24 Hour Countdown

We have just begun the 24-hour countdown.

The United States of America will test Dave's proficiency in Mandarin 24 hours from now, via a 15 minute telephone conversation. On a scale of 1 (being able to order food and maneuver a train station) to 5 (being a native speaker), Dave must prove he can speak at a 2 to pass the exam.

Should he pass, extra points will be added to his score, and guarantee his acceptance into the Foreign Service. Should he fail, he will continue studying at a frantic rate for the next 6 months, when he is allowed to test once again.

Dave has rarely entered a test where he predicted he would pass. This test is no different. His tutor thinks he stands a chance, and I'd put his odds at 50-50. We rest on the hand of God. Should the Lord want Dave to pass this test, God can make it so without any outrageous miracles. Should the Lord prefer the waiting pattern we've been holding for the past 1.5 years, no one would be surprised if Dave fails.

Either way, he looks forward to a break from studying next week, and a few extra hours to himself. For a week.

Please keep him in your prayers right now. I'm praying that he sleeps well tonight and faces the day (and the evening) refreshed. I'm praying that he goes into the test feeling calm and confident. And I'm praying that God's will be done.

At 10:00pm Shenzhen time on November 30, the 24-hour countdown begins.
He tests at 9:00am Washington DC time on December 1st.