Norman and I have been in the States for three years now. We knew, coming back, that we had no idea the length of this current chapter in our lives. Providing companionship and care for my mother continues to require adjustments and changes along the way, and we have found many blessings from our time here. God is teaching us valuable lessons on trusting Him, valuing obedience to Him no matter where He takes us, and finding joy on the journey. Servanthood and humility are also constant opportunities.
We have had a bit of a meandering path since we’re back. First, we transitioned within ABWE, from Japan missionaries to EveryEthne missionaries (ABWE’s North American branch). He also became the (part-time) WARBC state representative. We hung onto our tie to our mission agency, in case the timetable of my mom’s life fit into certain parameters. She’s still doing pretty well (which we’re thankful for!), so it means we’ve been “on pause” in a sense. Norman didn’t see himself serving with EveryEthne long term, so we began looking at other options. Many of our supporting churches continued sending funds to us, but we finally realized that we need to do something different. So, as of March 1, 2026, we have completed the “missionaries with ABWE” chapter of our lives.
What’s next? Good question! Norman has “knocked” on several doors to see whether God would lead him into any of them. With a need for income, he’s looked into jobs such as prison education, hospital chaplain, guidance counselor, and substitute teaching. Currently, he is working as a substitute teacher, although it’s not his favorite thing to do, while continuing on as state rep of the WARBC. He is considering interim pastoring as well. For now, we’re tied to this location in Wisconsin, so some ministry positions are limited. But we know that God is sovereign and can open any door He pleases at any time He chooses. His ways are higher than ours, and we totally trust Him to guide us step by step . . . just as He has done throughout our entire lives.
We appreciate your prayers as we faithfully serve the Lord and my mom in this season of life. Let us know how we can pray for you!
For fun, here’s a photo of our son after the blizzard of March ’26.
