.Danny's blog.

How much can change in a year?

2011-12-28T18:28:00.000-08:00

As I looked over my last post it seems like a lifetime has passed since I blogged here.
It really is amazing how much can happen in such a short period of time.
In February of 2011 I left south Korea after having spent over a year and a half at Yonsei University's Korean Language Institute and headed back to Tumen, Jilin, China where I had visited for the Christmas holiday in 2009, just a year or so after my Grandparents moved out there to serve. I worked within TVRS which is a school that is focused on helping and equiping the Chosun-Jok who are ethnic Koreans living in China with the necessary qualifications to move on to higher education.
I worked at the school as an English Conversation and listening teacher for a semester with the plan of teaching for a further semester after the summer holiday of 2011. However, there were complications during my Summer vacation. Due to some urgent issues that I had neglected to solve before the move to China I became unable to leave South Korea for the following 4 months.
That time in Korea proved to be the hardest in my life to date. I can only say that I came close to losing my faith as well as losing a lot of other ground that I had gained over the previous years in my spiritual walk. I believe with all of my heart that God knew what I was walking into when I stepped onto the Aeroplane heading for Seoul in 2009 when I was just 18 years old. He knew the hardships that I would face and the decisions I would make. Though now I am not fully recovered from the result of my actions (my sin) I can say with an honest heart that I am thankful for that time. As Indian missionary Sadhu Sundar Singh said "A newborn child must cry, for only in this way will his lungs expand. God strikes us in love. Then our lungs expand allowing us to breathe and pray. Placing us in that place of hardship is the most loving thing a father could do." In the same way our Heavenly Father refines us so that we will be able to stand, we will be able to breath spiritually, we will become Men and Women who he can use to fulfil the plans that he has. If we were to be a people who fell at the first sign of hardship what use would we be? I am learning a lot in these coming and passing days on the subject of suffering and of trials. Still my reaction to it is human and not as it should be. But slowly I am learning.
Now for the future. The problems that arose in South Korea were solved after a very arduous few months that pushed me to my limits. Now here I find myself sitting once again in the lounge of the Kessell family's home in Cornwall after a year and a half since my last visit to the Great Island that we call Britain. Since I moved to China in February I've had the desire and the doors have been opening for me to study at University in China. Originally I had no plan to Study a bachelors degree but as time went by I realised that the way forward in Asia seems to be through education and with that my desire to study grew also. I applied for courses at a couple of Universities over the following months and was accepted and preparing to attend Yanbian University of Science and Education. I planned to study Architecture as a four year degree with a %50 scholarship that I had been given by the University. My second choice was to continue my Korean studies but after thinking hard decided that I could further my Korean abilities outside of University and in my own time. After more thought and the desire to take my Korean studies deeper not getting any less prominent I decided to switch my Major to Korean Literature and Language and to attend Yanbian University rather than the University of Science and technology. It is a four year course taught in a mix of both Korean and Mandarin, Chinese. As I don't speak Mandarin I will be attending the University's Chinese language institute for six months starting from March of 2012 and then beginning the 4 year degree in Korean literature the following September. This leaves me little time to become acquainted with the Chinese language but I am looking forward to the challenge and am ready to give it my best.
As I look forward to this coming year I get so excited. Excited for all that our Glorious Father has in store and for all that may arise during that time.
God, Bless us, your people, I pray.

Amen.

A quote by Charles Gutzlaff. 1803 - 1861

"Are the bowels of mercy of a compassionate God shut against these millions? Before Him, China is not shut! He, the Almighty Conqueror of death and hell, will open the gates of heaven for these millions. He has opened them. Neither the Apostles nor the reformers waited until governments were favourable to the Gospel, but went on boldly in the strength of the Lord. We want no gentlemen Missionaries here but men who are at all times ready to lay down their lives
for the Saviour and can wander around forgotten and despised, without human assistance but only the help of God."

October 31.2010

2010-10-30T12:36:00.000-07:00

Moving closer and closer toward a cold winter which means less Mosquitos more snow and hot Christmas specials at starbucks.
This summer semester at Yonsei is going good dispite the immense work load. The real linguists will laugh at me, but these days we're getting around 40 new words a day with 2 new grammar rules in which we will be tested on during our mid term exams next week. This semester my class consists of Chinese (As always), Hong Kong (person!) Mongolian, Taiwanese, Vietnamese and one English man....Me. Im loving and taking Joy as I use this language. Today I met with my language exchange partner and talked about some things that have been bothering me, and after the conversation I just couldnt believe that I had been saying those things in Korean. I came here around 400 days ago not being able to count. It was encouraging.
Now I am looking at the future again and where my path is leading. It's looking like my next stop will be China.....Possibly a long stop. I will write more about the work there If I make a decision to go. At the moment it's looking like that Is where I will be in 4 months or so. Please be praying for that If you remember.
So at the moment I am living....studying....dreaming and trying to seek for now...future and everythng in between.
God bless and Take care

Danny

28th Sept 2010

2010-09-27T23:05:00.000-07:00

It's been a while, 5 months almost, since my last update.
It feels like a lot has happened, occurred, came about.......my English has gotten progressively confusing! But I'll do my best.
I passed level 3 last month after a great 2 week break in Indonesia, courtesy of Mr Aldi Fraudier. That was a great experience, being in a Muslim culture. All I've ever know of Muslims is what you see on a TV screen. Meeting people from this religion, lifestyle, back ground, up bringing (whatever you want to call it) showed me just how normal they are. Broken people looking for meaning to this life along with some people who don't care and just practice because they must. (Sounds familiar to alot we see of Christianity around the world...the faithful and the lukewarm). So yeah, conclusion: Broken people looking for meaning in wrong places. I grew alot of love for the people I was with for those two weeks and still keep in touch with them. I hope to go back some day. Anyone looking for a mission, give ure life to Indonesia. It needs followers of Jesus Christ to lead a way.
Then I went back to London and Cornwall for the summer break. Another encouraging time, as always. I realised what I'm missing after going back into a "Christian" community after a year in Secular....whatever you want to Call it. University life. It was like eating spiritual food 24/7. I miss that but I have to believe that I can have that here too. That has been a struggle. Just hearing the advice and words of the world all week and then going to Church on a Sunday. It's been a fight to keep what it truth as truth and keeping the worlds words clearly separate. Please pray for that. When you hear something over and over you tart to believe it. I want to be found faithful and true before Jesus, and I'm not doing the best job of it.
So this Thursday ill start level 4 at Yonsei Korean language Institute. The course has always been full immersion (Completely Korean) but there used to be text book English, explaining grammar and vocabulary. They decided that level 4 is the time to kick that out too. So from now it will be fully in Korean. Exciting but scary at the same time.
As for the future, its still not clear as to what I'll be doing a year from now China is still heavy on my heart since I went there and has been growing since my visit there last December. My father has an apartment over there that will be un occupied, right next to the school where I would be working, if I went. It's a Korean speaking area, so its an opportunity to put into practice what I've been learning this last year, and by the time I go it will have been 2 years. To disciple, be discipled, teach, learn. I Could maintain my Korean language there and also learn Chinese whilst working at the school. It sounds great. As always there are obstacles and un-surities, holdback and what not. Right now I just need a big dose of direction. We shall see.
Keep in touch.

25th April 2010

2010-04-24T09:21:00.001-07:00

It's been a while since I wrote an update. For that I'm sorry.
To write an update It feels like there needs to be something big to write about. Some revelation or miracle. Nothing like that.

So I'm in my 7th month here. Korean study is going well and I'm learning fast and Loving using this language. When I speak I feel Joy. Which is an amazing thing.
I recently went back to England for a week to see old friends and family and also to kind of wrap things up in my heart towards a few different issues and to be honest...to say goodbye. I feel at home in Asia, and right now It seems Its where Ill stay. I spent the week with Jake and Beth Gillespie and worked with Jake during the week. It was so good to do something physical again. I've just been sat at desks for the last 6 months so It was good to hold paintbrushes and hammers!!
God is still overwhelming with opportunity to share Him with people here. I don't believe it Glorifies God to say "I'm a sinner" but when We say "He is our Saviour". But after being in a situation where I have obviously been used to share His heart with a person, I cant help but think....wow, why would you use me!But I remember that God uses who he has to further his Kingdom. He has me, and I hope he has you too.
North K, China have both been on my heart and I am seeking for what is next. How to use the language. It looks like one of the above is my next destination. But we shall see. Things never work out the way you think.
Making great friends here still. I'm loving hearing the minds and hearts of other cultures that I have never met. My best friends these days are Indonesian and Russian. Such good hearts. I Love! ^^
Still doing work in an English Institute in Incheon, but should be finishing with the coming of the new semester. Its a long travel everytime and takes away time from study, which I desperately need with exams coming every month and a half.
Anyway, life is Study, Kimchi and God. The last months have been the struggle of my life, not going into detail. But trusting for my Savior as I seek refuge in Him.
May He be Glorified with this time here, through failure and triumph.

Amen

Month in China December/January 09/10

2010-01-09T02:25:00.000-08:00

I'm sitting in bed at my Grandparents home after arriving at about 4 Oclock into "the Peoples Republic of China".
I wont be able to post any updates untill I get back to Korea, so this will be a months-worth of Update when you are reading.
I'm excited for this month. I want it to be a time of deepening in my relationship with our God. I want my trust and vision
to deepen. I want my confidence and surity to radically refresh and to be moved to a new level of desperation for the
souls of men as I spend time with the Chinese here.
It's been amazing to see my Grandparents. As I look back over the last 10 years since I lived with them in Wales, Uk, my mind is blown by how surreal it is that we're here, sat in a random part of China, sharing hearts and looking at how life has changed and of His goodness and encouragement in struggle. He has taken us beyond what we could imagine and I know He has bigger plans for the good of all. It's an exciting time to be a part of this......Let's see what this month brings. I'm ready for an awakening and a refreshed river of righteous living that will never run dry, only by Grace.
07th December 2009 (00:37AM)

9th December 2009 (00:23)
I feel like I'm waking up and breathing the fresh winter morning as reality seems that bit realer.
Being here already for this short time, spending time with people and being in a place where to Love Christ is a risk to more than your pride, but to your life, is moving my heart and soul. It sounds so poetic, but its painful. I'm seeing my selfishness and Apethy and my complete sinful self in the light of a Holy God and a people who I know are just like me, but who are seeking God for their every breathe as they face the difficulty of each day, and in that smiling with the Joy of Salvation that Only Jesus Christ can give. I long for a deep repentance in my heart and a river of righteous living to come of it. O God, help me.
I'm ready for a freshness and a revival of vision. "God, I am yours, do what you would in me to bring me to a place of selflesness and a place where you are more Glorified."

11th December 2009 (23:52) Love demands a Love of it's kind.

15th December 2009 (9:33)
Looking out into the Chinese streets , Bycicle Taxis and cold looking Chinese people walking past and snow & Ice in Abundance. The last couple of days the Lord has put in my mind "No Compromise". This time is laying my heart bare and I'm seeing what I have yet to overcome through Him who strengthens me. I am confident in the power of God to deliver, but I have never been so afraid of my potental to fail. Jesus Christ is the answer for this world. This has been made known and we see it everyday. But more than ever before, I believe this and I testify to this and I would lay my life down for this truth. We need Jesus Christ or we have no hope here or for eternity. There is forgiveness with Him, free to those who would admit that they need it and delcare Him Lord. For those who would take up their cross and follow him, even unto the edge of doom and even then defying it til the last breath. New life starts here........I said, New life starts here. No Compromise.

25th of December 2009 (1:29PM)
Merry Christmas.
Sat in the "Korean Room" with my Grandparents.
Had a great few days since my last writing.
Yesterday we traveled to Yanji, the nearest City and had a Christmas meal with other "Kingdom Workers" who have moved to China to serve. It was weird to see so many Western faces. Felt slightly out of place in a strange way but also felt reminded of my own culture.
My Dad has been here for the past week. Its been good to see Him. This is the most time we've spent together in Years. Trusting for a Miracle in his life. I pray that seeing God in the lives of people here, and in our lives, would move his heart to repentance and communion with our Lord.
Spending time with the Korean people here and the "Chosun-Jok" (half Korean/Chinese) has warmed my heart and inspired me to learn this language with Passion and Purpose. I could definatly see myself here in 16 months time. There is so much need. So options are appearing for when I finish at Yonsei. But you never know what will happen.
Yonsei: I had my first semester Final exams and Successfully passed Korean Language Level.1. and will start Level 2 on January 7th. It's going to be a real challenge. So I'm trying to spend a good chunk of time every day in revising the last 3 months and learning as many new vocabularies as possible. It's bringing me so much Joy to speak this language more. I feel excited every time I order Coffee or tell someone about why I'm learning this language or when I've memorised something new. I've also been trying to learn Korean Bible Vocabulary. Sitting in a Korean Church, I've always been scared by how little I understand, as the language in Church is quite different. But as I've been studying these vocabularies more, It's started to slot together. So it's an exciting time, but taking alot of energy.
I'm a little anxious about going back to Seoul. It has been tiresome to be in a totaly secular environment after years in Cornwall with such a great base of Christian fellowship. But despite that it's been the best time ever for sharing the Gospel and what He has done in my life. But I want to go back strong and with Vision and Energy.

2nd January 2010
Happy New Year. I hope you all had a great turning of year. I spent mine in bed with Flu!! But am on the mend.
My month here is coming to an end. Tomorrow evening I head to Seoul for my 2nd semester at Yonsei. I feel refreshed and ready for the next step. This place will be in my Prayers for what to do in 16 months. His will be done.
Anyway....Have a great first month of 2010.
HE IS ABLE.

North Korean Mountains in the background

2009/11/18

2009-11-18T02:21:00.001-08:00

So it's been a while since my last update. Time has been going so fast here.
The Korean study is going well. My mind is slowly becoming more Korean!
The grammar is a constant struggle, but again, over time my mind is adjusting
and it's beginning to make sense. Only 2 weeks until our final exams
for this semester. I can't believe how fast time is going.
In two weeks I will head to Yanji (China) to spend the Christmas Holdiday with My
Grandparents, who moved there about a year and a half ago.
It sounds like there will be alot of opportunity to help there. The School
that they are running has run out of teachers, so Ill be doing an hour a day for a class of
about 20! Help!!!!! It'll be priceless experience I'm sure. Also, I'm looking forward to a relaxed
month to seek God and learn Korean!!!! The last couple of months have
been a rough ride, but I'm trusting for Breakthrough. I guess just the Shock of such a big move
mixed with my own heart issues. I would appreciate prayers for my spiritual
life and wisdom for how to use my opportunity here.
Again, despite my feeling, God is using me here. I never realised the extent of brokeness in this
Generation. Some of the people here are already so close to my heart and I realy hope that I can
bring something good to them over these coming months and.....years! Wow, 17 months left!!!!!!
Anyway, a quick update.

Danny

2009/10/18

2009-10-18T01:15:00.000-07:00

It astounds me when there I see is a glimpse of the utter majesty of our God. When all affliction is held back, for sometimes just seconds, of pure Inspiration, Joy, Awe and Love to pour into the heart and spirit. His goodness is always and His purpose keeps me running.

10.10.2009

2009-10-09T09:06:00.000-07:00

It's been twenty three days since I arrived.
Studies: This course is moving so quickly! I'm keeping up and learning fast and enjoying using it in every day life, so much.
I have made some great friends here and God is working in their lives amazingly.
9:00 - 1:00 is class time and after that most of my time is spent with a group of about 6 Japanese people, which is such a surprise to me. I've never encountered that culture before but I'm building good friendships there. Particularly with a guy called "Wataru" who is a 35 year old steel salesman for a huge Japanese company in Korea! He is coming to Church with me this Sunday so please pray for that.
Also, I found out that two of my class mates are Christian. One lady from Germany and another from Nepal. The Nepalese lady doesnt speak much English, but I Understood enough to know that she and her husband moved from Nepal to be missionaries in South Korea! And when I mentioned my time in Ywam she seemed very excited. So they could possibly have been involved there aswell in the past. That's encouraging to my soul.
Opportunity to share the Gospel and my testimony is coming dailey, and as that happens I'm constantly being blown away by the utter brokeness of the people around me. It's heartbreaking. I just want to Love them and take them to the God that can give them new life. I believe that part of my being here is for them. I believe that God is at work in their lives.
Inside I am really struggling. Trying to find the balance between the Korean/Student culture and Holiness is hard and wearing me thin. And adjusting to a life where I'm not surrounded by Christians as I was in Cornwall. It's facing me against new giants that I must destroy and in doing so grow in Strength and Wisdom. I really need the Lord's closeness, it would be so easy fall and I don't want that.
Also, situations that need to be left with the Lord, I am just constantly falling with. Heartaches that need to be given to Him and not carried.
It's hard for me to write that I'm not doing amazingly. But I want to be real with You. I'm sorry if this sounds like I'm about to die!!! It's not all bad, God remains faithful always and strengthens me daily, but I want to do well for Him and not fall every 5 minutes. I want to be able to show the Joy of His Salvation and not always the tears.
Please pray with me.
It's late.

I miss you all

O' my Seoul.

2009-09-29T22:30:00.000-07:00

Another hot day in Korea. I Love it.
I'm going into my third week here and the pase is picking up. I can't belive how fast moving this is. But I'm really enjoying it. Yesterday we were given a 단어 (vocabulary) sheet with about 40 new words to learn along side our homework. It really helps having a Korean roomate to ask all my queries. I've made some good friends that I believe the Lord has led me to. Hopefully this weekend ill be taking three of them to Church with me. Please pray for that. The church is one that I went to last year during my time in Korea. It's a ministry for Korean American and all english speaking foreigners. So that's great and there's a possibility of joining the worship team. I have to audition though! Wah.
My soul is well and I'm finding strength each day. I feel there is constant affliction inside which I am trying to learn to give completely to the Lord. Worries and all of those kind of things. I want this year to be a year of growth for my soul like never before. I don't want to waste it trying to gasp for every breath, and it feels like I'm doing that alot right now. Please pray. I need wisdom.
I've had some great times with friends from Y.W.A.M Kona. They've been a huge support.
So...a few things about here and the last couple of weeks.
-I went into a bank and walked out 30 minutes later with an account, debit card and statement book. Service with a smile :)
-Good Guy friends are known as (closest translation) "Testicle friends".
-I took a Tae-Kwon-Do class the other day.
-In my University building you can get a coffee for about 20pence.
-Frosties in the morning remind me that Im English.

Keep in touch and I'll keep this updated.

Love,

Danny

Touch-down.

2009-09-19T23:27:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting at Mr 정 광 수's (my new room-mate) Computer in the international dorm of Yonsei's Korean Languge institute. The last few days have been great:

I said goodbye to Loved ones last wednesday and Thursday, then headed to Heathrow.
As always, my flights seemed full of the Lord's guidence. I spoke to a Korean man who is a CEO. I told him what I was doing and he said that I could let him know if I need any support. I don't know what he meant by 'support', but it was simply nice to make a friend. Then on the flight I was sat next to a German Guy called 'Tihlo'. We talked for the first 2 hours about everything. Life, God, Hitler!!! He was raised a Catholic and has been really discouraged by it. Hopefully seeds were sown. Pray for him. Then In Hong Kong I was able to practice some Korean with another man on the flight.
So I arrived in Incheon, found my way to Seoul and met Chris and Ian, my Y.W.A.M house mates. They really looked after me and took me shopping for the things I needed.
I unpacked at the University on Friday. This is meant to be an international dorm, but I just so happened to get a Korean room mate who doesnt speak much English. This will really work in my favor as I try to learn the language. I believe that it is God's providence. I haven't met too many of the studets yet. One from Brazil (Ricado), one from Germany (Nando), someone from an African country that I'd never heard of!!! And a couple others.
Korea definatly feels different this time. Last time I felt overshadowed by the size of the place, the culture, language, smells and everything. Now it feels somewhat familiar. My Korean is growing already and the school hasn't started.
The future, as always, weighs on my mind. But I'm learning to leave that in Jesus' hands. I miss people.......But I''m so happy to have this opportunity. God is so Good.
The University is one of the most beautiful places I've seen. The trees and buildings and just everything. I'm looking forward to Autumn!
So tomorrow is my placement test. They will check my Korean speaking, reading, writing, Grammar and then put me in a suitable class.
I'll keep this updated.

Love

P.S. Today I went to the Naked spa! felt sligtly weird. Enjoyed the massage!

Update: Heading toward a New 'Career'...... Korea and Kona.

2009-08-10T00:27:00.000-07:00

God is Great.
I know that Liam Byrnes Loves a good Pun, So I'm trying to put one in every title!
Just a couple of exciting updates.
Katherine has decided that Dance school isn't right for her this year and will instead be taking the Community Transformations D.T.S in Kona this September. It seems right for her to focus on getting more grounding and be in an environment where deepening our relationship with the living God is the focus of everyday life.
It's nice to be able to picture where she will be during our time apart, as the Kona base holds so many memories of life changing times.
She's my hero!
On my front, everything seems to be moving forward. Visa forms are sent off, I'll be hearing back from campus accommodation at the end of the month and I was recently awarded a grant from a Cornish organisation that puts me right ahead of where I thought i'd be financialy. Praise Jesus. He always provides, where He calls.

Please keep Katherine and Me in Prayer.

Feeling Seoul....ful.

2009-05-18T09:29:00.000-07:00

.....So it'f final. Six months tuition has been wired over to Yonsei and I have a flight booked for the 17th of September 2009.
Katherine recently had an audition at 'Springs' Dance school in London and feels like that is the place for her. So we know what's happening and can now sigh a little and seek God for that time. Please be praying for us. Six months in Y.W.A.M was hard enough for us both. A year and a half is really going to need Faith and strengthening from the Lord. Please Keep us in Prayer.

Danny

A New Year A New Post

2009-02-01T14:03:00.001-08:00

How time flies.
Quick update on the last 5 months or so.
So much thought about the future, and decisions finaly made (i'll write more on this later).
Johnny and Jenny Gillespie are now Wed. Katherine and Me had a great time in Hawaii with the family and with old DTS friends. I think there's only maybe 5 people that I haven't yet seen, post DTS. Praise the LORD. After Hawaii we went on to Kansas city to finaly meet her extended family, after hearing about them endlessly.
I'm living with the Beautiful Kessell family yet again. what a Blessing. Anddddddd....Now some detail.

When I last wrote on here I was planning on taking a TESOL course. This just didn't work out due to lack of funds, which I believe was totaly God's plan, which left me confused and back asking questions of "what next LORD?". So with korea on my heart and the world in front of Me I thought about how I could cultivate my passion for Korea and open more doors for the work that God would have me do for that people group. As you might know, I've been learning the language for over a year now, but have struggled since going back to Cornwall to excell in it, due to the lack of Korean population in Liskeard!!! To speak is pretty important if you want to get something across to someone, so it seems pretty important that I speak Korean fluently..........and Where better to learn than in Korea. So I just looked up Korean courses in England, the states and obviously....Korea. And I came across Yonsei University, which I happened to visit with Hanseul during my time there. I remember getting alot of peace as I was there, and I prayed something like " LORD if you would have me here, I wouldn't mind!". So I looked at their program, and It's exactly what I'm looking for. A year and a half course in intensive Korean language study. So I applied and recieved an email of acceptance a month later! So, as far as I know, I'm moving to Seoul in September. Please be praying for Me in this. I'm working at the moment to raise the funds for me to do this, which are quite heafty! But I know God provides, He has always provided according to His will. And Also pray for Katherine and Me. This means time apart! Which we both know is hard. She has applied for Dance schools in the states, so It would be maybe 9 months before we saw each other.
I'll keep this updated and we'll see what happens.

PRAISE JESUS.

Some time later

2008-08-25T06:08:00.000-07:00

Hey,
I'm back in England. It's been a few weeks and I've had some time to just.........be.........
Korea was an incredible time. God has show me alot through my going there. So much depth to the culture and the peoples hearts than I could have imagined. When I left I felt like I was leaving a piece of my heart there. I have no idea of what God is going to do with me and Korea. But there is something there that's just got to happen. I don't know what It is, But I have to be patient. I want to go back and take Kath with me. I think it important that she see's it.
One thing that I have had a growing passion to do lately is a TESL course. (Teaching English as a Foreign language). Which could really help me in the future. So that's something I'm working towards right now.
I could use prayer about the future. It's been on my heart to staff a D.T.S since I left. There's just so much option!!! Where to go and everything. I'm coming to see more and more that we really complicate things when we bring them to God. I think it is great to ask God what is best when it comes to "what to do". But it feels more and more that he would rather us just do something rather than being in turmoil, wondering if we are in the right place!!!! we can ask and ask and ask, but In my mind... thing's need to be done, people need to hear the Message of Jesus, Injustices need to be fought. Pray about it, commit it to God, trust him for your needs and GO!!!! In the end we are simply called to be his children. It's hard to put this into words. Tell me if it sounds like heresy!!! God is our wonderful counselor, but don't be afraid to step out. He is with us.

.......Some time later.........

2008-07-17T05:20:00.002-07:00

Well, It's my 17th day here and It's scary that this is the first blog that I've posted in over 2 weeks!!!!!! I'm sorry about that.
To be honest, this time has been so hard and confusing at times. Most of the time I feel like I did when I got to New York and saw how big it was an how extremely small I am. It's been a struggle to find my peace and assurance in God, but He is building me up and giving me new hope all the time. Please pray that I trust him more and have more faith that I am here for a reason.
Times here have been so sweet also. My Grandparents just so happen to be in Seoul this month. It's been so amazing to hear about all that they are doing in China.
I've had a great learning experience here..........I finally know what It means to be foreign! There really aren't as many foreigners here than I thought there would be. So next time you see a traveler, give them a smile, it makes all the difference to their day! :)
There's an opportunity at the end of this month to help out at a summer camp for N.Korean refugee students. I went to the school for two days this week to meet the students and to build some relationship with them and the other guys that have come from america on mission. As weird as this sounds, it shocked me to see how normal the students were! You wouldn't know from looking at them that they had all been through so much hardship in their lives. I had some really good time with one of the guys called 동 현 (Deong-hyon) who told me about what he'd been through. Not all of the students are christians, so It was good to share my testimony with him, and hopefully I will with others too.

A couple of really interesting things about S.Korea:
1)It's HOT! A couple of people died last week from it!
2)K.F.C give you free chicken when you buy a meal when it's raining!
3)McDonalds deliver right to your door! (Shocking I know.)

I hope to see you all soon.

Danny

I've got Seoul........!

2008-07-02T21:22:00.000-07:00

So I'm finally here! After a sweet time in London with the Hortons and my wonderful Lady Friend, I flew out
through Frankfurt to Seoul. It was a really sweet time of feeling close to God and Him showing me more of his heart.
Sitting in my Gate in Heathrow, I saw probably the first Korean guy that I'd seen in maybe 3 months.........So obviously,
I prayed that I'd be sat next to him. Anyway, I wasn't. I was with a sweet Australian couple on their way to St.Petersburgh.
We pretty much talked the whole way to Germany and I got some chances to share a bit of my heart about God and my life.
(Simon and Carolina Btw, he's a christian and she isn't. could do with some prayers.)
Anyway, as we all know, God doesn't forget our words, and in the airport I met the guy from Heathrow and we got eachother to
the right plane! and sat next to each other on the mega beast 10 hour flight. Really nice guy, called Jeung wook.
Not a Christian anymore, so I'm wanting to meet up with him before I leave here and introduce him to Christian friends.
So I'm now in Korea. It's so Beautiful. Seoul is a mixture between those forests that you see on a documentory about China on the
descovery channel and New York City. I'm starting to see what I've been thinking about for the last 7-8 months!
I was told that the majority of women here have plastic surgery, and driving through the richest part of seoul, I saw
people with bandaged up faces from the surgery. And It's true..........people here really do like to use their horns
when they drive! I think they've lost any effect now, more like a stress ball for the driver I think!
I'm just waiting on the Lord now about what he wants me to do here and if He has a long term plan for me here.
Please pray that I hear and respond to what he tells me.
*the language is beautiful, I'm sat in starbucks enjoying coffee and many "an-young-hasai-yo"'s as people enter.
All I know at the moment is that at some point we are traveling to Pusan and possibly one of the Korean Islands for
a week at some point. And that I'll be meeting up with My Grandparents who have been in China for a few weeks and Seoul
prior to that. They're looking to get a chinese Visa, so If you could pray for that too.

Anways, I'll keep you posted.

Danny

안 녕

So what's next?

2008-06-01T14:17:00.000-07:00

Well, on D.T.S, God gave me a real heart for Korea. Something I've never felt toward a nation. I started learning the language about 8 months ago, which I believe God has really anointed me to do, (I wasn't a language man before!) so that kinda caught my attention at the start. Anyway, just over the course of the last 8 months, God has been giving me more of his heart for the people. So I feel that the way I can respond to what He's telling me is to simply go there! So I'm heading out on the 30th of June for 1 month. I'm still seeking God about what he wants me to do there. But at the moment I just feel like I need to go there and pray and see which doors open up and see if God confirms anything in my heart.
So please keep me in your prayers. Pray that I would hear God clearly, and that I would have the courage to step out in what he tells me. Pray that I find my plane! Even though I took 20 flights during D.T.S, I never took any notice of what we were doing! So it feels like I'm flying for the first time! Thanks guys. I love you all and hope you're all well. Keep in touch.

Danny

Mar 19 2008, 08:57 AM

2008-04-13T17:59:00.001-07:00

So it's the last few days of D.T.S! I can't believe it. I'm so overwhelmed with all that God has done. My life has truly been transformed. I can't wait to get back and start to walk out in all that God has been teaching me.
I got back to Hawaii yesterday from New York and started to de-brief today. It's hit me that I wont be seeing these people everyday, that I have to grown to Love so dearly. Today as we were sharing stories of what God did on outreach, I was just overwhelmed with who God is and what he has called us to. As obvious as it is, it was such a huge revelation. I felt in those moments that he was commissioning my life. All I could hear, and all my heart felt, was that this is what I need to do.............Make Jesus famous in he hearts of men. He's been continually showing me more of what he wants for my life. In New York city I got involved in an 'International Students English Speaking Club'. People from Korea, Japan, China, Switzerland, Mexico etc coming together to practice their English. It was so amazing to be able to share with them about my life and some of my poetry. I feel a real calling to work with people from other countries. Over the last 6 months, God has been bringing that out through the way I connect with people of other nationalities. In particular He's been highlighting Korea to me. I started learning the language when I came here. Now I can read and write and have basic conversations with Koreans. Its cool. So right now I'm heading in the direction of heading to Korea this year to see what God has for me there and seek him on why he's given me such a passion for the people.
I'll be landing in London on the 24th. I'm excited to see you all. Thank you for your faithful support of me during this time. Please continue to pray for the last few days. That we will be well prepared to come back home and keep keep the fire burning in our hearts. And for guidance for all of us in knowing what is next.

Lots of Love to you all

Danny

I Heart New York!

2008-03-03T22:51:00.000-08:00

So I'm in my second week of outreach in "the big apple"! Alot's happened since my last entry here. First of all I'm in a different continent!...........So we got here mid February to a whole new outreach experience. It's crazy how different outreach here is, apposed to in South Africa. First of all I was overwhelmed simply by the size of this place. It's our aim to transform this community. And since seeing it, I know even more that only by the power of God can it be done. IT'S MASSIVE! But God has been doing great things in the lives of these people. I've been building relationship with international students at an English speaking club and there is just so much fruit coming from that. One guy that me and a couple of other Y.W.A.Mers have been getting to know is a guy called Johnny from China. There's been opportunity after opportunity to share the Love of Christ with him and to tell him about what God has done in our lives. He's so close to giving his heart to the Lord. He's a really clear thinker and can see the difference in us and he's really persuing God. So please keep him in your prayers. So that's been a real blessing.
I've also been doing some work with homeless people on a Thursday morning.
Today we did a rally in Union Square to raise awareness of Human Trafficking in the World and in New York city. We had some great speakers and some really good musicians that played. It was a really precious time and I trust that it did something in the hearts of the people that were there.
Tomorrow I'll be assisting a photographer at some photo shoot! That's all I know. The guys here have been working with an organisation called "Models for Christ". An organisations for.........well............Christian models!!!! So they were really involved in the New York Fashion week last month. An opportunity that not many people get. I was sad that I got here after Sarah Adams left though. She flew out here to be involved with it too. Sounds like it was a great time though.
Anyway, there's 2 weeks of ministry left! I can't believe it! I'll be seeing most of you very soon. Thankyou for all of your Love and support over the last 5/6 months. This has been, and is being, the best time of my life and my relationship with the Lord has been strengthened and brought forward in such INCREDIBLE ways. i can't wait to get back and share what God has done.

I Love you all

Molweni!

2008-01-29T02:46:00.000-08:00

Molweni (Hello) from South Africa,
I know I'ts been ages since i last made a post on here, and I apologise for that.
Alot has been developing here over the last month or so. We're all really getting plugged into the spheres we feel called to. I've been really struggling trying to find out where God wants me, but I'm taking steps of faith and It's gradualy starting to become more clearer. I recently started working in the township's high school as an assistant teacher. Next week we'll be studying poetry, which is really a blessing from God, as that's an area I really connect with God with.
A few weeks ago I also lead a team in painting a church where the pastor was shot dead a year ago. One of the guys there said they see it a a symbol of a fresh start, so It was a real honor to be doing that for them.
Time just seems to be going so fast. Me, Johnny and some others are already making preparations to go over to New York on the 15th of Feb. Its tought because there's so much I want to see happen here in South Africa before I leave, and so little time left. Please keep me in your prayers. I find it really easy to get emotionaly tired here.
Sorry this is only brief. Internet is scarce here.

I Love You all alot.

Danny

Capetown, South Africa

2007-12-23T06:07:00.001-08:00

IT'S BEEN A LONG TIME SINCE I POSTED ON HERE. SORRY ABOUT THAT GUYS. ALOTS HAPPENED SINCE. THE 3 DAY MEGA TRIP TO SOUTH AFRICA WAS QUITE HARD AS YOU CAN IMAGINE. I THINK I GOT ABOUT 10 HOURS SLEEP THE WHOLE TIME.
WHEN WE GOT THERE WE STAYED FOR 3 DAYS AT THE CAPETOWN BASE IN MUIZENBERG. FIRST THING THAT SHOCKED ME WAS THAT CADBURYS TASTES BETTER HERE! AND I COSTS ABOUT 90PENCE FOR A LARGE FRUIT AND NUT BAR!!!
THE THIRD DAY THERE, WE WENT TO THE MASSIPUMULELE TOWNSHIP FOR THE FIRST TIME. IT'S BEEN 2 DAYS NOW AND I STILL DONT KNOW WHAT TO THINK. IT WAS AS IF I WAS LOOKING AT EVERYTHING THROUGH A T.V SCREEN! IT WAS QUITE UNREAL. ME AND JOHNNY ENDED UP CARRYING A BED TO THE OTHER END OF THE TOWNSHIP WHERE THERE HAD BEEN A FIRE. WHICH WAS COOL, BUT IT WAS JUST A BUMMER BEACAUSE WE HAD LIKE 5 MINS TO GET BACK TO THE OTHER SIDE OF THE TOWNSHIP TO GET THE TAXI HOME. SO JUST PICTURE THIS.........TWO PASTY WHITE GUYS WITH NO SHOES ON, RUNNING THROUGH A FULLY BLACK POPULATED TOWNSHIP. WE GOT A FEW DODGY LOOKS, BUT WE MANAGED TO GET THERE. ONE AMAZING THING WAS THE CHILDREN THERE. THEY WERE SO AWESOME. THEY SEEM TO LOVE WHITE PEOPLE AND ENJOYED RUNNING UP MY NICE NEW SHORTS! HEH. DON'T MIND AT ALL THOUGH.
BUT YEAH, THE NEXT COUPLE OF MONTHS WILL BE AWESOME, I KNOW. JUST REALLY EXPECTING GOD TO DO AMAZING THINGS THROUGH US AND IN US.
I HOPE YOU ARE ALL WELL. DROP ME A MESSAGE IF YOU GET TIME. ALL OF MY INTERNET ACCESS IS IN THIS HERE INTERNET CAFE. SO I WONT BE ABLE TO MAIL YOU GUYS TOO MUCH I THINK. MUCH LOVE. THANKYOU FOR YOUR PRAYERS.

DANNY

Corporate Humility Creates Corporate Unity

2007-11-29T14:25:00.001-08:00

Its in the title. Ill write more after I've processed. Write this down though!

Since my last post!!!!

2007-11-05T23:53:00.001-08:00

Well.................God's been doing alot in my heart the past couple of weeks. Just really challnging me in so many areas. Showing me more of who I am, giving me a new heart for the nations, Confirming my giftings.
Ok I'll be a bit more specific!!! Firstly, I told most of you that my outreach location was going to be Capetown, South Africa. God really stired me up about where I should go and I wasnt sure anymore if that was the right place for me to go. So I started seeking God about it and felt that he was leading me in fact to New York! So after settling with that and letting my leaders know thats where I was going, I was stired up yet again! And felt no surer of where I should be. So after some more time and turmoil in my mind, God led me to make the final decision to go for..................................Both!!!! So on the 16th of December, Ill be flying to capetown with a team of 3 others! Led by Mr Johnny Gillespie. And then on to New York on the 16th of February. we have huge expectations of what God is going to use us for in these places. Its going to be really interesting. I'm the youngest on the whole D.T.S, and we have the oldest on my D.T.S too! So theres alot of contrast between everyone on the team. Alot of Character is good though :)
One bad thing is that Kath arrives here on the 15th of December (The day before I leave) So ill possibly only have an evening with her! But im so thankful that Ill see her at all. So please pray that that time is blessed. It will be hard to say Hello and Goodbye Withing a few hours.
Also God has been really blessing me and encouraging in my passion for Poetry. Showing me more and more of how he rejoices in it and will use it for his Glory. So I'm really happy and encouraged about that.
Also Ive just been learning more and more of who our God is and what his heart looks like. And I'll tell you something..............Its bigger and wider that I ever imagined! We serve an awesome God.

With Open Eyes

2007-10-15T15:23:00.000-07:00

I'M FEELING PASSION BEYOND THE SKIES!!!!! MY GOD IS SO BIG SO VAST AND SO.......KJBEFKJENENEKFNEFKNEKFNWEFNWECLKMKEMcM!!!!!!!

Today was our first day with the speaker for this week. Trent something or other. And man, has God revealed more of Himself to me!!!! He was speaking on "The Story Of God". And the trinity and why he made us. I'm blown away. He talked about how.............I can't put into words what God is teaching me. I need to process!!!!! I'll write more soon. Sorry that this is a bit of a pointless blog. But I just wanted to tell someone.....GOD IS SO BIG MAN!!!! My eyes feel like they have been opened that bit more, and its only the first day of the week!!!! It's amazing to think that God made us out of Love....he didnt make us out of loneliness. Like Children are an expression of Love in a Marriage. We are an expression of Gods Love, the Trinity's Love.....Pray that God keeps teaching me and revealing more of Himself to me, and the whole Uni.
God is working in our hearts and lives. That is Amazing :)

Danny

First Official Week

2007-10-02T22:33:00.000-07:00

This week has been full of amazing stuff. The whole University got together in the main court (Ohana Court) for "Aloha night". Where we were celebrating all the nations that had come to for this quarter. Just over 40 different nationalities, I think, Which is crazy! Anyway....I represented England along with James and a girl from Newcastle. We basically had to wave a big old england flag and a Union jack. But it was really cool to be standing next to people from so many different places. A nice experience.

The teaching started this Monday. Jeff and a Lady called Kari (I think!) are speaking this week. we've basically been learning about the different spheres of society and how God can use people within those spheres. And about his passion for our passions, and how God can be glorified with out passions/talents. The verse we're focusing on this week (and maybe during the whole course, I'm not sure) is Phil 2:5. "In your lives, you must think and act like Christ Jesus". I'm really looking forward to learning more. God has been touching peoples lives in such amazing ways. Healing people from hurts from their past and also just really moving within us during times of worship. His presence is so strong. I've been struggling quite a bit with just like....mixed emotions I guess, and not seeming to be able to see where I am in my head and stuff. I don't know what it is. So, if you could pray that God would give me some kind of clarity with that, I'd really appreciate it. Thanks for all of your support guys. I appreciate it so much.
I'm also learning bits of Korean! My room mate (Chris) is teaching me. I'm picking it up surprisingly quickly. Basics I mean. I can say. Hello, thankyou, what is this?, you're pretty, hey children! and thats about it at the moment. I'm really enjoying it though.

One more thing i learned. "Humuhumunukunukuapuaa" Is the Hawaiin state fish!
Take Care Everyone.

Danny x

Hawaii!!!!!

2007-09-26T21:56:00.000-07:00

Im currently sat in my bed at the Reid family home (IN HAWAII!!!) on about my 28th hour since I last slept, writing this blog entry.
Everything is a bit surreal at the moment. People keep asking me if I'm excited.....there's definatly excitement mixed in there with every other emotion that I seem to be feeling. A bit overwelmed I guess. I'm certainly excited about learning more about God, and learning to share my Faith more, That's for sure!!!
This place is so incredibly beautiful by the way :)
The flights went smoothly and there were no real problems. Except that my guitar is now in Honaloulou instead of in my hands! But that should be sorted soon.
Tomorrow is the official welcome day for all the students. I'm a bit nervous but Excited about meeting the people that I'm going to be living with for the months ahead. I really hope that I make some cool friends here. But yeah, I cant wait for it to start. And I'll be blogging about all the cool stuff God is teaching me, And the stuff He is doing in my heart and the hearts of the people around me.
Please pray that God gives us strength and Courage at this time. It's all a new experience......And moving to Hawaii at the age of 16, alone, is mind blowing!!!

So yeah. Thanks for reading guys.

Danny

First Post -----(16/08/07)-----Location:Cornwall, England

2007-08-16T10:06:00.000-07:00

"The Lord has put his Spirit In me, because he appointed me to tell the good news to the poor. He sent me to tell the captives that they are free and to tell the blind that they can see again. God sent me to free those who have been treated unfairly.
(Luke4:18)

I guess this is a sort of introduction!
Only 40 days until my flight out to Kona. Where I'll be taking the Community transformations D.T.S with Y.W.A.M. (Sorry this sounds so official, not used to writing blogs). Which will consist of a 3 month lecture phase in Kona, Hawaii followed by another couple of months or so on outreach in either New York, South Africa or China. Community transformation is a focus on well...........the transformation of a community!! In every area i.e. Business, family, the Church, the arts etc.
God has really been teaching (and is teaching me) so much even on the run up to doing the D.T.S. I've learnt so much about faith, and Gods faithfulness. Ive had no choice actually, as I only felt God really leading me to do this about a month or so ago. Which left only a few months left to find the money to pay the course fees. I've trusted God, and he has been so faithful and true to his word and is continuing to be faithful. Preparing me in lots of aspects for the coming months.

Anyway......a little bit of info for you all:

I'll be flying out on the 25th of September (accompanied by the beautiful James Horton and Julia). And the return date is the 22nd of March 08.
My missions representative Is a Mr Martin Kessell.

My email address is rorkey2005@hotmail.co.uk. If anyone wants to get in contact with me for any reason.

And thats all for now I think. Thanks for all your prayer and support guys.