Beach Day (Morito Beach)

Kenji and I were invited to join the young adults at a near by beach. We had an amazing time. I saw a guitar and couldn’t help myself. It gave me chills to be able to worship freely outside, knowing that 99% of the people around me don’t worship Jesus. We were able to see Mt Fuji at a distance.

The Nations are in Tokyo

Since Tokyo is such a sought-after city, it draws many global expats. Interestingly, this Sunday, we met a lot of foreigners who were simply passing through Tokyo. Some were here on vacation, some were here for school or jobs; a few were just trying to figure things out and didn’t have a clear idea of their future. The church becomes a safe space for all people.

Unfortunately, there is limited space on Sunday morning and much to do. MSCC Toyko has two services, English Connect, a First Steps Course, two bible studies, and a children’s ministry. The staff and many of the volunteers arrive at 8 am and leave around 5 pm.

The priority of the church is to reach the Japanese, therefore everything is bilingual (Japanese and English), but the church also serves the many nations that God brings to Tokyo, including large groups of Chinese, Koreans, and Filipinos.

Spreading the Gospel Through Technology

One of the most effective ways for churches to advertise in Japan is through the Meetup app. Churches pay a small advertising fee to share about opportunities like English Connect, IQ cafe, as well as periodic outing and hangout opportunities.

An unexpected visit

There are many amazing stories and events I didn’t have time to share here, but I want to highlight this one. After 15 years, I was able to see my roommate from Moody Theological Seminary. Sachi and his family live outside of Tokyo and we were able to have two meals together and attend service. He is not in ministry but he is loving Christ and living sent in a secular workplace. I could see the exhaustion on his face due to the heavy demand of his work — 12-hour days, sometimes Saturdays, and few to no vacation days. In his company’s culture, you don’t leave work before your supervisor. Japan has one of the highest suicide rates in the world due to overwork. The stress it puts on a marriage and family is overwhelming. But we were able to encourage and pray for one another. What a blessing to be united with him.

Prayer Requests

Please pray for every Japanese person to have an opportunity to hear the gospel
Pray for more gospel workers in Japan
Pray for the MSCC staff to be fully funded, and for more partnerships with churches; they are doing an excellent job contextualizing the gospel
Pray for Kenji and I to have a safe flight back on Monday.

Can’t wait to see you. Thank you family!
Hang