January 2019 Newsletter

That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. Philemon 1:6A great goal for our lives in this New Year, is to make the “communication of our faith” effectual. How is that accomplished? This verse gives us the answers: when we recognize that every good thing in us is directly a result of Jesus Christ in us. It is through understanding and proclaiming that in us, that is in our flesh, there is no good. That only by an obedient life of faith can we please God and clearly communicate to this sin-filled world the great salvation and love of the one true God. Let us be very quick to give verbal credit for any good attitude or action to Jesus Christ. By this action we can communicate our faith to others. That communication of our faith will be effectual in others’ lives as we glorify the Lord in deed and word. Praise the Lord!

We want to thank each person and church who gave special Christmas money gifts and birthday greetings to us both. With these funds we were able to buy flooring to put down in the kitchen and restroom of our home. A fellow missionary came and helped us put down the kitchen flooring which was a great blessing. Vicki loves her refreshed look and easier care flooring!! Thank you so much!

Ken always listens and waits for God to open doors of opportunity to give testimony when in the schools. During a recent class at the country grade school, he was asked why we came to Japan. Rather than just say because we wanted to tell them about Christ, he began by saying that there was a living God who loved all people, no matter their nationality, but also hated their sins. He defined sins and told how God loved each of person enough that He sent His Son, Jesus Christ to take the punishment for their sins and we were in Teshio to tell everyone about that Living God and His love and provision. Praise God and continue to pray for more opportunities in the schools, in town and through all our words and actions.

For the first time in a year, Mrs. Kuroda was able to free up some time to come spend the evening with us. You may remember that she is the high school English teacher that Ken works with, and she studied the Bible for several months with us. Later, we think because of her anti-all-gods husband, that she had to quit. We wanted to show hospitality, that we cared and were still concerned for her. We didn’t push Bible facts on her but just included God throughout the conversation. She did readily say, yes please, when asked if we could pray out loud for her before she left. Please continue to still pray for Mrs. Kuroda.

3. Mayor Asada: more witnessing opportunities, salvation and comfort through this time

4. For new leadership that will take place beginning in April both in Teshio and as the emperor of Japan advocates and his son takes the position. That our opportunities to share the Gospel will continue and abound!