Life for global worker Joan has always been full of surprises and gospel opportunities in her host country. This morning, Joan muses about a neighborhood wedding, English clubs and the Apostle Creed—all in a day’s work for Joan.

A few weeks ago, there was a wedding reception for the son of the M family who lives next door to me. Since I hadn't received an invitation, I asked a friend who lives a few houses from me, if I should go. She said, "Yes, you must go or you will offend them since you live next door."

Reluctantly, I put my gift of money in an envelope and headed to the wedding. Much to my surprise, when I arrived, the groom's aunt met me, took my arm, found two chairs and sat me down beside her. She stayed with me throughout the reception and introduced me to everyone as her friend next door. We took pictures and they insisted that I was in the middle of each photo.

Later, she walked me home, came inside and we chatted some more. She has already returned for another visit, invited me to her home and was delighted when I gave her a copy of the photos I had taken.

This is a miracle since we have lived next door to this family for 16 years and they have never spoken to us. Pray for this new friendship to grow.

On another front, the English Club continues to be a blessing to the students and to me. One of the young M students recently said that he was born a M but didn't really believe any religion at all. When he comes to the English Club, he enters in to the discussions of the Bible. We have a mix of Catholics, Christians and Ms who come each week. God is working in their hearts as we study his Word together.

I have several more groups of global workers and pastors’ wives who are eager to learn English. What a blessing for all of us as we pray together for people in this country to know Esa (Jesus). God is building his church.

And there’s Siwi, my M friend, who works in another city but messages me every day. Please pray for her and her brother, Angga, that God will continue to grow our friendship and they will open their hearts to know Esa.

Last Sunday, I attended an English service in a church here. As we read the Apostles' Creed, together, I thought, Here I am in another culture, in another country, reciting the same creed in the same way as I did at College Church. This is what heaven must be like.

On this Missions Festival weekend, Sunday’s Connections features an article by Cheryl Warner, “Living in the Sun Rise.” It's a good read,too. Cheryl and her husband, Charley, live in Ukraine and serve with Barnabas International. Enjoy this special weekend with our missions people.