August 15, 2008
During a city festival in Japan, Alliance missionary Dale Lemke and a small group of believers distributed 350 bottles of water to thirsty participants, along with invitations to visit a Web site where they could learn about the everlasting water that Jesus offers. “We also distributed 100 comic books featuring a gospel presentation to children,” said Lemke. In addition, the group provided information about a Christian crisis pregnancy center and adoption organization.
“At first, the Japanese believers were hesitant [to attend the celebration] because these festivals used to be strongly tied to traditional religion,” said Lemke. “Even today, these events have certain rituals in which we could not participate as followers of Christ.” By hosting a booth, Lemke and his colleagues were able to avoid this problem while gaining the opportunity to connect with city leaders and many other people in the community.
“Pray that the believers who participated will continue to grow in their boldness to go into the community to share the good news of Jesus Christ,” said Lemke. “Our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against the spiritual forces of evil. We appreciate your prayers, which enable us to ‘stand’ and continue to fearlessly proclaim the message of Jesus.”