Home for the holidays

Right now I am visiting family and friends in California. I will return to Japan on the 6th. I spent some time in San Francisco this weekend visiting friends and while I was walking around downtown I saw this street performer. Great tap dancer!

A little camera shy!

Last week at Daichi Church we were blessed to see (from left to right) Mr. Iimura, Ms. Yamada, Mrs. Lee (Pastor Lee's wife)...On the bottom (from left to right), flashing a peace sign is Junsoo, and next to him are the legs and feet of Chan...they were a little camera shy! We studied Luke 15:11-32, the story about the Prodigal son. God is working, and Mr. Iimura and Ms. Yamada are hearing the Gospel each week! Praise the Lord! His will be done!

"Japalonica"

I hiked Suzugamine mountain again today and when I reached the top, I meditated on 1 Thessalonians chapter 2. The Lord allowed me to see some distant parallels regarding my experience of part-time ministry in Japan, and the situation with Paul in Thessalonica. These are the key points:

1. Paul and the others had suffered in Philippi, but yet they were still able to speak boldly to the Thessalonians. (Thes. 2:2) I had a few struggles (nothing like Paul of course) in getting here to Japan, but yet I was boldly empowered by Him to do the task set before me.
   
2. They spoke simply, they were gentle, hard working, considerate, in their service to the people. (Thes. 2:4-9) I am learning that speaking simply, being gentle, working hard, being considerate are essential in doing His work.
3. They exhorted and encouraged the people to walk worthy in the Lord. (Thes. 2:11) Exhorting and encouraging are also essential in doing His work.
   
4. The Thessalonians were persecuted by their own countrymen. (Thes. 2:14) Many Japanese believers have been persecuted by their families, friends, co-workers, etc.
   
5. Paul and the others were hindered by Satan when they tried to return and continue to bless them. (Thes. 2:18) Satan is continuously hindering the Good work going on here as we believers try to bless one another.
   
6. Paul and the rest were encouraged at the work of the Lord in the Thessalonians. (Thes. 2:19-20) It is such a great encouragement to see the work of the Lord in the Japanese people, as they have become saved and been transformed by the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ!
   

A Family in Christ

Tonight at Daichi church we were blessed. Mr. Iimura, Chan, and Junsoo attended. We read about what Jesus said in Matthew 18:10-14 and Luke 15:3-7; about the Shepard and the lost sheep. In these passages Jesus said God is a like a Shepard and we are like sheep. Just like when the sheep are lost and the Shepard searches for them because he loves them, God also loves us and is knocking on our hearts because wants us to return to Him when we have turned from Him and sinned against Him. The most amazing thing to me is that when we do turn back to Him, He is pleased because He loves us so much!

Key points that the Lord brought out as we studied were:

• God's love for us.
• What is sin?
• God's family
  

Tonight Mr. Iimura mentioned that he has no family, and therefore that his friends are very important to him. I made sure to tell him that when we believe in Jesus we become part of God's family, the church family, and anybody is welcome to join. Hopefully, he will soon say he has a family, a family in Christ. Let's keep praying for him.

Be faithful to the smallest things!

I was riding the train home tonight and the Lord prompted me to talk to the lady sitting near me. I didn't want to at first, especially since there is always an anti-social, silent atmosphere at that time of night when everyone seems to be returning from work. I thought, "What if I she will be intimidated because I am a man who seems to be approaching a woman, I don't want to scare her...that doesn't look good." Feeling as though the Lord was not going to let me get out of this one, no matter how many excuses I tried to make, I simply asked Him to strengthen me and to lead the way. So, I unzipped my pack and unzipped a smaller pack which carried a stack of tracts, and I pulled out a tract. I held it in my hand asking the Lord for His timing. As I sat there the train came to a stop and the doors stayed open as the cold air rushed in. It became noticeably cold, at least to me, and so I looked over at her and said, "It's cold, isn't it?" She was pretty shy and didn't really respond. So, I waited another awkward minute or two, still asking the Lord how to get this tract into her hand. Finally, after sitting there, I said, "This train is slow, isn't it?" She kindly replied, "It is because the cars are crossing." I told her, "Oh that's right, of course, I knew that...I have been on this train many times, especially since my church is near. Do you know Mitaki church?" She didn't. So I went on to tell her that they have many things there, like a Gospel choir and other things, and then I handed her the tract and said, "The address is here. Take a look." She took the tract and looked. I said, "It is a Christian pamphlet." Then she said, "Can I have it?" By this time she was smiling, seemingly excited to be conversing. "Of course," I replied. Finally, I said, "Please read it." A minute later we were at Yokogawa station and it was time to change trains. Honestly, I don't know the the purpose was for that little transaction. However, I know I have to be faithful with the small things. It was a tiny task, but I had to trust the Lord to do it. Lord willing, she will show up at church and I will keep getting opportunities to be used for His glory!

November Prayer Requests

Daichi church English Bible study:
First, Praise the Lord that Iimura has returned to our class and seems to be responding to the Bible messages each week.
1. Please pray for salvation for Mr. Iimura and Ms. Yamada.
2. Also, pray for the children, that they would draw near to Jesus as they grow up; Hawn, Onyu, A-hawn, Chan, Ryusei, Junsoo. Particularly, Junsoo who is about 7 years old. Despite smiling and his lively personality, he tends to have negative responses to questions during discussions.
Jamming For Jesus:
First, Praise the Lord that people heard the Gospel at our first public outreach by the Ota river on 10/12!
3. Please pray, "And let the beauty of the LORD our God be upon us: and establish thou the work of our hands upon us; yea, the work of our hands establish thou it." (Psalm 90:17)
4. Please pray that I would have wisdom regarding next year. (It is already time for considering new employment contract possibilities. Recently, I have considered returning to Takashima Chapel and the fellowship in Okayama,..."Is it you LORD?"..."Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; try my reins and my heart"(Psalm 26:2).
5. For my studies: Please pray for my Japanese language studies and my M.A. (Linguistic) studies.

Jamming for Jesus outreach #1

Today our Jamming for Jesus group played by the Ota river. Praise the Lord for great weather and many people who were enjoying the day who could hear the Word of God and His message of hope for all. During each song we read scripture and we shared the fact that Jesus wants to give them hope and peace because He loves us all so much. We told them that at any time anybody can call on Jesus and receive Him. We had also tracts available. This was the first time in public, and we trust that God's Word "never returns void" so we trust that the Lord did what He wanted to do. Next month we hope to play at a local grocery store stage. Please pray we have favor in being able to play at that location.

You can see Ota river and the surrounding city in the picture...

Since it had been a little while I thought I had better blog a little bit. Things are continuing and going well...We had a rest last week from our usual "Jamming for Jesus" rehearsal. However, we are preparing for our October 12 outreach Bible reading concert by the Ota river. Please keep us in your prayers.

Daichi church English Class continued and we read from Matthew 8:14-27. Of course in those passages, Jesus did many things. He healed Peter's mother-in-law, cast out demons, healed the sick, fulfilled prophecy, told a certain scribe to follow Him without delay, calmed the winds and the sea, and fascinated His disciples...all within about 20 sentences!!! The Bible says that only a small portion of what Jesus did was recorded. "And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written. Amen." (John 21:25) Truly, truly, Jesus is amazing, and He loves each of us so much!!!

Daichi English Class/Jamming for Jesus

The past week has been a blessed time. The Daichi English class began on Thursday and it was good. For our level 1 class we were blessed with the attendance of Onyu Lee, Kimiko Yamada, Ryu Iimura, Chan Hyun Lee, Hwan Hee Lee, Takaharu Yamamoto, A Hyun Lee, Ryusei, Juns, Nong Ku Lee. For our level 2 class we were blessed with the attendance of Gichoon, Nick, Paul, Mr. Chan, and Beth. Our next class will be divided into 3 classes since there are 7 children. So, we will have a children's class, a level 1 class, and a level 2 class. The focus is still on phonics, reading, and writing using the Children's Bible and the NIV Bible. It is very encouraging to see the Lord opening the doors to reach this group. Most of the children attend the church regularly with their parents. However, there are a couple children, and some adults, who have not heard much about the truth of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, it is obvious that the Lord is working here and I look forward to seeing the Holy Spirit work among us.

Jamming for Jesus has been a continuous encouragement as a time of fellowship, Bible reading, and fun. Unfortunately, Seiko can no longer join us since she became too busy. Of course, we will continue to pray for her, to be strengthened and encouraged whatever she will be doing. We welcome a new member, Ritsu-san, who is a believer and a tremendous flute player who plays classical music professionally. As it turns out, despite living far from Mitaki church, she has a job nearby on Wednesdays making it convenient for her to come and join us! Truly, the Lord has blessed us with her presence. Our outreach concert is scheduled for Oct. 12 by Ota river, please keep us in your prayers.

Suzugamine hike

I went hiking up Suzugamine mountain on Saturday morning and it was such a blessing! I had a wonderful time with the Lord, a nice work out, not to mention the view was spectacular!

Jamming for Jesus outreach group ジャミングフォージサスオウトリチグルプ

Here is a picture of the Jamming for Jesus outreach group at our Wednesday night rehearsal. From left to right, we see Kazu (bass), his wife Naomi (piano), Takumi (their son), Seiko (vocals and Bible reading), and Matthew (guitar). We have decided that our first outreach will be on October 12th. Please pray that this will be a fruitful time of ministry and that we would be prepared for what the Lord has planned.

この写真は水曜日のれんしゅうのときにジャミングフォジサスのアウトリチグルプです。左から右までかずさん：ベース、なおみさん：ピアノ、たくみちゃん：ベビ、せいこさん：ヴぉカルと清祥のよめいる、マテウ：ギターです。私たちは十月十二日にはじめのオウトリチを決めりました。このミニストリので利お祈りでください。

Ota river outreach concert preparation 太田川アウトリーチカーンサトの準備

Here is a picture of Ota river. We will be playing the outreach concert on the left side of the river. Usually, people are out walking or relaxing by the river, so we are hoping to reach out to them as the Lord wills. Mitaki Chapel is nearby so it will be very convenient. Please join us in prayer for this since we are planning the date in October.

この写真は太田川の写真です。この写真の左側のところでコンサートをする予定です。たいてい，誰かが歩いていたり、リラックスしていたりします。だから，人に届きます。三滝のチャペルは近くて，本当に便利ですね。十月　コンサートをしたいから，お祈りをしてくだいしね！

Mitaki Chapel 三滝チャペル

Here is a picture of Mitaki Chapel. Pastor Horikawa has blessed us by allowing us to practice here each week. I spoke to his mother this past Sunday and she told me the story of how her husband started the church over 40 years ago. The building was a lot smaller back then since it started as a house church and over the years how it has grown. Praise the Lord for His provision! The Lord has used this church to bless many, many people over the years...may His blessings continue!

この写真は三滝チャペルの写真です。堀川先生は私たちに三滝チャペルで練習を許してくれ、祝福してくれました。私は堀川先生のお母さんといしょうにはなしました。英子先生は、彼女のだんなさんが４０年前にこの教会を開いたときのことを話してくれました。建物もちいさく、最初は、ハウスチャーチとして、はじめたそうです。それから年月が過ぎ、主は、多くの人を祝福するためにこの教会をおおいにお使いになり、今もその祝福は続いています。

Jamming for Jesus (recent gathering/rehearsal and future plans)

Recent session
Yesterday we had another "Jamming for Jesus" musical gathering. It was a good session and we got some "real" practicing done. We continue to work on our arrangements. Basically, our arrangments are chord progressions with alternating soloists aswell as the background music for the Bible readings (mostly Psalms). Also, there are a few praise and worship songs which we have arranged to fit our "Jam band" and Bible reading style.

Group members
The group has been formed into Kazu (bass), Naomi (piano), Matthew (guitar), Seiko (vocals and Bible reading), myself on drums. Kazu's friend Keisuke will also join us occasionally when time permits. (Please pray that Keisuke will be saved). Of course, we welcome anyone who would like to join us, so Lord willing, more will come. In addition, we will be blessed with the service of volunteers who will be passing out tracts, Bibles, etc.

Future Plans
We are planning to have an outreach performance as early as October, Lord willing. Please join us in prayer, that this may be a fruitful outreach.

"Jamming for Jesus"

Tonight marked our third official "Jamming for Jesus" musical gathering at Mitaki Green Chapel. It was another blessed night. Our regular group consists of Kazu on rhythm guitar and bass, his wife Naomi on piano, her sister Seiko on percussion, Matthew on lead guitar, Kris on bass, Junko on keyboards, and myself on drums. Tonight was special since Kazu's friend Keisuke came and played guitar with us. What a treat, he is a very good player. He plays a lot around Hiroshima city. Please join us in prayer for him; that He may see the love of Christ in us and be saved.

Our Vision:
We are preparing to play monthly outreach concerts at Peace park, or perhaps some other public location. The concerts would include worship songs, instrumental jamming with Bible reading, and giving tracts. We will need a PA system and a few other things, so please pray for God's provision. Please pray that this would be a fruitful ministry.

"Especially those who belong to the family of believers..."

Today at Mitaki Pastor Kevin's sermon was on 1John3:16; about Christ's love for us, "...because He laid down His life for us..." During the sermon, Kevin brought up Galatians 6:10, which reads, "Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers."
This verse particularly ministered to me regarding the recent ministries I have been involved with. Whether it was teaching an English class for mostly church members at Takashima chapel, or Kid's Drum Time at Mitaki, or "Jamming for Jesus" at Mitaki, these are all examples of, "doing good...especially to those who belong to the family of believers."
Initially, I had struggled because I desired to evangelize, to be involved in outreaches, however the ministry opportunities that opened up were more like acts of service to bless the body of Christ. Reading Galatians 6:10 I see that such service is "especially" recommended! It is a privilege to be involved with anything the Lord is doing. Praise the Lord!

Jamming For Jesus/Final English Class at Takashima

On Saturday we had our first "Jamming for Jesus" session at Mitaki Chapel. We started out with some nice drum ensemble and piano grooves followed by a nice chord progression from our dear brother Kazu who is just beginning on guitar. Kazu's friend came and played some drums. Nice guy! Definitely good to see him, especially since he is not a believer. Hopefully, he will come again next time. The intent of this time is for fellowship and as an outreach for non believers to come and enjoy playing music together, and hopefully to experience the Joy of the Lord that they may be saved. His will be done.

This past Sunday marked the final day of the English series I taught at Takashima Chapel. The class went as usual and we read Scripture from Acts 9 about Paul's conversion experience. I used the text from the Children's Bible since it was an easier read. After reading, we wrote sentences using the key words. This final class marked the end of a year and a half of loving service together with the Mori's and the other brothers and sisters at Takashima Chapel. Hopefully, in the future we will be able to enjoy fellowship again sometime. Praise the Lord for the brothers and sisters at Takashima Chapel!

Takashima English class #5

Our English class went as usual this past weekend. We studied the passage in John 1:36-42 when John the Baptist's disciples began to follow Jesus and Andrew and his brother Simon met Jesus and Jesus told Simon he would then be called Cephas or Peter. The phrase, "the rest of..." came up since it turns out to be a relative phrase to the totality of the subject it is related to. So, I did my best to explain why we say it in English and so I used various examples such as, "the rest of the pie," "the rest of my life," "the rest of the class," etc. Trying to make a simple explanation was challenging, but I did my best. Also, another interesting thing came about when Pastor Mori asked why we use the word "Pork" when speaking about eating pig meat, and beef for cow meat. Again, it was challenging to answer. He brought up a good point when he said that rice eating countries have several words for the different parts of the rice grain. In contrast English speaking countries primarily use the word "grain." So, he said if it is important to the culture, they tend to be more specific identifications for such important things.

Mitaki Chapel Drum Time with the kids

This past Sunday, we tried a new thing with the kids at Mitaki Chapel. It was my first time to get together with them. Usually I attend the English service during this time. Here is the situation: The kids have already had Sunday school in the morning during the Japanese service. However, their parents are involved with the English service during the afternoon, so they need something to do during that time. So, I offered to teach the kids some rhythms. The kids seemed to enjoy it, although it was really loud. I was told later that the people upstairs in the English service could hear us banging away! (Oops! Sorry about that!) Our next session is scheduled for the 20th, and this time we will probably be doing it outside near the river, and away from the church!

Jesus said, "Ask and it will be given to you..."

Our fourth class at Takeshima Chapel included some seminary students from the Osaka area who were visiting for the weekend. As you can see in the picture above, everyone was studying hard. The text we used was from Luke 11:5-10. As many of you already know, Jesus tells a story about a man who has a friend come to visit and the hosting friend has no bread to offer, so he goes over to his neighbor who is in bed and after repeatedly asking, the neighbor finally gives his some bread. In the same way, Jesus said, ask and it will be given to you, seek and you shall find, knock and the door will be opened to you. As usual we read the text together, discussed the contents of the story, and used key words to write our own sentences. After writing sentences students shared their sentences with the class. Still not sure what the Lord is doing here, but for the time it continues, His will be done. Our last class is scheduled for the end of the month.

Jesus was teaching to the multitudes (Mark 4:1-9)

Our third class at Takeshima Chapel went well. We studied Mark 4:1-9; when Jesus was teaching from the boat to the multitudes. Many of the same people from last class came again to this class. One particular lady said that many years ago she studied English, but had forgotten most of it. However, she said that now it is starting to come back. Of course it is great that she is remembering the English she studied, but the best part is that we are reading God's Word. So, it is not just an English lesson, but a cleansing, refreshing, encouragement unto our hearts and minds too. After reading we used the key words of the text to write our own sentences.

Second Class at Takeshima Chapel

We had our second class at Takeshima Chapel. We began with a song that pastor Mori prepared. It was a song by Paul Simon, "Scarborough Fair". We studied the first four lines of that song which was quite interesting because it is very abstract. People seemed to enjoy it, and it even gave me an opportunity to use the popular Japanese comedian's phrase, "soo nano kankenai!" when discussing, "Parsley, sage, Rosemary, and Thyme." It seems to have nothing to do with the question, "Are you going to Scarborough Fair?" Therefore, "soo nano kankenai!" which means "nothing to do with (the previously stated subject)."
Moving on, I chose to use the NIV version of the Bible for the story about Jesus and the Centurion in Matthew chapter 8. It was a little difficult for the group, but we got through it and I think it worked out well. Afterward, we wrote our own sentences using the keywords from the text. The highlight was definitely having two new people join us! Praise the Lord for bringing some new faces! He is gracious and compassionate and worthy to be praised! His will be done.

First Class @ Takeshima Chapel/Daichi Church/(What appear to be) Great ideas

The first class at Takeshima Chapel went pretty well, considering it was the first time. There were 12 who showed up. Since it is supposed to be an outreach class, the only down side was that all were church members. But, I am sure God's purpose was served because we went into it prayerfully. Hopefully, in the future there will be more non-believers who have not heard the Gospel. But, whatever God wants to do is obviously most important. We will just have to wait and see. His will be done. Next class is scheduled for June 1st. Please pray as the Spirit leads.

Regarding Daichi church, we are still negotiating scheduling, so it appears that things are on hold for the time being. His will be done...

Which reminds me about other projects I have mentioned via prayer requests, newsletters, or blog entries, that did not take off. I have to admit, I get some (what appear to be) great ideas, only to find out that for the most part, very few materialize. Obviously, God either allows it or He clears the path. I am thankful overall regardless of what happens, because I know He is looking out for my best interest.

Spirit of the living God fall afresh on me/Praise Report!

Tonight was a blessed night at Mountain Worship here in Hiroshima. For those who don't know, Mountain Worship is a gathering of Christians from various churches throughout Hiroshima city. The name "Mountain Worship" is a result of the initial gathering place which was upon a mountain. Tonight, they spoke about the history of the gathering and its growth and how God blessed each of the workers individually, despite some difficult times. Personally, I received a freshness from His Holy Spirit that I needed during the worship time. His Love came down and filled me anew! Burdens that I was carrying were taken away and the inhibitions that had formed due the baggage were released as a result of His Love working in me. I praised the Lord with open arms tonight (something I have not done in quite a long time~opening my arms wide), receiving more than enough. Praise the Lord because He changes our hearts and fills us with His Love!

Finally, I must make a PRAISE REPORT because at the end of the night, while walking to the station with my brother Brayden, he shared with me that the Lord has encouraged him through our friendship. He continued saying that a great healing is continuing to take place. Oh, to be used to encourage the body of believers! Praise the Lord because He is a healer! Thank all of you who have been praying for Brayden, the Lord is truly doing a work in him! Let's continue.=)

Jesus loves Amimoto-san イエスさまがあみもとさんを愛している

His name is Amimoto. He's 53 and he has no children. He's been living on the streets in Hiroshima city for more than 20 years. He is kind. While we were talking today, he held his umbrella over me because it was raining. He even complimented my Japanese, although I am sure he was just being polite. He doesn't drink, but he does enjoy his cigarettes. He doesn't like music very much. He likes to read. Perhaps he'd be interested in a Bible the next time I see him. Please pray with me for Amimoto and the other homeless people in Hiroshima.

かれがあみもとさんです。五十三さいです。子供がいません。二十年ぐらいから、広島の度尾りに住んでいました。親切な人です。しゃべた時に私のうえのに傘をさしました。かれが私の日本語を賛辞をしたのですが私の日本語がへたです。礼儀正しかった。お酒のまないのですが煙草をすうことがすきです。あまり音楽がすきじゃないですけど、本を読むことがすきです。たぶん、聖書が読みたいです。あみもとさんとホームレスの人のためにおいのりしましょう！

Because Jesus Loves the Homeless of Hiroshima city

Recently, I was walking down the street in the middle of Hiroshima city. I was going to the office to take care of some things, and on my way I noticed a homeless man lying on the sidewalk. I had seen him there before, but this time was different. I continued on and went to my meeting. On the way home, he was still there. As I stood there about to cross the street and continue walking right by him, the Lord told me to talk to him and give him a tract. So, before I crossed the street I pulled a tract out of my pack and had it ready to give. So, I crossed the street and spoke with him and gave him a tract. That was it.

Out of this experience the Lord has continued to put this guy and the other homeless of Hiroshima on my heart. They are there everyday and we all just walk right by them. They need love. They are the outcasts. People look down on them. They are the shameful in a thriving society.

However, God has been been ancouraging me to reach out to them saying, 'for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in;'I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.' Matt. 25:35-36

Please pray for guidance regarding this potential ministry. I am thinking to go out on a particular day or evening consistently every week to talk to them, to bring them food and a tract if they are interested. Perhaps it will cause others to want to come out with me. Please pray.

Love in Action, Straight from the Source

I often pray about having a love for the Japanese people; and people in general. I am often convicted that I really need to love people. So, on that topic, I got an email from a wise old brother the other day which was very encouraging and insightful.

"There is a very small word in John 3:16.... "so" loved the world..... How great is that little word "so"? I think it should be spoken "sooooooooooooooo" loved the world.....and then pondered a bit. Keep tellin' them of God's love Tyler....and show them ....love them..hug them...speak to their hearts from yours, with God's love as your power source... and when you get thirsty...go back to the spout and drink deeply....there's plenty of Water to spare."

MAY PRAYER REQUESTS

Please pray:

• For the new English class at Takeshima Chapel, that it would bear fruit. Also, that God would provide other ministry opportunities to be a part of.
  
• For Brayden, a brother I met who is teaching here and is still healing from some difficult times. That God would change his heart and relieve Him from the heavy burden he is still carrying from his past.
  
• For God's wisdom about a potential home fellowship here in called Inokuchi we have been discussing at Mitaki. I am really hoping it works out because I need more fellowship!
  
• That I would walk in the Spirit and have a servant's heart for the Japanese people. There are always struggles here, both personal and with other people, so please pray that I would keep my eyes on Jesus no matter what is going on.
  
• For my Japanese language studies.

"Eikawa" Outreach in Fukuyama, Hiroshima

I just received word from Pastor Mori at Takeshima Chapel in Fukuyama, Hiroshima that we will being classes on May 11th. The classes will last from 2 until 3pm every other Sunday. We will be having an "eikawa" styled class using stories from the Bible primarliy about Jesus. Currently, the proposed outline is as follows:

Class outline:

• (5min.) We will begin with usual Greetings: How are you? How's the weather? What's the date? etc.
• (10min.) A warm up game using familiar subjects like fruits, vegetable, etc.
• (10min.) We may have a song (in English). If we do, we will give the students copies of the words of the song with "furigana".
• (10min.) LISTENING: I will read the story at least two times in English (*We may read it in Japanese, but only if necessary. Otherwise, they can read it silently to themselves as a reference during the lesson.)
• (10min.) VOCABULARY: We will reiview the keywords and discuss their meaning.
• (10min.) READING: Together we will read the story again at least two times after studying the words.
• (5min.) We will go over any questions from the students.

Please pray that the Lord will bless this time of outreach by means of teaching English.

Blessed！祝福ことがいただきましたよ！

After one week of work I am finally starting to feel settled in. I am very blessed to have a great new apartment and two nice schools to work at. In May I will be starting a new ministry project with pastor Mori at Takeshima chapel. We will be doing an English conversation class using Bible stories as our text. Right now Takeshima chapel is preparing. I look forward to seeing what the Lord has planned.

やっぱり１週かんで仕事をして、いい感じになります。　当たらしアパートといい小学校を二つおかげで、僕は本当に祝福いただきましたました。５月から僕と森先生といしょうに当たらしミニストリーがはじめています。 私たちはせいしょうからストリーの英会話をしっています。ここから、竹島チャペルはじゅんびをします。僕は神様のプランを見たいよ！

Prayer Requests

So far, being here is both challenging and exciting. I am constantly reminded of my weaknesses and the reality of my need for total dependence on Christ. As I continue to settle into life in Hiroshima I would like to ask for prayer. Please pray as the Spirit leads.

• For the people of Hiroshima to know the hope that is in Christ and be saved.
• That I could interact with each person with the humility of Christ; being kind and gentle, slow to speak and quick to listen, that they would know Christ's love in me.
• For spiritual and physical health. Just as there is great spiritual oppression here, there is also a variety of illnesses that circulate around.
• For a healthy church and good fellowship.
• For ministry opportunities and His wisdom in what to take part in.
• For my Japanese language studies.

As I have stated before, the main purpose of this year is to become a better Japanese speaker so that I can be of greater service to the Japanese people in the future. However, in the process of learning the Japanese language and culture, I also have the privelege of being available as an instrument of the Lord. Therefore, I look forward to seeing what God has planned for me here in Hiroshima in addtion to my studies. His will be done.

Greetings from Hiroshima!

Greetings from Hiroshima! I have just arrived and I am anticipating the Lord to lead me into the ministry He has for me. Of course, my main objective is to study Japanese so that I may be of greater use in the future than just an English teacher. So, this is a time for prayer and waiting to see where the Lord leads me. His will be done.