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This video is the song "furusato/my hometown", at the 3-11 Memorial Concert in Ishinomaki, a community that has become closely connected with my (future) community in Tokyo.

1 year. It's crazy how much can change. But at the same time...it's gone by so quickly. A year has passed since the 3-11 Great East Japan Earthquake/Tsunami, and the work of rebuilding is just beginning in Tohoku. A year gone by and people are still missing; the thousands lost still missed. People who still need homes, jobs, community, Hope. Need to know that they are not forgotten. My heart aches for them to know the One who never forgets them, who promises never to leave or forsake them, who promises He is a Home for us, forever. How long, O Lord?

And my heart aches to be there. In Japan. A year ago, I was quite confident I would be in Japan by 3-11-12; that it would be beginning to feel just a bit like home. And as much as I've grown and learned and seen the goodness of God's plan of having me right where I am...I can't wait to go. To see and experience what I've talked and prayed about for so long. To get to know people and play just the smallest of roles in this pivotal time in Japan. I have so much to learn, and I'm ready to be there soaking up and pouring out. How long, O Lord?

But spring is on its way, and the sakura will bloom again. There is hope. There is time. People are being comforted, churches are being planted, my heart and mind are being prepared. This season will run its course. "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish" (2 Peter 3:9).

On a lighter note... my Mom pulled out this icey maker she bought in Japan years ago. She intended it for our nieces, but my siblings and I decided we didn't need 3 yr olds to enjoy the simple pleasures of life : ) Over 22 years old, and this little bear is still working beautifully!