Park Mokja is set to return to Korea at the end of February. As much as the time we spent together was special, not being able to see her closely is making me miss her even more.
Watching her struggles by the side, praying together, and giving advice, I was extremely thankful. I don’t know how full of gratitude I was when, during our journey, I could see inside of her ‘a heart as precious as a jewel that loved the church’, ‘a heart that loved God deeply’, and ‘a faith that knew how to step back from one’s own self interest for the church. Knowing that her decision to go is based on such heart and prayer, I was full of blessings for her.
Nevertheless, there is still an empty spot somewhere in my heart; it is not going away easily for it takes up so much space. This empty spot and my heart of blessing don’t seem to be contradicting each other either.. I am sure you feel the same. It is like “I have to let her go because I love her” but “I also want to hold on to her because I love her”.. You know what I mean. ^^
Park Mokja continuously had small and big job offers every year. She was not knocking on the doors of opportunities. It was rather opportunity who was knocking the door of Mokja herself. When she attended a house church conference in 2018, she heard the voice of God telling her to stay in the US. So she, pushing back all those good opportunities, remained here with us dreaming of the vision given by God.
She received these sort-of scout offers multiple times in a year so it was difficult for her to spread the news to the church community each time. Even for this opportunity, she was having a hard time deciding, thinking it over and over till the end.. It was a decision she made in the last few weeks and everything has been advancing swiftly.
After two and half years since she accepted Jesus Christ in December 2015, God made a path for her to become a Mokja. We all know well her heart, tears, prayers, service and love for the church. We thank her again for her unforgettable sacrifice, and exemplary love she has left to us.
I look forward to seeing how God would lead her journey. Who knows ? We could meet again and serve God together… Or we could also be at our own place, drawing out beautifully, the kingdom of God. We entrust our tomorrow to Jesus. Let’s pray that God alone will be glorified.
I ask you to pray for Park Mokja and her new journey. Additionally, for the administrative ministry, media team leader, etc. I pray that God fills these empty spots. Please pray together for this and if anyone wants to volunteer or wants to recommend someone for these roles, please let me know.
From Pastor JiWon Choi.