An Aussie to Everyone

"Though I am free and belong to no one, I have made myself a slave to everyone, to win as many people. To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews... To the weak I became weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings." 1 Cor. 9:19-23

After 36 hours of traveling and by God's grace, we are here in Sydney. Thank you all for your prayers. It still hasn't hit me that I'm on the other side of the world. Hopefully most of you are sleeping right now. :) We were met at the airport by the sweet Korean missionaries. They showed us around the city (to the Opra House and Harbor City Bridge) a little before our jet lag hit too hard. Sydney is such a pretty city and so very diverse. I was talking to Theresa, one of the missionaries, and she said that Australia is actually Asian country. The pastor of the church told us today about his vision for more diversity in the church here. It was so convicting when he said that the most segregated time is Sunday morning for church. The kingdom of God is for people of all tribes, tongues, and nations.

Today we had ministry training with Jim Jung, the pastor of Harbour Community Church in Sydney and Rich, the Campus Outreach director in Brisbane, Sydney. There are not any Campus Outreach ministries in Sydney Uni's (Colleges), but we are hoping to plant one in the next few years. I learned so much about the culture today. One thing I learned is that the Aussies like to "pay out" (make fun of) people they like. I need to get comfortable with laughing at myself. I know that this will definitely a learning experience. Of course, you cannot blanket stereotype all people, but this is how many people think. Pray that the students will see their need for Christ. Pray that my love for the Aussies will grow abundantly and they will be open. God is so good! Love you all.