September 15, 2010
By Harry and Jane Landaw, serving in Japan
What a joy it was to receive an e-mail from Yoko that she had decided to accept Jesus and be baptized. Just nine days ago, she stepped out of her Buddhist background and made her faith in Jesus public by her baptism at Yachiyo (Alliance) Church. The church had just moved to a new location and didn’t have baptismal facilities. Mr. Matsubara, who came to Christ at our house and was baptized by Dick Kropp a few years ago, welcomed us to use his home.
Yoko was baptized in the Matsubaras’ Japanese bath with many people watching as windows were opened for all to see. In her testimony Yoko proclaimed, “I realized I was a sinner and needed forgiveness.” Her father had forbidden her to follow Jesus. But, before he passed away several months ago, he told her she was free to become a Christian. Praise God for this victorious story.
A Light in the Darkness
In Japan, the passing of a relative or loved one is remembered through periodic memorial services by those of the Buddhist religion. For Christians, it is a perfect opportunity for sharing the love, salvation, and comfort of Jesus. And so, we thank God for the deep joy He gave to us in joining Kazuyo, her husband, Lachlan; and their daughter—all Christians from Kawaguchi (Alliance) Church—in remembering the life of Kazuyo’s mother, who came to Christ before passing away one year ago.
Also present were many relatives who came to honor Kazuyo’s mother. On that warm day, they heard of Jesus, who loves them and wants to give all the hope of eternal life. There we stood with Buddhist grave sites all around, but there was the Light of the World shining brightly to these not yet believing relatives.
We sensed the great power of prayer that is pushing back the darkness in the land of Japan. Please pray for Kazuyo, Lachlan, and their family as they have stepped out of darkness into the light of Jesus and are pillars at Kawaguchi Church started by Don and Hazel Schaeffer, who are on home assignment. The church elders are leading the church. It is an amazing story. Thank you for praying for God’s leading and blessing on this group.
What You Can Do
When you give to the Great Commission Fund, you partner with Alliance field workers, like Harry and Jane Landaw, in sharing Christ’s message of hope with those who need good news.
Learn More
Check out our work in Japan.