As I reflect back on the 2008 Lighthouse Summer Mission’s Team to Japan, I can’t help but smile (laugh) and thank God for sending such quality people to Japan. It reminded me of the team Lighthouse sent to Japan several years back – quality people, humbly serving others, willing to do anything, and shining for Jesus.
I was glad that Lighthouse was going to send two teams to Japan. One to follow up last year’s Nokendai ministry and the other one to help the Nakamuras. It so happens that during our first year back in Japan, the Nakamura kids were able to make friendships around the SEND Center, while we were looking for housing. The Reasoner Family, who ministers at the Center, had been following up with these children through various events. We thought a VBS program would be perfect to continue in that outreach.
Because we were contacted by Lighthouse early on, I was able to make reservations for housing at the SEND Center. Everyone was going to fit, even the additional Nokendai team for the first night. I was shocked to discover that the situation with housing changed due to unavoidable circumstances with SEND. Initially, I panicked and got quite upset, but the Lord settled me down and I began to give the situation to Him. In the course of planning, I arranged for the teams to stay at our home in Kashiwa and added prayer walks in our area to the itinerary. This may not have happened if everything worked out to stay the whole time at the Center. I look back and praise God for his guidance. One of my highlights was to have these teams join me in spiritual warfare in my area of Tokyo. We prayer walked a LOT, but not one complaint. Even Kelly, with his sore swollen knees, always had a positive word and a godly perspective. I believe the real work of the ministry starts with prayers like these.
I look back at the VBS program and all the time and effort that went into planning and preparing for the trip and I find myself in awe. A lot of work went into this. I also realize that a whole support team from home helped pay for and pray for this ministry.
I want to thank the dear brothers and sisters from Lighthouse (and elsewhere) for your partnership in reaching the Japanese for Christ. We Nakamuras also felt we made great friendships. Your hearts were truly joined with our desire to spread the Gospel in Japan. The Reasoners were also encouraged by the Lighthouse team. They have been freely sharing with other SEND missionaries of the blessings they received. They also desire to see another Lighthouse team come and minister at their church.
They long to see a breakthrough in that area of Higashi Tokorozawa and realize that teams like this can make a difference.
The kids responded very well at the VBS. Even though they didn’t understand the words of the songs, they sang with gusto and enthusiastically did the hand motions.
Every part of the VBS, the songs, crafts, story, skits, games, etc. were all used by the Lord to give the program a well balanced, fun atmosphere. I believe each child went home satisfied and glad that they came. The mothers who participated also enjoyed themselves. It was great to see the interaction with these mothers and the team. They were very interested to know what each member did as their occupation. They were impressed that the Lighthouse members used their vacation to serve at the church in Japan. I believe they sensed the love of Christ through each member. It was great to see the Lord use each member with their various gifts. All of this makes it easier to follow up with each child and family.
I feel though that the Nakamura family benefited the most. Words cannot adequately express how thankful we are. The team felt like family. Through this, we feel closer to the Lighthouse body. We are excited about what is happening at the church. We are honored to be a part of Lighthouse as one of your missionaries. Thank you for blessing us so much.
With much love,
Richard and Keri Nakamura
Alisha, Brandon, Hanna, Kayla and Nathan too
The 2008 Team
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Al: My God Sightings
It is hard to believe that the trip to Japan is over. The time in Japan passed so quickly. The whole time there is just a blur. I have many treasured memories. Looking back what are three God sightings that stood out to me?
1. The blog worked out better than I ever imagined it could be. I am glad God put it on my heart to try a blog and a newsletter. I thought we could still write a newsletter like last year but with fewer members on the team we just didn't have the energy or time to write one. The blog was more than sufficient. I know that it kept the two teams connected daily even though we were so far apart. God really used this beyond my wildest imagination.
2. God put all nine of us in condo. God blessed us in many ways here. First of all, we were able to co-exist and even thrive in this environment. We adjusted well, no fighting for the bathroom or shower time. We graciously overlooked the snorers,(I being the worst). We all contributed to the supply of breakfast food and shared with no one complaining about what was being served. Last year Sets, Mei-Ling, Ev and I stayed in this condo while the rest of the team stayed at the Cadence Lighthouse. I felt like I really never bonded with the rest of the team because we were apart. This year was different, we all really felt like we were team bonded by our common experiences from sharing laundry to accidentally borrowing things from each other. The benefits of living together in close quarters vastly outweighed any drawbacks of 9 sharing 1 bathroom and kitchen. God truly blessed us in this situation.
3. The 3rd God sighting that I want to share was the VBS itself. I was so excited to see the children again. It was hard to believe that it had been a year since we last saw them. They all looked the same...it was if we never had left. The children were excited to be there and if anything their English skills had improved a lot more than my Japanese in the past year. Certainly I was blessed to be able to participate in the VBS program at Nokendai. So many small miracles though out the week showed that God's hand was helping us though VBS.
Thanks for reading my ramblings. Thanks for your support. Most of all thanks for your prayers. In Japan I was really aware of the spiritual war. This is a land where almost every child is consecrated in a Shinto shrine or prayed for in a Buddhist temple. Richard said that each child is blessed by a demon and desensitized to voice of the true God. Never has Ephesians 6:10-18 been so meaningful to me.
10Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
Ephesians 6:10-18
1. The blog worked out better than I ever imagined it could be. I am glad God put it on my heart to try a blog and a newsletter. I thought we could still write a newsletter like last year but with fewer members on the team we just didn't have the energy or time to write one. The blog was more than sufficient. I know that it kept the two teams connected daily even though we were so far apart. God really used this beyond my wildest imagination.
2. God put all nine of us in condo. God blessed us in many ways here. First of all, we were able to co-exist and even thrive in this environment. We adjusted well, no fighting for the bathroom or shower time. We graciously overlooked the snorers,(I being the worst). We all contributed to the supply of breakfast food and shared with no one complaining about what was being served. Last year Sets, Mei-Ling, Ev and I stayed in this condo while the rest of the team stayed at the Cadence Lighthouse. I felt like I really never bonded with the rest of the team because we were apart. This year was different, we all really felt like we were team bonded by our common experiences from sharing laundry to accidentally borrowing things from each other. The benefits of living together in close quarters vastly outweighed any drawbacks of 9 sharing 1 bathroom and kitchen. God truly blessed us in this situation.
3. The 3rd God sighting that I want to share was the VBS itself. I was so excited to see the children again. It was hard to believe that it had been a year since we last saw them. They all looked the same...it was if we never had left. The children were excited to be there and if anything their English skills had improved a lot more than my Japanese in the past year. Certainly I was blessed to be able to participate in the VBS program at Nokendai. So many small miracles though out the week showed that God's hand was helping us though VBS.
Thanks for reading my ramblings. Thanks for your support. Most of all thanks for your prayers. In Japan I was really aware of the spiritual war. This is a land where almost every child is consecrated in a Shinto shrine or prayed for in a Buddhist temple. Richard said that each child is blessed by a demon and desensitized to voice of the true God. Never has Ephesians 6:10-18 been so meaningful to me.
10Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. 12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
Ephesians 6:10-18
Ev: God's "Tea House" Moments
We only spent one day with Richard and Keri Nakumara but I wished we had more time with them. Richard gave us a deeper understanding of what was happening in Japan. He shared the history of Christianity, the persecution of believers, and the spiritual culture in Japan. We had focused on developing relationships during the VBS week with the parents and kids, but Richard taught me about the "Tea House" moments in Japan. I experienced three of them.
It was on the last day and we were on the local bus going to another bus stop where we would catch a ride to the airport. Al got up to give a seat to an older woman who sat next to me. She began talking to me in Japanese and I quickly told her I was from America and did not understand. The amazing thing is she continued to talk and some how two people communicated without understanding each other's words. She gave me a woven momento and I gave her the last of my two pamphlets about God's love and salvation which had a CD in it. Richard had given two to each of us and encouraged us to pass them along as God directed. She shared a taped recording of Japanese opera and showed some music. When we got off, Richard told me what she shared with me. She had thanked me for this "tea house" experience where strangers come together for a brief moment to enjoy tea together and then go their separate ways. We prayed at the bus stop for this woman that she would be open to the message on the pamphlet.
It was then that I realized that God had given me other "tea house" moments. The second one was when Richard had taken us to Askusa where there were Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines that were surrounded by shopping and eating places. He prayed with us and then gave each of us 2 pamphlets to pass out. He asked us to pray as we walked through to the other end of the shopping area, and, if led, to pass out the pamphlets to people we meet. I had never done this. How do you know you are being "led" to give this pamphlet to people who speak a different language? Al and I walked all the way to the end and took a short break to buy a shaved iced cone. A woman said thank you to me in Japanese and smiled. We left to meet the team but I couldn't get rid of the urge to give that Japanese woman a pamphlet. I walked back and said thank you for the wonderful shaved ice. I passed the pamphlet to her and said, "This is a gift" and I left. She glanced at it and thanked me. I don't know what happened but it is in God's hand - two strangers from two different countries sharing a "tea house" moment.
The last "tea house" moment was at the nursing home in Nokendai. We shared the gospel, a story, we sang "Jesus Loves Me" and "Seek Ye First" in Japanese, and Matt played piano. Before we left, for some reason, I wanted to touch and shake hands with the people here. Amy had some cards with a message in Japanese about God's love which a supporter had given her. Everyone on the team took cards and began walking around. I took the hands of the people I met and said to them, "Arigatou gozaimasu. God loves you" as I gave them one of those cards. It was not a long moment with each person, but it was a short, shared experience that we pray will allow the people we met to come a little closer to becoming part of God's family.
I learned that God doesn't always use planned programs to do His work and that I have to be always ready for those "tea house" moments God gives us. Next year, if I go, I have been convicted that I need to learn to say "Kami-sama Anata Ai suru" - God loves you and much more. I also appreciated what Richard answered when we asked him, "You said that you were really shy when you were younger. What happened?" Richard would stop and talk to strangers and share the gospel as we walked. He said that when he was young, he had nothing to say. Now, with God's love in His life and the truth he now knows, he can't stop talking! It really convicted me.
Again, this trip has given me so much more than I gave to it. God used us to touch Japan, and God used our Japan experience to touch us. Thank you so much for all your prayers and support. Truly, you were an important part of both teams. What happened these past two weeks in Nokendai and Tokorazawa could not have happened without you all.
Blessings, Ev
It was on the last day and we were on the local bus going to another bus stop where we would catch a ride to the airport. Al got up to give a seat to an older woman who sat next to me. She began talking to me in Japanese and I quickly told her I was from America and did not understand. The amazing thing is she continued to talk and some how two people communicated without understanding each other's words. She gave me a woven momento and I gave her the last of my two pamphlets about God's love and salvation which had a CD in it. Richard had given two to each of us and encouraged us to pass them along as God directed. She shared a taped recording of Japanese opera and showed some music. When we got off, Richard told me what she shared with me. She had thanked me for this "tea house" experience where strangers come together for a brief moment to enjoy tea together and then go their separate ways. We prayed at the bus stop for this woman that she would be open to the message on the pamphlet.
It was then that I realized that God had given me other "tea house" moments. The second one was when Richard had taken us to Askusa where there were Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines that were surrounded by shopping and eating places. He prayed with us and then gave each of us 2 pamphlets to pass out. He asked us to pray as we walked through to the other end of the shopping area, and, if led, to pass out the pamphlets to people we meet. I had never done this. How do you know you are being "led" to give this pamphlet to people who speak a different language? Al and I walked all the way to the end and took a short break to buy a shaved iced cone. A woman said thank you to me in Japanese and smiled. We left to meet the team but I couldn't get rid of the urge to give that Japanese woman a pamphlet. I walked back and said thank you for the wonderful shaved ice. I passed the pamphlet to her and said, "This is a gift" and I left. She glanced at it and thanked me. I don't know what happened but it is in God's hand - two strangers from two different countries sharing a "tea house" moment.
The last "tea house" moment was at the nursing home in Nokendai. We shared the gospel, a story, we sang "Jesus Loves Me" and "Seek Ye First" in Japanese, and Matt played piano. Before we left, for some reason, I wanted to touch and shake hands with the people here. Amy had some cards with a message in Japanese about God's love which a supporter had given her. Everyone on the team took cards and began walking around. I took the hands of the people I met and said to them, "Arigatou gozaimasu. God loves you" as I gave them one of those cards. It was not a long moment with each person, but it was a short, shared experience that we pray will allow the people we met to come a little closer to becoming part of God's family.
I learned that God doesn't always use planned programs to do His work and that I have to be always ready for those "tea house" moments God gives us. Next year, if I go, I have been convicted that I need to learn to say "Kami-sama Anata Ai suru" - God loves you and much more. I also appreciated what Richard answered when we asked him, "You said that you were really shy when you were younger. What happened?" Richard would stop and talk to strangers and share the gospel as we walked. He said that when he was young, he had nothing to say. Now, with God's love in His life and the truth he now knows, he can't stop talking! It really convicted me.
Again, this trip has given me so much more than I gave to it. God used us to touch Japan, and God used our Japan experience to touch us. Thank you so much for all your prayers and support. Truly, you were an important part of both teams. What happened these past two weeks in Nokendai and Tokorazawa could not have happened without you all.
Blessings, Ev
Patti's Highlights, thoughts, and praise.
The 2 weeks in Japan went by so quickly. On Monday, the day before we were to come home, I was talking with Matt as we made our way to do a little sightseeing in Tokyo, and we agreed that we had experienced so much that it seemed like we had been in Japan much longer than 2 weeks, and yet, it was hard to believe that already the day to return home was fast approaching. It is difficult to pick 3 highlights, but here is my attempt.
First of all, I was truly blessed to see the transformation that occured in each one of us, as we were open to be used by God and took the risk of stretching ourselves to experience and do some things that we normally wouldn't. We knew little of each other when we first got together. We grew to know more about each other as we trained and had team building times in preparation for this Mission Trip. Living together only brought us closer, we worked together like clockwork, we laughed together until there were tears (I found out what a sense of humor each one had), and we intentionally cared for each other. We saw answers to prayer that grew our faith. A surprise answer to prayer, was our accomodations. Because of circumstances with housing not coming through for one of the Missionary family that was staying at the SEND Center, we were not all able to stay together. But, on the weekend, the housing opened up for the Missionary family, so they moved out of their apt. at the SEND Center, and the 3 of us that were staying off campus was able to move in so that we were all together. God provides! And these rooms were much nicer than I dreamed of. God provides abundantly! Another transformation that I observed was that some of us came out of our shells to be more bold for Christ than we ever have been.
Secondly, the prayer walks that Richard Nakamura took us on, grew my heart to connect with the people of Japan and gave me a real burden for them. Richard gave us information on the spiritual status of Japan and gave explanations of the origin of many traditions and the strongholds that are keeping many people of Japan in bondage. I realized not just in my head, but in my heart, that I can be a part of the work that the Christian Missionaries are doing, by being committed to praying for God to make a way for the light to be seen, and that many would feel hope by experiencing the love and grace of Jesus. Committed to praying for the Missionaries and for workers to come to help them. Committed to praying for the strongholds to be broken. Committed to praying for harmony of the churches that exist in Japan. Committed to praying for the growth of the church.
Thirdly, the children that attended the VBS touched my heart. I just want to share with you about a 1st grade girl, Kei, who listened so intently to the story of the Paralyzed Man from Mark 2. When I asked the question, "When Jesus first saw the Paralyzed Man, what did he do for him?" she raised her hand up high and quietly said, "He healed his heart by forgiving him." It thrilled my heart, as I thought that this was a hard question for such a young group. But she had gotten it! Sugoi!
There are so many people to thank, who helped us to be able to communicate the gospel and share God's Word, and who gave a helping hand with the crafts and games. We could not have accomplished what we did without Richard's, Chieko's, and Jon's translations. It made it so much more fun with Alicia, Brandon, Amy, Elisabeth, and Eliott helping. Arigato! (hey--that's the extent of my Japanese--so sad, I want to work on this.)
Blessings, Patti
First of all, I was truly blessed to see the transformation that occured in each one of us, as we were open to be used by God and took the risk of stretching ourselves to experience and do some things that we normally wouldn't. We knew little of each other when we first got together. We grew to know more about each other as we trained and had team building times in preparation for this Mission Trip. Living together only brought us closer, we worked together like clockwork, we laughed together until there were tears (I found out what a sense of humor each one had), and we intentionally cared for each other. We saw answers to prayer that grew our faith. A surprise answer to prayer, was our accomodations. Because of circumstances with housing not coming through for one of the Missionary family that was staying at the SEND Center, we were not all able to stay together. But, on the weekend, the housing opened up for the Missionary family, so they moved out of their apt. at the SEND Center, and the 3 of us that were staying off campus was able to move in so that we were all together. God provides! And these rooms were much nicer than I dreamed of. God provides abundantly! Another transformation that I observed was that some of us came out of our shells to be more bold for Christ than we ever have been.
Secondly, the prayer walks that Richard Nakamura took us on, grew my heart to connect with the people of Japan and gave me a real burden for them. Richard gave us information on the spiritual status of Japan and gave explanations of the origin of many traditions and the strongholds that are keeping many people of Japan in bondage. I realized not just in my head, but in my heart, that I can be a part of the work that the Christian Missionaries are doing, by being committed to praying for God to make a way for the light to be seen, and that many would feel hope by experiencing the love and grace of Jesus. Committed to praying for the Missionaries and for workers to come to help them. Committed to praying for the strongholds to be broken. Committed to praying for harmony of the churches that exist in Japan. Committed to praying for the growth of the church.
Thirdly, the children that attended the VBS touched my heart. I just want to share with you about a 1st grade girl, Kei, who listened so intently to the story of the Paralyzed Man from Mark 2. When I asked the question, "When Jesus first saw the Paralyzed Man, what did he do for him?" she raised her hand up high and quietly said, "He healed his heart by forgiving him." It thrilled my heart, as I thought that this was a hard question for such a young group. But she had gotten it! Sugoi!
There are so many people to thank, who helped us to be able to communicate the gospel and share God's Word, and who gave a helping hand with the crafts and games. We could not have accomplished what we did without Richard's, Chieko's, and Jon's translations. It made it so much more fun with Alicia, Brandon, Amy, Elisabeth, and Eliott helping. Arigato! (hey--that's the extent of my Japanese--so sad, I want to work on this.)
Blessings, Patti
Sharon: Some moments to remember...and prayers to continue
here it is, 2:20am (Seattle time) and i'm still awake...and not just because of the Olympics either. =P although i'm getting back to west coast time, i sit and read and re-read the blogs from our trip and pray for all those we have left behind; for all those we have had the opportunity to meet, talk with, sing with, share Bible and faith stories with, eat with, laugh with, cry with and pray with...i want to remember the people and the missionaries and the children...and not stop praying...
The other day, kelly found himself recycling like we did in Japan and i found that "PET" symbol on the bottom of a fruit carton. wherever we went in Japan, we were looking for those recycle containers to throw away our empty bottled waters/drinks we had purchased from one of the many drink machines along the way. we gave one of our TMK members a hard time as he unknowingly walked up to a cigarette machine to get a drink! lol! he was tired! =P silly memories but the recycling alone tells a little about the nature of Japan and it's desire to be clean and efficient.
i know we were asked to do "highlights" but after reading everyone's blogs along the way, i remember so much. as i read the earlier blogs about when we went to the govt building, i remember kelly thinking they might not let him past the check point because he had his leatherman with him. but, praise God, they let him in!
i remember being squashed like sardines into the elevator (plus backpacks) how many stories up! how many of us were in there??? and i thought they only did that on the train! Mei-Ling and i were like, more?? lol! and the doors closed! We were just cracking up on the ride up to the top. =D ( a memorable laughter moment!)
at the top of this building, as we looked out over the city, i remember Richard Nakamura sharing about the shrines and temples. we could see one of the largest ones below. ironically, Richard said that President Bush also offered incense there not long ago. that made me sad. there is a need to be loving and caring and, yet, stand firm in our faith. as Richard shared, i began to gain a deeper understanding of the need to pray for the people of Japan. they are such a kind, courteous, hardworking, generous and giving people, yet, there is so much that stands between them and God (many gods--work, maybe too much technology, pride, shame, guilt, and so much more). it all makes it so difficult for them to freely come to know Jesus; to want to come and seek Him. letting go of traditions they have grown up with is hard to do for fear of shaming their family or being shamed.
Heavenly Father, asking that You would break those barriers down. like the story in the Bible about the blind man who had to choose to obey Jesus' instructions to wash the mud from his eyes. like the blind man, that they might see Jesus for the first time and believe. that they might want to come to Him like the 10 men who shouted for Jesus to help them. that they might experience the physical and spiritual healing of Jesus, and know it is Him and only Him they need to give thanks. or like the paralyzed man, that we might be people that can help bring people of Japan into the presence of Jesus so they can be, not just physically healed, but spiritually forgiven of their sins by a holy and loving God and have eternal life in heaven.
this trip has grown my heart in prayer. not just for the people of Japan but the missionaries who give their lives to share God's love and message of salvation. as i looked on the websites for the Lighthouse Cadence and SEND International and read about the Nakamuras, the Reasoners and the Bowdens, and remembering the Tamuras, i began to pray. praying God's equipping and annointing of His Holy Spirit for them to love His people and share His truth. asking for God's Holy Spirit to fill them, encourage them and help them persevere. asking God to raise up workers to come alongside and help them in ministry. that they might see even a glimpse of the fruits of their labor for the Lord as He begins to touch and transform lives; as He begins to draw people to Him. dear Jesus, as they seek to love and obey You, carry them on Your wings and help them soar for You. be their shelter and their mighty fortress. in all things, that You might be glorified.
those words, "carry them on Your wings", remind me how one of the boys Richard has been building relationship with is deaf. that was another God-sighting that day. the TMK team had split into 2 groups to prayer walk the area on the way to the Kashiwa's home where service is held. Mrs. Kashiwa took one group and Richard took the other. (that was a very HOT day!) along the way, our group just happened to run into this young man as he was out riding his bike, and Richard invited him to the Sunday service. and, shortly after we arrived, this boy came! :) as we closed our time with songs, one of the songs was the one with the hand motions (hold me close, let Your love surround me)...part of the song talks about "eagles wings"...as i did the motions i could remember, i realized that this boy who was deaf was watching. at that moment, i thought, Lord, how cool to be able to share some of that song with signing!--something i felt God did just for that boy! :) praying God would help him to understand even a little of what that song was saying.
on that prayer walk, Richard also shared how there were now 24 hour internet cafes (where you could even shower!) popping up all over Japan. one more thing to draw people away from family and home. that also made me realize how technology, even back here, can keep us from hearing or spending time with God. while we were in Japan, although we were on the computer to blog or download pictures, we didn't watch tv or use cell phones...and, although at times it would have been nice to have a couple of cell phones just in case we got lost, that wasn't always possible. less technology was good for connecting with each other more and use more of that time to pray through the train stations, along the street and in the stores.
at the end of our trip, when both our teams were trying to meet Richard at one of the busier, bigger train stations, we had taken the wrong train so we got off on a different platform than planned. although we tried calling Richard's cell phone from a pay phone, for whatever reason, we were not able to get through to Richard. after waiting for a bit and no success in finding Richard, i appreciated Mei-Ling's reminder to stop and pray. so we did. we asked God to guide Patti and help find Richard on the platform above. and, lo and behold! Thank you, Jesus, for answering our prayers! that made me realize how we can sometimes rely on our cell phones instead of on God to guide us. Thank you, Mei-Ling, for reminding us to go to God in prayer to show us the way! :)
ok, now it's 4am...and time to sleep...but my brain is buzzing with thoughts and prayers...there is much more but time to sleep...or at least try. maybe that's why i overslept this morning! =P
Thank you, Jesus, for the opportunity to go on this mission trip! please help us to remember what You have taught us and help us to keep in touch as we are led. please continue to water the seeds that have been planted, both in our hearts and in the hearts of the children and moms from VBS. please watch over each of the team members too and help them get some rest.
oyasuminasai!
The other day, kelly found himself recycling like we did in Japan and i found that "PET" symbol on the bottom of a fruit carton. wherever we went in Japan, we were looking for those recycle containers to throw away our empty bottled waters/drinks we had purchased from one of the many drink machines along the way. we gave one of our TMK members a hard time as he unknowingly walked up to a cigarette machine to get a drink! lol! he was tired! =P silly memories but the recycling alone tells a little about the nature of Japan and it's desire to be clean and efficient.
i know we were asked to do "highlights" but after reading everyone's blogs along the way, i remember so much. as i read the earlier blogs about when we went to the govt building, i remember kelly thinking they might not let him past the check point because he had his leatherman with him. but, praise God, they let him in!
i remember being squashed like sardines into the elevator (plus backpacks) how many stories up! how many of us were in there??? and i thought they only did that on the train! Mei-Ling and i were like, more?? lol! and the doors closed! We were just cracking up on the ride up to the top. =D ( a memorable laughter moment!)
at the top of this building, as we looked out over the city, i remember Richard Nakamura sharing about the shrines and temples. we could see one of the largest ones below. ironically, Richard said that President Bush also offered incense there not long ago. that made me sad. there is a need to be loving and caring and, yet, stand firm in our faith. as Richard shared, i began to gain a deeper understanding of the need to pray for the people of Japan. they are such a kind, courteous, hardworking, generous and giving people, yet, there is so much that stands between them and God (many gods--work, maybe too much technology, pride, shame, guilt, and so much more). it all makes it so difficult for them to freely come to know Jesus; to want to come and seek Him. letting go of traditions they have grown up with is hard to do for fear of shaming their family or being shamed.
Heavenly Father, asking that You would break those barriers down. like the story in the Bible about the blind man who had to choose to obey Jesus' instructions to wash the mud from his eyes. like the blind man, that they might see Jesus for the first time and believe. that they might want to come to Him like the 10 men who shouted for Jesus to help them. that they might experience the physical and spiritual healing of Jesus, and know it is Him and only Him they need to give thanks. or like the paralyzed man, that we might be people that can help bring people of Japan into the presence of Jesus so they can be, not just physically healed, but spiritually forgiven of their sins by a holy and loving God and have eternal life in heaven.
this trip has grown my heart in prayer. not just for the people of Japan but the missionaries who give their lives to share God's love and message of salvation. as i looked on the websites for the Lighthouse Cadence and SEND International and read about the Nakamuras, the Reasoners and the Bowdens, and remembering the Tamuras, i began to pray. praying God's equipping and annointing of His Holy Spirit for them to love His people and share His truth. asking for God's Holy Spirit to fill them, encourage them and help them persevere. asking God to raise up workers to come alongside and help them in ministry. that they might see even a glimpse of the fruits of their labor for the Lord as He begins to touch and transform lives; as He begins to draw people to Him. dear Jesus, as they seek to love and obey You, carry them on Your wings and help them soar for You. be their shelter and their mighty fortress. in all things, that You might be glorified.
those words, "carry them on Your wings", remind me how one of the boys Richard has been building relationship with is deaf. that was another God-sighting that day. the TMK team had split into 2 groups to prayer walk the area on the way to the Kashiwa's home where service is held. Mrs. Kashiwa took one group and Richard took the other. (that was a very HOT day!) along the way, our group just happened to run into this young man as he was out riding his bike, and Richard invited him to the Sunday service. and, shortly after we arrived, this boy came! :) as we closed our time with songs, one of the songs was the one with the hand motions (hold me close, let Your love surround me)...part of the song talks about "eagles wings"...as i did the motions i could remember, i realized that this boy who was deaf was watching. at that moment, i thought, Lord, how cool to be able to share some of that song with signing!--something i felt God did just for that boy! :) praying God would help him to understand even a little of what that song was saying.
on that prayer walk, Richard also shared how there were now 24 hour internet cafes (where you could even shower!) popping up all over Japan. one more thing to draw people away from family and home. that also made me realize how technology, even back here, can keep us from hearing or spending time with God. while we were in Japan, although we were on the computer to blog or download pictures, we didn't watch tv or use cell phones...and, although at times it would have been nice to have a couple of cell phones just in case we got lost, that wasn't always possible. less technology was good for connecting with each other more and use more of that time to pray through the train stations, along the street and in the stores.
at the end of our trip, when both our teams were trying to meet Richard at one of the busier, bigger train stations, we had taken the wrong train so we got off on a different platform than planned. although we tried calling Richard's cell phone from a pay phone, for whatever reason, we were not able to get through to Richard. after waiting for a bit and no success in finding Richard, i appreciated Mei-Ling's reminder to stop and pray. so we did. we asked God to guide Patti and help find Richard on the platform above. and, lo and behold! Thank you, Jesus, for answering our prayers! that made me realize how we can sometimes rely on our cell phones instead of on God to guide us. Thank you, Mei-Ling, for reminding us to go to God in prayer to show us the way! :)
ok, now it's 4am...and time to sleep...but my brain is buzzing with thoughts and prayers...there is much more but time to sleep...or at least try. maybe that's why i overslept this morning! =P
Thank you, Jesus, for the opportunity to go on this mission trip! please help us to remember what You have taught us and help us to keep in touch as we are led. please continue to water the seeds that have been planted, both in our hearts and in the hearts of the children and moms from VBS. please watch over each of the team members too and help them get some rest.
oyasuminasai!
Friday, August 15, 2008
Kelly - Reflections on Japan
As I sit here reflecting on the trip, what comes to my heart is sadness, a deeper understanding and desire to be supportive of the missionaries there, and a growing desire to be intentional about pushing back the darkness that is there in Japan. These all come from the realization that since my last "missions" trip to Japan 25 years ago, little has changed spiritually. The scene of a mom rigorously teaching her 4 or 5 year old son how to offer incense and how to wash before entering the budhist temple repeatedly plays in my mind. Unless he has a chance to attend something like a VBS, this may be all he knows. Technologically and "fashionably" the Japanese are soo "up-to-date". But sadly to say, spiritually, they are still doing what they've done for generations. Biblical references about generational sins have taken on a new reality for me.
I have a deeper understanding that the battle for the Japanese heart is truly a spiritual one. One that will take perseverance and patience - hence my realization that I need to keep Richard and Keri, Jon and Chieko, Shirley and Koichi, Joy, Tina, and the Bowdens in constant prayer. Prayer that their hearts are soo close to God, that they will know where and when they need to be somewhere so they can plant just one more seed within someones heart.
Intentionality on my part will mean me being more committed to Japan while here in the US. Trying to keep in contact with those in Japan so I can pray for specific opportunities. Maybe even looking into hosting a Japanese student... praying for next year and ways we can expand our opportunities to interact with the families as well as the children.
I have many other memories I will cherish from this trip, from a hug from Amy, to throwing a bucket of water at Richard, oh, and should I mention the bird poop...
By His Grace,
I have a deeper understanding that the battle for the Japanese heart is truly a spiritual one. One that will take perseverance and patience - hence my realization that I need to keep Richard and Keri, Jon and Chieko, Shirley and Koichi, Joy, Tina, and the Bowdens in constant prayer. Prayer that their hearts are soo close to God, that they will know where and when they need to be somewhere so they can plant just one more seed within someones heart.
Intentionality on my part will mean me being more committed to Japan while here in the US. Trying to keep in contact with those in Japan so I can pray for specific opportunities. Maybe even looking into hosting a Japanese student... praying for next year and ways we can expand our opportunities to interact with the families as well as the children.
I have many other memories I will cherish from this trip, from a hug from Amy, to throwing a bucket of water at Richard, oh, and should I mention the bird poop...
By His Grace,
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Elaine
The highlights for me from this trip
1) Mission work and Prayer walk is hard work
2) Thank God for obedience kids and more kids show up and the kids were praying with us
3) The Moms are great and I hope I can build relationship especially when I went back to Nokendai(everyone is like old friends with lots of Hugs). Katsura asked about me(the Mom that I've e-mailing for a year
4) Get to know new missionaries Ada So and Yamuel Li from Hong Kong, make me understand more on long term mission and what they go through
5) Saying Goodbye to the families and Miwa's Mom and Brother take us to the bus station
6) Understand why we need to go to Japan for Mission
And many more highlights. And thank God for everything. Also many thanks to Richard and Keri Nakamura, Jon and Chieko Reasoner, Shirley and Kohichi Tamura, Jim and Martha Boden, Joy, Ada and many other friends
Elaine Ho
1) Mission work and Prayer walk is hard work
2) Thank God for obedience kids and more kids show up and the kids were praying with us
3) The Moms are great and I hope I can build relationship especially when I went back to Nokendai(everyone is like old friends with lots of Hugs). Katsura asked about me(the Mom that I've e-mailing for a year
4) Get to know new missionaries Ada So and Yamuel Li from Hong Kong, make me understand more on long term mission and what they go through
5) Saying Goodbye to the families and Miwa's Mom and Brother take us to the bus station
6) Understand why we need to go to Japan for Mission
And many more highlights. And thank God for everything. Also many thanks to Richard and Keri Nakamura, Jon and Chieko Reasoner, Shirley and Kohichi Tamura, Jim and Martha Boden, Joy, Ada and many other friends
Elaine Ho
Jasmine: Three things that stood out for me about Japan and more...
Since the Japan Mission Trip I've been thinking continiously on what to put on this blog. There were so many things that stood out for me. I, myself have never really left the U.S. since I was six years old. I've grown accustomed to American food, fashion, words, and lifestyle. Going to Japan was definitly an incredible, new experience for me. It opened my eyes and made me see that there is a bigger and more different world out there than ours. Going through with this trip, I'd have to say that it was all worth it. I was able to experience the life of an typical Japanese person and try out their amazing cuisine; as well as learning about certain traditions and customs they are pressured to follow. As the days passed I began to fall in love with this place. Tokorozawa was indeed a more peaceful, and humble place as compared to the place I live in now in Washington. The people who live there are overly respectful and have a great sense of humility, people who I myself look up to and try to be. I'd have to say the people I met on this trip are one of the top three things that stood out for me on this trip.
The Top Three Things that stood out for me:
1. THE PEOPLE I'VE MET
The people I've met on this trip are people I hardly see in my life. Not only the Japanese children and mothers, but Richard, Chieko, Jon, Joy, and everyone else I've met on this trip. The Japanese children we had in VBS were truly obedient and though they were a bit hesitant at first, they were willing to interact with us in spite of the language barrier. They sat down quietly and listened to our skits, and followed respectfully when we asked them to follow the dance moves, create crafts, or play games. Of course not all of them stayed like quiet little angels, but you can see that they were raised to be respectful of others, especially their elders. They were at times chaotic, mainly because we had a large group, but in my honest opinion it never got too chaotic for us to handle.
The mothers also made a huge impact on me. From the very begining Richard told us that it might be hard to reach out to these families, one of them being the adults. During the first day of VBS, the mothers were very cautious and mostly sat at the back during the whole time of our VBS session. They were respectful of what we were doing and very nice whenever you approached them. Of course, my conversations never lasted after I went through all the basic phrases I memorized in Japanese. Nevertheless, they came each day, and each day I believe they began to feel more comfortable around us. They began to help around, buy snacks or drinks when we were running low, and there to also talk to the children. To me, they were not only amazing helpers, but people who our team had a tremendous impact on. I was amazed at the fact that they were becoming to be so comfortable with us so fast. I witnessd this and by the last day of our vbs each of the mothers were talking to at least one member in our team. That sight truly touched my heart because I feel that our team in a way fulfilled what Richard said was hard to do. Which was to make a true connection with these mothers. On our last debriefing, our team was planning to create special, fun events for the whole family to celebrate. So both the Japanese mothers and fathers may be able to come and we can have a time to build a closer relationship with them. :]
Other than the Japanese children and mothers, our missionary hosts and new friends also made a huge impact on me. Richard, Jon, Chieko, Joy, and Tina were people who I have never met in my life. They were each strong, kind, and passionate individuals who truly lived for Christ. They each played a humoungous part in serving Christ, and for me to see what they do was life-changing. I was able to see Richard host his home church; Jon share his sermon about hardships in both Japanese and English; Chieko translate with such great fluency and share honest constructive opinions about our VBS so the children will have an easier time knowing more about God; Joy spreading her love for God through home churching and fulfilling her mission in Japan.; and Tina spreading the word of God through her Thailand Mission team and trying her hardest reaching out to the people of Japan. At first impressions all these individuals I met were amazingly kind and had a glow to them. I saw just by looking at them, that they had their own shares of hardships, but they've all grown to become mature, wondrous people. I believe that each one of them were images of a true follower of God. I've never met any other person with such a passion for God as them. These people will always stay in my mind and in my heart. I hope that one day that I can grow to have that same passion and maturity that they carry within themselves.
2. THE PRAYER WALKS
The prayer walks were defintily a new and life changing experience for me. Before going on these walks I seriously didn't know what to expect. I didn't know what we would be praying about and I didn't have a clue what the place would be or it's incredible history. Going through Richard's prayer walks were very interesting, and I learned so much more about the top Japanese religion. I saw what these people do, how they pray, and how they had the utmost respect for their Gods. There was one old man who kept urging Richard to see these two demonic statues in front of the temple. This old man had such an enthusiastic attitude towards his religion. He was ecstatic and quite serious to show us how you wash the statue, touch the statue, and pray in front of the statue. He had such a deep passion for his religion that I see with Richard, Jon, Chieko, and Joy. I saw that it would be very very hard to convince him to follow the way to our Lord. He was the only Japanese man that I've met on these prayer walks with such a deep passion for his religion. We all prayed for this man, that he can be saved and will one day find God.
In Asakusa, I saw loads of Japanese people flock to a giant temple. Around that temple were three stations. In the middle of the pathway was a giant black pot of incense that continously released giant puffs of smoke. The people would waft this giant smoke among themselves, their children, their spouses, and their friends. There were also tourists around who did so because they saw others doing it, but most of the Japanese men and women I saw were really into it. They would sometimes dip their head above the pot so a giant puff of smoke would puff at their face. The other station was at the right of the smoke/incense station and was filled with water. In the middle was a statue of an imperial man and a dragon. Here many people dipped a little bowl into the water and washed their hands, faces and sometimes drank or gargled it. Again, most of the people here were really into it. Inside the temple were multiple people throwing coins onto a well of some sort and praying for long amounts of time. Most of the people I saw in these stations were doing this seriously and almost routinely.
Seeing these people opened my eyes about the people of Japan. How most of them had the greatest respect towards their God and the things they would do to show their compassion and loyalty to their God. I prayed for these people, that one day their eyes would open and they can see our true God.
These prayer walks stood out to me because it truly opened my eyes and made me see a different side of Japan that I never clearly saw. From these walks I also noticed that praying, although not very interactive, could be very powerful in it's own way.
3. The transformation of the children in our VBS
In the begining of our VBS, we could all see that many of the children in our VBS were very shy, hesitant, and some felt out of place. It was hard on us to make them feel comfortable because most of us couldn't have a real conversation with many of the children. All I knew to say to the children was "Arigato", "Jyozu", and "Hai". Those words meant "thank you", "good job", and "yes". I knew that my words were very limited so instead of making conversation I began to play with them like they were my own little brother and sister. Many of us did the same thing. During our free time we would play tag, tickle them, teach them how to high five, and overall just have fun and in the process many of us were able to get in touch with our inner kid. I guess the more comfortable and kidlike we became, the more comfortable the kids became. Each day they began to talk more to us and to their fellow classmates. They began to memorize the dance moves, and were having the time of their lives during Tom's games. As the last day approached, all of them had a significant change in their attitudes towards us. They weren't overly shy and respectful, but now playful, comfortable, and happier in way.
In the begining there were two girls who our team thought wouldn't come back because they didn't feel as comfortable as most of the children. They were tall 6th-grade girls who at times looked uncomfortable and wouldn't participate as much as the younger kids. But suprisingly they came each day and with another friend as well. They began to come out of their shells as the days passed and began to feel more comfortable doing the crafts, games, and dances. When the last day approached these girls had a glow to them, they would smile many times and in one point I saw Sharon play beach volleyball with them. Later on in the day we gave the kids the opportunity to win prizes as long as they answer our questions correctly. Our questions consisted of the things they learned in past lessons. One of the two girls, Mami, answered a question involving the story of the blind man... I think, and won that beach volleyball that she was playing with Sharon. These two girls, who we thought wouldn't come back after the first day, ended up coming everyday and also ended up becoming more comfortable and at home around us. These girls were little miracles, something we all didn't see coming. We all didn't realize that they would become so interactive and happy around us so fast.I think we played a tremendous role in these children's lives.
Their transformations stood out to me because we played a role in their transformations, and during that process we all built friendships with all these children. Friendships that I will cherish and many of the people in my team will cherish for a very long time. They were all amazing kids and great to work with. I think we were all a bit nervous of the outcome of this VBS, but in the end everything ended perfectly. All the children felt more comfortable, built friendships, and learned more about God in a fun, loving way.
This is one of the many amazing experiences I will never forget. I won't forget all the children's smiling faces, the passion of our missionary hosts and new friends, humbleness of the japanese people, and most of all the spiritual impact I felt throughout the whole trip. This whole trip will always stay in my heart and will help me grow to be a stronger and more passionate follower of Christ. This trip helped me realize the power of prayer and the lifestyles of the Japanese people as well as the hardships that our missionary hosts and new friends go through to spread God's word. It also pushed me to realize my spritual need and desire to learn more about God.
This mission trip has given me so much spiritually. It helped me grow closer to God and increased my faith in him as well. It also offered me the opportunity to meet such amazing people in the process that have truly changed my life. They helped me see the world differently and see a passion for God that I never really saw in anyone else. I'm truly blessed and glad that I went on this trip. I couldn't have asked for a better experience and a better team as well. This was a truly memorable experience that I will cherish for a very long time.
Amy : Missing Japan
It has been a couple of days now since returning home to Seattle. I can happily and thankfully say that I am NOT jetlagged. Not in the least. I'm waiting for it as if it might come later but so far, I'm sleeping and waking at the correct times. This is another one of those blessings that I believe God has granted me - knowing in advance that I would have to return straight to work and be functional, God helped me overcome jetlag without even losing a day. Being back in Seattle however, has give me some time to reflect about what happened over the past couple of weeks. As I sit at home and at work, I find myself remembering moments from VBS or times in Japan that make me laugh and at the same time cry, because I'm already missing Japan so much! It is surprising how fast it all went by but here are the memories that keep coming back:
1) The Tamuras and Nakamuras. These two families have shown me that life can be different from the norm. They have showed me what it is like to live a life that chases after what is important to God and it is apparent that their hearts bleed for the things that God's heart bleeds for. They have been so motivating and encouraging for me to see the amount of faith they have and how they are so willing to trust God in all that they do - even with their children's futures.
2) The Nokendai team. Being a person who values and NEEDS personal space, I thought I would truly go insane from living in such close quarters with 8 strangers. It is amazing how much patience God can give to someone on a short term missions trip though!! Honestly, my teammates made this trip so much fun. No names to be mentioned here but even when things went missing, we all handled it with such grace and forgiveness. And even when we poked fun at certain people, those being made fun of allowed us to laugh at their expense and again, handled it with extra measures of grace. We worked so well as a team - we cleaned up that community center in 10 minutes flat!! We each had our own role in the team that we naturally filled. I believe that we truly operated like the body of Christ. I was so blessed to be part of this team. I miss having you guys around all the time already :P
3) VBS. I didn't fully realize the extent of the communication barrier until I got to Japan. It was heart breaking for me when one of the kids ran up to me, said something in Japanese, and I was NOT able to understand what it is that they had just said. I distinctly remember that moment and realized that I would need to use other forms of communication beyond words. During arts and crafts, I had to show them what to do rather than telling them what to do. I smiled more at them hoping it would convey happy positive feelings rather than a neutral face which could be interpretted as positive or negative. While I will always remember these kids and their moms, i will never forget the moment I stopped in the middle of sharing my testimony and saw every pair of eyes on me, and every ear listening. It was so quiet I believe I could have heard a pin drop. In all the previous days at VBS, the kids were bouncing off the walls. It was during that one moment that I had their full complete attention - and this blew me away. It felt like a God moment and I will never forget it. Even in the short time we had with these kids, we developed such good friendships. I will be praying for these kids and their families that VBS has made a positive impact in their lives and that the seeds we planted will grow in good soil.
1) The Tamuras and Nakamuras. These two families have shown me that life can be different from the norm. They have showed me what it is like to live a life that chases after what is important to God and it is apparent that their hearts bleed for the things that God's heart bleeds for. They have been so motivating and encouraging for me to see the amount of faith they have and how they are so willing to trust God in all that they do - even with their children's futures.
2) The Nokendai team. Being a person who values and NEEDS personal space, I thought I would truly go insane from living in such close quarters with 8 strangers. It is amazing how much patience God can give to someone on a short term missions trip though!! Honestly, my teammates made this trip so much fun. No names to be mentioned here but even when things went missing, we all handled it with such grace and forgiveness. And even when we poked fun at certain people, those being made fun of allowed us to laugh at their expense and again, handled it with extra measures of grace. We worked so well as a team - we cleaned up that community center in 10 minutes flat!! We each had our own role in the team that we naturally filled. I believe that we truly operated like the body of Christ. I was so blessed to be part of this team. I miss having you guys around all the time already :P
3) VBS. I didn't fully realize the extent of the communication barrier until I got to Japan. It was heart breaking for me when one of the kids ran up to me, said something in Japanese, and I was NOT able to understand what it is that they had just said. I distinctly remember that moment and realized that I would need to use other forms of communication beyond words. During arts and crafts, I had to show them what to do rather than telling them what to do. I smiled more at them hoping it would convey happy positive feelings rather than a neutral face which could be interpretted as positive or negative. While I will always remember these kids and their moms, i will never forget the moment I stopped in the middle of sharing my testimony and saw every pair of eyes on me, and every ear listening. It was so quiet I believe I could have heard a pin drop. In all the previous days at VBS, the kids were bouncing off the walls. It was during that one moment that I had their full complete attention - and this blew me away. It felt like a God moment and I will never forget it. Even in the short time we had with these kids, we developed such good friendships. I will be praying for these kids and their families that VBS has made a positive impact in their lives and that the seeds we planted will grow in good soil.
Neil: Top Three Things I Remember Most About Japan
It’s my first time to be in Japan and after spending barely 2 weeks in this country, my mind is already filled with so many good memories. I definitely will always remember this place as the land of sushi – where you can get it fresh and delicious even from a convenience store like Yaoko, 7-11, or at Costco – for a very inexpensive price. But anyway, here’s my top three:
1. VBS Kids and their Moms. I don’t have any experience working with kids but I’m very surprised that these cute and adorable kids are so well behaved. They are so eager to learn and some of them even do the VBS songs at home – even though they don’t understand some of the lyrics. But they certainly know how to have fun such as how to play the duck duck goose and how to hit their favorite teachers with water balloons, etc. After spending just 4 days with them at TMK –VBS, our team already felt so close to these kids that we very much wanted to bring them home with us. I also remember their Moms who patiently waited for them and even helped in preparing the snacks and the food for our BBQ party. Some of them even helped Richard in the translation – for some difficult words. On our way to the Airport, I was deeply touched when two Moms came to say goodbye and when one of them said to me that they will be waiting for us next year.
2. The Missionaries and their Families in Japan. I am very thankful for Richard and Keri Nakamura, Jon and Chieko Reasoner, Kohichi and Shirley Tamura, Joy dela Cruz, and the Bowens at Lighthouse Cadence. It’s an honor and a great privilege to know these folks. I certainly admire their passion to reach out to the Japanese people even when the results seem a little bit discouraging sometimes. I love Keri’s curry, yummy. Richard, thanks for all the prayer walks and for bringing us to Onsen. Chieko, thanks for the BBQ and for your hospitality. Jon, thanks for bringing us to the Museum and sharing your insights about the history of Japan. Koichi and Shirley, thanks for the wonderful dessert, yummy! Joy dela Cruz, for giving me updates about the plight of Filipino women in Japan. The Bowens, for the tasty pan cakes with lots of brown sugar and cream, very yummy. For all the misisonaries: you and your kids are truly a great blessing to all of us!
3. The NBF and TMK Team. I think this batch of 18 members are all amazing – each was doing their assigned tasks with gladness as well as helping each other in any way they can. I especially remember how Patti helped me cook my Ramen for my dinner, and how Sharon offered her flip flops to Jasmine because she had swollen feet after walking several miles under the hot, humid, blistering sun, with her new tight fitting shoes. I’m also grateful for Ev for helping Jasmine cope with her motion sickness on the train. Heather, for showing us how to do the stilts. Hey, this blog will become too long, so I just say that I’m very thankful for everyone, especially Mei-Ling and Patti for doing a great job heading the two teams!
Before the trip, I thought that mission is more about sharing something about yourself to reach out to other people so that they would come to know God. But in this trip, I learned that it’s also about getting touched by God – through the kids, their moms, our teammates, and the missionaries who are faithfully serving in Japan and through answered prayers. For this, I really thank God for this rich and wonderful experience.
Thanks everyone for your prayers and for making this trip possible for all of us!
1. VBS Kids and their Moms. I don’t have any experience working with kids but I’m very surprised that these cute and adorable kids are so well behaved. They are so eager to learn and some of them even do the VBS songs at home – even though they don’t understand some of the lyrics. But they certainly know how to have fun such as how to play the duck duck goose and how to hit their favorite teachers with water balloons, etc. After spending just 4 days with them at TMK –VBS, our team already felt so close to these kids that we very much wanted to bring them home with us. I also remember their Moms who patiently waited for them and even helped in preparing the snacks and the food for our BBQ party. Some of them even helped Richard in the translation – for some difficult words. On our way to the Airport, I was deeply touched when two Moms came to say goodbye and when one of them said to me that they will be waiting for us next year.
2. The Missionaries and their Families in Japan. I am very thankful for Richard and Keri Nakamura, Jon and Chieko Reasoner, Kohichi and Shirley Tamura, Joy dela Cruz, and the Bowens at Lighthouse Cadence. It’s an honor and a great privilege to know these folks. I certainly admire their passion to reach out to the Japanese people even when the results seem a little bit discouraging sometimes. I love Keri’s curry, yummy. Richard, thanks for all the prayer walks and for bringing us to Onsen. Chieko, thanks for the BBQ and for your hospitality. Jon, thanks for bringing us to the Museum and sharing your insights about the history of Japan. Koichi and Shirley, thanks for the wonderful dessert, yummy! Joy dela Cruz, for giving me updates about the plight of Filipino women in Japan. The Bowens, for the tasty pan cakes with lots of brown sugar and cream, very yummy. For all the misisonaries: you and your kids are truly a great blessing to all of us!
3. The NBF and TMK Team. I think this batch of 18 members are all amazing – each was doing their assigned tasks with gladness as well as helping each other in any way they can. I especially remember how Patti helped me cook my Ramen for my dinner, and how Sharon offered her flip flops to Jasmine because she had swollen feet after walking several miles under the hot, humid, blistering sun, with her new tight fitting shoes. I’m also grateful for Ev for helping Jasmine cope with her motion sickness on the train. Heather, for showing us how to do the stilts. Hey, this blog will become too long, so I just say that I’m very thankful for everyone, especially Mei-Ling and Patti for doing a great job heading the two teams!
Before the trip, I thought that mission is more about sharing something about yourself to reach out to other people so that they would come to know God. But in this trip, I learned that it’s also about getting touched by God – through the kids, their moms, our teammates, and the missionaries who are faithfully serving in Japan and through answered prayers. For this, I really thank God for this rich and wonderful experience.
Thanks everyone for your prayers and for making this trip possible for all of us!
Lyanne: 3 Things I Loved, 2 Things I Hated, 1 Thing I'll Miss
Hello! I haven't written too many blogs over the trip but now I'm back home and cannot sleep. So I am sitting here (with my mochi ball) and blogging my highlights from this trip.
The 3 Things I Loved:
1. Our team. Although I loved our entire team, I think I will especially miss hanging out with our half who went to Nokendai. (Or is it Noukendai?) I know we will all see each other at church, but it's still different. God has definitely used the other team members to bring me closer to Him. I could feel His love from the care and support from this group. I thank God that He put together a team that could mesh so easily, who could go with the flow and just have fun glorifying God in everything we did.
2. Those little moments. Throughout the trip and during VBS especially, there were always those moments that just stuck out in my mind. There were moments when we prayed during VBS. Mei Ling would pray in English and say Amen and I would automatically look up, because I would forget that Yurimi would have to translate to Japanese. But when my eyes would be open for a few minutes I would see all the kids bowing their heads and praying. I didn't know if they believed they were talking to God or if they were just following directions, but I knew God had definitely planted seeds in their hearts.
3. The Food. That has to be pretty obvious. We just went to California Pizza Kitchen and normally everything looks really good. But today, there was nothing that looked really appealing to me. And I didn't finish a whole pizza, I think my stomach must have shrunk over there. =)
The 2 Things I Hated:
1. The Heat. Although at first it was great weather, it got a little hotter everyday. I don't think I'll be missing the humidity all that much either.
2. Naturally, The Mosquitos. Need I say more...
The 1 Thing I'll Miss the Most:
1. The People. By people I mean, the Tamuras, the Nakamuras, the Kids from VBS & their mothers, the men and women at the Lighthouse, even those people we would see on the train.
I already miss Kohichi, Shirley & the girls. They were so funny, awesome hosts, and truly blessed by God. I admired the trust and enthusiasm they had for God. God is making good use of his servants. I also need to thank Shirley and Mimi again for playing doctor & nurse on my many bug bites. =)
Even though we didn't spend as much time with the Nakamuras, they still made an impact and will be missed. You could tell how much Richard cared for the spiritual battle going on in Japan. His love for those people as he prayer walks and just itches to tell everyone that Jesus loves them, even when there seems to be no hope.
I don't think I will ever forget the kids we met at VBS. They were suuuuuperrrrrr cute and I pray that some of them have accepted Jesus as their friend. They were good kids, minus the rowdiness from just being kids. Their mothers were also very kind and sweet. One of the mothers even provided me with some ointment for my bites when she saw them. It helped muchos. I was so grateful to her. I hope that I will see them all again.
When we were leaving Japan on that last day, I didn't feel to bad to be going back home. Being back home now though, I didn't know that I would miss Japan so much. All the good things heavily outweighed the bad and I just Thank God for this great experience and the many people He led us to. Thank you to everyone who prayed and supported us!
Arigato!
Lyanne
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Heather: Blessings from Japan :)
As I learned during my first mission trip to Thailand last year, God used that time to heal my heart, accelerate my growth, and increase my dependence on Him. During this year's trip to Japan, I received similar gifts. Here are three that really stood out...
The first was the realization that being a "third generation Christian" is an amazing blessing. Breaking away from the ancestral beliefs of Buddhism and Shintoism is so challenging for the Japanese people, that even those that come to Christ often fall away. There is severe pressure to conform, the few Chrisitan churches have limited members, and fellowship outside the church is almost non-existent. This made me very thankful for our freedom of worship and blessing of fellowship. I realize that as a "steward" of these blessings, I have a responsiblity to share God's word with those who are less fortunate.
Prayer walking with Richard was an experience I won't forget. I've always admired "prayer warriors", and longed for more passion in that area. But Richard helped us focus on the hearts of the Japanese people, the challenges of their culture, and the hopelessness of their situation. As we rode the subways, walked the busy streets, and observed people worshipping at the temples, we couldn't escape the looks of sadness, depression and despair. After coming to love the precious children we met in the Japan, I will continually pray that they find a new life of hope and joy in Christ.
And lastly, God again confirmed for me His promise to provide. I was blessed with generous financial support, my work schedule allowed for time away, and I was able to stay healthy and sleep well throughout the trip. He blessed our team by working out logistics for lodging, bringing more children to VBS than expected, and giving us cooler weather than usual. We were able to use our gifts and abilities in ways that were new for many of us, and we became more like a "family" than a team.
Thank you so much to the many people that supported us both financially and in prayer. Our mission trip was successful in so many ways, and we couldn't have completed our journey without you :)
May God richly bless you as you have blessed us...
Heather
The first was the realization that being a "third generation Christian" is an amazing blessing. Breaking away from the ancestral beliefs of Buddhism and Shintoism is so challenging for the Japanese people, that even those that come to Christ often fall away. There is severe pressure to conform, the few Chrisitan churches have limited members, and fellowship outside the church is almost non-existent. This made me very thankful for our freedom of worship and blessing of fellowship. I realize that as a "steward" of these blessings, I have a responsiblity to share God's word with those who are less fortunate.
Prayer walking with Richard was an experience I won't forget. I've always admired "prayer warriors", and longed for more passion in that area. But Richard helped us focus on the hearts of the Japanese people, the challenges of their culture, and the hopelessness of their situation. As we rode the subways, walked the busy streets, and observed people worshipping at the temples, we couldn't escape the looks of sadness, depression and despair. After coming to love the precious children we met in the Japan, I will continually pray that they find a new life of hope and joy in Christ.
And lastly, God again confirmed for me His promise to provide. I was blessed with generous financial support, my work schedule allowed for time away, and I was able to stay healthy and sleep well throughout the trip. He blessed our team by working out logistics for lodging, bringing more children to VBS than expected, and giving us cooler weather than usual. We were able to use our gifts and abilities in ways that were new for many of us, and we became more like a "family" than a team.
Thank you so much to the many people that supported us both financially and in prayer. Our mission trip was successful in so many ways, and we couldn't have completed our journey without you :)
May God richly bless you as you have blessed us...
Heather
Ev: 3 Things I am Grateful For
As I thought about the past 2 weeks, I realize that the things I remember fall into 2 basic catagories: what I thank God for and what I saw God do. I will share my God sightings later and just share the three things I am really thankful for at this time:
1) the missionaries in Japan. Richard and Keri Nakamura and Jon and Chieko Reasoner at the SEND center, Jim & Martha Boden at the Lighthouse Cadence, and Shirley and Kohichi Tamura at Nokendai Bible Fellowship demonstrated what it means to serve others, actively battle spiritual forces through prayer, share the love of God and to love God, and to just be lights in the darkness.
2) Mei-Ling. Her quiet spirit and trust in God allowed many of us to be directly used by God. Her flexibility allowed God to speak to us and do things that were unplanned but yet work so well. She created an environment of mutual trust on our team.
3) the team. Each member added so much to this "body of Christ" in Japan. Mei-Ling led us with a firm by quiet spirit, allowing God to work through us all freely. Bob was the only male park guide with the oldest group. He connected with all the kids and became Mr. Bob. Kenko, the only boy, responded to Bob's humor which also included some amazing "stunts" in the skits. When Bob shared the invitation to accept Jesus, you could have heard a pin drop. To the members of the team, he is known as "King Bob." Janis was the park guide for the middle group which was also the largest. She related to the kids well. Her testimony was powerful and used by God to touch a mother at our closing. She is organized and had great insights. Matt was everyone's younger brother or son who was teased. He led all our morning worship/prayer times which helped us to focus God for each day. He is a gifted musician and to say that he was a hit with the kids is an understatement! He also did a great job leading songs. Amy was our problem solver and computer whiz person. During craft time she was right there with the kids. She has such a loving heart. God used her testimony at a VBS closing to touch so many children's hearts! I know she is very kind because she even helped me carry my backpack around Tokyo! Lyanne should have a medal for bravery! On the first day of VBS, she ended up with numerous mosquito bites which grew. The highest count on one day was 32 bites. She also got a little sunburned. We offered to go out for her but she insisted on going out every day to do the recreation. She did a wonderful job with recreation, especially when it was outside on a dirt field with high temperatures and humidity! The kids loved her and so did we. Susan was one of the returning team members. She had the youngest group which was mostly little boys. As usual, she handled them just right. This group could say their memory verse the loudest! Susan had us laughing and added much to the team dynamics as well. Finally, Al was our subway expert as well as craft person. He helped with adding more money to our cards, and getting on the correct subway train to get to our destination. He did a great job, with Amy, on crafts - adjusting them when there was more time or when they were too difficult.
I was so worried about 9 people in an apartment but God put the right team together for Nokendai. Everyone had humor, flexibility and an extra touch of God's grace. We did more than survive - we grew as a family. Praise God! Blessings, Ev
1) the missionaries in Japan. Richard and Keri Nakamura and Jon and Chieko Reasoner at the SEND center, Jim & Martha Boden at the Lighthouse Cadence, and Shirley and Kohichi Tamura at Nokendai Bible Fellowship demonstrated what it means to serve others, actively battle spiritual forces through prayer, share the love of God and to love God, and to just be lights in the darkness.
2) Mei-Ling. Her quiet spirit and trust in God allowed many of us to be directly used by God. Her flexibility allowed God to speak to us and do things that were unplanned but yet work so well. She created an environment of mutual trust on our team.
3) the team. Each member added so much to this "body of Christ" in Japan. Mei-Ling led us with a firm by quiet spirit, allowing God to work through us all freely. Bob was the only male park guide with the oldest group. He connected with all the kids and became Mr. Bob. Kenko, the only boy, responded to Bob's humor which also included some amazing "stunts" in the skits. When Bob shared the invitation to accept Jesus, you could have heard a pin drop. To the members of the team, he is known as "King Bob." Janis was the park guide for the middle group which was also the largest. She related to the kids well. Her testimony was powerful and used by God to touch a mother at our closing. She is organized and had great insights. Matt was everyone's younger brother or son who was teased. He led all our morning worship/prayer times which helped us to focus God for each day. He is a gifted musician and to say that he was a hit with the kids is an understatement! He also did a great job leading songs. Amy was our problem solver and computer whiz person. During craft time she was right there with the kids. She has such a loving heart. God used her testimony at a VBS closing to touch so many children's hearts! I know she is very kind because she even helped me carry my backpack around Tokyo! Lyanne should have a medal for bravery! On the first day of VBS, she ended up with numerous mosquito bites which grew. The highest count on one day was 32 bites. She also got a little sunburned. We offered to go out for her but she insisted on going out every day to do the recreation. She did a wonderful job with recreation, especially when it was outside on a dirt field with high temperatures and humidity! The kids loved her and so did we. Susan was one of the returning team members. She had the youngest group which was mostly little boys. As usual, she handled them just right. This group could say their memory verse the loudest! Susan had us laughing and added much to the team dynamics as well. Finally, Al was our subway expert as well as craft person. He helped with adding more money to our cards, and getting on the correct subway train to get to our destination. He did a great job, with Amy, on crafts - adjusting them when there was more time or when they were too difficult.
I was so worried about 9 people in an apartment but God put the right team together for Nokendai. Everyone had humor, flexibility and an extra touch of God's grace. We did more than survive - we grew as a family. Praise God! Blessings, Ev
Sharon--Returning home
- ok, so i'm one of the very few that didn't blog while in Japan...so here i am! :) it's 2:40am, Wednesday morning (6:40pm, Wednesday evening, Japan time) it's hard to believe that our 2 weeks in Japan have come and gone so quickly. i was so very touched that a couple of the moms and kids came to see us off before leaving the SEND Center. it was sad to leave so soon...yet, there is SOOO much to be thankful for!
first of all, thanking God for Mei-Ling and Patti and ALL the work they did preparing, organizing and shepherding all 18 of us during our stay in Japan! shepherding 18 people is no easy task especially in and out of crowded trains and train stations. thank you for all the time and heart you invested in us! (thank you, Jesus, for keeping us all together and keeping us safe as we moved from place to place.)
i thank God for: - providing places to stay for each team! with changes happening until the final days before leaving to Japan, God provided places for each in His time and way.
- such gracious missionaries like Richard & Keri Nakamura and family, Jon & Chieko Reasoner and their family at the SEND Center, Koichi & Shirley Tamura & their family in Nokendai and Jim & Martha Boden at the Lighthouse Cadence--thank you, Lord, for Your providing hand and the blessing of each of their ministries to others! (their families played a big part in that blessing!--at the Nakamuras (already a family of 7, adding 9 of us, 2 bathrooms, and 1 shower!)--God bless them for so warmly welcoming us and opening their home!
- uniquely knitting together each team(even though our parts in VBS may not have been our comfort zone for some of us when we left), God used us to love the kids and share with them and their moms. that in itself was a joy just working together and getting to know others on our team! =) (it was kind of strange to part ways at the airport today after being together for the past couple of weeks. i enjoyed our morning breakfasts, praying, playing, walking, taking the train, shopping for dinner, etc. together as one body! hoping each of you are getting a good rest tonight...)
- the translators at both TMK & Nokendai, who helped to break down that language barrier to help the kids understand about Jesus; for many, the first time hearing.
- for all the kids that came to each VBS! they are SOOO CUTE and such a delight to teach and play with! i think all of us wished we could have more time to get to know the kids and moms better and are already thinking of more ways we can reach out to the families.
well, it may only be 7:30pm, Japan time, but it's 3:30am, Seattle time....and time for me to try and get some sleep...i'll be back...there is so much to share!
kelly and i can't thank everyone enough for their prayers and support to be a part of this mission trip! what a wonderful privelege and honor to go as God's servants to Japan! this was my first mission trip but i'm hoping not my last. there are so many who do not know the hope of Jesus in Japan...this trip has opened my eyes even more for how we can be praying more specifically for the people and for the missionaries there. this mission trip has also given me faces, names and places to keep in touch with and remember in prayer.
thank you so much again for partnering with kelly, myself, the teams and the missionaries on this journey!
oyasuminasai!
mata ashita! (until tomorrow!)
sharon
TOM: TOP TEN THINGS I WILL REMEMBER ABOUT JAPAN
10. THE WAY THEY RECYCLE
9. THE HEAT: Although the heat and humidity was not as bad as last year, it does affect you in a major way. According Weatherunderground, the worst day for the TMK team was Friday, August 8th. It was 98 degrees with 89 % humidity and of course, it was the only day we had recreation outside. We also had lightning and thunderstorms storms with sudden down pour of rain earlier in the week.
8. DRIVING ON THE “WRONG” (LEFT) SIDE OF THE ROAD: Although by the end of the trip I could remember what side was the “right” side?
7. THE NEAT LITTLE CARS: The US can learn something from the Japanese. Changes will have to be made with the energy crisis.
6. EVERYONE BICYCLES: As a cyclist myself I praise the Japanese people for using bicycles as major means of transportation. Children, mothers, businessman and many other all use cycling. I saw a mom with a young child in her handlebar basket and a child in a child seat in back biking through a park; older women carrying groceries bags holding an umbrella riding down the road. Maybe they’ve taken it a little too far.
5. THE FOOD!!! Don’t plan on losing weight in Japan. The food is amazing and inexpensive if you know where to go. My favorite eating place was only two blocks from the SEND Center, Yaoko’s. Here you could buy sushi, sashimi, tempura and everything else I like. They even have square watermelons.
4. TMK TEAM LED BY PATTI YONEMURA: Each member wore many hats during the VBS. Jasmine and Vincy doing all of our skits and helping with crafts, recreation and snacks and being our youthful ambassadors to the children. Heather heading up the crafts with Vincy, had a way of giving instructions that the kids understood even when she knew little Japanese. Patti and Sharon as story tellers and the chief English teachers were instrumental in presenting Jesus’ love to the children. Elaine and Kelly were the indispensable guardians of the children, Elaine with the younger child which was right up her alley and Kelly, handling 19 older children at one point. Neil was our chief photographer, although everyone contributed their pictures. Sharon, Vincy and a digital “Matt” were our song leaders and played such and important role in setting the mood. The kids loved to sing and do the “choreography”. We had added help with Elizabeth and Eliot Reasoner, Alisha and Brandon Nakamura and Amy. We really needed their help with the numbers of children we had show up. I helped with recreation, photography and slideshow with help from everyone. I did have an advantage since it is something I’ve done for 30 years. The most indispensable members of out team were our translators and hosts, Jon, Cheiko and Richard.
3. THE MISSIONARIES: Richard, Jon and Chieko have given the lives to spreading the Gospel to Japan. I’ve learned so much from them.
2. PRAYER WARRIORS: Richard is one. He takes the offensive, striking at the very core of the many demonic spirits which Japanese worship. Joy is another. You wouldn't expect this tiny petite Philipino woman would intimidate any one let alone a horde of Japanese gods.
1. THE CHILDREN: They were the highlights of my trip. Their enthusiasm, kindness and gentle spirits renewed my passion for teaching. They listened so intently, followed instructions so carefully and learned so quickly. Aoto, Yume, Rei, Kei, Jun, Masami, Ako, Mame, Saki, little Mao, Lisa, Miku, Miki, Taichi, Miwa, Ryo, Rion, Moeka, Nanami, Hanna, Kayla, Hiroki, Yuzuki, Haruna, Mizuki, big Mao, Ryosuke, Kaito, Kodai, and Yuto were amazing.
DISCLAIMER: THIS BLOG HAS BEEN WRITTEN BY A PERSON WHO HAS BEEN UP FOR OVER 36 HOURS SO IT MAY HAVE MANY ERRORS AND MAY NOT MAKE SENSE.
9. THE HEAT: Although the heat and humidity was not as bad as last year, it does affect you in a major way. According Weatherunderground, the worst day for the TMK team was Friday, August 8th. It was 98 degrees with 89 % humidity and of course, it was the only day we had recreation outside. We also had lightning and thunderstorms storms with sudden down pour of rain earlier in the week.
8. DRIVING ON THE “WRONG” (LEFT) SIDE OF THE ROAD: Although by the end of the trip I could remember what side was the “right” side?
7. THE NEAT LITTLE CARS: The US can learn something from the Japanese. Changes will have to be made with the energy crisis.
6. EVERYONE BICYCLES: As a cyclist myself I praise the Japanese people for using bicycles as major means of transportation. Children, mothers, businessman and many other all use cycling. I saw a mom with a young child in her handlebar basket and a child in a child seat in back biking through a park; older women carrying groceries bags holding an umbrella riding down the road. Maybe they’ve taken it a little too far.
5. THE FOOD!!! Don’t plan on losing weight in Japan. The food is amazing and inexpensive if you know where to go. My favorite eating place was only two blocks from the SEND Center, Yaoko’s. Here you could buy sushi, sashimi, tempura and everything else I like. They even have square watermelons.
4. TMK TEAM LED BY PATTI YONEMURA: Each member wore many hats during the VBS. Jasmine and Vincy doing all of our skits and helping with crafts, recreation and snacks and being our youthful ambassadors to the children. Heather heading up the crafts with Vincy, had a way of giving instructions that the kids understood even when she knew little Japanese. Patti and Sharon as story tellers and the chief English teachers were instrumental in presenting Jesus’ love to the children. Elaine and Kelly were the indispensable guardians of the children, Elaine with the younger child which was right up her alley and Kelly, handling 19 older children at one point. Neil was our chief photographer, although everyone contributed their pictures. Sharon, Vincy and a digital “Matt” were our song leaders and played such and important role in setting the mood. The kids loved to sing and do the “choreography”. We had added help with Elizabeth and Eliot Reasoner, Alisha and Brandon Nakamura and Amy. We really needed their help with the numbers of children we had show up. I helped with recreation, photography and slideshow with help from everyone. I did have an advantage since it is something I’ve done for 30 years. The most indispensable members of out team were our translators and hosts, Jon, Cheiko and Richard.
3. THE MISSIONARIES: Richard, Jon and Chieko have given the lives to spreading the Gospel to Japan. I’ve learned so much from them.
2. PRAYER WARRIORS: Richard is one. He takes the offensive, striking at the very core of the many demonic spirits which Japanese worship. Joy is another. You wouldn't expect this tiny petite Philipino woman would intimidate any one let alone a horde of Japanese gods.
1. THE CHILDREN: They were the highlights of my trip. Their enthusiasm, kindness and gentle spirits renewed my passion for teaching. They listened so intently, followed instructions so carefully and learned so quickly. Aoto, Yume, Rei, Kei, Jun, Masami, Ako, Mame, Saki, little Mao, Lisa, Miku, Miki, Taichi, Miwa, Ryo, Rion, Moeka, Nanami, Hanna, Kayla, Hiroki, Yuzuki, Haruna, Mizuki, big Mao, Ryosuke, Kaito, Kodai, and Yuto were amazing.
DISCLAIMER: THIS BLOG HAS BEEN WRITTEN BY A PERSON WHO HAS BEEN UP FOR OVER 36 HOURS SO IT MAY HAVE MANY ERRORS AND MAY NOT MAKE SENSE.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Mei-Ling: Glad to be home
After a smooth flight and short diversion due to volcanic ash over Alaska, we arrived home safely Tuesday morning. We made excellent time considering that we left Tokyo on Tuesday at 4:48pm! :)
On behalf of both the Tokorozawa and Nokendai teams, I would like to extend heartfelt thanks to all who prayed for us and for those we ministered to, seen and unseen. In some ways we reaped the benefits of your prayers, seeing them answered one by one. I am confident that more will be answered as the work continues and through God's awesome power.
Please continue to pray for the missionaries whom we served with: Richard and Keri Nakamura, Kohichi and Shirley Tamura and, Jon and Chieko Reasoner. Pray that they would receive renewed energy and inspiration to reach the Japanese for Christ and that the light of Christ would shine brightly through each of their lives.
Over the next few days our team members will be posting 3 of their highlights or God sightings from the trip so please check back periodically.
On behalf of both the Tokorozawa and Nokendai teams, I would like to extend heartfelt thanks to all who prayed for us and for those we ministered to, seen and unseen. In some ways we reaped the benefits of your prayers, seeing them answered one by one. I am confident that more will be answered as the work continues and through God's awesome power.
Please continue to pray for the missionaries whom we served with: Richard and Keri Nakamura, Kohichi and Shirley Tamura and, Jon and Chieko Reasoner. Pray that they would receive renewed energy and inspiration to reach the Japanese for Christ and that the light of Christ would shine brightly through each of their lives.
Over the next few days our team members will be posting 3 of their highlights or God sightings from the trip so please check back periodically.
Kelly - Safely back in Seattle
I was originally going to title this "Home Safely", but then I began to ponder where "home" truely is for me. I already miss Japan... and I know amonst the team members I'm not alone. For the TMK team, Vincey may have been the only one on the bus back to the airport who openly cried, but my heart was crying with her. Many of us are already pondering about returning next year - you could almost "see" the little wheels turning in our minds about how we could continue to serve both TMK and NBF.
This day was one of those bitter-sweet days. Soo sweet to have a few of the neighborhood kids/moms come down to the church to send us off. Sweet to spend our last few hours together as one team, sharing memories I pray none of us ever forget (well, ok, maybe some of the memorie we should forget...) Bitter in that these were our last few hours in Japan...
We all arrived back in Seattle safely. I am truely amazed by how much God protected this team this year, no injuries, no lost members, no major lost anything, (and to my knowledge, the Nokendai team all got their luggage at Narita). There were difficulties, but if you a took the monent to step back, you could see God's hand is all that was being done.
One way that I know members of our team have been changed is with our perspective on things, Tom was up-graded to business class but he frequently wandered back to the cozy economy section because it was lonely up there, and while Heather was able to get a window seat instead of the middle seat of 5, (although she was only 4 rows away) it felt like she was off in another world. I had the option to up-grade Sharon and I as well, but to all of us, in the end, our personl comfort seemed less important than being with the team.
Stay tuned though. We've all been asked to post our 3 most memorable moments from this trip... hmm, was that memorable or meaningful... time to go back to sleep or nap or what-ever I was doing...
This day was one of those bitter-sweet days. Soo sweet to have a few of the neighborhood kids/moms come down to the church to send us off. Sweet to spend our last few hours together as one team, sharing memories I pray none of us ever forget (well, ok, maybe some of the memorie we should forget...) Bitter in that these were our last few hours in Japan...
We all arrived back in Seattle safely. I am truely amazed by how much God protected this team this year, no injuries, no lost members, no major lost anything, (and to my knowledge, the Nokendai team all got their luggage at Narita). There were difficulties, but if you a took the monent to step back, you could see God's hand is all that was being done.
One way that I know members of our team have been changed is with our perspective on things, Tom was up-graded to business class but he frequently wandered back to the cozy economy section because it was lonely up there, and while Heather was able to get a window seat instead of the middle seat of 5, (although she was only 4 rows away) it felt like she was off in another world. I had the option to up-grade Sharon and I as well, but to all of us, in the end, our personl comfort seemed less important than being with the team.
Stay tuned though. We've all been asked to post our 3 most memorable moments from this trip... hmm, was that memorable or meaningful... time to go back to sleep or nap or what-ever I was doing...
Monday, August 11, 2008
Shirley: God in Control
Tuesday, August 12, JST
As one of your hosts in Japan, it was our concern that we got everyone home safely, in one piece, with all your possessions as well. So you can imagine how horrified I was to find 12 claim tickets in my mailbox this morning at 8 AM! The NBF team sent their bags to Narita yesterday to be picked up today, Tuesday, at the airport. You typically need these claim tickets to get your bags. Thankfully, Richard called the luggage carrier and had me send a picture of all the claim tickets with the serial numbers. I am sure this will be enough to retrieve their bags now. Please continue to pray for their safe journey back to Seattle today.
Patti: Grateful to God for all things
Hi all. We are getting ready to come back to the USA. The time has gone by so fast and yet, we did so much that it feels like the day we left American soil was long time ago. I am grateful for God's provision, guidance, and protection. The TMK (Tokorozawa) team is all healthy--physically, mentally, and spiritually. We are filled will blessings of experiencing the way of life in Japan, the people, their culture, and their hospitality.
And we now have a burden for the children that we shared the Word of God with, connected with, and played with. This is good, for our prayers for them will be genuine and more specific. Patience is a character trait that is of great value when doing the work of sharing God's love in Japan. And I am learning this, even though I tend to do things fast, especially walking--so my team-mates say.
We will all be sharing more of what this Mission Trip meant to each one of us soon.
Love,
Patti
And we now have a burden for the children that we shared the Word of God with, connected with, and played with. This is good, for our prayers for them will be genuine and more specific. Patience is a character trait that is of great value when doing the work of sharing God's love in Japan. And I am learning this, even though I tend to do things fast, especially walking--so my team-mates say.
We will all be sharing more of what this Mission Trip meant to each one of us soon.
Love,
Patti
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Shirley: Angels are Rejoicing!
I just found out that one of our NBF ladies was baptized the morning of August 10! Yuko and Yusuke's mom was dunked in a river after sharing her faith story with friends from the Pearl Vineyard church, a new church plant in Gunmyoji. Her Christian friends, the Okita's (Kana's parents) and Kaz and Andrea Ito, the leaders at Pearl Vineyard, supported her decision to be baptized and found a way for her to do it. I am shocked speechless, but happily so! Please rejoice with me over her brave and wonderful decision to identify herself with Christ and to publicly proclaim to be one of His disciples.
"'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.' I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent." Luke 15:8
"'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.' I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent." Luke 15:8
Shirley: The Wingfort
For those of you who wondered what the "Wingfort" was, it is the name of our building in the "Sea Parks" condo complex. I never realized what a great name it was until today, "A fortress of God in the shadow of His wings!"
We took our last picture for now in front of the sign just so you can see where the NBF-VBS team spent their time this past week plus 3 days. We pray for God's travel mercies for both teams as they tour Tokyo today, and as they board their flight back to Seattle tomorrow, Tuesday. We hope to see you on this side of the world again soon. God bless! God speed!
Ev: God's Amazing Grace
Today is Sunday morning. We had a typical Japanese breakfast of salad, rice, fruit, and salted salmon which Shirley and Kohichi provided. After a delicious breakfast in their home, we heard Shirley's and Kohichi's testimonies. It was so encouraging to hear how God brought them from where they were to where they are now. It was truly an example of Gods grace in their lives. Hopefully, we will be able to include their testimonies in our blog and newsletter. We prayed over them before we left.
At 2:00 we headed out for the Nokendai Bible Fellowship which has their service at 3:00. The service began with prayer, singing, and then a video of the VBS. After the video, we had the kids, Matt and I sing "Choose Jesus." As the service began to unfold, we were totally amazed at the hand of God. To us, everything seemed last minute but every piece of the service fitted so well together to proclaim that our hope and victory is in the resurrected Christ. We knew that God was putting everything together for His Glory. First, Janis shared her testimony which included the death of her father at 7 months, and the death of her mother and brother later in her life. She discovered that her father was a Christian and that gave her the freedom of looking more closely at the Christian faith. Through her study, she became a Christ follower. The speaker was Tom Sloan who was the head of TEAM in Japan until 2004 when he resigned because his son came down with brain cancer. His message was based on I Corinthians 15:3-4, 57-58 and he stressed the importance of the resurrection of Christ as the source of victory and as the core of our Christian faith. He shared how moved he was during Janis' testimony and asked questions that really got us thinking. "Her father died. Where is the victory? Her mother died. Where is the victory? Her brother died. Where is the victory?" Then he shared how the death of his own son, even after many, many people praying for healing, led to victory. It was how his son chose to die, trusting in Jesus, living each day fully, that many saw Jesus' love and power. Death is not the end for a believer. It is the beginning. He shared how the death of Christ magnified the deep love that God had for us, and the amazing grace and mercy He wanted to give to us. After the message we sang another song and prayed.
After the service, we began to put up tables and chairs for a dinner of fruit, sushi and rolled sandwiches. What made the dinner special was that the TMK team was able to join us. We really missed them. It was during this time that God continued putting the evening together that would end up blessing everyone there in ways we could not even imagine. One mother came up to the speaker to share that her father was dying and would probably not last the week. She was encouraged by the message. Shirley gave her a Bible when she found out that this mother did not have one, and encouraged her to read I Corinthians 15 as well. God's hand did not stop there. As we ate our dinner, we all had opportunities to talk with the parents. One parent asked Matt and I how the teams were chosen. Matt was given a chance to share why he decided to come. He shared that God loved him and had made such a wonderful difference in his life. He felt like God wanted him to reach out to the kids and show how God changed his life through words and actions. We also shared how Mei-Ling and Patti prayed about who should be in each team as well as looking at the applications. God continued to work as Mr. Onoe, one of the believers in NBF who took us to the nursing home, asked if Matt could play the piano. He had heard Matt play at the nursing home and enjoyed it. Matt began playing when Mei-Ling mentioned to Shirley that she wished she had asked Matt to play Amazing Grace. It was all spontaneous! Shirley whispered to Matt about playing Amazing Grace and picked up a hymnal. She had another idea - to ask Mrs. Nogaoka, a mother of two children attending our VBS, to sing. She is a friend of NBF. As she sang, her voice filled the room. It was beautiful. After she sang, Kohichi stepped in and suggest that we all sang Amazing Grace. It was so unplanned by human hands and intricately planned by God. The room was filled with God's presence and grace. It was truly holy ground.
"So my dear brother, stand strong. Do not let anything change you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord. You know that your work in the Lord is never wasted." I Corinthians 15:58
Both teams have worked hard to show God's grace and love to the Japanese children and parents. They have given their time, energy, and abilities that God has given them to do the work of the Lord in Japan. We know that all we do for the Lord is not in vain. We know that the seeds He has allowed us to plant will some day bear fruit. We cannot thank the Tamuras and the Nakamuras enough for giving us the opportunity of seeing God work in Japan, for allowing us to be a small part in that work, and especially for their hearts to serve God so faithfully. God is so good.
Blessings, Ev
At 2:00 we headed out for the Nokendai Bible Fellowship which has their service at 3:00. The service began with prayer, singing, and then a video of the VBS. After the video, we had the kids, Matt and I sing "Choose Jesus." As the service began to unfold, we were totally amazed at the hand of God. To us, everything seemed last minute but every piece of the service fitted so well together to proclaim that our hope and victory is in the resurrected Christ. We knew that God was putting everything together for His Glory. First, Janis shared her testimony which included the death of her father at 7 months, and the death of her mother and brother later in her life. She discovered that her father was a Christian and that gave her the freedom of looking more closely at the Christian faith. Through her study, she became a Christ follower. The speaker was Tom Sloan who was the head of TEAM in Japan until 2004 when he resigned because his son came down with brain cancer. His message was based on I Corinthians 15:3-4, 57-58 and he stressed the importance of the resurrection of Christ as the source of victory and as the core of our Christian faith. He shared how moved he was during Janis' testimony and asked questions that really got us thinking. "Her father died. Where is the victory? Her mother died. Where is the victory? Her brother died. Where is the victory?" Then he shared how the death of his own son, even after many, many people praying for healing, led to victory. It was how his son chose to die, trusting in Jesus, living each day fully, that many saw Jesus' love and power. Death is not the end for a believer. It is the beginning. He shared how the death of Christ magnified the deep love that God had for us, and the amazing grace and mercy He wanted to give to us. After the message we sang another song and prayed.
After the service, we began to put up tables and chairs for a dinner of fruit, sushi and rolled sandwiches. What made the dinner special was that the TMK team was able to join us. We really missed them. It was during this time that God continued putting the evening together that would end up blessing everyone there in ways we could not even imagine. One mother came up to the speaker to share that her father was dying and would probably not last the week. She was encouraged by the message. Shirley gave her a Bible when she found out that this mother did not have one, and encouraged her to read I Corinthians 15 as well. God's hand did not stop there. As we ate our dinner, we all had opportunities to talk with the parents. One parent asked Matt and I how the teams were chosen. Matt was given a chance to share why he decided to come. He shared that God loved him and had made such a wonderful difference in his life. He felt like God wanted him to reach out to the kids and show how God changed his life through words and actions. We also shared how Mei-Ling and Patti prayed about who should be in each team as well as looking at the applications. God continued to work as Mr. Onoe, one of the believers in NBF who took us to the nursing home, asked if Matt could play the piano. He had heard Matt play at the nursing home and enjoyed it. Matt began playing when Mei-Ling mentioned to Shirley that she wished she had asked Matt to play Amazing Grace. It was all spontaneous! Shirley whispered to Matt about playing Amazing Grace and picked up a hymnal. She had another idea - to ask Mrs. Nogaoka, a mother of two children attending our VBS, to sing. She is a friend of NBF. As she sang, her voice filled the room. It was beautiful. After she sang, Kohichi stepped in and suggest that we all sang Amazing Grace. It was so unplanned by human hands and intricately planned by God. The room was filled with God's presence and grace. It was truly holy ground.
"So my dear brother, stand strong. Do not let anything change you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord. You know that your work in the Lord is never wasted." I Corinthians 15:58
Both teams have worked hard to show God's grace and love to the Japanese children and parents. They have given their time, energy, and abilities that God has given them to do the work of the Lord in Japan. We know that all we do for the Lord is not in vain. We know that the seeds He has allowed us to plant will some day bear fruit. We cannot thank the Tamuras and the Nakamuras enough for giving us the opportunity of seeing God work in Japan, for allowing us to be a small part in that work, and especially for their hearts to serve God so faithfully. God is so good.
Blessings, Ev
Shirley: Closing Program at NBF
Today's service at NBF surpassed anything I could have hoped or dreamed. It has been clear to me for a long time that the Lord God is sovereign, but when His plans are revealed in ways that seem so perfect, it is no wonder that we worship Him as God of the universe. We either move closer or farther from God based on daily events. Today's service moved us closer to Him for sure.
As usual, we hacked our program together, putting in the elements that we thought were important. When all of it came together at church, it was an awesome event that moved the hearts of all who came today.
We had our closing program for VBS during service. Two VBS families who do not normally come to NBF came, which was wonderful. We watched the terrific slide show Amy and others put together, and the kids did their song "Choose Jesus" for us. Janis gave a powerful testimony that was the perfect prelude to the message. We dismissed the kids to Sunday School which Amy and Susan taught again this week. Then Tom Sloan gave us a message on 1 Corinthians 15 about the singular importance of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. All of Christianity hinges on this single event. No resurrection, no salvation. The way Janis' testimony was a perfect introduction to Tom's message was something God arranged, pure and simple. Tom was supposed to visit NBF last week but had to cancel last minute. He asked if he could visit us today, August 10, and we asked if he would share a message with us. We had asked Janis after Bob's testimony last week to share not knowing what Tom was going to preach. This was a God sighting for sure.
Tom and Ginna Sloan were TEAM missionaries in Japan for many, many years. They are still with TEAM on home assignment in the States. They left the mission field in 2004? to be with their son who died of brain cancer 2 months ago. He was in his 30's, and leaves behind a wife and 2 young daughters. We all had been praying faithfully for the Sloan's and Joshua for healing. In his message, Tom asked what victory in Christ means even though Joshua, his son and a strong believer, died. Tom and Ginna said Joshua told them that the brain cancer was the most important thing God had entrusted him with and that he was going to live each day he had left as a witness to God's goodness, mercy and grace. Tom did share that watching his son die was one of the hardest things he has had to do, but it was not "bad" in any way. Something good can come from suffering, even death IF we have Jesus. Christ's resurrection power gives us that victory. Tom told us that none of our work in Christ or prayers were in vain. Through trials and pain, God's incredible love, mercy and grace are evident to all. You just cannot miss it. At the end of service, one lady shared with Tom that she expected her father to die of stomach cancer this very week. She said his message was so timely and so very relevant for her right now. We gave her a bible from the church and Tom encouraged her to read chapter 15 in 1 Corinthians and that he and Ginna would be praying for her and her father. How is that for direct and immediate application?!
We had a light dinner afterwards that Mr. and Mrs. Onizuka graciously picked up at Costco for us. It was such a lovely time. The TMK team arrived just in time for dinner, so that made our time even more blessed. Matt played the piano for us at Mr. Onoe's request and lead us in Amazing Grace after one of the VBS mother's sang it for us in Japanese; she is a classically trained mezzo-soprano. Kohichi then had all of us sing Amazing Grace together. Hearing everyone sing this timeless song of love and grace brought tears to the eyes of all who were there. What a way to end a terrific VBS program. What an amazing God we have. It is always humbling to be reminded of God's love for us and how far He went to redeem us through His one and only beloved Son.
We are so sad to say good-bye, but we know that we are part of the same family in Christ so we will definitely meet again. Thank you so much for sending the VBS teams to NBF again this year. Thank you so much for partnering with us in your prayers. Please continue to pray that we may reap an abundant harvest with what was planted in the hearts of the children and their families this past week. Please pray that workers would continually to be sent into the fields for the harvest, so that not one soul whom God loves so dearly would be missed.
God bless you all.
As usual, we hacked our program together, putting in the elements that we thought were important. When all of it came together at church, it was an awesome event that moved the hearts of all who came today.
We had our closing program for VBS during service. Two VBS families who do not normally come to NBF came, which was wonderful. We watched the terrific slide show Amy and others put together, and the kids did their song "Choose Jesus" for us. Janis gave a powerful testimony that was the perfect prelude to the message. We dismissed the kids to Sunday School which Amy and Susan taught again this week. Then Tom Sloan gave us a message on 1 Corinthians 15 about the singular importance of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. All of Christianity hinges on this single event. No resurrection, no salvation. The way Janis' testimony was a perfect introduction to Tom's message was something God arranged, pure and simple. Tom was supposed to visit NBF last week but had to cancel last minute. He asked if he could visit us today, August 10, and we asked if he would share a message with us. We had asked Janis after Bob's testimony last week to share not knowing what Tom was going to preach. This was a God sighting for sure.
Tom and Ginna Sloan were TEAM missionaries in Japan for many, many years. They are still with TEAM on home assignment in the States. They left the mission field in 2004? to be with their son who died of brain cancer 2 months ago. He was in his 30's, and leaves behind a wife and 2 young daughters. We all had been praying faithfully for the Sloan's and Joshua for healing. In his message, Tom asked what victory in Christ means even though Joshua, his son and a strong believer, died. Tom and Ginna said Joshua told them that the brain cancer was the most important thing God had entrusted him with and that he was going to live each day he had left as a witness to God's goodness, mercy and grace. Tom did share that watching his son die was one of the hardest things he has had to do, but it was not "bad" in any way. Something good can come from suffering, even death IF we have Jesus. Christ's resurrection power gives us that victory. Tom told us that none of our work in Christ or prayers were in vain. Through trials and pain, God's incredible love, mercy and grace are evident to all. You just cannot miss it. At the end of service, one lady shared with Tom that she expected her father to die of stomach cancer this very week. She said his message was so timely and so very relevant for her right now. We gave her a bible from the church and Tom encouraged her to read chapter 15 in 1 Corinthians and that he and Ginna would be praying for her and her father. How is that for direct and immediate application?!
We had a light dinner afterwards that Mr. and Mrs. Onizuka graciously picked up at Costco for us. It was such a lovely time. The TMK team arrived just in time for dinner, so that made our time even more blessed. Matt played the piano for us at Mr. Onoe's request and lead us in Amazing Grace after one of the VBS mother's sang it for us in Japanese; she is a classically trained mezzo-soprano. Kohichi then had all of us sing Amazing Grace together. Hearing everyone sing this timeless song of love and grace brought tears to the eyes of all who were there. What a way to end a terrific VBS program. What an amazing God we have. It is always humbling to be reminded of God's love for us and how far He went to redeem us through His one and only beloved Son.
We are so sad to say good-bye, but we know that we are part of the same family in Christ so we will definitely meet again. Thank you so much for sending the VBS teams to NBF again this year. Thank you so much for partnering with us in your prayers. Please continue to pray that we may reap an abundant harvest with what was planted in the hearts of the children and their families this past week. Please pray that workers would continually to be sent into the fields for the harvest, so that not one soul whom God loves so dearly would be missed.
God bless you all.
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Susan - Last day of VBS
I can't believe VBS came and went so fast. I had the youngest group, 6 boys and 1 girl ages 4 through 7. 
From left to right are: Kosei (7), Teru (7), Yusuke (5), Masanori (5), Takaomi (5), Akane (7), and Daiki (4). Many of the children make the peace sign whenever we take their pictures. Akane, the only girl in my group came only on Monday and Tuesday, but I was glad that she came. Kosei was the first one to sign up for VBS and he was so excited that he could hardly sit still for the program especially during story time. I thought he wasn't paying attention to the stories, but when Mei-ling or Ev asked questions about the stories, he was able to answer it. I was pleasantly surprised by his responses. This year we had the kids look up the verses in the bible and some of them have actually read from the bible before.
My group of kids were the loudest, especially when they're memorizing the verses, they're actually competing with each other to see who can say the memory verse the loudest in english.
From left to right are: Kosei (7), Teru (7), Yusuke (5), Masanori (5), Takaomi (5), Akane (7), and Daiki (4). Many of the children make the peace sign whenever we take their pictures. Akane, the only girl in my group came only on Monday and Tuesday, but I was glad that she came. Kosei was the first one to sign up for VBS and he was so excited that he could hardly sit still for the program especially during story time. I thought he wasn't paying attention to the stories, but when Mei-ling or Ev asked questions about the stories, he was able to answer it. I was pleasantly surprised by his responses. This year we had the kids look up the verses in the bible and some of them have actually read from the bible before.My group of kids were the loudest, especially when they're memorizing the verses, they're actually competing with each other to see who can say the memory verse the loudest in english. On the last day of VBS, the Shepards (Mr. Bob, Janis and myself) gave an invitation after story time to our group. I told them if they wanted to be in God's family and have Jesus Christ as their friend forever all they had to do was repeat after me silently in their hearts the salvation prayer. I told them that if they had said the prayer to make sure to tell someone. In Japan, people don't tell others whether they are Christians even if they been coming to church for a long time, unless they are baptized. I know that a seed has been planted in the children that came to VBS, and some day that seed will grow and reproduce.
Thanks so much for all of your prayers - Susan
Vincy
Hi! This is Vincy. Today we will have church at the Send Center. Some of theV.B.S kids said that they wanted to come to church! Isn't that great?
Yesterday we went to the Imperial Palace and went on a prayer walk for three and a half hours! Then for lunch we ate at a noddle house. It was so good!
Time just flys by too fast! After church we are going to Nokendai. Tommerow we will tour Tokyo. Its so sad that we have to leave.
Well here are some things you can pray for, you can pray for Kelly's knee which is hurting and Heather's safe travel when she goes to visit her realative, Carol. Oh and pray that my heat rash will go away.
Yesterday we went to the Imperial Palace and went on a prayer walk for three and a half hours! Then for lunch we ate at a noddle house. It was so good!
Time just flys by too fast! After church we are going to Nokendai. Tommerow we will tour Tokyo. Its so sad that we have to leave.
Well here are some things you can pray for, you can pray for Kelly's knee which is hurting and Heather's safe travel when she goes to visit her realative, Carol. Oh and pray that my heat rash will go away.
Bob - Last Day in Noukendai
Well this is our last full day in Noukendai. Tomorrow we'll be in Toyko and then Tuesday head home. A lot of random thoughts are running through my head right now so I'll just touch on a few of them:
VBS went great! We were touched by all the kids and I was especially touched by the kids I had in my class. I told them that I would write to them and send them pictures of VBS. They seemed to be excited about that. I had the honor of offering my kids an invitation of accepting Christ on the last day of VBS. We decided to keep it real personnal (between just them and God) so we didn't ask for hands or anything like that. I just told them about how they could join God's family and then said a prayer for their acceptance. I'm praying that some of them did accept Christ.
Our team was such a great mixture of age, experience, talents, and of course personalities (some weird) we seemed to bond more and more as time went on. Nine people living together 24/7 for 11-12 days and no fights or arguments; this was a God sighting. Part of the great experience of going on a mission is developing new friendships with the team members. I guess we are friends forever. Can I call Matt my psuedo son now?
The people of Japan are so polite and courteous. This is something I'm going to miss when I get back home. There strength seems to be the cultural pride of working together and following the rules and traditions. From riding the trains, to even recycling, things are done a certain efficient way. But this strength could be the main reason why Christianity is not accepted as much, yet. To the people of Japan Christianity is not the norm so they are probably hesitant to veer from the norm, to be different. How do change this? Literally, one stone at a time.
For me, missions is a chance to show God's love and plant some seeds. But missions also is chance for me to see, hear, smell, and feel things I wouldn't normally experience sitting at home in front of my big screen. It's following God's will and growing in his likeness one step at a time. I really cherish these experiences and thank God for blessing me with so much.
Kohichi, Shirley, Emma, Clara, and Amelia were such great hosts. I thank them for all of their hard work, hospitality, and kindness. They are an inspriation to me. Below or above (I still have trouble posting the pictures) is a family picture.
P.S. The video on the cicadas is up and running under my blog from last Monday. Check it out.
VBS went great! We were touched by all the kids and I was especially touched by the kids I had in my class. I told them that I would write to them and send them pictures of VBS. They seemed to be excited about that. I had the honor of offering my kids an invitation of accepting Christ on the last day of VBS. We decided to keep it real personnal (between just them and God) so we didn't ask for hands or anything like that. I just told them about how they could join God's family and then said a prayer for their acceptance. I'm praying that some of them did accept Christ.
Our team was such a great mixture of age, experience, talents, and of course personalities (some weird) we seemed to bond more and more as time went on. Nine people living together 24/7 for 11-12 days and no fights or arguments; this was a God sighting. Part of the great experience of going on a mission is developing new friendships with the team members. I guess we are friends forever. Can I call Matt my psuedo son now?
The people of Japan are so polite and courteous. This is something I'm going to miss when I get back home. There strength seems to be the cultural pride of working together and following the rules and traditions. From riding the trains, to even recycling, things are done a certain efficient way. But this strength could be the main reason why Christianity is not accepted as much, yet. To the people of Japan Christianity is not the norm so they are probably hesitant to veer from the norm, to be different. How do change this? Literally, one stone at a time.
For me, missions is a chance to show God's love and plant some seeds. But missions also is chance for me to see, hear, smell, and feel things I wouldn't normally experience sitting at home in front of my big screen. It's following God's will and growing in his likeness one step at a time. I really cherish these experiences and thank God for blessing me with so much.
Kohichi, Shirley, Emma, Clara, and Amelia were such great hosts. I thank them for all of their hard work, hospitality, and kindness. They are an inspriation to me. Below or above (I still have trouble posting the pictures) is a family picture.
P.S. The video on the cicadas is up and running under my blog from last Monday. Check it out.
Tom: The Last Day!
Sorry, we been too busy or tired with Prayer Walks, VBS and sightseeing to blog. Some much has happen. The kids have been awesome. (I'm starting to sound like Heather) One of the missionary apologized for some older girls having bad attitudes and didn't want to be there. Compare to American kids it was nothing. They just weren't as enthusiastic as some of the younger kids. In fact they came everyday and invited a friend on the last day.
Mame and Haruna are happy now
I wish I had a whole school of these kids to teach. The parents are so appreciative of every little thing you do and helpful too. Many of the moms have been helping out as well as observing our program. They have been correcting Richard's Japanese which has been somewhat suspect. They gave him feed back by him the correct Japanese word or phrase or by laughing at what he says.
We had our final VBS yesterday. We had a great time but a sad time too. This may be the last time we may see them this year. (I may be back next year, God willing) Instead pre-VBS game, Chieko ask me to show my student generated slideshow of my school. She thought the kids would be interested in seeing what American elementary schools are like. They seem interested. At least they were quiet and under control.
The singing time has been one of the kids favorite part of VBS. They especially enjoyed "Choose Jesus" and "Ride of your Life." Our youngest boy, Aoto has been trying to imitate Matt's 360 jump in the video. He puts so much effort into the jump that he almost falls down. (All the women team members have a crush on him because he's so cute and enthusiastic about everything.)
Aoto and Lisa: They complete each other. Aoto's wild and Lisa' shy.
At Bible story review time the younger group have has been so loud when they repeat the Bible verse. Not only are they loud but in perfect unison. (I thinks that's what they learn at school.)
After the craft Heather had the young kids sit in a circle to played a English speaking game. You throw the ball to someone and they have to say, "My name is____________. I am ___ years old." I was blown away that all the kids could say it correctly even the youngest and quietist ones. It was a little embarrassing when they threw the ball to me, being the oldest of the team members.
This last day was a special day because it was the first day we had recreation outside at the park. We started with an Olympic style relay and then did a water balloon toss. Finally at the end I told the kids they could throw the water balloons at their favorite teacher. The teachers scattered and the kids went wild. Everyone got wet.
Sharon getting nailed!
This day was also our Barbeque. About a dozen mother brought all sort of food like Barazushi (sp?), musubis, yakisoba, watermelon and so much more. One mom brought a couple of bags of fresh vegetables from their garden. What a treat! I had okra for the first time. Jon and Chieko barbequed chicken, beef and hotdogs. Everything was so good! It was a great celebration and a sad one. One girl asked if she can still come next year even though next year she will be in middle school. Taichi and his sister, Miwa made personalized cards for each of the team. Kids didn't want to leave. They played and ran around outside and to the park. Some didn't leave until evening. Aoto and Yume's mom french braided Vincy and all the Nakamura girls hair and were the last to leave. We are all going to miss these people.
Children with their Manga Bibles
Mame and Haruna are happy nowI wish I had a whole school of these kids to teach. The parents are so appreciative of every little thing you do and helpful too. Many of the moms have been helping out as well as observing our program. They have been correcting Richard's Japanese which has been somewhat suspect. They gave him feed back by him the correct Japanese word or phrase or by laughing at what he says.
We had our final VBS yesterday. We had a great time but a sad time too. This may be the last time we may see them this year. (I may be back next year, God willing) Instead pre-VBS game, Chieko ask me to show my student generated slideshow of my school. She thought the kids would be interested in seeing what American elementary schools are like. They seem interested. At least they were quiet and under control.The singing time has been one of the kids favorite part of VBS. They especially enjoyed "Choose Jesus" and "Ride of your Life." Our youngest boy, Aoto has been trying to imitate Matt's 360 jump in the video. He puts so much effort into the jump that he almost falls down. (All the women team members have a crush on him because he's so cute and enthusiastic about everything.)
Aoto and Lisa: They complete each other. Aoto's wild and Lisa' shy.After the craft Heather had the young kids sit in a circle to played a English speaking game. You throw the ball to someone and they have to say, "My name is____________. I am ___ years old." I was blown away that all the kids could say it correctly even the youngest and quietist ones. It was a little embarrassing when they threw the ball to me, being the oldest of the team members.
This last day was a special day because it was the first day we had recreation outside at the park. We started with an Olympic style relay and then did a water balloon toss. Finally at the end I told the kids they could throw the water balloons at their favorite teacher. The teachers scattered and the kids went wild. Everyone got wet.
Sharon getting nailed!
Children with their Manga Bibles
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