Today, we are going to visit another part of the world….Japan.  My friend, Rebel Hill, and her family are church planting missionaries to this country. They’ve lived on the field for about 14 months now and are working hard at learning the language to begin their church planting efforts.  Rebel graciously agreed to answer a few questions about her new life on the mission field.

Again, I pray that reading her responses gives you a better idea about what day-to-day life looks like for a new missionary wife on the field.

Q: What is your favorite thing about your new home, Japan?

Q: What has been your biggest struggle during your 1st year on the mission field?

A: It is so difficult to not be able to say all you want to say, as you learn a new language. At the beginning, not knowing anything, it was just this helpless feeling. Now, as we learn more and more Japanese, we can get around just fine. But there is so much I want to say, so much I want to share about Christ with my friends. I am so thankful for my friends here. They are so patient with me, as I stumble through my second language. And one day, I hope soon, I will be able to share all that is in my heart with these friends.

Q: What do you miss most from the States?

A: Without a doubt, I miss my family and friends the most. If I could just bring them all over here to Japan, it would be perfect.

 Q: How do you keep your relationship with the Lord a priority?

A: Mainly by making sure I take the time every day to be with Him, to read His Word. For me, I have to wake up before the kids, because once they get up, I cannot focus on anything I’m reading, and if I wait until their bed time, I’ve got so much on my mind from the day, I can’t focus then either. So, it helps me to start the day with my Bible reading, which then also helps prepare my mind and heart for the day ahead, whatever it may hold.

Q: What is your favorite or most interested thing about your new culture?

A: Right now I am learning a little about the Japanese tea ceremony. One of our Japanese teachers is taking some extra time to teach me about it. It is really interesting to see the details in it. There is a certain way and pattern to do each step, as you serve the tea, and it makes it so beautiful. And also, for those drinking, a particular way you sit, pick up your cup, and even a certain way to drink your tea.

Q: What have been some ways that you can keep in touch with family and friends from the States?

A: We love to use Skype and Facetime. Our kids are already pros at it. They come running when they hear the noise of Skype starting up, knowing that it means they will soon see the faces of Grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. They run to get a toy or doll to show off and wait patiently for it to connect. I am so thankful for the technology we have! Also, shipping is super easy and quick from here to the states, so sending a letter or something small is pretty easy to do.

Q: What are some prayer requests you currently have?

A: I would really appreciate your prayers as we continue to learn Japanese. And then for the church we are helping in, Agape Baptist, please pray, as the church is growing, and is in need of a larger building.

Take time to check out the Hill’s website HERE or sign up for their e-mail updates HERE.  They are also on social media which makes it super easy to contact Rebel to let her know that you are praying for her and her family…I know it would be a great encouragement to her!