News and a Witness from Japan

I received an email today from my friend who has family in Japan. He provided an update on the situation there from his mom’s perspective. I was so touched by the story of him mom and dad’s ministry there, which continues through him mom even during these trying times, that I asked if I could share with all of you. He said I could, so here is his email:

Dear Friends,

We appreciated all of your concerns and prayers about my mother in Japan. The telephone lines were dead for almost 12 hours before they were restored and I was able to talk to my mom in Fukushima, 30 miles south of Sendai, the epicenter. All the public transportation systems (railroads & highways) were closed between Tokyo and the northern Japan. The only means of communication still available are wireless cell network or internet network which seems to find its way to any destinations. My mom is safe and it must be God’s provision, since many buildings around her were destroyed or severely damaged. She sounded very good and, in fact, she was cooking when we finally connected. As she always has been doing, she was getting ready to deliver meals to many of the shut-ins in the village (mostly female living alone) and a chit chat, making sure they are cared for. This is her ministry and she seemed busier now that there are more in need for food and someone to talk to.

I asked her if she ever feels lonely, living by herself. “Why would I feel lonesome?” “I’m not alone, because Jesus is with me.” “As a matter of fact, He keeps me busy with opportunities to minister to these people who often questions my “hidden agenda.” She said she would tell them “no agenda,” just had extra food she cooked and wanted to share them with you. This is how I remember her during my childhood and she hasn’t changed. She is keeping it alive my father’s quiet ministry to those who persecuted against us because of our religion. Love has finally prevailed and these faithless villagers have come to accept my dad and mom as a caring couple in spite of what they have done. My dad passed away 12 years ago but the family tradition continues. Her non-threatening approach to showing her love by sharing meals she cooked seems to have won their heart even though they have not accepted Christ as their savior.

I wanted to share this with you during this Lent season. I thought perhaps it is appropriate to share her story with those who could appreciate how Christ’s love could move mountains especially in the midst of such tragedy like what they just experienced yesterday. Nothing happens for no reason. There is a purpose for our life, gifts and resources. God wants us to use them appropriately for the right purpose, His kingdom.

Please keep my mom in your prayers as she is not quite out of the woods yet. Two nuclear power plants are in Fukushima and they are only 25 miles away and one of them has presented a potential risk with the reactor. I pray that God will continue to keep her in his protection as she continues to serve others in need in the village.

Blessings to you and your family, Y and G