Sakura Cherry Blossoms in Yamagata 2016
It has been hard to tell here when Winter ended and Spring began. However, new growth within the chapel has been obvious. "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth." (3 John 4)
At the last members' meeting, two elder candidates and one deacon candidate were elected along with two women to assist in diaconal ministry. This for the first time in forty years! Membership has hovered around 20 almost as long as we have been here (39 years), with conversions and baptisms, then transfers and withdrawals. For about 10 years men who seemed worthy of office, family men who are devoted to Christ, have been hesitant about taking on more responsibilities. But the Holy Spirit of God has shown them the necessity of stepping up and leading the Church of Jesus Christ.
Please be in prayer for Messrs. H.Y., S.S., and S.I.
Several months ago it was suggested that each of the church women who attend the cooking class learn how to express her faith by taking turns bringing the devotional, especially by sharing a verse or passage from the Bible that has touched her life. Up until then one mature Christian sister, who was brought up in a Christian home, was always depended upon to be the teacher for Circle, for Sunday School, and for whatever other activities the women had. At the class in March, Mrs. A.A. told the group, 3/4 of whom were non-Christians, about her sad visit to a friend whose daughter had committed suicide. Walking home from her friend's house, Mrs. A.A. felt depressed and helpless. But, she said, God had prepared a lovely way to comfort her. She noticed a man in a wheelchair who was trying to get a drink of water. She was able to help him and realized anew that her life is in God's hands. She remembered Isaiah 41:10. He alone knows our heartache, leads us by His hand, and heals us with His touch.
Second from the left is Mrs. Aiko Akiho
We are grateful to witness to His work in Yamagata. And we thank you for your prayers.
Lovingly,
Kaz and Katie