October

I was partnered with a young female doctor at the Pyongyang Hepatitis Hospital during my first time in DPRK, and now we work together every time I visit. She has become like a younger sister to me. We share chocolates, laughs, and tidbits about our lives. I’ve learned about her family, her country, and things she enjoys. I want to share more of my story with her, but there are barriers, so we do our best. I met her when she was single, and now she is married, about to have her first child. I see her concern for her patients that are struggling to live with their disease. She acknowledges the predicament of trying to provide hope and healing in the midst of limitations due to circumstances and the unknown. Hope seems fragile and unfamiliar. It is not often given, nor received easily. However, with the hepatitis B treatment project, I am seeing glimpses of people who are beginning to hope and envision a better future. 

Behind her big smile, I often wonder what she is thinking and feeling. I long to have deeper conversations with her. Nevertheless, I realize the best I can do is to pray for her and for her nation. God knows the details. Every time I visit the DPRK, God shows me that this is His work, which is done in His timing and direction. He reminds me that he has promised to never forget or forsake His people, and He desires for all to know Him. That is the hope I desire to share with the people. My presence there is merely to be a vessel that extends God’s love and leaves His lingering fragrance in that place.

Contributed by: Dr. Christine Jun