It’s that time of year again when I (and this time, 3 close friends) head over to Japan to serve the Lord! This time, it’s a bit more unique. Instead of being officially organized through a missions agency, we’re working directly with, and at the request of, Tachikawa Ekimae Christ Church in Tachikawa, Japan.
Barely a month ago, I found out from my good college buddy, Mike, that Isaiah and Yoshie were considering cancelling the VBS because of the lack of foreign workers. Isaiah was the only one. Mike found out and got the time off, and two days later, as I walked to a Mariner’s game, where I was celebrating with some Christian Japanese friends, I decided I ought to look at going. After a nightmarish logistical change to plans for attending C-‘s best friend’s wedding last weekend, she and I both are able to join with Mike and Isaiah to spend the next ten days working in Tachikawa.
This is not without challenges, of course. Today marks the fifth anniversary of C-‘s father’s passing. This of course makes it a challenge for her, but I’m very grateful that she’s going with us, because, boy do us men need her help! Her experience and fervor both for kids and the Japanese is a most welcome addition. And, I’m quite simply ecstatic that we get the chance to serve side-by-side! Not many dating couples get the chance to stretch their faith and relationship internationally. Plus, I wouldn’t want to leave her and head to one of her favorite places, to do some of her favorite things without her by my side.
So, today, at 2:15pm Seattle time, Mike, C-, and I take off for Narita, Japan. Please keep our health (both spiritual and physical) in mind on this short trip. Meditate on God’s promises for a spiritual harvest as we spend time with a bunch of grade school kids and a few parents. And pray that the Gospel is preached clearly and seen clearly through our lives and actions with my Japanese “family” in Tachikawa.
