The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few (Sun)

On Sunday we went to the Chapel of Adoration for church in the morning. Associate Pastor Kana gave a message on Philippians 3:1-9, essentially talking about how salvation is by faith, not by works. Japanese society is a works based culture so this concept is very hard for them to grasp.

On our way to visit another church, this processional passed us on the street. Pictured here is an mikoshi, otherwise known as a portable shrine. In the Shinto belief, it is used to transport a god from one shrine to a temporary shrine, usually for a festival.

In the afternoon, we had the opportunity to attend a gospel music service at Megumi (Grace) Fellowship. Gospel music is an interest that some Japanese have, but they do not understand the english lyrics and meanings. Megumi fellowship offers gospel singing classes from time to time, and part of the class time involves sharing the meaning of the songs. There were roughly ten non-christians at the service today that came because of the gospel music ministry.

Allen, Liz, and Tracey had the opportunity to share their testimony during church in english and it was translated into Japanese. Little did they know that parts of their testimony were very relatable to the japanese. The pastor then gave a short message about sharing the message of Christ with the world. He was able to connect the message with the testimonies that were given to make an impactful service.

Following church we ate together with the leadership and their families. We had an opportunity to hear about their gospel music ministry in detail, and ask questions about their church in general. The two pastors shared similar concerns to what we have heard and seen all week, the harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Congregations depend on their pastor to lead every aspect of ministry and evangelism, and also to take care of them in times of need. The laymen and women in the church do not understand yet that they have a part to play in the church and in Jesus' call to make disciples of all nations. It will take time to teach and empower the congregation to read and study the bible on their own, as well as to take responsibility for church family needs.

Please pray that

1. the Japanese would understand and receive the gift of Christ in faith, leaving a works based salvation concept behind
2. the Japanese would leave behind Shinto traditions and beliefs, trading them in for the surpassing value of Christ
3. the pastors would be encouraged, and have the energy and time to lead their congregation
4. the laymen and women of the church would rise to the occasion and contribute to the working of Christ in their church, as well as learn how to read and study the bible for themselves
5. our team, that we would spend our last full day well, praying and encouraging the OMF missionaries at the prayer meeting

Thank you for your prayers!