His Faithfulness and our homecoming in Hong Kong         around Feb, 98

            "Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men." (Matt. 4:19 )

Greetings!! We are back in Hong Kong. May God's grace be with you all.

When we read a book named "Re-entry: Making the transition from missions to life at home", it reminded us of the Lord's teaching for us. We were indeed thankful for his faithfulness.

~ 1. A wise investment ~

"...no one who has left home or wife or brothers or parents or children for the sake of the kingdom of God will fail to receive many times as much in this age and , in the age to come, eternal life." (Luke 18:29-30)

When we decided to go to "Hah-Hah Land", our families strongly disagreed with our plans. When we took hold of this promise of the Lord, we saw God's faithfulness. Even Filbert's sister said, "All the foreseen unpleasant situation, never even happened. Rather, Filbert's parents could retire earlier, traveled and had enough money to build a house in their ancestral village in China. This fulfilled one of their long time dreams."

~ 2. A lamp on its stand ~

"No one lights a lamp and puts it in a place where it will be hidden, or under a bowl. Instead, he puts it on its stand, so that those who come in may see the light." (Luke 11:33)

When we first arrived at "Hah-Hah Land" and faced with the local people, we were slightly afraid of them. We were also worried about revealing our true identity. But God used this verse to remind us. Every time when the Holy Spirit reminded us of this, we saw that the Lord had prepared the hearts of those thirsting for the truth. Thank God for that.

~ 3. Don't let anyone look down on you ~

"Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity." (I Tim 4:12)

Being the youngest in his family, Filbert knew that he lacked leadership qualities. But the Lord had prepared for him a leadership role in the office team. Most of the team members were older than him and had years of experience. So every time Filbert lacked confidence, the Lord encouraged him with this verse. This applied not only to leadership at work, but at home also.

~ 4. Be prepared in season and out of season ~

"Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage - with great patience and careful instruction." (II Tim 4:2)

In this mission field, we are only playing a supporting role. Thus, we often forget about preaching the word. This verse speaks to us loud and clear: regardless of what role we play, and at any time, we have to spread the good news. Since then, we carry with us gospel tracts and booklets anywhere we go.

~ 5. A home visit to Hong Kong: Joyful yet sad ~

Sad:       Iris' father was found to have lung cancer and needed a surgery

Glad:       Thank you Lord, her father looked fine still and was very optimistic.

May the Lord strengthen his faith. Also may he grant us wisdom so we'll speak appropriately to encourage him. 

~ 6. Our future direction. ~

Before we went back to Hong Kong, we had opportunities to attend two retreats in the mountains. When we seeked God's guidance, he spoke to us of the real fasting in Isaiah 58. At that time, it flashed across our minds to give some physical aids to the Gentiles. In the beginning, we didn't know where to begin! Later, the Lord opened up his ways a few times. Thanks the Lord, finally we decided to finish the work at the office by September. Then we'll serve in one of the villages for a short period of time. Next year, we plan on studying missionary or theology. Pray that God will continue to guide our future.

Pray and you will receive 1