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by | Jul 6, 2011 | Uncategorized

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From Jennifer Gracey’s recent newsletter. This is the same church and location shown in a video I posted recently.

The remains of SeaSide Bible Chapel in the earthquake disaster zone. The people in the photo are leaders from 3 different houses of prayer in the Tokyo area who are working together. This trip took place from June 12-14th. The sign in Japanese says in essence, “there will be revival in Japan and in this place.” As we were told by the pastor of this church and his wife, there were about 600 children who were saved because of the location of the church building. SeaSide Bible Chapel was in the direct path of the tsunami and the elementary school was directly behind the church building. Because the tsunami hit the church first, some of the force of the wave was diminished which meant, it didn’t reach the roof are where the children had evacuated to. If the church building had not been there, the children would have perished. One local citizens’ reported comment was that, “God sacrificed His own temple to save the children.” It is interesting indeed that the cross is the only thing standing in this area save the remains of damaged buildings and a few trees.

(Posted July  6 2011)

2 Kings 3:1-12

by | Jul 4, 2011 | Thoughts, Uncategorized

When King Joram went to war against Moab, he called on Jehoshaphat for help.  They were going about their plan, but then things got scary. It was only when they were in trouble that “Jehoshaphat asked, ‘Is there no prophet of the LORD here, through whom we may inquire of the LORD?'” (v. 11)

What about us?  Is God our first response or last resort?

It’s good to turn to God in times of trouble, but what things are going well?  This is especially challenging for those of us involved in ministry. Do we plan our events, write our messages and do our ministries in our own wisdom and strength?  Do we only call on God when we see that our own plans aren’t working?  Or do we, as we should, seek God’s guidance, strength and presence in our lives and ministries first?

What about you?  Is God your first response or last resort? 

What about me…?

July Prayer Letter

by | Jun 30, 2011 | Ministry News

Dear praying friends,

March’s natural disaster has brought a lot of attention to Japan.  The current deathtoll is over 20,000 people. However, there is another statistic that many people don’t know: Over 30,000 commit suicide in Japan every year.  And now, this year’s natural disaster is just adding to the ongoing tragedy of hopelessness; there were 20% more suicides reported this May compared to the same period last year.

All of this just emphasizes the truth that Japan is a nation in desperate need of hope. If this was true before March 11, how much more obvious is it now? 

Please continue to pray for the continuing relief efforts in north-eastern Japan. Pray that God will use this disaster to draw people to Himself. Pray that the Church will be effective in reaching out to lost people with the love of Jesus. Pray for hope.

My July Prayer Needs:

While you are praying for Japan, here are some specific things you can pray about on my behalf:

– My English students.
– My Japanese studies.
– Youth ministry at Nagoya-Higashi Church on 7/9.
– Music & testimony at Nagoya-Higashi on 7/10.
– English Club event on 7/24.
– Kids’ Camp at the Toyota Church on 7/31 & 8/1.

Thank you for your continuing partnership with me in Japan!

Blessings,

Robin

—————————————————————————————

Earthquake Relief
Click here for info on how you can help: http://www.crashjapan.com

Related News Articles:
Re: Suicides
Re: Deathtoll

(posted June 30 2011)

Untitled

by | Jun 30, 2011 | Uncategorized, Videos

[vimeo http://www.vimeo.com/24081017 w=400&h=225]

I posted this on my Facebook about a month ago, but for those of you who didn’t see it there I thought I would share it here as well. This has no connection to my ministry but is a good look at north-eastern Japan 2 months after the disaster, and what God is doing there. A little long in internet-video terms, but worth taking the time to watch, for sure.

(posted June 30 2011)

Nahum 1

by | Jun 20, 2011 | Thoughts, Uncategorized

“Look! A messenger is coming over the mountains with good news! He is bringing a message of peace.” (Nahum 1:15)

I can’t read this verse without thinking of Jesus. Israel was looking for a Messiah to save them from their enemies. But Jesus came to save them — to save us all — from our sins. Israel and their neighbors still fight over land that both sides believe is theirs by Devine right. And no wonder… They don’t have a new covenant. Jesus came to establish a new covenant between God and His people — all people. For those who have not accepted Him, land and race and religion are what matters. No wonder there is no peace.

Someone (I forget who) once said, “Man is not at peace with man because he is not at peace with himself. And he is not at peace with himself because he is not at peace with God.”

Jesus came to give us that peace.

June Prayer Letter

by | Jun 3, 2011 | Ministry News

Hi everyone,

Reflecting back on the past few months, and looking ahead to the summer, it really seems like this year is moving way too quickly!  I’m thankful for the many opportunities God is giving me here, and for your partnership in my ministry through prayers and giving.

God is continuing to bless my English ministry, and spiritual bridges are being built.  For May’s English Club event, attendance was down a little bit, but I was really thankful to see one of my Wednesday English class students show up. I really believe God is working my students’ lives, drawing them to Himself!  Please keep praying for my English sudents.

Here are some prayer requests for June:

• This weekend (June 4-6) I’m scheduled to minister through preaching and music at the Yamaguchi Immanuel Church.

• Wednesday, June 8: Worship leading at prayer meeting here in Nagoya.

• Saturday, June 11: Youth ministry at Nagoya-Higashi Immanuel Church.

• June 13-17: GP Asia Area Missionary Retreat.

Thanks again, and God bless!

– Robin (June 3, 2011)

Numbers 32:1-15

by | May 31, 2011 | Thoughts, Uncategorized

「われわれにヨルダンを渡らせないでください」（３２の５）

安楽や自己満足、気をつけないと行けない。ここは大丈夫かもしらないけどう、向こうに神様のベストがある。アドベンチャーがある。

“Do not make us cross the Jordan.” (v. 5)

We need to beware of complacency. To be careful not to get too comfortable in our walks with God. This side of the Jordan may be peaceful and nice, but it may not be God’s best. The adventure lies on the other side.