The faithfulness of China’s church today prompts us to ponder: how can we navigate our work and life with Jesus amidst trials? We can find reassurance in Matthew 19:26, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” As Hudson Taylor, founder of China Inland Mission (now OMF), once said, “There are three stages to every great work of God; first it is impossible, then it is difficult, then it is done.”

As you read this edition in Billions, we invite you to prayerfully consider how the Lord’s been working in your own life—what impossible things has He already done, and what new impossible things might He be inviting you to be part of? Here are some of the stories you can look forward to:

• Garden or jungle? A posture of learning in East Asia: Paul and Jo* share why we need not be intimidated by ministry challenges in East Asia—for God’s opened doors to so many possibilities!
• 20 lessons from 20 years of mission: Over the last 20 years Ruth* has served as a single, as a married woman and as a mother—in five different countries! She shares 20 things God’s taught her during this time.
• Serving in East Asia: 10 tips from over 10 years of service: From sharing meals to delving into a biblical theology of suffering, Lydia* shares her top ten tips for those exploring mission in East Asia.
• Answered prayers from East Asia: East Asia prayer group coordinators Lappidoth and Deborah* share how God taught them the importance of praying specifically for His work in East Asia.
• God’s special gifts: How does God sustain people in ministry for over 30 years? David and Tina share special memories of their time in Thailand and the hope that keeps them going, day in, day out.
• Stepping into the unknown: Johan and Debbie reflect on over 30 years of service with OMF—from church planting, leadership and training roles in Thailand to ministry in Australia and New Zealand.
• Multiple ministry hats: Dave and Andrea share what it’s like to break the “usual” mold as they take on the role of State Ministry Leader for VIC/TAS part time with an awesome team at their back.
• Nothing more and nothing less: Edwin shares the joy of witnessing OMF mission partnerships, happily reporting, “I am very thankful to say that God provided what we needed to get through the year!”
• Highlights from Japan: Sharon is on home assignment from various ministry roles in Japan, and shares the joy of discovering the ways God used her 6 years in Australia to prepare her for these ministries.
• 3 tips on professional service in Southeast Asia: On home assignment from ministry in Southeast Asia, Hannah* shares highlights from her first term and tips for those considering professional service.
• Missional business and social media ministry in Southeast Asia: From online outreach to setting up a business selling locally-made products, Frank and Rose* share highlights from their recent term.
• Abiding in God: For the past two years, Beth* has been serving in a concrete city surrounded by palm oil plantations, arranging prayer events, serving with her profession—and learning to abide in Him.

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