Dear Friends,
In Ephesians 3:16-21, Paul prays for the saints that God would strengthen them, “with might through His Spirit in the inner man, 17 that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height... 19 to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. 20 Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, 21 to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus. As God calls us to faith, He also works in us by His mighty Spirit to dwell with Him, rooted in His love and living in His presence. How incomprehensible it is that the eternal God who is love desires to have fellowship with those who were His enemies (Jer.31:31-34). Would you pray this same prayer for the Yamamoto Nozomi (Hope) Church, Sendai Megumi (Grace) Church, Yamagata Presbyterian Church, and the churches scattered throughout Tohoku (the Northeast)? How powerful the spread of the gospel might be if we were each living out this prayer!
Please give thanks with us:
1. For the labors of the KCC team from Hawaii. Through their various activities, new visitors came to Nozomi and helped break the ice, introducing them to us. Jeannie the hair stylist was able to cut hair whenever people showed up, providing good conversation and strengthening ties within the community.
Jeannie and her assistant hair stylists
Twelve gathered to make Hawaiian Lokomoko and pickles and to read the Bible together.
Full House at Cooking Club
The hula was enjoyed by many, including the kids' English class and one man who attends with his granddaughter. In addition to the English classes, the Saturday barbecue and hula performance gathered over 40 people. Three visitors including a first time visitor attended worship Sunday morning, and Pastor Lee was able to have extensive conversation with each of them. Give thanks that one lady has returned to worship more regularly. Their final performance on Monday at a residential home for the handicapped was warmly received. The hula teacher explained how each dance related to their faith in Christ. These dear people are isolated and were deeply moved by the love expressed by the team for them. Pray that the Lord would bring continued fruit from all their labors and prayers. We are thankful for the 5 high school students, the 3 restaurant owners, and the many professionals all who came to pray and serve with all their heart.
Barbecue and Hula Event
Hula at Seiwaen
2. At a recent home visit with Mr. and Mrs. Y., Woody read John 11:1-45 to them. Mrs. Y. enjoys reading the Bible. After previous readings of Scripture to these tsunami survivors, Mr. Y. politely and regularly explained his commitment to Buddhism. This time, after Woody prayed for them, Mr. Y. reached for their large print Bible and began searching for the passage! Thank you for praying for them and please continue.
Mr. and Mrs. Y at home
3. For Mr. T who attends several activities regularly hearing the Bible. While visiting his home recently, he asked many questions about Christianity. Pray that he will understand God's Word and come to worship.
4. Two women attending the adult English class have begun taking notes during the Bible message. May God grant both Mrs. M and Mrs. S understanding and faith in Jesus.
5. Thanks to those who pray for us and wrote encouraging words recently.
Please pray for these things:
1. The OPC team from Scottsdale, Arizona who will be working at Nozomi July 18-31. May the Lord prepare their hearts to labor with joy in Christ and love the people they meet. They plan to help with distribution of 3,000 tracts in Yamamoto door to door throughout their stay as well as weeding in the area for those who are weaker. Tuesday, 7/21, they will be teaching 3 crafts to neighbors. In addition to providing games at Friends' Lunch and music at Friday cafe, they will be hosting an Arizona Festival with lunch and a presentation about Arizona. They will also be leading our one day VBS which we call Kids' Festival. Please pray the Lord will bless His Word and the outpouring of His love through them to all visitors.
2. That the seeds of God's Word which have been planted over the years will bear much fruit in the hearts of the hearers. That these people will be freed from the evil bonds of false religion.
3. For continued opportunities to share the gospel at cafe. Thanks for Mr. A. studying Confessing Christ with Woody and for Mrs. O who regularly joins in conversation about the Bible.
Cafe Bible Time
4. For new missionaries and missionary associates. We thank God for some inquiries and pray the Lord will establish the work here with their help.
5. For committed prayer warriors for this work. For new churches and individuals to give regular contributions to the OPC work in Japan as we look forward to preparing to call new missionaries.
6. For Mr. and Mrs. Paul Lauer as Paul's wife, Sara, gives birth to their first child soon and as Paul hopes to complete licensure exams in October and then seek a call to return to Japan.
May all glory be given to God in whom we live and move and have our being!
Woody and Laurie Lauer OPC Japan Mission, Yamamoto, Japan
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