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Dear Family and Friends,
Quilt Outreach: I was recently reminded of the great artistry of God and that He is creating wonderful masterpieces; one stitch and stroke at a time. The Heijo Christian Church held a quilt exhibit of the beautiful artwork of one of the members. Mrs. Asakura started learning to stitch Hawaiian style quilts only a few years ago, but has since created some beautiful original artwork. I encouraged her to exhibit them at church as an outreach event. Most of her quilts are based on Scripture. She chooses a Bible verse and “sees” a visual image of what that verse means and creates a beautiful design. Several new people came to the exhibit and they could see, hear, and feel the Scripture in “color” and “beauty.” Mrs. Asakura does a great job explaining every detail and how it pertains to the Scripture verse. Everyone was listening intently. Each stitch is important, regardless of how simple or mundane it may seem. When added all together, it creates a beautiful masterpiece. I was encouraged by this thought because sometimes I get discouraged by the lack of results in the churches I serve in. God is working one stitch at a time and though the backside of the quilt looks messy with strings criss-crossing each other, God is aware that the other side is looking as it should be. I just need to be faithful in the small things and God will take care of the final result. You who support the ministry here through your prayers and financial support are also a big part of His artwork. Thank you for allowing God to use you!
Youth at Seniors Home
Ministry to Seniors: The population of people over 65 years in Japan gets higher and higher each year, so it is a major concern for the country. Right behind the Komyo church is a senior’s home that the church has been regularly visiting with origami (paper folding) projects according to the season. The JBC youth recently also made a visit there with songs and a time of talking with the residents. The elderly residents and the youth enjoyed their time there and the staff have appreciated the ministry that the church has provided.
Origami making with seniors
I also, personally, have been volunteering at my local neighborhood community center to help with the senior outreach program. All of these opportunities are great ways to establish trust and relationships with the people of the community and a great way to share the light of Christ. I look forward to the opportunities that Christmas brings to share Jesus’ love through various volunteer events.
Pastor’s Wives Retreat
Conferences: This Autumn has been a season for various conferences. The Women’s Workers and Pastors’ Wives Retreat was a good time for me to get to know some of the pastors’ wives of the conference better. I was able to share my testimony with them. Taking part in the Church Planting Institute Conference was also beneficial to meet missionaries from all over the country and receive Scriptural food for thought regarding how to spread the Gospel in Japan. I left encouraged by the reminder of God’s great love for me and also the power of the Gospel to save the nations of the world.
Thank you for your partnership in spreading the gospel in Japan! As the Advent and Christmas Season approaches, I pray for God’s Kingdom to be built up and our Saviour Jesus Christ’s name to be glorified in our homes, churches, and communities.
Rejoicing in our Saviour,
Yuri Nakano