Get to know the Undseths
The LORD had said to Abram, “Go
from your country… to the land I will show you.” ―Gen 12:1
Perhaps it’s because they share a name, but my wife (Sarah) wonders how Abraham’s wife (Sarah) felt about this call. Was she excited to see where God led them, or worried because the destination was undetermined? Regardless, she and her husband took steps in faith to follow.
Even if only some are called to leave their home country, God calls all Christians to follow him. While many of us might prefer a detailed map or a bigger light, God provides what is necessary through his Word: a lamp for our feet and light to our path (Ps 119:105). A lantern lights our next few steps. Only by taking initial steps will the steps farther down the path become clear.
From my middle name honoring a missionary martyr to my grandparents’ time in Japan to attending Urbana 2015, many things have clarified my call toward international missions. Before we were married, Sarah and I had discussed the intention to live in Japan or East Asia. God has used these “steps” to grow and equip us to be better spouses, parents, and witnesses for his Kingdom. We have also seen some of our giftings shine, like Sarah’s outstanding encouragement and connectivity that led me to enroll in Lutheran Brethren Seminary and connect with LBIM. God has been with us everywhere: in Brazil, throughout the United States, and now in Seattle where we have been warmly welcomed by Rock of Ages Church. We are helping with the youth group, participating in community outreach, and getting to know people in the church and surrounding community.
Sarah and I were part of the summer 2025 LBIM Japan vision trip. We visited people and churches from the quiet country to the busiest city in the world. Sarah recalls her heart aching as she looked out the window of the bullet train, realizing that only 1% of the people in those hundreds of houses and apartments we were zooming past knew Jesus as Lord. This trip strengthened our sense of call to Japan. Pray that God continues to equip us for his calling and that we will not wait for the future to glorify God, as the present is the only time we have.