Hey Reader!

Is April Fool's Day (April 1) celebrated in your corner of the world? It's not a thing here where we live, but I encountered some pranks online and remembered some doozies from the past. 😂

Years ago, I lived in Japan. My friends and I were supported and loved-on by an older Japanese lady who we affectionately called "Mama-san."💕 She was wonderful through and through--an amazing host, a loving Christian, a teacher of Japanese culture, and she was FUN! April Fool's Day was not recognized in Japan, but at some point Mama-san learned about it...and loved it. She looked forward to the day, and annually she would unexpectedly prank a young American in our group. She completely surprised people because no one would suspect that Mama-san would scheme an April Fool's surprise. And for years, we keep on laughing from these memories.

✨Sometimes the biggest impact is made by the most unexpected or unassuming people.

The Bible is filled with examples of how God used unexpected outcasts, weak people, and sinners to share His truth and make His glory known. One of my favorite examples is known simply as Namaan's slave girl--an unnamed girl who spoke up and testified to God's power that led to Namaan's healing from leprosy. We don't know her name, but for thousands of years, millions and millions of people have known about her courageous conversation that made a difference. ✝️ And, of course, the most important and unexpected (but perfect!) example is Jesus Christ himself. He came to serve humanity and to die for us. Years before, the prophets gave details for how to recognize the Messiah, because He would not fit the expectations of what the Savior would look like.

What does this mean for a change-maker like you?

✨Don't be fooled by what the world recognizes as authority or importance. God may share His truth and power through the least likely people. Impact is not restricted to org charts, titles, university degrees, bank account balances, and anything else that the world sees as status.

✨Don't close your ears. You know the saying... "out of the mouths of babes." Give time to hear the thoughts, questions, and insights of the young people in your life. They may have a perspective that is new. They may have courage to speak where adults have given up. They may love so big that they can't hold back.

✨Don't let age be a measure of importance--whether it is the young or the seasoned-in-life. Every life is precious and each person can bring value to others. Multi-generational relationships enrich our lives.

👉Do you have any stories or learnings to share? Just hit reply...we'd love to hear from you. 💕

Wishing you a blessed Holy Week ahead! There is so much to rejoice about! Halleluia!

Thankful for you...no joke, Karin (the Mama)

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