Reaching Hiroshima

(Last) Newsletter August 2010

2010-09-13T05:43:00.000-07:00

Dear Brother and Sisters,

I hope you all are doing well. It has a been a great summer thus far and the heat and humidity are still ablaze here in Hiroshima.

I am very pleased to report that July 25th Yukiji Miyaoka and I were married in Hiroshima at Daichi Church.

It was a wonderful day and we were fortunate to have a lovely wedding followed by a very enjoyable honeymoon back in the US visiting friends and family.

Since this is our first year of marriage I am reminded of the the need to stay home as directed by God's Word in Deuteronomy 24:5.

"When a man hath taken a new wife, he shall not go out to war, neither shall he be charged with any business: [but] he shall be free at home one year, and shall cheer up his wife which he hath taken."

As a result, I will be taking on a lighter schedule in months to come which will primarily consist of continuing to teach a couple of Wednesday night English Bible study classes.

Interestingly, the Lord has allowed this decrease to happen gradually, and in due time.

Overall, it seems that our time in Japan is waning, as the Lord has put it on our heart to move to Canada (that I may pursue graduate school), or back to the US within the next year or so.

The Lord's will be done.

So, I am writing to say thank you to all of you who have supported me as I have desired to serve the Lord here in Japan.

I look forward to staying in touch although I will not be sending a monthly newsletter any longer.

Of course, should something come up, being that we are a body in Christ, I look forward to hearing from you and sharing with you also.

In Jesus,

Tyler Barrett

May 2010 Newsletter

2010-06-03T05:19:00.000-07:00

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

I hope all is well. Great to be having summer weather!

This past month at Daichi church our Tuesday night prayer and worship meeting has been blessed time. The Lord has lead us to be less busy in the way of less songs and more waiting/meditating upon the Lord. Of course, it has been so refreshing to just sit at His feet.

Our Wednesday English/Bible class has changed a little. Recently, since Pastor Lee's children are now doing home school I have become their English teacher. So usually our Wednesday classes begin with Hawn-ee (1st year Jr. high) followed by Onyu (3rd grade) and Natsuko (5th grade, Onyu's friend who lives next door). Our third group for the day is an English Bible study with Beth (Pastor Lee's wife) and Mari (who serves full-time at the church). Of course, we pray that Natsuko will come to know the Lord one day soon.

Also, I will be giving a sermon on 6/27 in Japanese.

Please pray as the Spirit leads.

Thanks for reading.

In Jesus,

Tyler

April Newsletter

2010-05-01T04:33:00.000-07:00

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

I hope all is well. It has been a colder Spring season over here...so much for "global warming"!

This month at Daichi Church our Tuesday night prayer and worship time was a real blessing. We experienced the Spirit of God moving upon us in a more intimate way than in past months. We were so blessed to experience the the gifts of the Spirit as the Lord ministered to us through the laying on of hands as we prayed for one another. Also, the Lord has continued to encourage us that He is at work here in the city of Hiroshima.

Our English classes at Daichi Church has focused upon the children. Particularly the neighborhood girl Natsuko who comes regularly. We pray that the Lord would indeed plant a seed in her heart that she may one day be saved. Interestingly enough, our Bible study classes have been put on hold this month due to lack of interest or schedules or what not. In any case, we trust that the Lord has a plan whatever it may be.

Also this month, I gave a sermon in Japanese for the first time. We studied the second chapter of Ephesians. Praise the Lord that the church was edified. Pastor Lee said, "It was great...but not because of what you said!" Meaning, the Spirit of the Lord was upon us. Hallelujah! Next, I will be teaching on Ephesians chapter three toward the end of in June. I would appreciate your prayers as I begin preparations.

Please pray as the Spirit leads.

Thank you for reading! May the Lord continue to lead us and guide us each and every step!

In Jesus,

Tyler

March 2010 Newsletter

2010-04-04T17:58:00.000-07:00

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

I hope you are doing well. The cherry blossoms are in full effect! Another wonderful part of God's beautiful creation! This time of the year tends to be a time of transition since it is the end of the fiscal year for schools. So, at the moment school is on break and we are gearing up for the new year to begin next week. Here is a little of what has been going on this past month.

Classes at Hiroshima Int'l Univ. are still on break.

Our Tuesday night prayer and worship meeting continues as usual. The focus of this meeting is to pray for the Hiroshima city. That being said, the need for prayer can be seen by the events that took place this past Tuesday 3/30 (the same day that the group met to pray for the people of the city). On that day it was reported that 160 people committed suicide throughout Japan; the most suicides in a single day for Japan. Locally, on lines that stop at the station near my home there were two separate suicide incidents, just hours apart, where people jumped in front on oncoming trains. This is one of the reasons why we gather on Tuesdays; to pray for the lost who have lost hope so much that they would take their own lives. Lord help us!

Our Wednesday night English/Bible class included the viewing of the Jesus video in Japanese. I was encouraged to see how the neighborhood girl who regularly attends the class (Natsuko) was captivated by the story so much that she watched nearly half of the over 2 hour film before she had to return home. Praise the Lord for this time and the various ways the Gospel can be shared!

One final note, I will be giving a sermon on 4/25 in Japanese. It will be my first time to do this exclusively in Japanese. I will be reading/reciting most of it. Nevertheless, I would appreciate your prayers for this and for the overall hopeless state of many in Japan. Please pray as the Spirit leads.

Thanks for reading! May the Lord continue to guide us each and every step.

In Jesus,

Tyler

February 2010 Newsletter

2010-03-01T00:55:00.000-08:00

Dear Brother and Sisters,

I hope all is well. These past months and days have been eventful to say the least. I've been hearing a lot about Matthew 24:4-8, which is also a reminder of how important it is to continue sharing the Gospel.

The class at Hiroshima International University has been on break.

Our Daichi church prayer for the city of Hiroshima and worship time has continued. We are still but a few, but the Lord continues to remind us to be faithful to prayer since we know that the fight for salvation is indeed a spiritual battle to be fought in the Spirit through prayer. Recent themes of our meetings as a result of the manifestation of the gifts of the Spirit include "unity in the church" and "forgiveness".

At Daichi church on Wednesdays our children's English class has been steady. Natsuko, Ayaka, Onyu, and Chan-soo have attended regularly this month. Our themes for this class have been "John 3:16", "God loves you", and "One God." As for our adult class, we have not had any non-believers attend this month. So rather than being an outreach at this time it is a time to build up the believers in thw who attend such as Beth and Mari.

Also, at Daichi, I have begun my first of six sermons I will teach this year in the book of Ephesians. It was an expository study looking at the first chapter of Ephesians which could be summarized as, the blessings we have and in Christ and Paul's prayer for the people of Ephesus. I am very grateful to my brother pastor Lee for translating for me, and I am praying and studying so that by the 5th or 6th study of this 6 part series I will be able to at least read the sermon in Japanese without translation. Lord willing it will be done!

One final note, I am very pleased to announce that I am now engaged to be married to Yukiji Miyaoka! She is a Proverbs 31 women indeed! I am so very fortunate and thankful for her. We met when I first moved to Hiroshima almost two years ago. Since that time I have prayed continuously asking if it was His will for us to marry. On September 23, 2009 the Lord answered my prayer during my quiet-time. We began pre-marital counseling this past January. I proposed on Valentine's Day. We will marry on July 25, 2010 at Daichi church in Hiroshima, Japan. The Lord is good, and His timing is perfect.

Thank you for reading! May the Lord continue to lead us each and every step!

In Jesus,

Tyler

January Newsletter

2010-02-02T05:48:00.001-08:00

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

I hope you are all doing well.

This month at the Hiroshima International University, due to the long break and illnesses, we met only once, but what an interesting conversation it was. Three ladies attended and each received a Bible before we said goodbye. The Lord led us through our conversation together, from issues about world politics to what the Bible says about drinking. We pray that the seeds planted with the people who attend will bear fruit one day, as the Lord wills.

At Daichi church our Tuesday night prayer and worship time was also less frequent than we would have liked, since we were only able to meet once during this month. But, at the meeting we were blessed with the attendance of a missionary group from Korea who served at the church for about a week. It was a big group of about 15 or 20 people. So many times our time on Tuesdays is just pastor Lee, Mari, Mr. Kim and I. Having such a large group was really a blessing which the Lord used to encourage me about unity. One of the thoughts was realizing that this is a picture of heaven where people from every nation and tongue, through the generations, are united in Christ. Amen!

At the Daichi English/Bible study we met as scheduled. This month for our children's class Ayaka, Natsuko, Chad, Ahynn, Onyu, and Chansoo joined us. As usual We had a blast! Our advanced Bible study group included Chad, Beth, Mari, and Hikaru. The Lord spoke to our hearts as we studied His Word. Hikaru will not be able to join any longer since he will be studying abroad, but he wrote me an encouraging email. He wrote:

"Thank you today. I could go to Daiichi Kyokai (church) today after a long time. I enjoy talking to you. Your conversation about Christian is good for me because I had not known about it."

Lastly, it is with great sadness while also rejoicing that I write about my dear brother Micah Stout who went home to be with the Lord on January 6, 2010 after battling cancer and a blood infection. He was 32. He was a Godly man whom the Lord used to reach people wherever he was. I was fortunate enough to meet with him one last time here on earth this past summer in Atlanta, Georgia. It was a special time. I learned a lot from Micah and I look forward to the day we will meet again in the presence of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Please pray for his wife and children.

Thank you for reading. May the Lord continue to guide us each and every step!

In Jesus,

Tyler

December Newsletter 2009

2010-01-06T23:47:00.000-08:00

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Another year has come and gone! I hope you have all gotten off to a good start so far this year. Here is a brief summary of some things that happened this past December in Hiroshima.

At Hiroshima International University during our Monday night English conversation/occasional Bible study we met only a couple times and Junko was the only one to show up. She is a part time instructor who like studying English. She is talkative and we had some interesting conversations about various world view topics and even about how Christians ought to approach marriage. She was surprised to find out that Christians are to be "equally yoked". It seems that these types of conversations tend to leave an impression and perhaps correct or reinforce misconceptions which nonbelievers can have about Christianity.11

Our Tuesday night prayer and worship time at Daichi Church continued to be a great time of edification for all who attended. Our focus continues to be to pray for the people of the city...that the veil which has blinded their eyes would be removed and that they would be saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ!

During our Wednesday English Bible study at Daichi church we were blessed to have a new student from Korea. She came because her friend (who not a believer!) recommended her to come. Of course it was great to meet her, but the best part was that she came to church on Sunday! Seems that the Lord is answering prayers and bringing more people to church! Amen!

I was able to return home from December 23rd through January 3rd only to enjoy a great time of fellowship with friends and family! Praise the Lord! During this time I was blessed and encouraged especially in regard to doors that may be opening during the course of this next year. May the Lord be glorified in 2010!

Please pray as the Spirit leads. Thanks for reading! May the Lord continue to guide us each and every step as we begin this new year!

In Jesus,

Tyler

November Newsletter

2009-11-30T06:48:00.000-08:00

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Happy belated Thanksgiving!

This month we were blessed with the arrival Mr. Kim from Korea who will be serving with us here in Hiroshima at Daichi church. Mr. Kim and I were able to get along quite well speaking Japanese (since I don't speak Korean and he doesn't speak English very well) which was an unexpected blessing from the Lord. Thank you Lord! On Saturday, we went out into the city and distributed tracts to whom ever the Lord brought our way. It looks to be the start of wonderful service together. I look forward to serving with brother Kim.

Also at Daichi church we continued our Tuesday worship and "prayer for the city" gathering. Each time the Lord continues to encourage us and has equipped us to edify one another through the gifts of the Spirit.

Our English class at Daichi has been a little less popular this month due to illnesses, scheduling, and the weather. However, when we were able to meet, Hikaru, a student from one of the local universities was able to join us. Please pray for students Natsuko, Yuko, and Hikaru.

Our English class at Hiroshima International University was also a bit sporatic this month. Please pray for Junko and the rest of the students who attend.

Our "Jazz for Jesus" concerts at a couple local cafes worked out well. Thank you for your prayers! We were able to combine jazz and classical music with Bible reading and probing questions about Jesus and the beattitudes. The people who came were very responsive and even took part in our question and answers during the concert. When we asked "what kind of person is a person who is mericful" a man in the audience shouted out, "I am!!!" It was comedy, and yet the Gospel message was indeed preached during the perfromance. Also, each person was given a pack of tissues or a tract with the Gospel message written on it. Praise the Lord that seeds were scattered! We pray they may bare fruit!

Also, as a result of the concerts I was able to spend some personal time talking with Mr. Nakano who is a professing buddhist. He approached me at work full of curiousity and interest (he teaches at the same school as I do). He was very curious about my faith in Christ and asked several questions. The next day our conversation continued and we met for coffee. He continued to ask about my "conversion experience", how I was changed, and what it felt like...such great questions, right?! During each reply I felt the Holy Spirit leading me in what to say. Praise the Lord! He wants to meet again so please pray that the Lord remove the blindness that has been placed over his eyes that he may be saved by faith in Jesus Christ!

Thank you for reading! Thank you for your prayers! May the Lord bless you and continue to lead us each and every step!

In Jesus,
Tyler

October Newsletter

2009-11-05T03:59:00.001-08:00

Dear Brothers and Sisters,
I hope you are all keeping warm as winter approaches. During the month of October we had some good opportunities where people heard the Gospel. Even though the ground is rock hard here and people often seem to be indifferent when confronted with questions about life or death or just better living in general, some good Spirit led conversations have been taking place.

At Hiroshima International University we had a very probing conversation during our Monday night English Bible study. After reading about Jesus and his disciples, the question was asked, "Would you follow Jesus?" One student said, "No, because I don't understand him." Which was very honest. Another student said, "Maybe...because he teaches good things." These two responses are par for the course here...But, they keep coming back and "Maybe" the Lord will open up their hearts that they may be saved! Please pray for the students of this class.

At Daichi church on Wednesday nights, we have the regular attendance from a couple of Pastor Lee's daughters and an elementary school student from the neighborhood named Natsuko. For our adult class, other than a couple of church members, we have had one faithful student named Yuko coming to our Wednesday night class. Recently God has opened the door to very deep conversations during our adult class. We have been able to continuously preach the Gospel while teaching through the various scriptures we have studied. As result of our time to together, as God has led the way, we were able to give Yuko a Bible. Of course, we pray that all such efforts would bare fruit. Please pray for these classes.

Our Tuesday night Prayer and Worship time for the city of Hiroshima continues to gather and we appreciate your prayers as the Spirit leads.

Please also pray for Pastor Lee and his family as they have made a decision to home school their children next year. It is not an easy decision since this is a group culture and his oldest son is a 6th grader who has been in the system since the first grade. One of the reasons for the change is due to the endless activities that take place on Sundays. The Lord's day is not a priority here. Particularly, if you are in a school club or sports team, the activities and games usually fall on Sundays. Additionally, school community events also fall on Sundays and there is great pressure for parents, Christian or not, to join the group. That being said, Pastor Lee has been faithful throughout, and has not allowed his children to play the Sunday games or attend the events. I respect him for this decision, especially since some members and or/ pastors of other churches don't think it is such a big deal. As a result, I believe the church is suffering as cultural expectations infiltrate into the church (I believe this is a world-wide epidemic). I think Jesus made it pretty simple when He said, "Seek ye first the kingdom of God..." Please pray for the Christians of Japan to stand up and stand out and be radical in a country where being radical generally has severe social consequences.

Thanks for reading,

In Jesus,
Tyler

September Newsletter

2009-10-02T03:11:00.001-07:00

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

I hope all is well. God continues to be faithful in all things as we begin a new season here in Hiroshima Japan.

Although we are only a handful, our Tuesday night worship and prayer has time has been a wonderful blessing to the few who are faithful to attend. We continue to lift up the people of Hiroshima in prayer while also worshipping our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and allowing for the gifts of the Spirit should the Lord allow. I have been so blessed by this time, particularly because we all just simply show up to seek the Lord together. Of course, structure is a good thing, and the Lord does desire order in the church, but this time of "whatever the Lord has in store" as we wait on and worship Him seems also to be a good thing resulting in the group being recharged and refreshed each and every time. Hallelujah!

Our Wednesday Children's English class/English Bible Study study has also been good. This group has always been just a few, but each season seems to bring at least one new face if not more. This season in our children's English class we have Natsuko, Yuki, Kazuki, Onyu, Hawn, and Chang-soo. We pray that they would grow up knowing the Lord. For our Bible study class we have Beth, Ms. Yamada, and Yuko(if I'm not mistaken) who have been joining us thus far.

Mr. Iimura is not longer attending and has informed one of our church members that it is because he doesn't want to hear about the Bible or Jesus anymore. Of course, I hope that he will have a change of heart. Overall, he has been presented with the truth of Jesus Christ as the Lord and Savior and has made his choice and there is not much more we can do for him except remain available if he should choose to return.

We have just began a Saturday evening Bible study here in Kure which we are hoping to continue once or twice per month. Our first meeting included three people from three different countries united in Christ; sister Yukiji (Japan), brother Tyrone (Philippines), and myself (America) as we studied the first chapter of Luke together. Tyrone was particularly blessed when we read Luke 1:37 which states, "With God nothing shall be impossible." Such a short verse but with tremdous truth, especially since it was in reference to the birth of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ!

School is back in session at Hiroshima International University as of today, so I am looking forward to the monthly Bible study during brother Tim's Monday night English class going on there as the Lord wills.

We will have two Jazz for Jesus concerts at two local cafes next month on 11/21 and 11/22 where we will be publicly reading scripture and playing instrumental music. We will also have tracts available. We pray that the Lord would be glorified in this endeavor.

Thank you for reading! Please pray as the Spirit leads.

In Jesus,
Tyler

July/August Newsletter

2009-08-25T08:35:00.001-07:00

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

I hope you are all well. It has been a good summer, full of different events and activities and overall good rest. So much to be thankful for, praise the Lord.

I was able to return home for a couple weeks to visit family and friends. My main intention for returning was to visit my dear brother Micah Stout who is battling cancer. Please pray for his healing if it be His will.

Also this summer during the weekend of August 13-16 we played a total of four concerts; three at local establishments where we gave out tract-like postcards which stated our group history having started as a jam session at the church in addition to the wonderful Word of John 3:16. Our final fourth concert took place at Daichi Church after the service where we read Psalms in between songs. Those who attended told us they were indeed edified and refreshed by the reading of scriptures during our concert.

Praise the Lord for the edification of the body of Christ! Praise the Lord for the good relationships which were established during these times! Also, praise the Lord for our two non-believing friends Yuh Nagai and Kouji Hirai who played guitar and keyboards with us and heard the Gospel message in addition to witnessing the love of God demonstrated by the body of Christ! Of course, we pray they may one day be saved.

Our classes at the Hiroshima International University on Mondays will resume in October since they have an extended break.

Our Tuesday Praise and Worship time at Daichi church will resume Sept. 8th.

Our Thursday English Bible study will resume Sept. 10th.

Please pray as the Spirit leads.

Thanks for reading and may we continue to keep our eyes on Jesus in whatever we are doing!

In Jesus,
Tyler

June Newsletter

2009-07-02T05:34:00.001-07:00

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Here is what has been happening in June:

Praise Report:
*It was a blessing to be able to share from Isaiah about Hezikiah to college students from Korea at a gathering in Tokuyama. It was quite a detailed study, but I trust the Lord lead us the entire time.
*I received good marks on my recent M.A. paper, praise the Lord!

Our Monday night English/Bible study at Hiroshima International University has seen regular attendance from Junko, Su-jong, and Kaori. We also have about five or so other students who come fairly regularly. On the last Monday of each month we have a Bible study. It is always probing and students are usually very open and honest. This past Monday at our Bible study, one of the ladies was asked about her thoughts on "eternal life". Her response was interesting and sad...she said she could not imagine the idea of eternal life since she was a Buddhist. This is a pretty good example of how challenging it can be just to talk about Biblical concepts in Japan. Thankfully, we trust that God is at work and we are just instruments.

On Tuesday nights we have just begun a Prayer and Worship meeting at Daichi church. It is a time for musical worship, prayer, scripture reading, and the manifestation of the gifts of the spirit. Particularly with the gifts of the Sprirt, it is defintely someting that I believe the Lord is encouraging us to take part in during this time, especially because the common practices of the Japanese church is to focus on other things than the edification of the body through the gifts of the Spirit. Paul tells us, "I would not have you be igonorant of (the gifts of the Spirirt)"(1Cor.12:1) The point is we as a group on Tuesday nights have been very blessed as we gather in Jesus name seeking to pray for the city of Hiroshima and to edify the body of Christ according to the God's Word.

The Thrusday night English class at Daichi church seems to have weened this past month. Attendance has been low overall. Perhaps it is because summer break is near which means we will be wrapping it up as of July 9th until September. Nevertheless, we have been able to continue preaching the Gospel to the non-believers who attend. As for the future of this class, may God's will be done.

Concert preparations have continued and we are excited to be venturing out this August to be playing instrumental music in some rather secular venues such as a bar, two cafes, and at Daichi church. Our purpose for this group is two fold. First, Two of the five members of this group are non-believers and we intend on bearing witness to them while rehearsing at the church and playing together in various locations...Second, we will be sharing the Gospel. Basically, we will tell the story of our group history right before taking our break.

Here is what I will be saying (Interpreted into English):

"We began as a "Jam Session" at Mitaki Green Chapel. Most of us are Christians. We believe "That God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son and whosoever will believe in Him will not perish but have ever lasting life." (John 3:16) If you would like to know more we'd love to talk with you or you can simply take some literature available over here. Thank you for coming. We will be back in twenty minutes or so. Stick around."

We pray this time will be fruitful endeavor.

Lastly, contray to my prior newsletter which stated I would be going to Cambodia; I have changed my plans and will be returning to the States to visit my dear brother in Christ Micah Stout who is battling cancer in Atlanta, Georgia. Please pray for complete healing of his body.

Thanks for reading. Please pray as the Spirit leads. May the Lord continue to lead and guide us each and every step.

In Jesus,
Tyler

May Newsletter

2009-06-08T14:46:00.000-07:00

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Summer is near! I hope you are all doing well! I will just jump right in...

Our Thursday night English class has continued as usual. The Lord has put it on my heart to take a few minutes during each class, especially with the children, to talk about Jesus and how accessible He is through prayer at anytime. The kids have responded well, and appear to be relatively equipped for receiving the Lord...After our discussions, its game time as usual! The adults have also been responsive and I trust that through the passages we have studied they are also relatively equipped when the Lord should call upon their hearts to receive Him. Therefore, we continue to pray for Natsuko, Ms. Yamada, Mr. Iimura, Sowon, Junsoo and the Youn family.

Also with Pastor Lee and some of the Daichi members, on June 20th we will be meeting with Korean exchange students in Tokuyama. Please pray that the Lord would provide and prepare all the things to make this a great trip. Many of the students are not Christian, so of course we want this to be a fruitful time! His will be done!!!

Monday nights have been steady at Hiroshima International University. Praise the Lord the Jehovah's Witness who was attending and appeared to be a "wolf" trying to influence the students has not been attending!!! At the class we have seen Kaori, Junko, Satoshi, Makoto, and Su-youn on a regular basis. Su-youn is already a believer and the Lord has used her to share insights with the other students during our once per month Bible study. Our last once per month Bible study was a good one indeed, especially since we were able to go in depth about the trinity or our monotheistic God. We didn't expect to go there, but the Lord lead every step. Praise the Lord these students have heard the gospel!!!...Of course, we pray that they may they receive salvation.

Jamming for Jesus took an interesting turn when our piano player and bass player couple dropped out this past month. The Lord lead them into a different direction. But, as the Lord "taketh away" the Lord also "giveth" and we have been blessed with John from Daichi church who has agreed to sing and do outreaches with us. We will have rehaearsal tomorrow (Tuesday). Praise the Lord! May He lead us in the partculars this summer.

Also, my friend Yuh Nagai will be coming down in August to play a few concerts with me and a few others from the local churches here in Hiroshima. We will be paying instrumental music at these events, in addition to playing at Daichi church on Sunday with Bible reading. Pastor Lee has asked me to give the message that morning especially since Yuh will be there and it might be good for him to hear what the Lord puts on my heart. Please pray that May Yuh be saved and that the Lord will use this time to reach others!

Lastly, July 21-28th I will be visiting the Records in Cambodia. They are a missionary family I met at Mitaki Green Chapel. Please pray that the Lord would lead every step of this trip and that it would be a blessing for all of us!

Praise the Lord for my M.A. studies which continue to go well, and for the refreshed attitude toward studying Japanese!

Thanks for reading! May the Lord be glorified in our lives!

In Jesus,
Tyler

Hiroshima International University

2009-05-29T07:13:00.000-07:00

On Monday we had an excellent class at the Hiroshima International University. Brother Tim and I were able to share the gospel with four non-believers...We used a text call "Book of Hope" which is designed for Japanese students. The Lord allowed us to go in depth and present the gospel with full force...We actually went about twenty minutes over...Lord willing, it was a fruitful time.

Golden Week　Ｇ．Ｗ．

2009-05-13T01:44:00.001-07:00

We had an excellent Golden Week. My friend Yuh Nagai came to visit from Kanagawa area. He joined us on guitar for our three events.

Ｇ．Ｗ．はすばらしかった！ながいゆうさんかながわから来ました。三回のＪＦＪのＥＶＥＮＴＳといしょうにギターをひった。

We played by Ota river where people heard the Bible being read in public. We played at a cafe called Jervis where we built relationships with others. Finally, at Daichi church where we played for Korean students who were on a retreat and encouraged them telling them that God has a plan and has given gifts to each of us.

私たちは大田川で音楽の時にせいしょうを読みましたので人たちが聞きました。ＪＥＲＶＩＳのカフェで音楽をひっていましたから人たち会いました。だいち教会で留学生から音楽をひったのあとで、神様のプランとギフトのメーセジを言ってあげました。

The Lord was working during this time and particularly allowed for Yuh to hear his Word, listen to my testimony, and see the fellowship of believers. I pray that Yuh can one day be saved.

ながいさんは神のことばを聞いて、私のストリーも聞いて、神様の愛からクリスチャンのほうが見ました。私はながいさんをくりすちゃんになりたいことがほしいからを祈りします。

At this point, we are preparing our Jamming for Jesus group for summer events. Please pray for our group to have opportunities and be used by the Lord to reach the Lost.

今からＪＦＪの夏ＥＶＥＮＴＳがじゅんびします。これから、お祈りしてください。

March-April Newsletter

2009-04-30T07:53:00.001-07:00

Dear Brothers and Sisters,
I hope you are well. It has been a couple months since my last newsletter. During that time I enjoyed a visit back home in Monterey and a pleasant move to Kure city which is just outside Hiroshima city (about an hour by train). Neverthless, business has continued as usual.Our Jamming for Jesus group has scheduled three events during our up and coming string of national holidays called "Golden Week". First we will have an outreach by the Otagawa river, then we will play at Jervis cafe, and finally we will play at Daichi church for the college retreat students. Definitely looking forward to these spirit led, fun filled opportunities!

Our Daichi church English Bible study classes have grown, Praise the Lord! We continue to pray for increase what a pleasure it is to see the lord answer our prayers!For our first class back after our break, we had 2 new helpers, Kyung su and Mari, along with 16 others including students and parents of students! It was real encouragement! The following week there weren't as many, but still the class is bigger than before and that is a good thing!

My move to Hiro has allowed to me to team up my brother Tim who teaches at the nearby university. He has started an "English Salon" on Monday evenings and fortunately I will have plenty of time to join him. We pray that it will be a time for opportunities to reach students as the spirit leads. So far, there are two other teachers who attend. One is a lady who is not a believer and the other is a man who is a Jehovah's Witness. May the Spirit lead regarding these two for sure! Our first time together was revealing, in that I was able to share that my main purpose in life is to follow Christ. Tim and I are definitely praying for the about the Jehovah's witness situation since he has already asked if he can bring a J.W. missionary with him to join our discussion. Time politely denied his request, since we sure don't want to facilitate a time where he can influence students.

Thanks for reading! Please pray as the Spirit leads!

In Jesus,
Tyler 8

Thursday's first class！木曜日のさいしょのクラス！

2009-04-30T05:54:00.000-07:00

On Thursday nights there are two classes. Here is our first class. It is a children's class. From left to right/back to front we have Junsoo, Hawn, Eric, Austin, Natsuko, and Onyu. Praise the Lord for the little ones!

木曜日の授業が二つです。これはさいしょのクラスです。ひだりうしろからジュンスくん、ファンくん、エリクくん、なつこちゃん、おんゆちゃん。このこどもたちからかみさまを賛美をします！

Praise the Lord,the class is getting bigger! クラスが大きになって、神様を賛美をします！

2009-04-17T01:18:00.000-07:00

Our Thursday night Daichi Church English classes have grown! We had a total of about 18 students! Praise the Lord the increase! Many are non-believers. We have been praying for increase, so God has answered our prayers! Let' continue praying that they may hear and receive God's Word!

木曜日の英語のクラスが大きになります。十八人ぐらいきました！神様を賛美します！新人たちが神様をしんじれらないです。私たちはクラスが大きになりたいですね。たから、たくさんお祈りをしましたね。そして、神様は私たちのお祈りをこたりました！ここから、私たちはこの人たちが神様のことばを聞いてもらいますから、おいのりしましょうね！

Tadaima! ただいま！

2009-04-10T17:54:00.000-07:00

Back in Japan after a nice visit to the U.S. I just moved to Hiro in the Kure area and I am happy to be here. Praise the Lord for blessing me with a great apartment to live in! Our preparations for Jamming for Jesus/Jamming for Joy (outreach/jam band fellowship) have already begun and will be continuing every Wednesday evening this month. Also, our Daichi church English classes will be beginning next week April 16th. May the Lord be glorified! =)

ただいま！アメリカから日本に帰りました。楽しかったです。私は呉市の広町にひっこしたばっかりで、しあわせです。僕のアパートがすごいです。神様をかんしゃしますね！今からＪＦＪのじゅんびしています。今月の毎水曜日リハーサルがあります。そして、第一教会で来週の木曜日英語授業がはじまります。神様にかんしゃしますね！

End of the fiscal year/ New Season coming

2009-03-12T04:40:00.000-07:00

This evening we finished up our 2008-2009 fiscal year of English class.

For our beginners English class we have seen Hawn, Onyu, and Junsoo regularly. Also, until they moved recently, A-shun and her brother Chan had been attending. In addition, Natsuko and her friend Kayoko had been attending for the past couple months. Unfortunately, Kayoko has not continued, but Natsuko has been consistent and today she brought her friends Mayuho and Hikari! Praise the Lord for these little ones! It is a miracle from the Lord that Natsuko has been able to come, since it was about 6 years ago when pastor Lee first invited Natsuko's mother and her family to church! Well, here we are six years later and God is moving! We hope and pray that this the start of something for His glory. We hope to share the love of the Lord and that eventually the Lord will reveal Himself to them! Please pray with us!

For our English Bible study our core group has been Junsoo, Chan, Hawn, and Beth. But, as I mentioned before, Chan has moved. A Daichi member named Takaharu Yamamoto has come off and on to audit the course. He just likes hanging out. What a nice guy he is! We have also been blessed with students who are new to Daichi church such as Mr. Iimura and Ms. Yamada. So far they have come fairly regularly and heard the Gospel message, also they have expressed interest in returning to the class next month. Please pray that they would continue coming.

We will resume class on 4/16 after a month long break. May His will be done!

Our next Jamming for Jesus will be May 3rd. Please pray as the Spirit leads.

One final note, last Saturday we met to hand out tracts in downtown Hiroshima. The Lord seems to be moving us to become more active in the city. While it is true that 99% of tracts end up on the garbage, we know that 1% is worth every effort! So, we are praying that the Lord would lead us in our desire to reach the people by simply giving tracts and being available. Please pray that this new season of reaching out would be fruitful.

Daichi church sermon

2009-02-16T00:01:00.000-08:00

This past Sunday Pastor Lee had me give the sermon at Daichi church. He interpreted from English to Japanese in addition to some written Korean translations. (My job was pretty easy in comparison!) The message was from Luke 10:38-42, about Jesus visiting Martha and Mary.

January 2009 Newsletter

2009-02-06T01:26:00.001-08:00

Dear Brothers and Sisters,
I hope you are all doing well and getting off to a good start this new year. It has been a couple months since I have written a newsletter. After a blessed Christmas break back home I returned to Japan and it has been business as usual. I must admit, during the past few months personal struggles have been difficult at times, but as we are all aware, in the end the Lord has His purposes and growth occurs; praise the Lord!

As for the new year, the "Jamming for Jesus music ministry" has ceased due to business, a need for a new place to gather, traveling, cold weather, etc. It is possible that it may continue and that we may get together and prepare to do some musical outreaches when the weather warms up, but as for now we will just have to wait and see; as the Lord leads.

Our Thursday Kids English class and English Bible study at Daichi Church has continued and we have even seen some new faces; praise the Lord! In the children's class we had two new girls Natsuko and Kayoka. They are friends of Onyu who is Pastor Lee's daughter; they go to school together. Pastor Lee told me that it is the first time their mother Riku (and the children) have come the church after six years! Hopefully, this is the start of more visits to come.

In our English Bible study Junsoo's sister joined us last week! Also, during our study (about Mary pouring perfume on the feet of Jesus), I saw Junsoo's mother in the back with her head bowed and hands in a prayer position. This was interesting because Pastor Lee has told me she and her family are not believers, although they have been coming to the (Korean) church for the past couple years because they can fellowship with their fellow Korean people. However, Pastor Lee has said he has seen some progress toward receiving salvation from Junsoo's mother in the past, so hopefully the time is near for her and the rest of her family.

Lastly, pastor Lee has asked me to teach a sermon on Sunday 2/15. I will be teaching from Luke 10:38-42 (about sitting at the feet of Jesus). This is definitely a message to myself aswell as the body! Please pray that I would prepare well and that the Holy Spirit would use me to bless, encourage, and strengthen the body of believers.

Thanks for reading! May the Lord bless, encourage, and strengthen you!

First Class of the New Year!

2009-01-17T06:22:00.001-08:00

We had our first class at Daichi church this past Thursday. The message was about how Jesus loved Zacchaeus the tax collector and because of Jesus love, Zacchaeus was a changed man. Here is a picture of our class.

The Joy of the Lord in 2009

2009-01-09T16:01:00.000-08:00

Well, after a nice holiday break I am back in Hiroshima feeling refreshed. I am looking forward to what the Lord has in store for 2009. My prayer for the new year is that the Lord would always "Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me." (Psalm 51:12) Just as Nehemiah encouraged the people when he said, "...for the joy of the LORD is your strength..." (Neh. 8:10). Only the Lord can provide true joy, and in that joy we are strong.

Home for the holidays

2008-12-28T19:59:00.000-08:00

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!

2008-12-01T04:32:00.000-08:00

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"

2008-11-21T21:07:00.000-08:00

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:

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.
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.
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.
The Thessalonians were persecuted by their own countrymen. (Thes. 2:14) Many Japanese believers have been persecuted by their families, friends, co-workers, etc.
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.
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

2008-11-20T04:16:00.000-08:00

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!

2008-11-11T03:19:00.000-08:00

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

2008-10-27T18:11:00.000-07:00

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

2008-10-12T05:57:00.000-07:00

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...

2008-10-07T05:25:00.000-07:00

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

2008-09-24T18:48:00.000-07:00

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

2008-09-20T01:25:00.000-07:00

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

2008-09-10T05:48:00.000-07:00

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

2008-09-08T20:05:00.000-07:00

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

2008-09-08T19:35:00.000-07:00

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)

2008-08-19T21:37:00.000-07:00

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"

2008-08-12T06:06:00.001-07:00

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..."

2008-08-03T06:21:00.000-07:00

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

2008-07-30T07:41:00.000-07:00

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

2008-07-16T05:52:00.000-07:00

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

2008-07-07T06:25:00.000-07:00

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..."

2008-06-30T04:02:00.000-07:00

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)

2008-06-16T17:43:00.001-07:00

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

2008-06-02T20:57:00.000-07:00

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

2008-05-21T23:29:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-05-12T07:01:00.000-07:00

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

2008-05-09T05:02:00.000-07:00

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

2008-05-08T05:26:00.000-07:00

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

2008-05-02T01:52:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-29T05:59:00.000-07:00

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

2008-04-25T05:05:00.000-07:00

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！

2008-04-18T06:02:00.001-07:00

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

2008-04-11T02:31:00.000-07:00

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!

2008-04-08T04:59:00.000-07:00

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.

Reaching Hiroshima

(Last) Newsletter August 2010

May 2010 Newsletter

April Newsletter

March 2010 Newsletter

February 2010 Newsletter

January Newsletter

December Newsletter 2009

November Newsletter

October Newsletter

September Newsletter

July/August Newsletter

June Newsletter

May Newsletter

Hiroshima International University

Golden Week Ｇ．Ｗ．

March-April Newsletter

Thursday's first class！ 木曜日のさいしょのクラス！

Praise the Lord,the class is getting bigger! クラスが大きになって、神様を賛美をします！

Tadaima! ただいま！

End of the fiscal year/ New Season coming

Daichi church sermon

January 2009 Newsletter

First Class of the New Year!

The Joy of the Lord in 2009

Home for the holidays

A little camera shy!

"Japalonica"

A Family in Christ

Be faithful to the smallest things!

November Prayer Requests

Jamming for Jesus outreach #1

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

Daichi English Class/Jamming for Jesus

Suzugamine hike

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

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

Mitaki Chapel 三滝チャペル

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

"Jamming for Jesus"

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

Jamming For Jesus/Final English Class at Takashima

Takashima English class #5

Mitaki Chapel Drum Time with the kids

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

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

Second Class at Takeshima Chapel

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

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

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

Because Jesus Loves the Homeless of Hiroshima city

Love in Action, Straight from the Source

MAY PRAYER REQUESTS

"Eikawa" Outreach in Fukuyama, Hiroshima

Blessed！祝福ことがいただきましたよ！

Prayer Requests

Greetings from Hiroshima!

Golden Week　Ｇ．Ｗ．

Thursday's first class！木曜日のさいしょのクラス！

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

Mitaki Chapel　三滝チャペル

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