Hope for Japan

Since coming back to Japan after our month in the States, our energy has been restored. We have figured out new ways to work as a team in ministry, care for each other, and use our time to serve. As our stress levels have decreased, this has renewed us to once again pour our time and energy into planning and ministry activities. As Allie was younger last year, it was difficult for Miho to have significant blocks of time to study and prepare messages. Since I naturally love preaching and feel more comfortable preparing sermons, I filled the regular monthly slot of preaching.

While I would speak every chance I could get, we also realize that both of us are gifted and have unique voices to bring to our church. It feels like a new day, as Miho is ready to preach this upcoming Sunday. Her need for prep time means more effort on my part to watch Allie, but it has created a healthier dynamic for our entire family. Miho even was able to practice on her parents; to which they replied, “Subarashii” (Wonderful).

Our vision this year for the church was laid out recently at a vision meeting. The pastor chose 1 Corinthians 12 as the theme, in which we serve the Body in love. Miho will be preaching from 1 Corinthians 13 on the idea that everything we do needs to be covered in love. It is good to have her hop back in the saddle 🙂 Since coming back from America, life and ministry feels much less stressful and more positive/healthy.