A Thousand Year Wait
When I (James) accepted the call in June to pastor Songtan Central Baptist Church (SCBC), our hope was to be in Korea by August. Stephanie and I were eager to step into this new chapter, wrapping up our ministry here in the States and preparing to go where God was leading. We moved forward with urgency, excitement, and prayerful planning.
But despite our best efforts, that goal won’t be met.
In order to work for a Korean organization, we must obtain a Korean work visa—a process that has proven to be slower and more complex than we anticipated. Each day, we’re asked the same question: “When are you leaving for Korea?” And each time, we answer honestly—sharing about the visa delays and how we’ve been doing everything in our power to be ready once approval comes.
It’s frustrating. At times, disappointing. But even in the waiting, we are trusting the Lord’s timing.
God has provided in incredible ways through this journey. We sold our camper—something we expected to be a major hurdle—in just a few days. Our home is on the market, and we’re holding onto our vehicles for now as we continue waiting. These provisions have been reminders that while we may not control the timeline, God is still at work.
2 Peter 3:8 reminds us:
“But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.”
It’s a simple but powerful truth. The same God who has orchestrated every step so far is the God of time itself. He will place us exactly where we’re meant to be—at exactly the right time.
So, we keep saying yes.
Yes to waiting.
Yes to trusting.
Yes to His perfect timing.
Ways You Can Pray For Us
Pray for expedited documents from the NC Secretary of State and a expedited visa process once the final application is submitted.
Pray for a buyer of our home here in Concord.
Pray for June as she begins to start some kindgarten classes. (a process we really hoped would begin in Korea)
Pray for Stephanie as she learns the new skill of teaching June.
Pray for James to finish his ministry at Parkwood well.
Thanks for taking the time to read this and to pray for us.
To God be the Glory.
