Rest and Renewal

Hello! Recently we attended our mission organization's annual retreat near Mount Fuji. It was a great time to spend with colleagues and friends, for rest and renewal. The retreat was at the same location as it was last spring, and it brought back memories to where we were a year ago. It's amazing how much has happened since then and now, including our newest member of the family, Elijah, joining us this time! We can't believe how big Elijah is getting now, and for that matter, Mason and Kaili too! Shepherding our kids along on their own walks with Jesus has definitely been one of the more difficult components of this journey. We thank you for your prayers and support for our family and the Japanese people.

Most of our Cross Project team at the annual JVENTURE retreat near Fuji

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” ~Matthew 11:28-30

One of the themes from the retreat was remembering to rest and take a sabbath. This quote from Jesus helps remind us to find that rest in Him. Life can seem very difficult at times. Sometimes it's all that I can do to make sure the dishes and laundry get done and Elijah takes a nap, and even then sometimes I fail. But this gentle reminder from my Lord brings me back to where I need to be, abiding in Him. It's only there where I can find true rest for my soul, and where God can really use me.

Praise:

• Praise God that we had a great time at our annual Japan mission-wide retreat near Mount Fuji! There was inspirational teaching and time for rest and renewal. We also got to spend good time with folks from WorldVenture who were visiting from the States!

• Praise God that Mason had a good weeklong school camp in Nagano, and made it back safely!

• Praise God for some new, increased, and renewed supporters in the last month! God is good!

Prayer:

• Please pray our Cross Project team as we go through some changes. Please pray for divine wisdom for how best to proceed, and for decisions to be made regarding ministry and focus.

• Please pray for us to continue to learn the language well, and to make Japanese friends.

• Please continue to pray for our financial support. We are so thankful for our new supporters! We are now $1600 short of our monthly expenses. You can check WorldVenture's Giving Portal to ensure your information is up-to-date and that nothing has lapsed unintentionally.

JVENTURE team photo from the retreat // Posing with Mount Fuji

The family at a curry shop // Dedicating Elijah to the Lord at the JVENTURE retreat

We would love to hear from you, whether it be to share your prayer requests or to simply catch up. Please know that we think of you and pray for you often.

Thanks and blessings,

The Walkers

Jeff, Malia, Mason, Kaili, and Elijah