Zechariah 4:6: ‘Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord Almighty. Although our bodies are tired, our hearts are filled to overflowing by the privilege we have had of reconnecting with friends, making new friends, and sharing in new experiences. We are humbled by the gift that it is to be here in Japan. Thanks to all of you for your overwhelming support, prayers, and communication. We truly know that the Spirit is at work. We are getting ready for the long voyage home and are eagerly looking forward to seeing you all. Hountou ni arigatou gozaimasu! (Thank you so much!
After a lovely dinner with our host family and Pastor Watanabe and Yumiko, we had FaceTime with Yu and Yume Watanabe. Yu stayed with us for a year and now lives with his wife in Brisbane. We shared our hopes and dreams for the future.
In the morning, we went to a nursing home where the Watanabes go regularly to minister to the residents. We had a nice time with the residents, all women. We did crafts with them and sang some hymns together. We gave them a prayer bear. I told them in simple Japanese that when they looked at the bear, my hope was that they would tell God their concerns or give thanks to him. Afterwards, we had lunch with Yoshiya and Yumiko. We loved hearing about Yoshiya’s dreams for the church. I will fill you in later. Our last Japanese transportation, a bullet train, a train, and the monorail has me still moving – but actually the real moving is that of our hearts for the kindness, thoughtfulness, and generosity of these dear Japanese friends. Our last entry for this trip will hopefully be submitted tomorrow before we board for our trip home. We have a short time to get through customs and immigration in Seattle. We ask for your prayers!
It’s hard to believe that we came to Umeyacho Church twenty years ago. This is the tenth time that we have been here. Many of the members are the ones that we met 20 years ago. And as in our own family, we know that there are changes over the years – times of happiness – graduations, marriages, the birth of children, and new jobs. We got to experience some of those milestone moments in church yesterday. The Shirataki family is a family that is at least four generations of Christians – a rather rare occurrence in this country where only about 1% are Christian. Kotomi visited us in Dayton and I stayed with her family several times. Although Kotomi now lives in Sapporo, we were able to see the picture of her newly born daughter (born two days ago) and share our congratulations with her parents and grandparents. Nobuo and Yuriko have been faithful Sunday School teachers and Nobuo helped us with the Sunday School program yesterday.
We were very surprised when a very tall young man came to church during our lunchtime gathering. Elan came to Dayton with Pastor Yoshiya in 2017. Elan was probably about 13 or 14 at that time. The next summer (2018), Mark and I visited Elan’s mother in the hospital and prayed with her. She passed a short time later after a brave battle with cancer. Elan came to say hello and tell us what he had been up to. It was a wonderful surprise. He recently graduated and is working in some kind of remote job. Even Pastor Watanabe couldn’t quite get what the job was – smile.
Kazuki also visited us in Dayton over 10 years ago. He has returned home after living in Tokyo and has a new job in Shizuoka as an engineer. Kazuki helped us translate for the children. It is a blessing to see him involved in the church.
Another special moment occurred with one of the young men who has some mild challenges. He had a song that he made up that was so sweet that he sang to us. The words were a lot of “Mark and Brenda are here, yes Mark and Brenda, I am happy Mark and Brenda are here.” He is probably in his late thirties now. Before he left he came to thank me again. I asked him if I could pray for him and did so to the best of my ability in Japanese. Then he prayed for me and it was such a sweet and heart felt prayer. Even as I write this, tears come to my eyes.
Speaking of tears, there were quite a few. Just like our families experience sorrow, our Japanese friends in Shizuoka are experiencing their share of sorrow now. One friend is battling pancreatic cancer and has outlived the doctor’s prediction of a six month life expectancy by a year and a half. Another friend was in a recent motorcycle accident and prior to that has been dealing with the excessive demands of work in a nursing home that have had a negative impact on his mental health. Mark and I both had good talks with him and his wife. As always, they wanted to know about David and Daniel. In spite of these trials, these people continue to follow in their faith and continue to meet with their church family.
The hardest news for us to hear was that a friend that Mark corresponds with regularly has stage three cancer. He has been hospitalized for a month. Removing three fourths of his stomach, the doctors were pleased with his recovery. However, a short time later they discovered cancer in the colon and another operation occurred. We have stayed at this friend’s home several times and he also came to Dayton several years ago. His wife is a nurse and someone we just adore. Mark was getting water from a vending machine while we waited at the hospital for her. She sobbed in Mark’s arms and then in mine. The hospital didn’t want to allow us to see him because the influenza is going around. Michiko managed to get us five minutes with Hashimoto-san. We gave him some small gifts and then prayed for him. We had been hoping prior to this news that the Hashimotos would visit us this year. This has been Michiko’s dream. We are praying that this dream can come true and more importantly for Hashimoto’s healing.
Pastor’s message was about how Jesus died so that we could be with him in heaven. The message was geared for children and even I could understand! Smile! The children that came to the children’s program were much younger than we expected. However, with the help of parents and others, the children were able to make some crafts and the older children flew airplanes. We shared a Bible story that focused on how God created us and cares for us.
It was good to reconnect with these dear family members. We are getting ready to go to the nursing home now so I will post a couple of pictures with this post. Your prayers and presence in our lives mean SO much to us.
Let me tell you a little about Saori. Saori studied English at UD and was one of the most delightful students I have had. She had married Vic, another international student from China that she met while at UD. They were living in Australia and had hoped that Mark and I would be in Japan to come to their wedding a few years back. Alas, we were not and that’s when we lost contact as Saori could not get into her Messenger app to contact me. So, when I got a message out of the blue (she contacted Yu Watanabe so that she could get in touch with me), it was a wonderful surprise – in fact there were many surprises. In her text to me, she said that she and Vic were living in China but were in Japan for awhile as she had returned home to Nagoya to have her baby. Saori was hoping that we could connect so we could meet their two month old daughter, Shiki. Kyoto was the only place where we had free time. We are so thankful that they could make the two hour trip to meet us in Kyoto. What a beautiful afternoon we had with them. One of the things that Mark and I value so much is two way conversations where there is dialogue and what a beautiful discussion we had. One of the first things that Saori asked was about how David and Daniel were doing (and I am not sure she even had met Daniel when she lived in Dayton). This touched my heart. There was not much surface chat as we got down to sharing matters of the heart. Living in China as a Japanese woman has been hard for Saori and living in Japan had been difficult for Vic. We discussed dealing with culture shock and prejudice. Unfortunately, they experienced prejudice in Australia, and although they had a thriving business, they realized that it was not a place where they wanted to raise a family.
We talked a lot about parenting and I asked them if they had a philosophy about raising kids. This lead to talking about all sorts of topics. Mark and I shared how we made a family mission statement when we returned from living in Japan when our guys were little. Vic asked if we could share this with them which we will do when we get home. My heart was so full of gratitude as we were able to spend time with them. There is such joy to see two parents who are curious, inquisitive, and open to hearing of experiences and who ask for counsel. And holding baby Shiki was such a feeling of peace and joy. Blessing them as we left, I sensed that we will stay in closer touch and as Vic said, “we WILL meet you again!” Saori always ends her messages with “Love you more” like she did yesterday when sharing some pictures. But we know WHO loves her more.
It’s been a very full schedule the last few days. Our friends have kept us very busy. Before we met our Hokkaido friends, Mr. I and his wife treated us to a very interesting experience. We went to the Akashi Bridge (also called The Great Pearl Bridge) that connects the island of Honshu to Tokushima. Up until a couple of years ago, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world. We were able to walk underneath the bridge. It is an amazing architectural feat and took 10 years to build. Afterwards we went to a buffet lunch and savored both the conversation and the food. Mr. I’s help was invaluable. It takes a lot of time and effort to navigate the logistics of getting from place A to place B. Mr. I dropped us off at our hotel where we later met our friends. What a relief to be able to check in and have an hour to ourself before the non-stop activity with our friends.
We celebrated our reunion with a meal of Shabu-shabu and Sukiyaki. Our friends rented a car so we could go to the island of Awaji, also accessible by the Akashi Bridge. It was a day of a lot of driving around the island. Our last stop was a harrowing drive with a few turnarounds. After ascending a very steep and narrow street, where cars could go both ways but only one car could be on the road at a time, we were rewarded with a spectacular view of the ocean and cafe lattes. We bought our dinner from 7-11 and ate in Mieko and Hiro’s room. Mieko’s husband is very, very quiet but has gradually been talking more with us. Mark has been so thoughtful, and I think Hiro felt very honored by the gift Mark gave him. Tucked in a handmade box were a lot of architecture items that were Mark’s father’s. Mark and Hiro discussed the various items and Hiro talked for the longest we have ever heard him.
The next day we took the train to see Himeji Castle. It was a lovely day but I was a bit tired from being in the car about 8 hours the day before. We went to a “okonomiyaki” restaurant and I had hoped to really talk ( not easy in a car that is going up long and winding roads), however, this was a noisy but fun restaurant.
After dinner, we were invited again to Mieko’s room where they surprised me with a birthday cake. I was so touched. Next week we played the Left, Right, Center game and Hiro won. That made us happy and we gave him shohin, a prize, Colorado socks. This made him smile.
At breakfast the next morning we all ate together before Keiko, Mieko, and Hiro had to leave. I shared my testimony with them. It was an emotional morning for me (still is) as I think on God’s provision for me and our family. Keiko and Mieko have invested in Mark, David, Daniel and me. I am grateful for the 30 plus years that we have shared together. As is often my custom, I prayed with them that the Lord would bless and keep them, make His face shine upon them and give them peace. My heart is full of love and gratefulness as my eyes are also full of tears.
It has been a whirlwind of a week. There are so many experiences that I could share, but today I am letting Mark share first.
There was a flurry of activity all around us as the children and adults dove into the crafts. There were a few questions, but almost everyone completed the owl craft and tetrahedral kite to one’s own satisfaction. Often the small additions to the success of any activity are often missed. I especially appreciated the background accompaniment of “Mr. Banjo” as he interpreted the mood of the activity and accented it with the beat on his electric drum and multi-toned guitar instrument. He has been a faithful follower of Brenda and me as we have endeavored to bring a joyous mood to all that we do at Hitomaru Kyokai.
During the Lenten season, we read a book about the importance of generosity. We have seen generosity in action every step of this journey. Today, I want to speak about Mr. I, his wife, and daughter. They have been instrumental in bringing the various activities to fruition. I love their heart for people, their enthusiasm and joy, and the way they plan wisely to make the various activities go smoothly. We really couldn’t accomplish as much without them and the help of their church members. The attention to prayer before and after activities is a priority. We see this same generosity of spirit from our loved ones back home. Many people are reading the daily prayers posted by our church and sending messages or comments. Mark and I hope to grow in our ability to be generous – by spending time with others (especially when it isn’t convenient), to be present and appreciate these moments of joy (and sometimes sadness) with others.
We discovered that a young couple went to Hope College, and we learned quickly that we have a Japanese friend in common. It’s a small world! They are pictured below. The father is a psychologist that has patients in Japan and the states. We had an interesting conversation about his work. Pastor Nagata continued to share the theme of God’s love for us. After the exploding pinata, kids were sent home with a cross sand art kit and a fish craft that I made. It was a great day with lots of energy, laughter, and joy (and maybe two tired teachers – smile).
Science, Technology, Engineering, Math (STEM) are all beautiful ways to express the creativity of our Creator. Our theme, as in Tokushima, was God’s Creation in Motion. After some spirited dancing with six very vivacious junior and senior high girls, Mark shared briefly about some Christian scientists and what they learned about some laws of nature.
The first activity was the “Squid Race”. The second activity was making sailboats and having a race. It was interesting to see the girls thinking and adapting their boat. I love the process in these projects as it helps one think about what to do and then plan better. The third activity was designing airplanes so that they could fly through the blinking ring in the middle of the hula hoop. Pastor Nagata gave a short message and then we had a snack break. We played Bingo afterwards and it was a good opportunity for the girls to hear and practice English. A question and answer session ended with me sharing how God helped me when I had difficulties adjusting to life in Japan. Also remembering the questions that I struggled with in my teens, I told of how God loves them and helps us. We ran out of time for crafts, so each girl received a kite to make, a sand art cross to make, and a card with a QR code for the Jesus film in Japanese. It was a fun day and so beautiful to see energetic, happy girls. Two of the girls were the daughters of the Korean pastor that we met here two years ago. He has since transferred to another church, but his daughters have participated in two different activities and they will join us on Sunday.
Friday’s activities started hours before the actual evening event as preparations needed to happen in order to make food for thirty people. It was such an interesting thing to observe. In the space of a small kitchen, there were usually about 5 busy “bees” working. It was love and service in action. Mark was the main cook, sauteing chicken for his special chicken salad. Two wonderful women had boiled 40 eggs for us so that we could make deviled eggs. One of the young adults who helped with various tasks made a welcome sign. This made us laugh!
Note the “cute apron” that the women insisted Mark wear 🙂
We used my homemade granola to make parfaits and I brought the ingredients to make Rice Krispies treats. Pastor John kicked off the evening with a short serenade.
After we started eating, each person gave a short introduction. Most everyone gave a short introduction in English, but one started in English by saying, ” I don’t speak English!” which made everyone laugh. I was particularly moved by one woman who was visibly shaking when she spoke to us in English. She used a translator to make her introductory speech. We were touched by the time she took to prepare this speech and the courage to give it in front of so many others.
I gave a small devotional about Christians being lights to their neighbors by enjoying each other’s company, helping one another and their neighbors. After this we made origami cubes to make a string of lights. This was a fun activity and it was neat to see some of the younger people helping others by showing them how to do the origami. In my talk about being a light for Christ, I shared that I hoped that when they looked at the lights, they would remember this evening and the love that we shared together.
One of the mothers sharing with us.
The lights, in process of being made.
Like in Tokushima, we played the cup game. It was fun to see families work together, but it was also good to see a new group working together as well. This was one of many special memories. Another special moment was three church members performing the song, “The Prayer”, famously sung by Celine Dion and Andrea Bocelli. I was moved to to tears listening to the song in Japanese. If you haven’t heard the lyrics, here is one stanza:
I pray you’ll be our eyes, and watch us where we go And help us to be wise in times when we don’t know Let this be our prayer, when we lose our way Lead us to a place, guide us with your grace To a place where we’ll be safe
Another powerful moment occurred earlier that evening when a man who had been on Wednesday’s Zoom prayer meeting came up to me and thanked me for sharing on Wednesday. He told me that he appreciated my message about how sorrow and joy can co-exist. Then he told me his wife (maybe about 65 years old) had Alzheimers before taking me to meet her. They had to leave early, so I said goodbye to them and prayed with his wife, Tomiko. She replied, “Wasurenai” which means she won’t forget. This touched me because somehow, in the Spirit, I believe God doesn’t let her forget that she is loved. I later learned that the husband’s mother also has Alzheimer’s. He is carrying a double burden.
Junko wanted me to share my testimony again since this was mostly a new group of people that had come to the fellowship meeting. This post is a long one….so many things to share, but these words seem to provide a good summary: service, caring, sacrifice, the importance of “being”, intentional thoughts, gifts, and JOY! Here are a few more pictures.
Wednesday night after the English club meeting for young children. We had a prayer meeting after sharing dinner with about 8 other members. Using Zoom, six other members joined us. We learned that those on Zoom lived as far away as two hours. It is wonderful to have this technology. Mark and I were touched that all of the people on Zoom had prepared a message to us in English. All of the messages touched our heart, however, one woman had obviously spent a long time composing and practicing. She did an excellent job, and we learned that she really doesn’t speak English. I gave my testimony again and the message from Pastor Kato was about the importance of using our gifts to encourage others.
The medicine we found for my intense hip pain helped me have a night of good sleep, something that evaded me the night before. After a quick breakfast, Pastor Kato drove us to the church in Akashi for the “Love Bears” program. This group consists of young mothers with children three and under. We started with songs and it seemed that the moms especially enjoyed “Allelu, Allelu, Praise Ye the Lord” as we divided everyone into two groups. Using streamers, one group stood up when their words were required. We had an interpreter who helped as Mark told the story of the feeding of the 5000. Like with the previous times we have shared this story, the goal was to help remind people that God provides for us. We used the fish as the symbol to help us remember this story. We made a fish craft, danced with the crafts that we made to the song, “Ten Little Fish,” and had Goldfish crackers. The last surprise is the one I think the kids most enjoyed. Each little kid got to go “fishing” and they caught a stuffed fish and a stuffed bear (to represent the “Love Bears” group theme.) As a group, we ate lunch and chatted. The children were then taken to another area so that the new pastor’s wife, Sadami, had the women read a passage from Genesis. Sadami shared about a Japanese person who came to America and became a Christian. Upon returning, this man attended a university in Kyoto. Sadami is Korean and her Japanese is spoken very quickly, but we think the gist of her message as it related to Genesis was that each one of is created special and unique.
The pictures below will hopefully help you visualize what the morning looked like.
The group of children playing before the meeting started.
Ai and her son, Shogo. Ai is an English teacher and she helped us translate difficult sentences.
Mom and daughter making the fish craft.
Demonstrating the word hire (hee ray) to show that the fins needed to be added to the fish.
Giving the fish “finishing touches.”
Going fishing.
“Oh, she caught a fish!”
One of God’s precious children
Kokoro (a word often used for heart) sat on my lap for several minutes and this was one of the highlights of the day for me. If I understood her mother’s explanation for her name and that of her twin sister, the meanings for both girls related to the warmth and love of God.
Group photo of the fish – what a beautiful group of women and children.
We sense that you are “all with us” in this journey. Thanks for your prayers!
We are happy to report that our trip from Tokushima to Kobe went well. It was rainy and windy, but it really was like a regular storm when we were driving. Kentaro drove us to meet his parents, John and Junko. They took us to a hotel for lunch. John joked that he brought us to this particular place, the oldest hotel in Kobe, so that we could see the port and the beautiful scenery. Then he started laughing as he gestured his hands, pointing to the scenery, “we wanted you to see the blue sky and the calm ocean.” We laughed because it was a totally gray day and the water was anything but calm. We had a great time anyway as we enjoyed the hotel buffet.
Later that day, the rain really came down and the wind was strong. We were tucked away safely in our room. I didn’t sleep much, not because of the storm, but because of my hip pain. Your prayers are appreciated.
Wednesday arrived and it was a beautiful morning – clear skies with the wind still blowing. It is late afternoon now and the wind has calmed down considerably. We just finished our English camp for young children here at John and Junko’s church. We had three children and the father of both families are pastors. The children were a little shy at first, but we had fun singing, dancing, telling stories and making crafts. The story Mark told was the feeding of the 5000 and how God takes care of us. We used a fish craft, goldfish snacks and stuffed fish as a reminder to the kids that God provides for us.
Japan Mission Trip Blog 