We are unshaken in Japan!
Japan has made the news again, and the latest earthquake has resulted in this sooner-than-intended prayer update. We live on the east coast of Honshu, 300 km from the epicenter of the Japan earthquake that you likely saw on the news. It was bad, but we experienced only a long rocking sensation (think being in a canoe), which indicated a really big earthquake not so nearby. This time, it was not under our house. Thanks to those who asked about our safety, and please pray for Ishikawa and Toyama Prefectures on the west coast of Honshuu, near the Korean Peninsula. These areas are the least evangelized in Japan, with less than 0.1% Christian.
He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will never be shaken. Psalm 62:2
Kathryn has been encouraged by Mrs. K who purchased her own New Testament. We have given Bibles away in the past only to find out they were thrown in the garbage. Mrs. K has been greatly impacted by regular Discovery Bible Studies and enthusiastically desires to continue. Miss Y continues to meet weekly with Kathryn. Japan can be a lonely place even with family living close by so times together sharing life is meeting her heartfelt need. She is very intrigued with the simple words of Jesus. After over 100 studies, please pray that she will accept the Word planted in her.
God has a sense of humor! A Christian lady who has moved to our city recently to care for her aging father recognized Kathryn riding her bicycle and called out to her. She had done a one-month homestay with us 25 years ago! They met for coffee and an impromptu Discovery Bible Study. They plan to meet regularly. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if Miss. A started groups of her own!
Visiting Grady, Britt and Mia Joy In Manila!
Rob continues to preach weekly in 5 churches, averaging 25 members each. Pray that some young Christians in these churches would take on leadership roles. Rob meets with Muroga and prays for Yuuta, Yatabe, and Uchida. These men have a passion for ministry but are sitting on the fence as far as change-making leadership roles are concerned. It isn’t easy to stand out in Japan.
Last month, a visitor came to one of these churches. Mr. Fukaya came on his own because he remembered a Christmas party he had been to when he was young, hosted by a foreigner. He was pretty nervous to be in a church building with Jesus worshippers, but we made sure he heard the gospel clearly, and he left hoping to return for more. Rob preaches at this church every month. Pray that these believers would help Mr. Fukaya to know who Jesus is!
Continuing to be grateful for your prayer and financial support!
Rob and Kathryn
