In just about a week’s time, our beloved Hubert will be departing from his all-too-familiar Bay Area for Hsinchu, Taiwan. God has provided him the opportunity to serve as a missionary in Taiwan alongside with our brothers and sisters who are already in Taiwan while he studies in the Information Science master’s program in the Tsinghua University. Last night, after our Bible regular Summer Bible studies, we held a farewell event for Hubert.

I believe that many of us who were there had very mixed feelings. On the one hand, we were very sad that Hubert, with whom we have spent over 4 years together in ISM, will be leaving for Taiwan and staying there for 2 years. The thought of separating with a good friend brought sadness to our hearts. On the other hand, we were all very proud and encouraged by Hubert’s commitment and vision to respond to God’s calling for him to serve in Taiwan. Despite the language barrier and all the transitions, Hubert is determined to go. We joked that God will provide an ISM in Taiwan to receive him and take care of him (maybe Free Chinese Class). But in all seriousness, we were very proud of him. And I know that these mixed feelings were really the result of our love for Hubert, which was enabled by our fellowship through Christ.

So, in the program, we had a chance to sing songs of God’s faithfulness in Hubert’s life, to hear Jesse rapped while Joseph beatboxed, to recount Hubert’s growth in the past four years in a PowerPoint presentation, to have him share his spiritual journey, and to hear his leaders’ and friends’ comments about and encouragement for Hubert. As we prayed for him in the end, I felt assured that God will continue to watch over him and use him to advance His wonderful kingdom work in Taiwan.

Please continue to pray for him during this big transition in Hubert’s life. If you happen to be in Taiwan, don’t forget to contact him and meet up with him. Go Hubert!!!