Last Saturday Megan and I enjoyed a couple of hours of traditional Japan dancing as we watched the Aouodori on the terrace near our apartment building. It was a fun way to see and meet neighbours, while enjoying a beautiful, warm day. Several of the moms from my moms and tots class were out with their children. It was really fun to connect in a place other than the classroom at the community centre, and for people to realize that we are part of the community and interested in what they are interested in. This gives us a broader base of common interests to talk about together and to build a relationships on.
We are really enjoying this arrangement of living in the community where our ministry is. For over 2 years we commuted to this neighbourhood while we were in the mission leadership role. Since moving here, I've been able to enjoy having coffee with women and getting to know them better. Hopefully I'll earn the right that comes through relationship of sharing Christ with them in a meaningful way.
One of my new friends has become my walking partner. She has expressed an interest in studying the Bible so that she can better understand the stories portrayed on the stain glass windows of cathedrals she likes to visit in Europe. She attended a Catholic School for both her Elementary and High School education so many of the stories are familiar to her and have left her with a good impression of the Bible and of Christians. Please pray that Yuko would be open as I talk with her about my relationship with Christ as we walk together.
Another new friend, Kumiko, spent many of her Elementary School years in Germany and is much more open to different religions and worldviews than her counterparts who were raised exclusively in Japan. She has attended Bible study a couple of times and also seems open to the gospel.
I'm amazed at how God prepares the hearts of those he wants to touch so that they are open to Him. It's exciting to be used by God in this way. I'm looking forward to see who He will lead my way next!
