By an Alliance international worker in Japan
Ayumi* stood at the entrance to the meeting room where our congregation worships, head down, shoulders sagging. She paused as if uncertain about entering. Then she saw Mrs. Sato, who had invited Ayumi to our fellowship. She timidly approached as Mrs. Sato welcomed her.
A Bruised Reed
Ayumi is one of the many “bruised reeds” and “smoldering wicks” in Japan. Through the prophet Isaiah, God refers to our weaknesses when He declares that His Servant (a prophecy of Jesus) will bring justice to the Gentiles, saying, “A bruised reed He will not break, and smoldering wick He will not snuff out.” Another translation reads, “He will not crush the weakest reed or put out a flickering candle” (Isaiah 42:3, NLT).
Although about 1 percent of Japanese say they are Christian, only 2 out of 1,000 (0.2 percent) are currently part of a local church. In other words, 8 out of 10 professing Christians, like Ayumi, have left the fellowship of believers. Many have been “bruised” by the enemy; their faith is like a smoldering wick about to go out.
Ten years ago, when Ayumi made a profession of faith, the enemy hit hard, destroying her husband’s mental health, her marriage, and the health of her two adult children, who live with her and are dependent on her. In pain and bitterness, Ayumi threw away her Bible and renounced her faith.
A Life Rekindled
But our Savior does not snuff out a smoldering wick. For years, He waited patiently for Ayumi to turn back to Him, rekindling her desire for Jesus through a series of “unusual” circumstances, including meeting Mrs. Sato and causing her to revisit her decision to walk away from God. Ayumi began attending church regularly.
As we took Communion last month, a tearful Ayumi abstained. Later, I asked her why. “My heart is not yet right with God,” she confessed. After an intense time of prayer with her, Ayumi repented. With tears streaming down her face, she asked God’s forgiveness for her many sins, especially for turning her back on Him.
Today, Ayumi’s bright smile is a testament to the Lord’s tender mercies in her life. Recently, she participated in the Lord’s Supper, the first time in many years. As she approached the Lord’s Table, I said softly, “Okaerinasai” (welcome back).
*Names changed