2nd to last day of production

Location scouting for last flashback

The following pictures are village children where we were shooting

Our two main actors as children (wonderful boys!)

Last team photo!!!

I hope that everyone had a wonderful Christmas! It has been a wonderful break and time to relax and recover from production and media projects has proved to be very refreshing. The city of Nairobi seems to hibernate during this year as the majority of people travel to the country sides of Kenya to spend with their families. It has been interesting not choking on exhaust when walking by the usual busy streets. It's kind of nice when I think about it.

After spending a fruitful time photographing New City Fellowship's Christmas nativity event, a good late lunch was shared with friends on the missionary's compound. Later that day, we took some mandazis (African break cakes) and chai (tea) to the guards. We only met with one of our two guards: the faithful Francis who was very grateful for the gifts. Smiling as usual, he thanked us and immediately began to pour a cup of chai while digging into the mandazi.

It has been a very relaxing Christmas this year with minimal hype and relaxing fellowship. Even a volley ball game was started (remember I'm in Africa; balmy weather all round). When the day was spent, I went into scripture reading and novel reading. Finally the hour struck indicating the time to end the day. I thank God so much for all He has and is doing in and through me. He is alive and working mightily!

-In Christ

David Sekiguchi

Dear Friends,

Forgive the long delay for an update. As we all know, the cycle of daily life increases as the end of the year approaches. Sometimes I feel like a hamster in a hamster wheel (excuse the redundancy). Updates, wow, where do I begin? My grandma always said to start in a corner when facing an overwhelming task, yeah...now where do I find a coner? I guess I'll recap the week.

Wednesday was a glorious day. Such a feeling of accomplishment, even more than hunger, as our team wrapped the final production day. Can you believe we're done already. I was just getting warmed up... Okay maybe I was rejoicing with everyone else, but that's not the point. Our sunburned noses and squinty eyes shined well for our last team photo. That was Wednesday.

Thursday was the day for shopping. My jeans were getting to worn and I can't say my new pair look much better. After convincing my feet to move, I headed out to meet some Kenyan friends and off we went to Toi Market. It was an arduous adventure! Feeling the ache from yesterday's production, I trudged along like a battle-warn trooper. In a strange yet understandable way, I believe God gave me the strength needed to shop. Now that is a loving God we serve! Even the simple things of life take so much energy when you finish a movie production.

Friday I convinced myself to sleep in. That was the plan. It was glorious, ingenious, wonderful until...a tiny knock came at 8 in the morning. Can you believe that my Kenyan friend was up and ready to go to see The Hobbit. Really... I only slept 5 hours the night before, which some people may be able to function on. Good for you if you can, but I can't. 9am rolls around and we're at the cinema, movie starts, 15mins in yawn, 30 mins in, nodding, 45mins in friend asks, "You sleepy?", reply with grunt... Oh what a cruel way to punish yourself. I turned in early Friday evening.

Saturday a new experience, prison ministry. What an amazing time! Our church went to Kamiti Maximum Security Prison. We visited a youth correctional institute. Was I scared? Ha! maybe a little. The ride there was scary and by God's grace we made it there alive after violating I'm sure more than a few traffic laws. Thankfully there are no dents from my head bouncing like a ping pong ball on the ride there. When we arrived, however, it was worth every painful experience. We meet so many young men all under 20 years of age serving their time, listening to their stories, praying with them, singing with them. It was amazing. I spoke with a young man whose name is Mustafa. He was caught for stealing. He's a muslim, and I shared the love of Christ the best I could with him. Maybe not smoothly, but God saw my effort. All the young men there were very hungry to hear from us. The concentration was unbroken. It was an incredible opportunity.

As Sunday rolled around I attended church. The message was about fasting and taking the body under submission. Really? A message about fasting before Christmas? That's just cruel. Indeed, even the pastor mentioned it in his sermon. Oh I love how the Lord works in my life. Isn't His word much more stronger than holidays? So feeling hungry this morning, I've respected the Lord's command to fast, and no, it's not because I am low on grocery's. Well...maybe it has something to do with it, but fasting and praying in the mornings have been very beneficial. That was Sunday.

Monday was another opportunity to minister to the lady's out of work on the side of the street corner. Bringing bread and coke to them, I tried to share the love of Christ. Actually, I was caught earlier in the day and Taini, one of the lady's, started to say, "Feed me; I'm hungry." I replied, "You are always hungry." It is true, but I couldn't walk away from the opportunity. Buying food and giving it to them, they saw it as Christmas spirit. I tried to explain it was not just because of Christmas, but because Jesus loves them. I do pray that He will manifest himself to each and every one of the lady's there. The Lord has given me such a heart for them.

Tuesday was a catch-up and work day. It was profitable, long, and actually kind of boring. That can be a good thing though. I finished editing the Behind the Scenes 3rd to last production day and have two more videos to go. Yay! Good job, David. They should be appearing on the Distant Boat website soon. Now, if you've made it this far in the update, I congratulate you and admire your endurance. Also, I wanted to leave you with the message of hope. Remember that God can use you where ever you are. Being a missionary is not just coming over seas. There is so much work to be done back home as well. I know that God will use us all where we are. I can't thank you enough for your support and prayers. Always remember that we serve a great and mighty God full of love, power, and he commands us to love Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. He also says to love one another. God has been putting so much love for His people in my heart and I'm overflowing with it. His commands and love is so good. I don't know about you, but I choose to obey His Word! May the Lord richly bless and manifest himself to you and have a merry Christmas!

Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest. Luke 10:2

 Prouduction Photos

Update Videos

Indeed the months have turned to minutes since arriving to Kenya on August 24 this year. I first stepped on rich African soil at 1:20am that morning and still can recall the exhausted yet friendly taxi driver who came to greet me at the Jomo airport. Driving me to the Mayfield Guest house, he pointed out zebras grazing in the fields. Minutes later I pointed out the Canon camera company. A lot has happened since then. In such a short slice of time, I've been given a tremendous opportunity to live in this beating society for Christ.

Recently I've come to make unique friendships developed on film shoots that led to conversations of Christ and their spiritual walk. I've quickly learned the term "Christian" does not represent ones deep faith, but merely acts as a social term when asked what they believe. "Born again Christian" carries the commitment and weight attached to a true Christian walk. After sitting down for lunch with my "Christian friend", we discussed our faith over burgers and fries. My dear friend believed there was a God, but did not believe everything written in the Bible. Astonished, I asked the Holy Spirit to give me words of wisdom. The next few hours I discovered that Christ can use us to share His word even when we don't think we are worthy or capable.

I asked him if the building we were in existed, he said yes. I asked if the building surrounding us existed, he agreed. I then asked if he has met the architecture who built these buildings. He said he hasn't. Then I asked if that means the builder of these buildings existed. He agreed there was an artist who built these buildings even though he never meet him. So, I asked him how is God any different. If He built something purposefully with structure to follow, how can we proceed to ignore the truth found in his Word. He created and built us, how can we ignore what he created. After some time of silence, he thanked me for taking time to share with him. It was AWESOME!

Opportunity after opportunity began to present itself from there. I already shared about my friend, Akim, who was in the middle of choosing Islam or Christianity. To this day I haven't seen him and often wonder if I will ever have the chance to meet with him again. I've been given opportunities to feed the ladies that wait for work outside of our compound. Once I brought peanut butter jelly sandwiches, chips, coke, and chocolate. I had no idea how much to make; so I prayed that God would provide much like he did in the feeding of the thousands. To my astonishment, there was exactly the right amount to feed everyone. I not only had the chance to share with them my food, but share the love of Christ.

We must continue to love and live for God and others. Even if you take ten minutes out of your life to say "hi" to someone we haven't seen in awhile, it makes a difference. Don't be afraid to invest your time in people. Remember that Christ is our core and we are founded in truth and love. Imagine a groom who's bride is so in love with him she would do anything to please him. Imagine a groom who is so perfect and just, your relationship with him affects others. Believe in Him and do his commandments. Read James 1. In this chapter it speaks of visiting the fatherless and widows and to keep yourself unspotted from the world. As Christians we have a higher calling in life. It's the small daily choice we make that determine who we are. As for me, I am a bond servant to Christ. Thank you always for your prayers and support. May the Lord bless you and shine upon you!

-David Sekiguchi

Evangelism Outreach in Kibera Slums with Ghetto Light Ministry

An amazing blog post by our Script Supervisor, Mike summing up a slice of time at our coastal filming location next to paradise.

Summary Post

Pictures of the coast:

Click Here

    While walking pensively for quite some time along Nairobi’s busy street saturated with cars, I mustered up enough courage to walk to an infamous slum known as Kibera. It wasn’t even a few meters later I meet up with a young man with a pink back pack. Completely engrossed in deep the young man's soft “Hello” broke my concentration and transitioned me into an engaging conversation. While chatting down the road we exchanged names and backgrounds. I quickly learned his name, Akim.

    About the span of an hour we talked about politics, growing up, and most importantly religion. I  learned Akim was waning back and forth between Christianity and Islam. While he shared to me his thoughts, I bit my tongue and listened. After he completed his thoghts, I challenged Akim to study the Word and draw a conclusion. We went over the ten commandments where he admitted to me that he was guilty. Akim even acknowledge he wouldn’t make it to heaven; however, he wasn’t in a rush to repent of his sins either. I believe most Christians face this issue when sharing the gospel. There are many individuals who are in the “process” of making a choice to believe in Jesus, but with no intention to choose in the near future. Sure down the line, but fixing their issues would come later in life. I clearly understand now what John Bunyen meant when he wrote the story of the dreamer in Pilgram’s Progress.

The Interpreter bade him tell to Christian the reason of his so doing. So he said, “This night, as I was in my sleep, I dreamed, and behold the heavens grew exceedingly black; also it thundered and lightened in most fearful manner, that it put me into an agony. So I looked up in my dream, and saw the clouds rack at an unusual rate; upon which I heard a great sound of a trumpet, and saw also a Man sitting upon a cloud, attended with the thousands of heaven; they were all in flaming fire; also the heavens were in a burning flame. I heard then a great voice saying, “Arise, ye dead, and come to judgment.” And with that the rocks rent, the graves opened, and the dead that were therein came forth: some of them were exceeding glad and looked upward and some thought to hide themselves under the mountains. Then I saw the Man that sat upon the cloud open the book and bid the world draw near. And he called out to them that stood around Him, “Gather together the tares, the chaff and stubble, and cast them into the burning lake.” And with that, the bottomless pit opened, just where about I stood. It was also said to the same person, “Gather my wheat into the garner.” And, with that, I saw many caught up into the clouds; but I was left behind. I also sought to hide myself, but I could not; for the Man that sat upon the cloud still kept His eye upon me; my sins also came into my mind, and my conscience did accuse me on every side. Upon this I awakened from my sleep.”

 http://www.learnthebible.org/pilgrims-progress-chapter-1.html

    How many “Akims” are there in this world? Not only on my continent, but everywhere on earth. If I can take an hour of my time to share the gospel potentially saving a life, why do I hold back? I’m the one who accepted the challenge when I ask Jesus into my heart. Crossing paths in another persons life may be the first and last chance you’ll have. After our paths diverged, I wondered if we would ever meet again, and if so, would he have become a Christian by then. Could today have been the only time that I had? Certainly, I will continue to pray for Akim; however, I am encouraged to share more confidently and frequently than I have before. I wish to share Christ’s love for people even outside of the camera. Sometimes we have to put down lay aside our "ministry work" and spend time with the people we are working for. Not in an obligated way, but in a way that brings love and joy. Be honest be caring. As His children, we all share in this great commission. Let’s not loose the fire to commit to Him!

-Your Brother and Friend in Christ
Hikari David Sekiguchi

After an arduous ten hours of sorting through two weeks of photos, here are a few cream of the crop pictures. Please don't worry about me even though I almost went insane trying to sort through these. Yes, I did feel a little screen sick towards the completion of my task. All for updates and articles. Oh I do enjoy what I do! 

These boats are called Dhow. One of our actors had to fish on one.

This chicken(rooster?) made so much noise on set. I had to chase him several times.

One of our actors for the film.

Hotel where the main character stays

Director Andy and Photographer Ted Rurup reviewing the script

Setting up a jib.

Yes...this is our main actor Max (Ben).

Night time filming let to creative lighting

Make up artist, actress, and me enjoying the day!

    Waking up ten minutes before my alarm clock went of, my heart was pumping and blood rushed through my veins. It was the day this Nairobi boy would be taking a two week trip to the coast to film. It didn’t take long for me to hop around the house gathering my bags, cleaning teeth, and finishing last minute checks before rushing out the door. Pleasantly, I was greeted by fresh cool air as I traveled the one hundred meters or so to the office. Once there, I was greeted by half the crew with equal anticipation and excitement for the upcoming journey. Within seconds my bags were neatly packed...okay, maybe thrust in the back of the car. Who has time to neatly pack things when excitement is high. Before long we sped off on the early morning roads.

    Nearly twelve hours later, I realized how hot and humid Malindi is! As I munched on the salty, wet air, mosquitos munched on my elbows and legs. By the time a reach our banda (small hut), I was soaked and tired. As the excitement levels settled, I Reached the shower only to discover the water was salty and cold. Great way to finish a long day. Finally I made it to my bed and slept like a baby.

    For the next fourteen days we filmed and filmed. Equipment took beatings, audio devices failed, I would get upset when this happened. Then it started working again and I would be happy until it would die again. Over time, I conceived plans to throw my equipment in the water when it failed; they never materialized. Day by day we trucked through the humidity, heat, and evil mosquitos. One night, I bunked with a man-eating mosquito and he left a mountain range on my arms and legs. Our sun tan lotion dwindled, salty water became exhausting, and we were on the verge of exhaustion. We almost didn’t make it! Okay...so it wasn't really that bad at all. Our production went so well and was filled with great memories. In fact almost all the memories and relationships established were exceedingly beneficial.

    I have to share the story when I started setting up a camera in a nearby village. The community out here is bare bones. No electricity, plumbing, AC, nodda! My assignment was to capture second unit video of the village. Simple enough. Not long after I set up my camera, I noticed hushed laughter. Turning around, I saw a plethora of bright eyed children and families laughing and giggling at the crazy mzungu (white person) setting up a strange looking contraption (camera on a tripod) in the neighborhood. At first, I didn’t know what to do, so I did what most people would probably do...I made a funny face. Laughter broke my tension and we all started taking photos and communicating in broken Swahili. They spoke no English. It was a great time.

    I developed relationships that led to sharing about Christianity with some actors and crew members. After one particular starry night, I walked to our banda returning from the beach where God revealed to me that the people and relationships are of the highest value in life. I felt an understanding of why we should love one another. Slowly opening the door, I briefly looked up at heaven and said, “Thank you.” Returning home just last night, I’m proud to announce that we are now well over 50% completed with production. I have collected so many photos and videos on the trip, they will soon be up on our website. You can check out what the production at the coast looked like by clicking on the link. The photos may take some time before they get on the website. Please keep praying for the team and me. Pray that the message of Christ and missions will effectively reach many Africans and conform many lives in the future! God bless you all!




Updates
 
Pictures

Flipping through photos on my computer always brings a smile to my face. In seconds memories lived years before come flooding back. Faces I haven’t seen for a distant time are warmer than my tea I slowly sip on. Laughter leaps from my mouth and into the room as I recall what is so commonly coined as, "The Good Times". In contrast there are the photos that remind us of hard times. Seasons when time presented itself as the enemy, or when we felt depressed an angry. As poor memories begin to resonate, the present day shatters these past dilemmas. An epiphany hits; just outside of these four walls lies a beautiful country called Kenya. A country that the Lord has called me to.

Tomorrow, I will pile in a car with four others and start a seven and a half to twelve hour car ride to a coastal region of Africa people call Malindi. Along this 576Km journey (Safari in Kiswahili), lies notorious and battered roads sure to make you jump right out of your seat. Something I've noticed since traveling by any set of wheels in Kenya is that people with car sickness suffer. Oh the joys of missions! So what demands this trip to the coast? Ah, glad you were wondering. Our movie script takes us to the remote location of the beach where power is cycled on and off through the day/night. I've been warned not to where any Christian garb, there are quite a few worries with elections coming up soon (in May) and Al-Shabab (not taking kindly to foreigners). It will be nice to enjoy the coast once again. However, something tells me it will be nothing like the Oregon coast.

Please continue to pray for me and the team! Pray for our safety and protection. Help us to be wise and also that good relationships be established with the locals. This is an exciting shoot and extends throughout the rest of the month (October). Most likely I not have frequent internet access, so please excuse the absence in updates. May the Lord our savior bless you! Remember, we serve a powerful and mighty God!

Photographing animals on a Safari

We saw a lion!

Sitting on top of the Safari van

Super cool monkey seemed to enjoy the attention

Cooling down in the shade towards the end of our trip

Things are going well so far. Each day is packed with new experiences and its own set of challenges. Thankfully, the cast and crew have been able to benefit from a day off. It has been a much needed resting period. I did take advantage of the time off to cut some quick update videos for Behind the Scene for our film. They should be uploaded to the Distant Boat website soon. I'll place the link at the end of this post.

Tomorrow we begin a big day of production at Good Sheppard Church just off a main road called Ngong. It will be an intense day, so I'm planning a restful evening. It is Shabbat come to think of it. Now we've just barely completed the 25% mark of production, and it has been a mountain to tackle. Please keep praying for me and our work!


Pictures: http://photos.aimstories.com/distantboat

Turn Over!

Speed!

Mark it!

Scene 45 Take 1!

and...


Action!


Action indeed. Four full days of it now. Where does time fly to when your on set? Time doesn't even exist, just getting the shot list matters. Recent wrap time in the past few days has averaged around 1 AM in the morning. Last night was the most brutal, 3AM. Do the stresses and pressures of production strain the core of my brain and physical body? Yes...but I LOVE IT!!!


Imagine you have a hobby since childhood that you love to do. That hobby grows with you as you mature. In time, you realize it is a gift that comes from your maker. What do you want to do with that hobby when it becomes your career? As for me and my life, I want to honor and please God 100% by using these gifts and talents for His kingdom. Even when your on the production set and fighting to stay awake forcing your blood shot eyes to remain focused, there is a satisfaction and an exhilarating feeling that overcomes me. I can best describe it as fulfilling a purpose in life. Knowing you are right where you are supposed to be doing not only what you love, but what God wants. How could I know that my hobby would become by career that would carry on a message to a massive amount of people and spread a message that needs to be heard that once heard can influence and change a multitude of lives. I used to think media was just a passion of mine; however, now I realize this work can literally spare and plant seeds in lives.

PLEASE CONTINUE TO PRAY FOR OUR PRODUCTION!

Out heart and goal is to spread the idea of missions to the African Church, so they can in turn, spread the message to other nations and tribes.


Specific Prayer Requests:

Equipment to function properly
Actors performances smooth and convincing
Health of Crew (some including me caught cold on set)

Load In

Busy working the mind on the job, haha.

Good Friend of mine clapping the board! Thanks buddy

Actors, Director and DP

Now I'm busy doing something

DP intense focus pose, haha.

It's cute to think that I have three dogs laying by my feet as I'm writing this blog update. In the midst of prepping for our upcoming production, I've been asked to house sit a friends house and dogs. Let me tell you, it has been such good insight to life. This Saturday morning, for example, I schemed a plan to sleep in. This is a perfectly easy thing to do on the weekend, but not when you have dogs to take care of! Bright and early at 7am I found myself cleaning up, feeding, and playing with the dogs. It got me thinking these dogs have faith that someone will feed them every day. They rely on a master to take care of them. As I left for the day, I thought about them and how some dog owners are not good masters. Certainly, I had my times when I didn't want to deal with their messes and energetic bouncing bodies, but then it dawned on me, we have to take on the responsibilities that are entrusted to us. If we don't, then damaging consequences occur.

Above all, I realized that He is our master and we are very much like these puppies that are laying at my feet. He is our care taker, and we simply have to trust in him for food and water. It is most comforting to know that  we'll never be forsaken nor left behind. Wow, who knew dogs could teach you so much? Thank you pups for your great lesson in life! It makes me look forward to becoming a father one day. I hope that everything is going well back home and for everyone. Let's keep dilligent in our responsibilities in life and above all commit our works unto Him.

Make Up Artist is showing her skills

Some of the team examines the work and is impressed

chill'n by the water and microwave

Brian, our production assistant, is being a good sport

The link for the movie's website:

http://distantboat.com/

Dear Friends and Family,

Things have been very busy as we near the end of today (Monday). Here at the On Field Media team office we have had several meetings ranging from production, to prayer, and even a specialty make-up artist coming in. It's been a very good day with a new direction for me since coming to Kenya. The people here are extremely friendly and accepting. I know that I am learning so much from them and Christ is teaching me new lessons every day! I learned that one of our cast members is a Muslim who formally was a Christian. Please pray that we can shine God's light and Christ will be revealed! Let me tell you, there is no feeling like the one you get when you know you are using your gifts and skills to glorify God. Praise His name! Please continue to pray and support this mission!

Prayer:

Our Muslim friend
Pre-Production: To end smoothly
Production: Equipment functions properly and crews safety
                    (it is rather dangerous in Nairobi especially at night)
Post-Production-You can pray for the edit decisions and deadlines to be met

Hi Everyone,

I am alive and well now living in Kenya! I arrived two days ago and already can tell It is a completely different world here. I'm amazed at the kindness Kenyans offer. Currently, I am in the middle of orientation, including basic living lessons, this week. By the end of the week, I'll be joining the On Field Media team and start working on the movie called "A Distant Boat". There is so much happening here! Sometimes we get the idea in our Western minds that we have so much to offer the African people; however, I'm already realizing the opposite. We have SO MUCH to learn from them. Their extremely welcoming attitudes being one example. How much I long to continue to work with along side with them and learn the lessons that God has for me here. Please continue to pray for Africa and the West too!

As of today, I have the funding to stay here for eight months; however, I believe the Lord wants me to serve here for a year. I can see how much there is to do, and I'm asking for your help to partner with me in helping the lost. God is so GOOD and I know that He provides everything for us. Please pray about it and consider joining my support team. Thank you so much for your prayers and support!

-David


My Blog: http://david-profile.blogspot.com/

Send Checks to:

Tomo and Cindy Sekiguchi
30555 Butte Creek Road
Lebanon, OR 97355
USA

(Note: Please make checks payable to Africa Inland Mission)

Today was a day of "Lasts" in the USA before I return from Kenya. Let me explain it this way...

Today was my last time to:

1. Wake up on a soft comfortable bed way too big for me in the USA

2. Eat breakfast which wasn't really that good in the USA

3. Brush my teeth in the USA (No I didn't count the brush strokes)

4. Visit Target and buy chocolate chips because they are yummy

5. Eat Chick Fil A and order a number 4 meal

6. Go for a walk on golf cart paths because they are so cool to walk on

7. Say goodbye to the Africa Inland Mission staff who are amazingly awesome people

There will be a follow up to this post explaining my firsts in Africa! Stay tuned...it will come...hopefully...if my plane makes it and I don't die...I'm praying... I am bording my first plane in 4 hours. Please keep me in your prayers! Thank you!

AIM orientation is now over. Officially, I will be flying out tomorrow at 6:20pm from Atlanta Georgia. Thank you so much AIM team for being so kind and hospitable to us!

As the sun sets this Tuesday night, It's incredible to imagine that I'll be watching it rise among the Africa nation, Kenya, in two days. Anxiety flow through my veins. Questions flood my thoughts. The wheels of my mind turn like an endless tape. Sometimes I wonder why I'm leaving the comfort of my home. I recall thinking to myself today that everything is perfect in America. Why would anyone want to leave? I question myself, but remember God and His calling to serve Him by producing outstanding media that will many people in the nations.

This  does not change the fact that I will cross cultures that transcend my own capabilities of control. "Nervousness" is a relative word to describe the new experience that will be encountered. Imagine you were at the brink of leaving the home you love, abandoning the food your used to, and sacrificing the comfort of your amazing friends. Yes...the country that God directed me to is Kenya and it's waiting for me. It's so close I can almost taste the dust drying my lips. The spreading of the Gospel is facilitated by you, the body of Christ. Please continue to support in prayer and financially.


Prayer:


1. Safe Flight in to Nairobi, Kenya (August 23-24th) (6:20pm EST)

2. Entering the country with no complications

3. Strength, Courage, and Peace

8:30PM is usually the time that I would sit down and reflect on the day writing it in my journal when I'm over seas. But now that I'm keeping on online journal, my reflections and posts will remain on my blog. When I went to Japan, Europe, and Israel I kept a journal and am so thankful I did; however, I'm already realizing how much faster typing is than writing. So let's reflect on today...


After a healthy sleep I woke to a great breakfast and snatched a tea bag and egg to bring back to my room. The egg would serve me well later that day. After eating, it was time to stretch my legs and go running; however, I opted for finishing editing my highlight reel at Mt. Arbel in Israel. So for the next few hours, I worked hard on the hotel couch clicking and dragging clips left and right like no TOMORROW! Suddenly, it was time to run, so I ran and ran until I almost lost my way getting back to the hotel before orientation started. I made it back, cleaned up, and jumped out into the lobby where I met four other short term missionaries.

Orientation went really well and tomorrow will be a full day. We went over the history of Africa Inland Mission, their mission statement, country flag quizzes, and how to share a testimony. That was only a few of the items for tonight. After a great time at the mission HQ, we were shuttled back to the hotel and now I'm just reflecting on the day.


Tonight my room mate is flying in at 1am in the morning! It will be an exciting meeting if I'm able to get up. Reminds me of my former room mate from Fiji when he flew in to Israel at midnight. Should be interesting. Now that I wrote a very long and kind of boring journal entry, it is time for bed. Tomorrow I will try and keep it short and sweet. Thank you for enduring this first "pre-real" "Africa" "journal post". Hang in there...the stories will get better. Hopefully no deaths or injuries to write about; however, I'm on God's plan and not my own.

I  made it!


No...not to Africa yet, but I did make it to Georgia for a week of orientation before I depart for the big continent. Yep, that's right. I'm going to get a little prior missionary training before I'll be thrust out into the open. Of course while I was brushing my teeth before bed, my Mom and Dad call to ask if I made it. I think that Dad wanted to test out his new cell phone. Lol, j/k I know they love me more than technology. So you may ask, Are you excited? Reply: Maybe a little...OR MORE LIKE A LOT! It's a mixture of adrenaline, nervousness, and left over cheese cake from a few nights ago.


So, I'm sure you want to know all about my flight and how it went. Well, here is a brief recap:


HURRY!!!

Wait...

Sleep...

RUN!

Wait....

Sleep Some More

bored...

RUN!!!

Struggle with Luggage.

Wait...

HOTEL!


So now you've been updated. You'll probably hear from me again when I reach African soil! I'm going to try and keep an online journal for this trip.

Millard's Meeting

Thank you to all of those who came to hear about my trip to Israel and about my mission to Africa. It was such a joy and surprise to see so many come! To know how many are supporting me in prayer and financially is such a blessing. I apologize for not faithfully updating my blog as much as I should; however, I will be attempting to do a much better job when I am in Africa. I just really quickly wanted to share some links with out about things to pray for and some information about what I'll be doing in Africa.


Prayer List:

http://www.aimint.org/usa/pray/daily-prayer-requests


What I'll be working on:

http://distantboat.com/


Again, thank you all for your support and may God bless you!

 Shalom

If you ask me has life slowed down since returning from Israel, I would kindly decline that assumption. I suppose the jump from the Middle East to North America can be related to jumping into a tornado...that you can sleep in...sometimes...

?


You may think that I the absence of rest can be exhausting, and that I would agree with; however, I thoroughly enjoy the busyness. As I'm writing this email, I sit in the Salt Lake City, Utah, airport waiting for my plane to depart to Eugene, OR. Why in Utah? Good question. I have been helping my father with his business at the Outdoor Retail show. The event is massive! Bigger than a Philly cheese cake in New York! Okay...maybe not, but seriously. I have had more fun running various errands, getting lost in a sea of exhibitors, and finding my way again. God has thoroughly blessed me and my father during our stay here. I also had the chance to gear up for my trip to Africa.


Some may be wondering how things are going for my trip to Africa. I wouldn't blame you for wondering. I've been too busy running errands in this whirlwind of a tornado. Things are going very well. Just last night, the tickets for Nairobi, Kenya have been booked! I am going! Lying down last night, the last thing I remember before dozing off was a feeling of change and movement. For three years now, I've know that I have been called to the mission field. For two years I saved up money to go to Israel for schooling to prepare me for the mission. One year I've studied, and now, it appears the time has come. I am still short by about 5,000 dollars. At this point, my trip will be shortened; however, I am very compelled that God wants me to be in Africa for a full year. I hate to ask for support, so I won't. I'll let the Lord move, but please know that I have a vision from God to stay a full year in Africa.

There are so many things to write, but due to catching a flight, aching wrists, and an empty stomach, I believe my body is telling me it is time to find something to eat. Unfortunately, they do not serve Felafels at the airport; however, please do not be too concerned for me. I will find a way to manage...somehow...

May the Lord bless you!

-David Hikari Sekiguchi

After a two hour delay at Ben Gurion's baggage check in, I regretted bringing my external hard drive with me on the plane. If anyone flies from Israel to the States, please reconsider bringing large electronic devices with you. It's going to cost you time and a lot of security checks.

I can't believe my one year's study in Israel had come to an end. It felt just like last week when I arrived in Jerusalem. Wasn't it just a few days ago when I went shopping in the chaotic Mahene Yehuda Market? Didn't I just introduce myself as a new student in  film school? Now the year has come and gone so fast. I will never forget you Israel, my friends, and what God did for me while studying in the Holy Land.

As I embraced my four dearest friends for the last time at the airport, I knew this would probably be the last time I would see them. These four guys stuck with me through thick and thin over the year, and I will always be grateful for them. It was time for a new adventure now: the return home.

After an 11 hour plane flight from Tel Aviv, Israel to JFK, New York. I was so thankful to stretch my legs again, but not for 12 hours. Yes, that's right...I had a 12 hour overlay in New York. So what did I do? Well, I picked up my guitar and laptop, and I caught a train that ran to Manhattan. The first few hours were spent sight seeing. For the first time I experience ground zero, Ellis Island, and the Empire State Building. The last few hours were spent eating...McDonalds. Oh yes...after a year being out of the country, McDonald seemed almost the patriotic thing to do.

Once  my flight touched down in Portland, OR, I was overwhelmed by the beauty of everything. I forgot how green and plush the Pacific Northwest is. The yellow sand and red sunset desert memories began to mix with green water fountains of trees and grass. I was back home. When culture shock just began to settle in, I saw the most friendly, familiar faces in the whole world. My family!

And so I feel a big like Bilbo Baggins when I write this sentence: It was an amazing trip there and now I'm back again. Thank you everyone for your prayers and support. If you ever get the chance to visit Israel, I strongly suggest you do so, just avoid bringing large electronic devices...

Graduation Class of 2012

Thank you Mom, Dad, Nathan, and Grandma for the graduation cards!

Post Graduation Update

Dear Family in Christ,

    Forgive me for taking so long since my last update on my trip to Africa. Since graduating from media school in Jerusalem, it’s like the enemy took advantage of all emotions and pulled me as low as he could. For awhile now, I’ve been struggling to keep on my feet. I’ve even felt that my Christian walk has been in jeopardy. This morning I prayed for help. By His grace, he sent it to me. It’s as though He woke me up from a deep sleep and now He’s putting me back on the right path giving me purpose again. As I was walking home that night, I could hear Him say “Keep walking and I will direct your feet”.

    It’s very easy to loose sight of your purpose and make soft, easy choices which eventually put you to sleep in your faith. That is what the enemy wants us to do, and he succeeded with me for awhile. The devil must have forgotten that when I was a young child, I prayed that God would protect me from falling away from Him. Indeed, He heard my prayer all those years ago.  He keeps me in His sight and gives me purpose for living.

    I have been called to serve the Lord in Africa. Yes, it does worry me a bit because I am an easy target for mosquitoes (which carry Malaria) and am not particularly a strong enough guy to defend off attacks from lions; however, I have no choice but to obey the Lord. If He is calling me to go, then I must go, even if it does include facing a lion for a lost soul (may the Lord be with me). I’m asking that we work together in accomplishing the goal of spreading the gospel to foreign countries wether by prayer, donations, or both. Below are details of my trip:


When: August 20th, 2012

Where: Nairobi, Kenya

How Long: 1 year

Why: Using media skills to reach lost souls


Support Raised:     $11,274.90

Needed:         $8,725.10

DEADLINE IS JULY 9th, 2012

All Grown Up and Graduated

As I stepped up on the brightly-lit auditorium stage, Peter, Wael, Viivi, and I fought back the tears of emotion as our teacher spoke highly of us. Nostalgia ran high under the warming rays of the stage lights. Aaron our teacher stood on the right of me delivering such warm and encouraging words. He encouraged us to stick to our morals and not sacrifice them for the world. He's seen many people ignore their conscience for the glory of man. The water began to fill my eye. I took the personal obligation to let my work be pleasing to God and not mankind. Applause filled the room lifting the pages to the next chapter of my life. This chapter of my life will be entitled...


Missionary

Sitting here alone in the school way after hours, I'm listening to music and organizing footage from the day's shoot. It's  sad to think that  life in Israel is coming to a close. I've made so many friends here and can't bare the thought of leaving them. This deserves a sad face, indeed. There is a saying that when you leave this land you leave a part of your heart behind. I feel myself becoming a victim to this truthful saying. I'm so thankful for one more month here, but still am sad. In happier terms, graduation is in eight days! Wait...now it makes me think of leaving...haha. It's crazy how fast everything has been going. If I blink, the time passes right under me. Oh sad thoughts, let be be free from you.

Well...

Now that I've rambled on and on, I'll try to impart some sort of lesson I've learned from the days activities. I've learned that most people respect your morals in life. It is so important to stick with them. Don't let fear of man pressure you. Most people are encouraged by someone who stands for something he/she believes in. So be encouraged everyone! I'm so thankful for everything in life. Now my eyes are telling me I have a few minutes left before they shut. So this is one grateful boy signing off...

Random design that I made awhile back...

The start of production! Whoohoo. Today we shot the first scene of our final semester project. Quite an amazing feeling really. Are weeks of intense pre-production, the vision is becoming reality. There is no feeling like watching your idea form in front of you. Something that i'm learning...

Are a six hour shoot, our stomachs told us it was time to put away the equipment and get something to eat! Of course, it didn't happen as quickly as we all wished. There was a whole set of various procedures that took place before the taste of delicious mouth-watering pizza could be munched on. Who's idea was it for us to take a bus, move equipment, and start transferring footage in the first place? Don't we  pay someone for that? Wait...we are the ones who are paying to learn this stuff...

It's not bad at all, really. There are so many things I have been learning! It excites and amazes me to see how this skill and knowledge I'm acquiring at King School of Media is going to be applied in Kenya, Africa and ultimately God's glory! I can't wait to start filming/ editing our feature film that's in pre-production stage. That is a whole other story that I'm too tired to write about at this time. I'm finding out that past 1 AM in the morning my productivity screeches to a hault. And that is my Que. to sign off and get some sleep. Production day 2 starts tomorrow!

Directing/Scriptee/Production Assist

Gotta love the 5D Mark II

Harry with the 5D shoulder rig