I didn’t give up. Even when it seemed like the conversation had no spark, I gently persisted. While she was dozing off during the flight, I made a little noise—just enough to stir a moment where we could speak again. She opened her eyes, and I seized the opportunity.
I asked her about Japanese culture—what she had observed while studying there. I expected a generic answer about customs or traditions. But what she said next caught me off guard in the most beautiful way.
She smiled and replied, "You know, it’s the Filipino culture that surprised me more."
A Filipino's Light Abroad
She told me how deeply she admired the warmth and hospitality of Filipinos. She said, "There’s something about how Filipinos smile. You make people feel at home even when they’re far away. You have a good heart."
I was speechless. Here I was, expecting to get a lesson on Japanese discipline or efficiency, but instead, I received a compliment about the culture I sometimes take for granted.
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She said she planned to return to the Philippines when time allowed. I didn’t get the answers I thought I wanted—but I received honesty, warmth, and a deep appreciation for where I came from. Sometimes, God doesn’t give us what we expect—He gives us what we need.
The Prayer Answered, Twice
As our plane prepared to land, I realized I hadn’t yet asked her what I really needed—help. Navigating a foreign country for the first time can be overwhelming. Just before we arrived at Chūbu Centrair International Airport, I nervously asked where she was headed.
By God’s perfect orchestration, her destination matched mine. She would be taking the same train from the airport to Nagoya. Relief washed over me.
She helped me pass through immigration, buy my train ticket, and even gave me a mini tour of the airport before we boarded. This was no coincidence—it was the second prayer answered that day. I came expecting stress. God sent peace, wrapped in a kind soul.
Culture Shock on the Train
As we rode the train to Nagoya Terminal, another reality struck me. Japan was different. Very different.
The silence was deafening. Unlike in the Philippines where conversations fill every space, the train was a quiet zone. People kept to themselves. I tried to smile at a lady nearby, just to be friendly. She looked startled and asked, “Why are you smiling at me?”
It felt harsh. Embarrassing, even. But I understood—cultural boundaries are real. What’s kindness to one may be intrusion to another.
I turned back to my friend and just talked softly until we reached our stop. In that moment, I realized something deeper: I wasn’t just in Japan to explore. I was here to learn humility, grace, and how to love people within their own context.
✝️ Spiritual Reflection:
Mission trips aren’t just about what we bring—they’re also about what God wants us to receive. Even in unfamiliar places, God is still writing the story.
Share, Reflect, and Pray
🙏 Reflect: Have you ever experienced God’s provision in unexpected ways during your travels or life transitions?
💬 Comment: Share a moment when a stranger became a blessing in disguise.
📲 Share: If this story reminded you of God’s surprising faithfulness, send it to a friend who needs encouragement.
✈️ Next Episode Preview:
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It was just my first day…
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Next Stop: KYOTO! I am proud to be Filipino.
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Wonders of Osaka: Finding God in Busy Streets
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