his company that we wanted to go, and Amy told General Motors that she would not be returning to work. This decision thrust us into constant prayer and planning! In September, we spent a week in Japan Tokyo Japan
Since September, preparations have become more real. Although there are a lot of things to prepare, God is clearly taking care of the details, which gives us peace on the hard days. We took introductory Japanese language classes two days per week from November 11 to December 11. We also had an eye opening Japanese culture training course for two full days (November 19 and 21) through Cartus. The course had great insight into the culture, the people, and the stages of emotions we will face while integrating into this (or any new) culture. The week before Thanksgiving, we listed our condominium for rent through a longtime and trusted friend and within 3 days had an offer from the first and only family to view the property. This family is also on an international assignment for 2 years from Mexico U.S.A. us we will be in Japan
The month of December has been an emotional one. The reality of moving has become more real. When we think about the process of moving, we are overcome with memories of the first year of marriage in our home.
Christmas 2013: In front of our home in Canton, MI. August 18, 2012 - January 3, 2014. Photo by Erica Moccia Photography.
When we realize we will not see family and close friends until our home leave (Christmas 2014, Lord willing), we are overcome with sadness. God has given us encouragement through close friendships and Torchbearers Yamanakako. When we are struggling, we’ll get an encouraging text or email of love. At the end of the day when we take a moment to breathe and look at our lives from the outside in, we are so thankful for strength and support through family and friends.
We would love if you could pray for us over the next two years. We will pack and ship some items to Japan on December 30. The rest of our home will be packed away on January 3rd and 4th. Our departure date for Japan is January 9th. Ryan will start this new assignment on January 13, 2014 as a Team Leader in the Automotive Planning Department which does corporate and business planning for global Yazaki operations at the World Headquarters. This will be his first time leading people, and he will need patience and a sound mind to guide this team, especially since the culture is so different than what we're accustomed. Pray that his heart will be drawn closer to God's every day and that he will be a picture of Christ's love to the people around him. Pray that we will become connected to a church in our city, Gotemba New Hope Chapel (also known as Gotemba Full Gospel Christ Church), and begin a life where we will feel at home. Pray that Amy will be patient and supportive of Ryan as we both go through the stages of living in a new culture, with a new language, and making friends. Pray that Amy will be steadfast in work at Torchbearers and that God will open doors for her to teach English and learn Japanese. Pray that we will learn Japanese culture quickly. Pray for Torchbearers Yamanakako, the directors Steve & Jennifer Frentz, their children, the team, and their ministry. Pray for us on our hard days that we will remember God’s promises and our trust in Him that Japan
Looking forward, we are reminded of Jesus’ great commission in Matthew 28:19-20. “Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Please pray that we will be mindful of our purpose in life to lift our eyes toward God so that others may also see His perfect love and that we will remember His presence always.
As we celebrate the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ, at Christmas, this is our prayer for you: “I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit (Romans 15:13 ).” We hope that you find His peace as this year comes to an end.
We invite you to join us in this journey at:
-or-
ryanandamy2012@gmail.com
Our U.S.A. December 31, 2013 , but beginning January 10, 2014 , our mailing address in Japan
[Please email us for this mailing address]
If you have ever considered visiting Japan
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Love always,
Ryan & Amy Hass
Wednesday, December 18, 2013
Hello Family & Friends!
We are so happy about the ability to communicate with you on our blog! As we journey through this life together, we hope you will share in it with us. We desire that you will also share your life with us so that, even though we are miles apart, we will become closer than ever before. We pray that we can stay connected to you here, through emails, by phone, and video chat.
You hold an integral part in molding and shaping us with your friendship and wisdom. As we go through this life that God has given us, we hope the words of Philipians 4:8 will guide our communications.
"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."
Please bear with us as this blog becomes more developed! The next several weeks may be slow because of Christmas, the New Year, and packing up our home for Japan.
Love,
Ryan & Amy
You hold an integral part in molding and shaping us with your friendship and wisdom. As we go through this life that God has given us, we hope the words of Philipians 4:8 will guide our communications.
"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."
Please bear with us as this blog becomes more developed! The next several weeks may be slow because of Christmas, the New Year, and packing up our home for Japan.
Love,
Ryan & Amy
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