Church

I went to church today. It was the first time since I've gotten here.

The bus ride was interesting. It was so full that some people had to stand for the 40 minute ride to Seoul. I ended up giving my seat to a young guy who looked like he was going to 'lose his lunch'. He needed the window more than I did.

Church was great. Like cool water on my soul. It was an English outreach service. There were about 50 people in the congregation. (The normal Korean service, which I plan to visit sometime, has about 300-400). Pastor Mike gave an excellent sermon about integrity. It was a familiar topic, but one you can never hear too much about. It was interesting to listen as he applied the scriptures to Korean culture.

I was also glad to hear Mike speak the gospel message throughout his sermon. It gave me confidence in this church.

After the service, I joined the other college age kids for a small group meeting. It turns out, they have a Bible study in the morning and a fellowship meeting after the service. So we sat and talked... specifically how we've changed since high school and how we want to change in the future. Each person took a turn sharing. (there were about twenty of us, but we split into two groups). We covered the whole spectrum... new excited Christians to old wise Christians.

Then we all went out for a late lunch. The food and company were awesome. I felt accepted and at home right away. Most of the group is made up of Korean-Americans. However, there are some native Koreans. And then there is one New Zealander named Tim. He and I were the only "white" faces there.

They have already invited me to join them this Thursday. Of course, I will go.

Prayer does get answered. This church was an answer. I don't believe in coincidence. Though the ride to Seoul is a little long... and I could probably find a church closer... I feel that this church is a great place for me right now. I am already excited for next sunday.

(I took these yesterday but they didn't really fit with my "pattern" theme.)

A wiseman once said, "As a dog returns to its vomit, so a fool repeats his folly."