Christmas... and then Japan

First, Merry Christmas... I was working on some last minute things for tomorrow's service and saw this posted by one of our team members.  It's not a message or anything... just a picture of the people of Japan, and I guess-- what it's like to live in Japan... Hope you enjoy!

**Some kind of problem and the video won't load.  Here's the link! Just click right below...

The People... Oh the People...

News and that...

Please check out this letter I just sent out! Also, I just posted about our Christmas outreach just below, so check that out too!

Btw, you can click on this "picture" below and make it bigger to read it.  (Sorry, I can't attach a pdf here!)... if you have a hard time reading it, leave a comment on this post with your email-- comments have to be approved by me, so no one will see your email address beside me-- and I will email you the pdf!)

Merry Christmas everyone!

Christmas and then some

SO.  It's Christmas time.  It doesn't really feel like it.  Does it to you?

Here, the bigger holiday is New Year.  It's the time that everyone spends with their families and eats sushi.  But nonetheless, Christmas is still celebrated (albeit with KFC and Christmas cakes)... So, we did an outreach event today.  It was our first ever Christmas Production. 

A girl on our team wrote a play; another helped with the translation; one girl did a dance; others helped with video and technology (which was a huge feat in an of itself); special music for the band, karaoke, snacks, sewing, you name it-- we probably did it!

But it was lovely and ran remarkably smooth.  My part in this day: organizing everything and making a timeline/Lighting timeline/organizing responsibilities on the whole day.  My job was basically to make sure set-up, production and clean up/pack-up ran smoothly and that everyone had everything that they needed where they needed it.  And I answered a million questions.

It should be mentioned, the file name for this so called timeline is: Christmas Production Timeline Masterpiece.

Because it was.

Other than that, I also played bass (including a jazz piece I just learned yesterday) and did lighting during my allotted time.

But enough about that-- we had about 30% of our crowd as newcomers and a number of "Hisashiburi" people (Hisashiburi means "long time, no see").  And many got to hear the Gospel for the first time.

So, all these questions and worksheets and rehearsed lines and technology preparation was so that Japanese people-- who are used to top-notch, high quality-- could hear the Gospel for the first time in a clear, powerful and even dramatic way.  There's no better Christmas gift you can give.

And though I guarantee you that nearly everyone is exhausted tonight, we are all satisfied that what we did was done to honor God and to show God's love and our love to those who have never heard.

... Really?

OH boy.  More than 2 months since my last post?  I would not blame you for abandoning my blog. 

Let me tell you.  The last 2 months... Incredibly busy.

That probably doesn't need to be stated, but it makes me feel better.

And if it makes you feel better, I already decided on a New Year's Resolution... be a better blogger.  And not to let my inbox get clogged.

But it's just barely hitting December, so I still have a month to slack.  ;)

So... The last two months. 
Retreat, special outreaches, Seminar, lots of admin stuff, trip to America, got engaged, came back, more admin stuff, giving messages, lots of evaluations on getting things to keep accelerating at church, preparation for Christmas play and production, playing bass, reorganizing lifegroups... teaching English...

I don't think that's all, but briefly that's what's happened over the last few months and why I've been away from the blog world.  All these things require a significant amount of my attention too.

Well, it's 11:57pm as I write, and this is all I've got right now.  I think I'll try again next week. 

Sorry my friends.  Don't give up on me yet.   ... :)

Updates and Origami

As I sit here another night in front of the fan and drinking cold water, I'm so thankful that in TWO days, we will hit the 70s and stay there... according to the internet weather forecast. [Yukata day at Fuse!]

Bring on the autumn!

So, last week I got home from Fuse and I just sat here staring at the computer thinking... I seriously doubt I can find the energy to write a blog tonight.  Today I have a bit more... but I'm not promising any cleverness.

For one awesome thing, we've been having new people.  We're doing a lot of inviting.  After lower numbers over the summer, we were kinda down though we continued outreaching and praying and all that.  As I recently heard Becky Hrubik (director of PAZ), pray-- We do care about numbers, because every number means someone who is getting called into the Kingdom of God and being saved.  But we've been seeing new people and following up on them... and praying for more breakthroughs!

I've been pretty busy with a lot of admin stuff at Fuse and trying to help things run smoothly... for it's own sake, but also to really support Mark and Yuiko and take any unnecessary pressure off of Mark.  That way, he can focus on what he really needs to focus on.

We also have a team from Brazil here.  They're here for 6-7 weeks.  They're not here in Tokyo during the week, but are up in Iwaki helping out.  But the two 20-something guys have been helping out with Friday night outreaches and at Fuse.  One of them, Paul, spoke today at Fuse.  So, it's been really cool to have them helping us out.

And on the side, I'm kinda starting an origami business.  It's not super-serious yet, but I do plan on following through to see success with it.  I've been making origami accessories (hair clips/earrings).  They are cute, durable and semi-waterproof.  I'm working on getting my webpage set up, and I recently found out that a friend of a friend will sell them in her beauty salon.  So, I am getting them together to send over.  Anyway, if you're interested, please let me know!  I'll post the page later; with everything that has been going on here in Japan, I've been super busy.  But I'm getting there!

Yawns and Tears...

I am sitting here yawning super big.  Btw, that is very rude to do at work or in meetings in Japan.  You can do it like, on the train or sitting by yourself at a table or something.  But don't do it anywhere else.  In fact, a good sign of being adapted here is when you can "swallow your yawns"... keep your mouth closed while you yawn!  I've seen lots of Japanese do it!

I prefer big yawns myself and bask in them in the privacy of my home.

That was a side note.  But yes, I am tired.  FUSE days are always very long (but good) days.  And since I do service coordinating at FUSE, it means that I'm always answering questions, making sure everyone knows what they're doing, making last minute switches and figuring out details.  I enjoy doing it, but sometimes... oftentimes I'm a bit tired after Life Group and finally making it home!

Today's FUSE covered a bit of things that have been going on this month.   Mark today brought the message about having Great Friendships.  He talked about the building blocks for great relationships being love, communication, trust (commitment) and grace.  When he got to the part about communication, he talked about encouragement and words of hope.  There he mentioned how it has been good for he and his wife to experience the comfort of great friends lately.  Two weeks ago, they lost their expected baby... She was 5 months along, and it was a big blow.  It was really hard for her to translate that part, and most everyone's eyes were filled with tears as Yuiko translated through her own tears about having lost her baby. 

Please pray for them!

They are still recovering.  It takes time, but we are praying for them and trying to support them the best we can and offer that hope that only comes through a relationship with Jesus!

Afterward, we had life group.  My lifegroup was pretty great today!  We continued the talk about friendships and the practicalities of it in life.  We shared from journalling time together, and got to know a new girl who joined lifegroup for the first time.  She still hasn't met Jesus, but we are praying that soon she will!

So, I'm sorry about this month.  We thought it was supposed to be a more relaxed schedule.  But it wasn't!  :)  My first two weeks, I took care of a lot of the responsibilities Mark take care of, since he was in New Zealand, and the last two weeks... well...

Well, I am going to get to bed!!  It's only 8pm, but I'm ready!

Hope you guys have a blessed day!

July

Yeah, July has been busy.  Beside having 2 back-to-back teams for more than the first part of the month, we are in the nice summer heat and humidity.

I also started teaching another couple of classes on Wednesdays, which has made for a lot of preparation work.

Anyway, that's kinda the gist.  We continue on, working.  We've been really going at Street Live (Street Outreach).  Having the break dance team here from California was a huge boost to our efforts.  Not only did they draw along huge crowds, but they were each very passionate about making the most of every opportunity they had, even the ones they didn't have.  In other words, they scheduled more outreach for themselves as a team.  The next team, from Korea, was also very passionate, and typical of Koreans-- they were pray-ers.  We really enjoyed being with them.

So, yeah, since then, we've been really going at street outreach hard, and it gave us an added boost to be more intentional with our opportunities.  Even Tuesday night, I met 2 young college girls, and shared who Jesus is to them, and shared my testimony, all in Japanese.  We finished and Ty asked if there was anything they wanted prayer for.  Nothing specific, but we prayed for them anyhow.  I've been following up with them through texting since then, and I hope to see them on Sunday.

Also, on a side note, I've been reading a book called "Not for Sale" by David B. Batstone.  It's about human trafficking.  I really encourage you to get it, and once you start reading, you won't be able to put it down.  It's very well-written, easy to read, and with stories from those trafficked, the history and tactics of trafficking and the stories of ordinary people doing things to make a difference to stop the suffering of hundreds of thousand, maybe millions of women and children trafficked in this world today.  Don't choose to keep yourself in ignorance.

Well, gotta get running... but hope you find yourself well in this summer season!

Stories

There was so much to be heard this week.  So much to see, so much to do, so much to hear.

On Thursday this week, I was excited to go and work hard in my awesome, borrowed bright-blue jump suit.  We went to a Ramen and Hamburger Joint called the Clock Tower (Tokeidai).  The owner had been running the business for 40+ years.  However, the tsunami waves came in a destroyed much of what was inside and took out a few walls.  I heard earlier teams cleaned out a lot of sand while taking everything outside and dividing the trash. 

I never really thought about that part-- all the sand.  But other teams have spent days at another restaurant trying to clean up dishes and other supplies from sand and oil and otherwise caked stuff.

Anyhow, this owner of the business, who is in his 60s, has decided to have the house destroyed and start over.  When asked what will he do after that, his answer is that he doesn't know.  He will figure that out once all this is taken care of...

As we were going through the piles of things to be thrown away, there were books, photo albums, stuffed animals, clothes.  It was a little disconcerting to be going through someone's stuff like that-- knowing that it wasn't their plan to have all this stuff disposed of in this manner.  However, a few things were salvaged.  Among those things was the deed to the land.  The owner could not find it, and that was one of the things he seemed to be worried about.  However, someone was going through the piles as we were bagging things up to carry to the dumpsters, and found an old, flimsy deed.  Sure enough, it was the deed to his land, and the owner was very happy about that.

On Friday, I was going to finish some painting for the church cabinets housing tools and other manly things.  I had found out on Wednesday that they wanted one done, and on Friday, I planned to do the other cabinet.  Anyhow, while I was finishing the first one, Ijima-san came up to me.  Ijima-san is a man about in his 50s or 60s, I would guess.  He communicated with me that he wanted a sign made for a family that had a fishing business-- for bate.  Anyhow, their house was destroyed, but they are still in business.

So, I got to work on it.  I was really excited to make something for a family.  Ijima-san later told me that he would take me to the family to give it to them.  That was even cooler, because I wasn't expecting it.  Anyway, I finished in the afternoon, full of paint everywhere on me, but happy to have finished something (and with limited paint and brushes (amazingly expensive here, let me tell you... I shouldn't be surprised though) that would bless a family in need. 

Later, Benjamin and Ijima-san and I went to the family's house and delivered the sign.  They were happy to receive it, and we had the chance to chat for a bit about their experience.  They are now living in the addition that they had built on their house.  The original part was built some 100 years ago, in the traditional Japanese style.  Because it would cost so much to rebuild it, they tore it down and are now living in the addition, which has a tarp for a wall and a half.

Their next door neighbor received work from some of the team.  He owns a rice factory, and his machinery was also destroyed.  Only some 5% of it was insured.  He will receive some money from the government and some from the insurance company, but he will have to borrow much in order to restart.  It seems to be the case for many businesses and families.

But the Japanese people go on, and Global Mission Center and the volunteers that all work with them continue to offer hope not only for the current situation, but that hope you need on the inside-- the kind that comes from God.  It is truly amazing to see all the opportunities to serve through this church.  See earlier blogs for more..

Since the beginning, when the earthquake and tsunami first took place, I was impressed by the world's reaction to and support of Japan.  It really touched me.  But on my first night, I stood in a room with people from all over.  From around Japan, from the States, from Canada, from Korea.  From all different churches and backgrounds.

We stood in a circle, and Mori-sensei (the pastor) said, you know-- we come from all over and from different churches, but together we are the church of Jesus here. 

And it's true.  We are the church, the body of Jesus.  And we carry the hope with us-- and the knowledge that we do not face the world alone-- God, who created us, loves us and is with us.

It's easy as time goes by to forget the tragedies that have passed.  Or at least the ones that we don't see everyday.  I probably tend to think that because I don't see it on the news anymore, that everything must be fine. 

But, the people of Japan still hurt and still are affected by the events of March 2011.  There are still families without homes, without jobs, trying to rebuild.  There are still those grieving for lost loved ones and friends.  There are still some very, very difficult situations. 

If you are able to, you can volunteer to help.  Please contact me for more info.  You can pray, because prayer is powerful, even from across the world.  And you can do your part from where you are by offering the hope you have and can find in Christ to the people around you.  You don't have to wait for disaster to strike your area.  You, if you believe in Jesus as your Savior, are the church and you have the hope for all situations of life.

Thank you for your prayers for Japan and encouragement.  The Japanese people need it.

Tsunami Damage

I leave it to this video to tell the story.

More to come, I'm sure.

Global Mission Center

One of the things that I was really impressed with on this trip was the organization of the staff up in Iwaki.  There was so much stuff going on, so many people doing so many things.  And, like I was discussing with a guy from Hawaii that I met there, it was pretty organized but not in the strict, rigid way-- rules, rules, rules!

Instead, after 3 months of doing stuff everyday (except Sundays), the staff who works amazing hard is joyful and can definitely multitask.  The meeting room has signs everywhere, and sheets of things so that they can simply understand what's going on.  The schedule for the day is written on the white board (ha, but only in Japanese-- there's an English version on the board on a piece of paper).  The first thing I did when I got there was sign in, was asked about insurance, and quickly found a room among a few...  At night, the house becomes a maze of places where people are sleeping.  Tim said there are usually 25-60 people there at a time.

At the meeting in the morning, what things are going on that day are discussed and leaders let the volunteers know about how many they will need.  Volunteers decide where they want to participate that day.

Here are some of the opportunities to serve:

-"Gareki" (rubble- new Japanese word for the week)-- there are different projects going on that day. Each day that I went, there were 2 or 3 opportunities.  Sometimes only carpenters are needed.  Sometimes they say that at a particular place there will be hard labor.  But basically, you go and do whatever is needed there.  While I was there, one team was putting up temporary walls at a house/rice factory.  Another was washing dishes and supplies at a traditional Japanese Inn.  The water brought in sand and mixed oil with it. In order to reopen, all the supplies had to be cleaned-- which was pretty hard work.  And then there are teams that clean out houses and divide the trash into burnable, glass, wood, etc. and throw it all away.

-Cafe-- Downstairs at the church, there is a center where those in need can get supplies-- anything from clothes, shoes, diapers, milk, blankets, etc.  But they have to let the people know what they need.  So, while the workers arrange stuff so that the people can come get what they need, there are other workers in the cafe.  Those waiting for supplies for their families sit there and can have some free coffee/tea/cake.  The workers sit down and have conversation with those waiting and listen to them.  This is a great opportunity to share the Gospel and to minister to them.  This is also an important part of disaster relief.  I think another girl who is a hair stylist came in, and gave free hair cuts to people, which is another opportunity to talk.

- Kitchen/Clean Up-- There are also those who stay at the church to make breakfast, lunch and dinner for staff and volunteers.  They also help clean up the bathrooms, living room, and other things.  This is a very daily job!!

-Foot washing-- A couple of times a week (?), people go up in the afternoon to the refugee centers and wash feet, give foot massages to those living there.  This is another opportunity to listen and minister.

-Takidashi-- ...which means giving out food.  So teams will go to some shelter at dinner time, give out food, clean up and sit down to converse with people.  Yup, more opportunities.

-There is more, I think but I can't seem to remember...

So, in case you're wondering-- here's what the day looks like

6am- Devotional (not required, but it's good!)

8am- Breakfast

9am- Morning Meeting (a bit of music, day's events and short prayer time)

10am- Teams head out

4:30pm- ish-- If there's foot washing, you go there...

6pm- Dinner

8pm- Evening Meeting

More blogs to come...

Tsunami damage

Impressions and Stories from Iwaki

Up to Iwaki

Well... I just arrived home less than 12 hours ago from a trip up to Iwaki City to help with relief efforts.  It was an amazing trip, in all aspects.  From watching how the staff works, to meetings that we have everyday, the focus and joy that everyone maintain, cleaning houses and meeting and serving the Japanese people whose houses we were cleaning up. 

My alarm was set for 3:50am on Wednesday, and I went by foot (ok, only 20 minutes), train, bus and car to get to Global Mission Center in Iwaki.  Unfortunately, by the time that we (I met up with another couple going up there) made it to the Center, the different teams going out were already leaving for the day.

Anyhow, I got my stuff situated in the building, finding a room to sleep in with about 5 girls, I believe.  (I was later moved to another room holding the same).  I kinda looked around and figured out that floor by myself.  It holds like a large living room with tables around, and a few bathrooms and places where people can sleep.  Downstairs is the church room, some storage place for food, another place for supplies for people in need to come and a little cafe area where ministry takes place all day long for those waiting for supplies.

Anyway, I spent a while trying to figure out what I could do to help since I wasn't able to go out with the teams.  I was a little disappointed.  However, at lunch I spotted the two Canadian boys who were with us at FUSE last week.  I sat around and chatted with them (since I didn't have that chance at FUSE).  They came for 2 weeks, and are doing carpentry work.  That day, they were building shoe storage units (since we take our shoes off before entering houses and I promise-- at that church, it can be hard to find yours in the sea of shoes at the entrance). 

After lunch, I was outside where they were working and asked if there was anything I could do.  I found out that someone wanted some mural thing on some cabinets that housed tools and other supplies of that sort.  So, I volunteered, got some paint and got busy.  It was cool to be able to use my skills in that way.

That night we all had dinner and the evening meeting at 8pm.  We began and finished the 45 minute meeting with music and prayer, and at the end a 2 minute encouraging note from the pastor.  New workers arriving that day were introduced, people talked about the day's work, what got done, impressions, stories about the family and testimonies.  At 9, I was getting ready for bed... I was tired!

More blogs to come!!

Tacos and Sushi

As always, I am still alive and still here.  If you're not hearing from me, it's because there are so many things on my to-get accomplished list.  It's not because I don't love you.

We are gearing up for the 2nd anniversary event of FUSE.  We're really looking forward to it!! In fact, I designed a flier (or flyer, which sounds better to me... I recently had a friendly debate on which is correct) for it.  I won't tell you how many hours I spent on it, because I just don't know.  I only know: many.  But it looks good, and today I held the printed version in my hands.

Today also arrived a helper in human form.  He'll be here for a year helping us out.  His name is Jeremy, and it'll be nice to have him with us, but I'm adding "more girls" to my list of prayer requests.  ;)

Sunday I shared the message.  Saki again translated for me, which was pretty awesome.  It was a message about fear (freedom from it), and what effect trusting God produces in our lives... I think it went really well, and a lot of people seemed to be touched by it.  SO, praise God.  That's what's important!
Also, Chris Briles, my trainer from Mexico, was here with us.  It was the first time for "WIM" and "PAZ" to meet, and I think the meeting was great!  So, I think this will open more doors in the future.  And beside, it was cool to be with my old trainer (and his son-- Aaron is here helping out for a month)... only this time not in cold mountainous region of Mexico, but in a huge city-city area of Tokyo.  A bit of a difference...think tacos and sushi.

But the catching up was great, as well as discussions about the future, etc.

Well, tonight I need to work on a few more things... and get some rest!!
I'll try to get back here in a few days... :X

Here's to Opportunities

Sooo.... I had this really long to-do list for today, and not a whole lot on it got done.  Doesn't make me feel super-accomplished.

However, I did spend a few hours with one of the girls from my lifegroup today that was very productive.  On Sunday we had a great lifegroup time.  Though we didn't do the study that I had planned for us to continue, it was a really good time of sharing and this particular girl opened up and shared some stuff.  So, it ended up being a good time of ministry and encouragement.

Today I met up with her for some coffee, which turned into walking around Machida, doing lots of window shopping and great conversation.  She shared about her journalling time and we talked more in depth about that.  Then she's getting some vision and on track with God for her life.  She had been reflecting a lot on a question I brought up in Lifegroup about a month ago maybe-- What are the dreams we have in life?  For whom are we using them and how can we glorify God with them?  How do we use the opportunities that we have now?  What are the opportunities that we have now?

Well, a couple of questions I brought up, I guess.

But we talked about getting into the Word of God, having friendship with God, relationships... it was a really really good time.  I felt like it was definitely God-given and God had a chance to minister through it.  And! It was in Japanese!

So, anyhow, that is my day.  It seems like the last 72 hours, things have really picked up and seemed to get busier.  Every 12 hours it feels like I hear about something new.  :)  But that's good!  However, I'm going to be smarter than I was last year and not overwork myself, but find balance.  Overworking and overstressing yourself is not a good thing.

Well, looking forward to what the future holds... and enjoying the "now" moments too.  How about you?

Food for Thought

It's raining, and I'm afraid for the moment being, there isn't too much super exciting news.

I was supposed to go visit my friend's Uni(versity) today, but she woke up not feeling well, and so... well, lunch plans cancelled.  That's ok, I got a head start on stuff so that I don't have to do it tomorrow, which is my day off.

Sunday's FUSE was good.  It was a great message about living your best and what you're using to build your life out of-- things that last or things that don't.  Mark shared the story of John and David Livingstone.  Did you know David Livingstone had a brother?  I didn't.  They both grew up in a fairly wealthy household, and John went on to build a business and focus on making money, etc.  David felt God was calling him to do a couple of things-- explore Africa, which was his dream, and take the Gospel with him.  John thought David was crazy, but he took the risk anyway and went to follow his dreams-- but with a purpose behind it.

David died in Africa.  However, on John's gravestone when he died was written: the brother of David Livingstone.  Who remembers John Livingstone?  Who remembers David?

It was really interesting I thought.  It doesn't mean that you can't have a business and make money, etc., but whatever your dream in life is-- what are you going to use it for?  You only get one shot at life-- you can choose to live a mediocre life, or you can choose to follow your dreams and live the life and have all the God wants you to have and use it to build into and impact people's lives.  You choose now what you want.

I have been thinking a lot about that, and about something Mark said yesterday as well-- Let's not be people who live by rules and make rules, but people who live with vision and wanting what God wants for us.

It's kinda the difference between being legalistic/living by a set of rules/ways of doing things the Christian way and having a great relationship with God and an amazing life that can leave a legacy.

It's all about having that relationship with God in your life all the time.

Anyway... that's my blurb today.  I'm going to go work on a few not-so-exciting projects that are a part of life anyway.  :)

Have a great day people.

It's MAY! You know what that means!!....

So it's Golden Week here in Japan.  Golden Week is like a series of back-to-back holidays here in Japan.  Everyone seems to be off work and school, there are sales everywhere and it's a lovely time as we are getting into the really beautiful weather here in Japan. (team JS- Janine and Saki!)

On Sunday, I had the opportunity to share the message.  I shared on the freedom we have in Christ.  Freedom from what oppresses, freedom for the future, how to protect and use your freedom.  Saki also had her first time translating a "full" message (she did a 10 minute one right after the earthquake).  She did a great job!!

I sent her my notes ahead of time and then we got together on Saturday evening to go over any questions she may have had.  It was cool to be a part of her doing something new and to encourage her in the moment.  I had complete confidence that she was going to be able to do it!

Afterward, Manami joined us for lifegroup at our normal restaurant we head to.  It seemed most of the lifegroups decided to do the same study on freedom, since that was our topic at FUSE.  Anyway, we were reading a section of Scripture in Romans.  Saki shared some, I shared a bit, and then I asked Manami about the verses. 

She paused for a minute, and she goes, beforehand, if I had read this, I wouldn't have been able to understand it.  But now, after the message, I understand what this means. 

She went on to comment about it, but really I was blessed.  I was like, you know, that's the best thing that you can say.  If no one had received anything else (which I know wasn't the case), but it's worth it to know you are helping others grow and understand God's Word.

Well, I'm off to bed for the evening... I have a lot of projects to get to in the morning!!

Wind, rain and broken umbrellas

BUT... a totally awesome day!

I'll get to that in a minute.

Friday, we went to Machida to do street outreach in the evening like we usually do.  Before we could even get started though, we were stopped by the police which often happens.  So, we went to another place and decided it wasn't going to be a good location, so we headed to Sagamiono. 

At Sagamiono, we had lots of opportunities to talk to people.  I approached one girl and then realized that she was on the phone, but I gave her a flyer anyway and stood a couple of feet away so that when she got off the phone, I could talk to her.  She told the person on the phone that she had just received a flyer, and then she looks at the special note we have stapled to it that says- special performance for Sakura Easter Sunday by MIS, Airi Shigemizu....

She goes-- Ah! Airi-chan!

I said, yeah!  You know her?

She says in the phone-- Airi-chan! I just saw a picture of you!

She was talking on the phone with Airi-- who happens to be in my lifegroup.  The girl ended up coming on Sunday and we were able to have more good conversation, and I hope to see her again!  And as for Airi, that night she sent me a message asking if it was too late because she wanted to get baptized also on Saturday.  I was like, no! Not too late! :)

At the beginning of the week, we had one confirmed person that wanted to get baptized.  By the end of the week, we baptized 4 girls in the ocean on a cold, rainy, very windy day.  So windy, in fact, that two of my umbrellas blew inside out and completely broke.  (to the right, our 4 girls getting baptized, XiPei, Kaori, Airi and Manami)

But that couldn't steal our joy!  It was an awesome day, despite the horizontal falling rain, as we ran out into the ocean hand-in-hand, baptized these girls, hugged, and then ran back and laid hands on each one and prayed for them. 

Easter Sunday saw many people attend FUSE for the first time, and many get to hear about Jesus likely for the first time.  What an awesome day to have that opportunity on!  Our friend Airi gave a special performance.  Below is a video of the last song in which she was accompanied by Yuiko.  The song is called Anata no Ai wa (Your Love is...) and talks about the greatness of God's love.  Totally beautiful!  Enjoy!

Shaking with Joy

Well, it would seem that Japan is so excited to see me that she shakes with joy.  Or at least, that's what I keep telling myself.  (Incidentally, Mark's message tomorrow is about the joy of the Lord...)

It hasn't been that bad.  Actually, I think there were like 3 days in a row this week where I didn't feel one.  And then today we had another earthquake early in the afternoon.  This week, there was one while I was at work, teaching my first English class of the new school year (the school year starts in April here).  The students jumped under the desk, and I stood, waiting to gauge it with my boss who was in the doorway.  We both paused, watching the walls.  We looked like we were listening for something.

"I think it's calming down..."

"Nope, it's getting stronger again..."

Then I happened to be on the rush hour train for another one.  All I heard was sirens above my music and then the train stopped, but only for like 5-7 minutes to check something.  We couldn't feel it, since we were moving. 

I did hear from one of my team teachers this week that she was on a bridge when the big one happened (March 11).  Everyone panicked and no one moved.  But she was screaming in her car.  I hadn't thought of what people must experience in a place like on a bridge.  I'd thought of what happens when people are in surgery, or giving birth, or in tall, sight-seeing buildings and then an earthquake happens....

I'm glad I was in none of those situations, but that God took me to a place where I was safe for the evening and not stranded...

Anyway.  Enough of that.  I've been trying to get back into schedule this week.  I've been getting back into my normal responsibilities, back to figuring out life here, and will be catching up more with people from this point on.  You have to schedule in advance here in Japan because people are so busy.  So that means an easy first week to settle in.

So, I'm excited for that.  And beside, next weekend is the Baptism Party.  I'm excited for it!  Let's be praying for lots of people to get baptized!!
Well... I'm going to get rest before FUSE tomorrow.  FUSE days are always very long days.... and I am, as of today, filling in on bass tomorrow... So... Well, write later!

Back

Welp.  I'm back in Japan.  How crazy does life seem lately?

After a great trip back to St. Louis and time spent with lots of lovely people, I am back in Japan.  Also in America happened to be lots of crazy weather, which gave me a nasty cold my last couple of days.  However, that made it nice in that because of a delayed flight to Chicago, I missed my connection to Tokyo.  So, they put me up in a hotel and I was able to get over the cold a little more before boarding a 13 hour flight.

So I'm back in Japan.  Since coming back, I've gotten things straightened out with my work schedule for teaching English this year and went to a seminar.  I've had like 3 different meetings and set up a schedule for this year now that I'm not in school anymore.  After talking with Mark and Yuiko yesterday morning, I'll be doing more admin stuff at FUSE and also be getting connected in to this Girls College like a five minute walk from my house.  I have one connection in there and I'm going to try to form more.  I'm pretty excited about that.  I'll keep studying in the mornings, though not at school.  And of course, the other stuff that I normally do and participate in, I'll continue doing.  So, I think it'll be good.

I do miss America (ha, Miss America) and the good times that I had there and I wish I could have been able to spend more time with people individually-- first and foremost my family. 

But it was cool to be able to share about Japan in such an oportune time when the whole world's eyes were on Japan.  Keep praying for us guys!  Even since I've been home, my second night, I was woken up as I had just fallen asleep by the largest aftershock (I keep hearing 7.1 and 7.4) since the one a half hour after the big one on March 11.  This new one left us rocking and shaking for a good one-two minutes. 

But there is still lots to be done, so help me in spreading the message about how we need more missionaries here in Japan and more people to help!  Short-term people and definitely long-term people!  This is the opportune time to share about the message of the cross to a hurting Japanese people!

Missions in Japan

Support Promo from Fuse Jesus Community on Vimeo.


Here's the video we made about FJC!  Please check it out and share!

Nothing Is Impossible

I've had this song stuck in my head in both Japanese and English the last few weeks.  Our FJC band is awesome!

Earthquake Update

Dear friends,  I thank you for your many emails and notes of concern and prayer.  We here in Japan are thankful for that, and to know that you stand with us as we can only lift this up to God.

Where we were, no real damage was done.  We were badly shaken, as was shown in the video below.  A few things fell in my apartment.  In the last couple of days, the train systems have slowly been being brought back tomorrow and I am told that tomorrow area by area, power will be shut off for 3 hours.  For what reason, I don't know.  Also, there's no bread in any of the stores-- as I'm guess Tokyo's providers are stuck or were based up north.  Department stores have been closed, and upper floors of some stores in the area taped off.  I imagine their products all came crashing down.

The aftershocks are numerous.  There have been hundreds and I feel like I've been on a boat for days.  Even now, my lamp is slightly rocking to and fro.  I've taken precautions and keep things like my computer and printer on the floor, in case of larger aftershocks.

But these things are nothing compared to the horrors of northern Japan.  I can't stand to watch much of the videos about it.  Reports are saying that the death tolls will likely be above 10,000 in one state alone.  And when you consider that only 0.5% of them knew Jesus...

Please pray for those who are still missing, for the rescue operations going on-- that they can quickly locate those who are still alive and trapped.  I read about one man who was found 9 MILES off shore-- clinging to the roof of his house.  9 MILES.  Please pray for Jesus' message of what He's done to capture and soothe the hearts of those who, as I write, are passing a cold night without food or shelter, having watched their worlds fall apart and be swept away with the sea.  Jesus wants to be with them tonight, but they need to hear.

Please also pray for the nuclear power plants to stabilize.  I have no idea what will be the results if they cannot.  One has already exploded and some have radiation poisoning.

And in this moment, take the opportunity to really consider your life as well.  You never know when such an thing may occur.  The day of the earthquake, I spent hours in a government building, filing taxes and getting my re-entry visa to Japan, as I plan to make a visit home this week, actually.  Everything should be fine for the flight, and things are on schedule as originally planned.

But, obviously, experiencing a historical earthquake was not in my plans for that day.  But while we were fine and God protected us, you never know when something will happen.  So, consider your life and what are your priorities in life.  Where are you with God, and were something to happen to those you love around you, don't leave room for regrets of not having shared with the eternal security that they can find only in Christ.

We cannot guarantee tomorrow for ourselves, nor the rest of today.  So, leave no room for regrets in your relationships, fix and mend and love liberally.  Love those around you who you don't know because you don't know when it's their last moment either. 

Thank you for your prayers for Japan.  Keep praying for us.
See many of you soon.  :)

Us in the earthquake

Http://vimeo.com/20911022

Here is a video of us experiencing the first earthquake.

Please be praying for Japan!!

Pray that in these traumatic, shaking experiences that their hearts will turn to God!

Why not Japan??

Ty showed me this vid on Youtube... Check it out!

Still kickin'

Horrible, horrible!

I know.  I probably don't deserve to live. 

But, it's been SOOOO crazy in the last few weeks.  I know, I know, it's been busy for you too. 

But, let me tell you.  Let's see... I moved... on a rainy, windy... turned snowy day.  Not exaggerating.  I went to work from moving that same day. I went to school in general.  I fnished school and got my certificate from completing the intermediate level of Japanese!  I set up a new apartment, got things like electricity, gas, water and internet turned on.  I went to government offices a number of times (by myself), trying to get documents for moving to another city and getting paperwork to file my taxes.

In fact, today I spent another hour in the gov't building doing just that.  And today, I walked out with something in my hands...a LOT of something intimidating in my hands...

Oh, I also got my taxes info ready for next year-- stateside, anyhow.

Hmm... I figured out a new area... registered at the post office, by myself.

I keep saying "by myself", not because I "had" to do it by myself (though somethings I did), but I say it because I'm proud of the fact that I can go to official places and get things accomplished in another language that is not English or Spanish.

Oh!  Oh!  I'm working on an awesome video too that will be used in the US of A.

Yeah, so I am REALLY sorry that I haven't posted. 

BUT, I will get to see you soon!

PS- awesome news!  Manami's gettin' baptized in April!  Woo-hoo! 

One Shot

Love love love... Happy Valentines Day to you!

Well, nothing particularly super special has happened on this day of love... I overslept, but still made it on time to school, went to work, and walked home in the heavily falling snow.  Exciting, right?

Yesterday was a pretty cool day though!  Sunday is FUSE day, and a lot of cool things took place.  First, we had the last time that Lizzie led worship.  She is moving back to the states in March with her family, and we are really sad to see her go!  Beside being an awesome girl, she is a very talented worship leader.  The music was pretty awesome yesterday... not just that the quality of the music was awesome, but God was really moving during the music. 

Afterward, I gave the message at FUSE about... of course-- love.  But instead of a Valentines Day message, I gave a message about living a life of love.  We looked at the media's messages of love and what God, who is love, has to say about it.  I thought it went pretty ok, but there was a good response to the message.  I remembered Mark saying that some of the messages that he was not happy about were some of them that he got some of the best responses about people being touched by it... I guess it's the same.

Also awesome yesterday was that two girls that we met a couple of weeks ago at McDonalds came to FUSE!  We were having a meeting and Yuiko gave the 2 girls flyers as we were leaving and we all said bye.  None of us recognized them by face on Sunday, but Yuiko said that when she saw them coming up, she felt like God said that those were the two girls from McDonalds.  So, she asked them, "Are you from McDonalds?"  They were surprised and answered yeah. 

Afterward, they joined Yuiko's lifegroup and one of them really seemed like she wanted to come back.  She said that she was really happy to have received the flyer and the opportunity to come to a group meeting like ours.  She said that if she hadn't received it, she didn't know if she'd ever have another opportunity for the rest of her life to attend a meeting.

It was really cool to hear that.  We really see God moving in people's lives.  And we never know when the opportunity will present itself-- out on the streets, at McDonalds or wherever you may be-- God can use you to be the unique opportunity in that person's life to lead them to Jesus.

So, awesome! (Here with my the new trainee from WIM... she's doing great!!  Looking forward to seeing what God's going to do with her in the next few months!)

Kimono Day!

Wow, what times.  How it flies! (We did kimono day at school!  Wow, those things are tight around you and take time to put on!  But they are so pretty!)

Even though I had two days off school last week, it's Monday and I feel as if I need a day off.  :)  So, this last week has involved everything from signing papers and paying for my new apartment, welcoming in 2 new girls from America and helping them get settled in and see the area, preparing for a message, practicing bass and doing an extra large lifegroup last night!

So, usually we don't do this but, last night my lifegroup was 11 girls.  I know. We like to keep it to about 6 maximum, but I have about 3 or 4 regulars and then another 4 or so girls who come once or twice a month.  Well, last night, one of my girls invited 3 friends, and then the 2 American girls and another English speaker and a straggler came as well. 

But, it actually came out to be a good idea.  At one table, we ended up splitting into 2 groups-- English speakers and Japanese speakers... and of course, I led the English group and then Saki led the Japanese group.  It was a good opportunity for training, since she will lead the group while I am in America next month.  It turned out really well!

Apart from that, things seem to be going pretty well!  I'm busy getting things set up for the move in 3 weeks weeks (wow!) and set up in America for my visit home to do some visiting and support raising and then also just in general, I feel like God is blessing many areas. 

Well, I have homework and stuff to get to before another long day of tomorrow!

Catch ya'll later!!

And.... POST!

Dear wonderful friends, please forgive me for my lack of posting lately.  There is a lot going on in my little world here on this island of Japan.  Let me give you the a la carte version:

-It is ridiculously exciting to watch Manami as she is learning about Jesus.  She is SO excited about know Him more, growing and participating in worship!  Though she participates in the band, she also worships while in the crowd.  When she first came to FUSE, and even in December, she still just kinda stood there during worship time... but now, she is singing and I saw herself really expressing herself during the songs with her hands.  It was really cool... People are all around noticing she is just a changed girl!

-We had an awesome lifegroup this last Sunday.  We have been talking about faith lately, and so I decided that we were going to journal Hebrews 11 and then share together what we got out of it.  So, as we we're sitting there in the restaurant, it was too long to do then, so we divided it up randomly.  We all got so much out of it, and so much of what each of us needed to hear.  We learned from God, and then also from each other.  It was a great evening.

-I went to Fuji-san today!  Mt. Fuji, the highest spot in Japan (we didn't climb it-- you can only climb it 2 months of the year), is one of the symbols of Japan.  It was a really chilly day, but we had a good time.  It was a school trip.

-I sat down last night to do what I always have to do this time of the year: figured out numbers for last year.  There was some concern from WIM about my not getting what I budgetted that I needed.  And after many, many hours of figuring out things and going over papers and deposits... You know... I don't know how I made it last year.  But thank God I did.  He is always faithful.  Please do pray for me though for this coming year.  And please pray as I am getting ready to doing some support raising States-side in March.  I am praying for many opportunities to share the vision, and people to be on-board and supporting the vision to reach Japan with the Gospel.

-One last thing:  I'm moving!  CRAZY.  I know.  But, it's something we've been talking about for a while, and I found a great deal on a really nice apartment (and people when they hear here are like: really? that's so cheap!)... and all the furnishings (from fridge to curtains) given to me.  It's kinda crazy how it's all working out.  I admit, it's all a little intimidating for me.  But I feel like God has opened doors that don't get opened like this.  But I am going to trust God in this.

Well, it's going to be a really busy next few months, but please stay tuned~  I'll still be here.  :)

New Lessons for a New Year

Well, soooo much has been going on in the last few weeks... As I look at this coming year though, I think it will get even crazier.  Also, with returning to school and a regular schedule with FUSE things and work, it's been a bit of working at getting back into the groove. (Kaori and Maki, after the first FUSE of 2011... this last FUSE, they invited me out for dinner at a Japanese restaurant!  It was fun to spend time with them!!)

For one thing, I am looking at now moving in this next month.  There are many different factors that I am trying to balance all at the same time and make a decision that will be where I live for the next two years.  So, it's kinda big.  :)

But one really encouraging thing has been to watch Manami this week as recently she is posting so many things-- like Bible verses, and how she wants to praise Jesus more and read the Bible more and grow more.  How exciting is that?!?!  For real.  How privileged I feel to be a part of the work God is doing in her life!!  She played bass this week for FUSE on the band, and she did an awesome job. (At dinner the other night (mentioned in the caption above... this is okonomiyaki, and it's on a grill at our table, with noodles and all kinds of stuff in there... a bunch of deliciousness... Yoshi and Ty also came along for the ride... by the way, this is all cut into pieces and shared between us).

Oh, it just reminded me hearing this.... I am hearing the "clanking" of 2 pieces of wood together (kinda a higher pitch).  Here in Japan, a tradition started a long time ago, every night in winter they walk around banging this pieces of wood together.  The sound helps remind you to check your fires (of course, I don't have any)-- but rather to be careful of fire.  Winter time here is pretty dry, and many times in the past Tokyo has had great fires.  So, it's a warning to be careful.  Kinda like Smokey the Bear, but with a more eastern/mystical feel. 

But yes, it DOES get cold.  When I checked the temp the other morning, at 7am, it was 25°F and I had not used heat the night before (I sleep under a million blankets and don't feel it- but yes, getting up- it's painful, ha!).  Since I sleep by the window (which comes down to face level, since I sleep like 10 inches off the floor), and thus keep my alarm (ipod) by the window sill by my face, I awoke to a start the other morning... My ipod got so cold it turned off and the battery died. 

Moral of the story: if not for yourself- for your electronics, use a bit of heat at night.  :)

Oops! Wrong Blog

So, I was writing the FUSE blog (because that's something I do every week), and I didn't realize that I was signed into my own blog, since I opened the FUSE page... Anyway, the post below was meant to show up on another page and not this one... Well, you can read what I was going to write for that, and then check out the FUSE blog if you want... :)

FUSE Jesus Community's Blog  <-- Click there

Ha, I still find that amusing.  Well, I'm going to head on over there and post!

Happy New Year FJC***

Happy New Year!!  Welcome to the first blog of 2011!! We are super excited about this year at FUSE Jesus Community, and are looking forward to amazing things happening all throughout this year!! Be there, so you don't miss out!!
On this first FUSE Jesus Community of 2011, we had a great time with the FUSE band, hearing awesome music about Jesus.  Also, the last message of 2010 suggested, we looked back at the story of FJC until now.  What a journey it's been!  And in many ways, so unexpected!  However, we are looking forward and pushing on to a future with BIG vision!  Check out the awesome story and learn to be sure to build a great 2011 on vimeo! 

This next Sunday, voting will begin for the design for the FUSE tshirt contest!! The designer of the winning shirt will get a free one.... which means, if you design one, YOU could have a free tshirt.  I know you want that, right?!?  So, send that design in to thefuse09@gmail.com , and then be there to vote!  Voting will happen for 2 weeks, and then we'll announce the winning design! 

Be there on Sunday!! We meet every week at the new CLOUD 9 Studio in Machida! Every Sunday at 3pm! Come join a great Community and meet lots of new friends at this International Church!! We look forward to meeting you!!　



毎週日曜午後3時から町田クラウド９スタジオにてフューズ・ジーザス・コミュニティはみんなを待っているよ！最高の人生を、最高の仲間と一緒に築いていこう！みんなに会えるのを楽しみにしているよ！！

For real kickin' off a New Year!!

My computer is alive again!!  A huge thanks to Ty, who spent a good while trying to fix it, and then eventually uninstalling and reinstalling windows and putting my file back on it!  I am super happy to be able to communicate once again with my family, to listen to music when at home, and to be back on my blog.

Score!

Super happy. Oh, by the way, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!  The picture to the left at midnight on 2011... we were freezing on the rooftop...! It's going to be a great 2011!

And I'll tell you why.  Today was our first FJC service of 2011... Two weeks ago was our last FUSE (New Years is a big family here, so most people went to their hometowns or spent the weekend with their families, so we had a week break)... and I had the opportunity to share.  I talked about Building a New Year-- building your life on the Word of God, and evaluating the year before so that you can set goals and build up the next year.  The video is on vimeo.com.... http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fvimeo.com%2F18264206&h=ef393

Anyway, so this FUSE, we talked about the story of FUSE up til this point and where we're heading, etc.  It was really cool.  Of my life group, one had a school commitment and couldn't make it and another was sick.  So, that left me and Manami for lifegroup (Manami is on my right hand side in the above pic, giving the peace sign).  Even so, I was really happy to meet with her, and we did a evangelistic Bible study on Zaccheus... I told her that she could meet Jesus now.  She was excited and said that she wanted to meet Jesus... So, I explained the Gospel to her and she understood-- and she prayed on her own to meet Jesus... Praise God!!  I'm believing for many, many more salvations this year... it's only the beginning, and we're already starting a party in heaven!!