Greetings from South Korea!

It’s been 10 years since I’ve visited my motherland. I’m sitting at McDonald’s looking out the window to the sea of people at one of the busiest intersections in Seoul. It is surreal. In some ways it didn’t feel that different from any other foreign country I visited in the years past. It’s changed so much that there’s no point of identification from my memory. Although I understand their language, I feel so far removed from their culture and their way of life… (Have you noticed my referring them as “they?”)

However, I came across one point of identification and even experienced some stirring of emotions. That is when I went to an early morning service (5:30 am!) with my uncle to his church which was right next to his house. If you aren’t familiar, most Korean churches have services EVERY morning around 5 am. I joined him this particular morning since I woke up at 4 am due to time difference.

While I was praying there at that church, God powerfully reminded me of the power of prayers from one person. All of my mom’s side is devout Christian. They are all very involved in their church and take their faith seriously. My uncle knew the names of my children and the names of my brother’s children. He said he prays for them by name everyday when he goes to the early morning prayer. And it all stems from my grandmother, the only one who was Christian initially when everyone else was shamanist, buddhist, or animists. I have no doubt that it was her unceasing prayer for her children and grandchildren that we were able to come to have the greatest treasure in Christ.

Don’t give up on God. Especially, don’t give up praying for the salvation of your loved ones. God may do a miracle. I know He did in my family…

PH

p.s. I don’t know if I can keep up with daily devotional while I’m on this mission trip. I will try to post them as regularly as I can, but no guarantees…