By Chris Bonkoski, appointee to Japan — It was scary and even a little intimidating going to churches and speaking with pastors and other Christians to raise the financial support we need to serve in Japan. Yet, I have no problem going to my family when I need help with something. Why is one so easy and the other so difficult?

 
During partner development, we have had the opportunity to visit, fellowship, and worship with many groups of believers. Even though the churches we’ve visited are different sizes, have different styles, and are made up of different people, we have been welcomed in love and have felt like part of their family immediately—because we are! We are all part of the family of God. 

When I see fellow believers as part of my family, it becomes very easy and natural for me to ask them to help provide for God’s work. This change of perspective helped me reach out to more people and churches—and God has honored this effort by providing all the support we need to move to Japan later this month! 

Paul wrote in Ephesians 4:4-6, "There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." No matter our differences here on earth, we have the same Spirit and faith and Father!

 
Wherever we travel, if believers are there, we have family there. Experiencing this unity has been one of the best parts of our partner development journey. 

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