Update from the May Family

With cherry blossoms in full bloom, birds waking us up with their morning songs, and temperatures rising, spring has definitely arrived in Tokyo!

This past Sunday was a special day. Mrs. Kawaguchi, a 78-year-old grandma whom Debbie befriended some time ago, came to Hope Bible Church for the first time. She and her family are devout Buddhists, and yet she responded to Debbie’s invitation to church. We were amazed when her 50-something son saw us off as we picked his mom up. He knew she was going to church, yet didn't object. Earlier last week Mrs K. broke into tears of joy when Debbie took her some flowers for her birthday. Perhaps because of the flowers she felt an obligation to respond to Deb's invitation to church. In Japanese, this is called "giri". Japanese are masters at building up "obligation" by giving presents or doing good things in order to get back what they want. But, in reality, we know that her going to church is beyond "giri". GOD definitely is the one that draws people to Himself and we give Him the praise. Please pray that this lady and her family might come to salvation.

Earlier last month we asked prayer for Mrs. T, whom Debbie is leading in a weekly Bible study. Thank-you! Those prayers were answered! This lovely Korean lady attended Easter services after having been estranged from the church for many years. God is working healing and encouragement in her heart, and she is showing more signs of understanding of and desire for God’s Word. Praise the Lord!

Below you will find two pictures. Gerald is pictured with Junko Takenouchi (75), who was baptized last July. Gerald had the privilege of leading her through an intensive Bible study for nearly a year before we left on home assignment last spring. She continues to grow in her spiritual walk: this lady who first came into Hope Bible church with a very sour disposition now exhibits a new joy and appreciation of life in the Lord.

Debbie is pictured with some of the members of our gospel choir along with our music director, Ken Taylor. Gospel choirs have gotten to be such a rage in this country that Ken is directing almost 30 choirs. Many of these choir members are non-Christians. We have a natural opening to share God’s message of hope as we explain the words and concepts in each song. Please pray with us that God will draw them to Himself through the gospel message in the music.

We hope you are enjoying this fresh new season of life and growth. May God bring much spiritual renewal in your lives too!