Leadership Coaching/Mentoring
The Importance of Community
August/24/09
“Come to me all you who are tired and have heavy loads, and I will give you rest.” --Matthew 11:28 (NCV)
This summer has been full of ministry opportunities! While are bodies may be tired from full schedules and the Tokyo heat, we are learning to rest in Jesus and enjoy the adventure!
Open Hearts in Mommy Circle
Using our words to speak life over our children, learning to trust God for His strength… these are some of the topics that Alice is discussing with several “seeking” moms who come to a parenting circle in our home.
What a joy to see lights start to come on as these women take in God’s word! Not only are they trying to apply God’s word to their own child-raising skills, they’re also sharing what they’ve learned with their other friends. God’s word is full of life, and it’s contagious! Please pray with us for these women and their family’s salvation.
We have also started a bi-weekly children’s English and Bible class in our home. What a lively time! Please pray that the Word will take root in their young hearts, and that God will touch these families.
CRM-Asia Staff Conference in Indonesia
Earlier this summer, we traveled to be with almost 50 other Asia-based and US-based CRM staff for a time of mutual encouragement and professional growth.
Conference Highlights:
* Connecting with CRM family who serve in other Asian countries
* Learning from Dr. Sherwood Lingenfelter, author of Leading Cross-culturally, and growing together in our ability to lead in Kingdom Ways as we face challenges of living and ministering abroad.
* (For Alice) the opportunity to lead intercession at the conference and film interviews of CRM-Asia staff. (These stories from the field will be edited and posted online so that others can hear what God is doing in Asia.)
The Importance of Community in Japanese Culture
Japanese people place a high value on community. Whether a tennis circle or a high school class, groups in Japan fill a need for belonging.
We are discovering that this is no different with pregnancy! When one of our friends and Alice both found out they were pregnant, other women in our circle of friends decided it was time to try for another baby as well. Now a number of us are walking through a season of pregnancy together!
In the U.S., we have high school class reunions. But, in Japan, the gatherings for “dokyusei,” or classmates start from kindergarten. This level of community in Japan lasts a lifetime.
We praise God for using our growing family as a means to share His light, and as a way to build deeper relationships with Japanese seekers around us.
Thank you for being a part of our “community”—we couldn’t be here without your prayers and support!
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The Parable of the Talents, Applied to Soccer
June/24/09
The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), Applied to Soccer
One of my favorite stories in the Bible is the parable of the talents. I love to share this story with my team to encourage them to focus on God instead of just trophies, wins and losses.
In this story, three men were entrusted a different amount of property to take care of. Their master evaluated them on the basis of how faithful they were with what they received. Two of the men were diligent and faithful with what they were entrusted. God honored them and gave them even more.
But the other man was punished for his lack of faith and effort. He was so fearful that God would be disappointed in his results that he didn’t even try.
In today’s world—especially the sports world-- it’s easy for people to get caught up in the end result (wins and losses) and forget about what we can learn along the way. We’re often guilty of evaluating ourselves simply on the basis of what we achieved (or didn’t achieve). As a result, we miss what’s most important in God’s eyes: being faithful to His purposes and becoming more Christ-like along the way.
Worldly Significance versus Eternal Significance
This season, CAJ ‘s soccer team went into the Far East soccer tournament ranked first. Last season, we made it to the final but lost a heartbreaker in double overtime. The guys were eager to win it this year!
Even though I was optimistic about our chances, I wanted the guys to know that the measure of their season would not be whether or not they won the tournament, but by how much they learned and the measure of Christ formed in them (Christian spiritual formation).
I encouraged them to realize God had given each of them a measure of ability or talents and that His chief concern was not whether they won or lost (significance in the world’s eyes) but by how faithful they were to His purposes during the process (significance in God’s eyes).
To this end, I challenged and exhorted the team to:
*Seek God first and His Kingdom’s purposes (Matthew 6:33)
*Compete with all of their hearts, for the Lord and not for men (Colossians 3:23).
*Conduct themselves “in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, no matter what happened” (Philippians 1:27).
In the end, by God’s grace, He chose to give CAJ the victory and the championship. But the greatest satisfaction for these guys came from running the race in a way that gave God glory and finishing well. For them, their reward was God’s affirmation, “Well-done, good and faithful servants” (Matthew 6:21)!
One of my favorite stories in the Bible is the parable of the talents. I love to share this story with my team to encourage them to focus on God instead of just trophies, wins and losses.
In this story, three men were entrusted a different amount of property to take care of. Their master evaluated them on the basis of how faithful they were with what they received. Two of the men were diligent and faithful with what they were entrusted. God honored them and gave them even more.
But the other man was punished for his lack of faith and effort. He was so fearful that God would be disappointed in his results that he didn’t even try.
In today’s world—especially the sports world-- it’s easy for people to get caught up in the end result (wins and losses) and forget about what we can learn along the way. We’re often guilty of evaluating ourselves simply on the basis of what we achieved (or didn’t achieve). As a result, we miss what’s most important in God’s eyes: being faithful to His purposes and becoming more Christ-like along the way.
Worldly Significance versus Eternal Significance
This season, CAJ ‘s soccer team went into the Far East soccer tournament ranked first. Last season, we made it to the final but lost a heartbreaker in double overtime. The guys were eager to win it this year!
Even though I was optimistic about our chances, I wanted the guys to know that the measure of their season would not be whether or not they won the tournament, but by how much they learned and the measure of Christ formed in them (Christian spiritual formation).
I encouraged them to realize God had given each of them a measure of ability or talents and that His chief concern was not whether they won or lost (significance in the world’s eyes) but by how faithful they were to His purposes during the process (significance in God’s eyes).
To this end, I challenged and exhorted the team to:
*Seek God first and His Kingdom’s purposes (Matthew 6:33)
*Compete with all of their hearts, for the Lord and not for men (Colossians 3:23).
*Conduct themselves “in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, no matter what happened” (Philippians 1:27).
In the end, by God’s grace, He chose to give CAJ the victory and the championship. But the greatest satisfaction for these guys came from running the race in a way that gave God glory and finishing well. For them, their reward was God’s affirmation, “Well-done, good and faithful servants” (Matthew 6:21)!
Playing Soccer for God's Pleasure, Feeling His Favor
May/24/09
Playing Soccer for God’s Pleasure, Feeling His Favor
It’s springtime and we’re in the heart of soccer season at the Christian Academy in Japan (CAJ). This is one of my favorite times of year because through coaching at CAJ, God provides me with the unique opportunity to invest heavily into the lives of 18-25 young men who are in a very strategic and formative season of growth in their lives.
As I reflect on my years growing up and competing as a young athlete, I don’t recall having many Christian teammates. Furthermore, the few Christian teammates I did have were quiet about their faith and it didn’t seem to have much impact on their lives (or their athletic abilities).
To me, this is tragic because I believe with all of my heart, I would have been more successful as an athlete and enjoyed the journey much more if I had been following Jesus rather than my own selfish desires.
One of the reasons I am so passionate about coaching young people in sports is that it provides me with the chance to share with them that the Bible is as valid and applicable to their participation in athletics as it is to participation in traditional ministry. The idea that some activities are more holy or sacred than others is a fallacy that is deeply engrained in the minds of many Christians, regardless of their theological or church background.
The Bible is very clear however, that there is no distinction between holy and secular activities. Regardless of our vocation, the Bible says we, as believers are “a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that we may declare His praises.” (1 Peter 2:9).
As a soccer coach, I strive to encourage these players that whatever they do, whether it’s playing soccer or singing in a church choir, or serving at a youth camp, that they should do it “in the name of the Lord Jesus,” and “work at it with all their hearts, as unto the Lord, not for men” (Colossians 3:17, 3:23).
Many people are familiar with the movie Chariots of Fire, a true story about a young man named Eric Liddell who won a gold medal running in the 1924 Olympics. During the time he spent training for the Olympics, his sister criticized him for training so hard and in her mind, neglecting the Lord’s work.
Liddell’s response is classic. He says, “I believe God made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast. And when I run I feel His pleasure.”
This is one of the reasons I find such joy in coaching—helping young people realize that it brings God great pleasure when we they delight in using the gifts He’s given them for Him.
Please pray for these young men, that they would train and compete and play soccer as unto the Lord, and not unto men. Pray that God would mold their character through soccer and show them just how much He longs to use every aspect of their lives for Him.
It’s springtime and we’re in the heart of soccer season at the Christian Academy in Japan (CAJ). This is one of my favorite times of year because through coaching at CAJ, God provides me with the unique opportunity to invest heavily into the lives of 18-25 young men who are in a very strategic and formative season of growth in their lives.
As I reflect on my years growing up and competing as a young athlete, I don’t recall having many Christian teammates. Furthermore, the few Christian teammates I did have were quiet about their faith and it didn’t seem to have much impact on their lives (or their athletic abilities).
To me, this is tragic because I believe with all of my heart, I would have been more successful as an athlete and enjoyed the journey much more if I had been following Jesus rather than my own selfish desires.
One of the reasons I am so passionate about coaching young people in sports is that it provides me with the chance to share with them that the Bible is as valid and applicable to their participation in athletics as it is to participation in traditional ministry. The idea that some activities are more holy or sacred than others is a fallacy that is deeply engrained in the minds of many Christians, regardless of their theological or church background.
The Bible is very clear however, that there is no distinction between holy and secular activities. Regardless of our vocation, the Bible says we, as believers are “a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that we may declare His praises.” (1 Peter 2:9).
As a soccer coach, I strive to encourage these players that whatever they do, whether it’s playing soccer or singing in a church choir, or serving at a youth camp, that they should do it “in the name of the Lord Jesus,” and “work at it with all their hearts, as unto the Lord, not for men” (Colossians 3:17, 3:23).
Many people are familiar with the movie Chariots of Fire, a true story about a young man named Eric Liddell who won a gold medal running in the 1924 Olympics. During the time he spent training for the Olympics, his sister criticized him for training so hard and in her mind, neglecting the Lord’s work.
Liddell’s response is classic. He says, “I believe God made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast. And when I run I feel His pleasure.”
This is one of the reasons I find such joy in coaching—helping young people realize that it brings God great pleasure when we they delight in using the gifts He’s given them for Him.
Please pray for these young men, that they would train and compete and play soccer as unto the Lord, and not unto men. Pray that God would mold their character through soccer and show them just how much He longs to use every aspect of their lives for Him.
It is Good to be Back Home in Tokyo!
February/18/09
We arrived back in Japan on February 17th. The last few months of itinerating in the States were a whirlwind for our little family. We were overjoyed to get to spend time with many of you personally! And, even though it was hard to say good-byes (especially for grandparents!), we are excited to be heading “home” to Tokyo.
Here are a few highlights of the past six weeks:
A Taste of Japan in Atlanta
During one of our road trips in the States, we visited one of Sean’s former Japanese soccer players, Bobby, from last year’s team. Bobby’s parents were called to pastor a Japanese congregation in a suburb near Atlanta.
Bobby wasn’t just one of Sean’s players… he was a spiritual leader of the team who was a delight for Sean to mentor. Sean enjoyed reconnecting with Bobby and helping him process this move to the States (his senior year of high school). We also were refreshed by his family’s gracious hospitality!
On a Mission
Recently, we visited one of our partnering churches-- Life House Fellowship of Athens in Georgia. Later this year, they are planning to send a team of young people to Japan to partner with us in our ministry.
During our visit, we were able to attend one of “Team Japan’s” preparation meetings. It was awesome to see their enthusiasm, passion and hunger to be used by God for Japan.
Please pray for these young people (pictured) as they prepare spiritually, and as they raise support to come and serve in Japan.
Retreating to Pray
In late January, the CRM Intercession Team gathered together in California for their Winter Prayer Retreat. This year was Alice’s first time to be able to attend. She has been praying with this team for almost three years now (in spirit!), so it was a thrill for her to FINALLY see many of them face to face.
What an honor to come together and pray for God’s will to be done in CRM, and in the lives of the individual families serving all across the globe. Lord, may you alone be our source, and may your glory be our only goal.
Looking Ahead
We’ll be writing more in subsequent updates but in the meantime, please pray for:
*Sean, as he begins coaching again at CAJ
*Kadin prepares to start Japanese school in just over a month! He will be entering “Shinmei Yochien,” a three-year Japanese pre-school that is only a five-minute walk from our house.
*Smooth cultural readjustment for us, and especially for Kadin and Rylee.
*For vision and clarify for ministry in 2009
Here are a few highlights of the past six weeks:
A Taste of Japan in Atlanta
During one of our road trips in the States, we visited one of Sean’s former Japanese soccer players, Bobby, from last year’s team. Bobby’s parents were called to pastor a Japanese congregation in a suburb near Atlanta.
Bobby wasn’t just one of Sean’s players… he was a spiritual leader of the team who was a delight for Sean to mentor. Sean enjoyed reconnecting with Bobby and helping him process this move to the States (his senior year of high school). We also were refreshed by his family’s gracious hospitality!
On a Mission
Recently, we visited one of our partnering churches-- Life House Fellowship of Athens in Georgia. Later this year, they are planning to send a team of young people to Japan to partner with us in our ministry.
During our visit, we were able to attend one of “Team Japan’s” preparation meetings. It was awesome to see their enthusiasm, passion and hunger to be used by God for Japan.
Please pray for these young people (pictured) as they prepare spiritually, and as they raise support to come and serve in Japan.
Retreating to Pray
In late January, the CRM Intercession Team gathered together in California for their Winter Prayer Retreat. This year was Alice’s first time to be able to attend. She has been praying with this team for almost three years now (in spirit!), so it was a thrill for her to FINALLY see many of them face to face.
What an honor to come together and pray for God’s will to be done in CRM, and in the lives of the individual families serving all across the globe. Lord, may you alone be our source, and may your glory be our only goal.
Looking Ahead
We’ll be writing more in subsequent updates but in the meantime, please pray for:
*Sean, as he begins coaching again at CAJ
*Kadin prepares to start Japanese school in just over a month! He will be entering “Shinmei Yochien,” a three-year Japanese pre-school that is only a five-minute walk from our house.
*Smooth cultural readjustment for us, and especially for Kadin and Rylee.
*For vision and clarify for ministry in 2009
The Breath of New Life
April/19/08
The Breath of New Life
“…Prophesy to these bones, ‘Dry bones, hear the word of the Lord!... I will make breath enter you and you will come to life.’” Ezekiel 37:4-5
Spring has come! Flowers are blooming, birds are singing, and there is a sense of anticipation as Tokyo welcomes the new season. Dark clouds, clothes, and faces are being traded for sunny days, bright colors and expectant smiles. LIFE is being breathed into a land that has been in hibernation.
As we listen in prayer, we sense the Lord saying that “spring” has also come to our ministry. I (Alice) am sometimes overwhelmed with the “flowers” that we see blooming in the lives of the families that we have been investing in. The levels of trust continue to deepen, and so do the questions they are asking. I sense the Lord saying to proclaim LIFE over the dry areas in their lives -- that His breath may enter them and they may TRULY live.
We’ve also been seeing the Lord breathe new life into the “dry bones” of our church. The Lord has transformed dry times of worship into sweet times of being refreshed in His presence. He is building a team of rotating worship leaders with a vision to see walls torn down as we praise. Also, a special team of intercessors has formed to pray together before each worship service and for special needs. It’s exciting to be a part of these two thriving ministries!
Sean is experiencing new life, both as CAJ’s soccer coach and as a coach to pastors. Opportunities are springing up everywhere for his expertise to be used.
For example, this spring we are traveling to Kansai for the Japan Cell Mission Network Summit. Over 100 pastors and leaders will gather together for prayer and encouragement. We are excited about opportunities to connect with, encourage, and pray for these leaders, and we know that Kadin and Rylee will melt some hearts too!
LEADING BY EXAMPLE
On a side note, I (Alice) would like to share a recent experience that made me even more proud of Sean, both as a husband and as a father.
Japanese fathers are not known for being affectionate towards their children. In fact, a mommy friend of mine told me that her little girl would cry when her daddy even called her name!
Sean is a WONDERFUL daddy. Recently, while having dinner with a Japanese family, the little girl ran and jumped on her father’s lap. The father seemed surprised. “A few weeks ago my daughter wouldn’t have come to me like this. But, I have been learning from you, Sean. I watch you, and want to be a good father like you.”
Lord, please continue to use not just our words, but also our very lives to be poured out as a testimony of Jesus! May YOUR LIFE be breathed out in Japan!
“…Prophesy to these bones, ‘Dry bones, hear the word of the Lord!... I will make breath enter you and you will come to life.’” Ezekiel 37:4-5
Spring has come! Flowers are blooming, birds are singing, and there is a sense of anticipation as Tokyo welcomes the new season. Dark clouds, clothes, and faces are being traded for sunny days, bright colors and expectant smiles. LIFE is being breathed into a land that has been in hibernation.
As we listen in prayer, we sense the Lord saying that “spring” has also come to our ministry. I (Alice) am sometimes overwhelmed with the “flowers” that we see blooming in the lives of the families that we have been investing in. The levels of trust continue to deepen, and so do the questions they are asking. I sense the Lord saying to proclaim LIFE over the dry areas in their lives -- that His breath may enter them and they may TRULY live.
We’ve also been seeing the Lord breathe new life into the “dry bones” of our church. The Lord has transformed dry times of worship into sweet times of being refreshed in His presence. He is building a team of rotating worship leaders with a vision to see walls torn down as we praise. Also, a special team of intercessors has formed to pray together before each worship service and for special needs. It’s exciting to be a part of these two thriving ministries!
Sean is experiencing new life, both as CAJ’s soccer coach and as a coach to pastors. Opportunities are springing up everywhere for his expertise to be used.
For example, this spring we are traveling to Kansai for the Japan Cell Mission Network Summit. Over 100 pastors and leaders will gather together for prayer and encouragement. We are excited about opportunities to connect with, encourage, and pray for these leaders, and we know that Kadin and Rylee will melt some hearts too!
LEADING BY EXAMPLE
On a side note, I (Alice) would like to share a recent experience that made me even more proud of Sean, both as a husband and as a father.
Japanese fathers are not known for being affectionate towards their children. In fact, a mommy friend of mine told me that her little girl would cry when her daddy even called her name!
Sean is a WONDERFUL daddy. Recently, while having dinner with a Japanese family, the little girl ran and jumped on her father’s lap. The father seemed surprised. “A few weeks ago my daughter wouldn’t have come to me like this. But, I have been learning from you, Sean. I watch you, and want to be a good father like you.”
Lord, please continue to use not just our words, but also our very lives to be poured out as a testimony of Jesus! May YOUR LIFE be breathed out in Japan!
Spring Highlights
March/19/08
It’s hard to believe that we’re already three months into 2008. Here are just a few of the highlights so far:
*Sean has been actively coaching and supporting pastors and leaders in the Japan Cell Church Mission Network. Sean took part in their annual meeting in January, a regional three-day conference last month, and is working closely with several of the pastors, in particular.
It’s been awesome to see pastors working closely together on a local and national level to bring revival to Japan. When leaders put Kingdom values above their own personal agendas, church rivalries and denominational differences, it’s amazing how freely and powerfully God can move!
*As a new member of CRM’s Creative Services team, Alice will be editing documentaries/promotional videos that portray what God is doing in CRM around the world.
In Alice’s first “official” project for the team, she will be assisting CRM’s main “video-storyteller” as he puts together a video of CRM-Singapore’s ministry. Please pray for Alice as she embarks in this new role!
*Kazu, a freestyle wrestler Sean led to the Lord and mentored since 2000, won the national championship in January! He is trying to qualify for the Olympics in Beijing this summer.
Please pray for Kazu, that he would be a light for Jesus as he competes, and for God’s favor and blessing in upcoming Olympic qualifying competitions.
*On a personal note, Rylee started sleeping through the night after just three months! Considering that it took Kadin over a year before he slept through the night, we are overjoyed to be getting lots of much-needed sleep!
Looking Ahead
*This spring promises to move at an even faster pace as we add Sean’s duties as the high school soccer coach at CAJ (Christian Academy in Japan) to our already full schedule.
Every year, we eagerly anticipate the soccer season! Very few activities provide such a unique opportunity to invest intensively in the lives of young men over an extended period of time (from one to four years). The lessons and character development in the young men can last a lifetime!
*We look forward to deepening relationships with friends the Lord has given us. Please pray for them… a hunger for Jesus, and a life-changing encounter with Him through their friendship with us!
*Please pray for more opportunities for Sean to coach and mentor emerging leaders for the church. And please pray for the Lord’s anointing in relationships where God is already using Sean to encourage, exhort, and equip men to live out their calling.
*Finally, please pray for Alice as:
-She continues building some great friendships with other young mothers
-She expands her role as a member of CRM’s Creative Services and Intercession Teams
-As she invests in other intercessors and worship leaders at our church
-As she manages two energetic children!
Thank you for your love, support and prayers!
*Sean has been actively coaching and supporting pastors and leaders in the Japan Cell Church Mission Network. Sean took part in their annual meeting in January, a regional three-day conference last month, and is working closely with several of the pastors, in particular.
It’s been awesome to see pastors working closely together on a local and national level to bring revival to Japan. When leaders put Kingdom values above their own personal agendas, church rivalries and denominational differences, it’s amazing how freely and powerfully God can move!
*As a new member of CRM’s Creative Services team, Alice will be editing documentaries/promotional videos that portray what God is doing in CRM around the world.
In Alice’s first “official” project for the team, she will be assisting CRM’s main “video-storyteller” as he puts together a video of CRM-Singapore’s ministry. Please pray for Alice as she embarks in this new role!
*Kazu, a freestyle wrestler Sean led to the Lord and mentored since 2000, won the national championship in January! He is trying to qualify for the Olympics in Beijing this summer.
Please pray for Kazu, that he would be a light for Jesus as he competes, and for God’s favor and blessing in upcoming Olympic qualifying competitions.
*On a personal note, Rylee started sleeping through the night after just three months! Considering that it took Kadin over a year before he slept through the night, we are overjoyed to be getting lots of much-needed sleep!
Looking Ahead
*This spring promises to move at an even faster pace as we add Sean’s duties as the high school soccer coach at CAJ (Christian Academy in Japan) to our already full schedule.
Every year, we eagerly anticipate the soccer season! Very few activities provide such a unique opportunity to invest intensively in the lives of young men over an extended period of time (from one to four years). The lessons and character development in the young men can last a lifetime!
*We look forward to deepening relationships with friends the Lord has given us. Please pray for them… a hunger for Jesus, and a life-changing encounter with Him through their friendship with us!
*Please pray for more opportunities for Sean to coach and mentor emerging leaders for the church. And please pray for the Lord’s anointing in relationships where God is already using Sean to encourage, exhort, and equip men to live out their calling.
*Finally, please pray for Alice as:
-She continues building some great friendships with other young mothers
-She expands her role as a member of CRM’s Creative Services and Intercession Teams
-As she invests in other intercessors and worship leaders at our church
-As she manages two energetic children!
Thank you for your love, support and prayers!
Breaking Through Cultural Walls
February/19/08
“We loved you so much that we shared with you not only God’s Good News but our own lives, too.” (1 Thessalonians 2:8)
I (Alice) come from Mississippi, the Hospitality State, where inviting people to your home is a natural way to build a friendship. Usually, the invitation is reciprocated and friendships between families grow, by sharing life together. But, here in Japan, there seems to be an invisible cultural wall built around people’s homes and private lives. Seldom are you really invited inside.
Between the two of us, we’ve lived in Japan for nearly 20 years. Over this time, we’ve learned that breaking through these barriers to build heart connections can be very challenging, and can sometimes lead to disappointment. When the breakthroughs do come however, relationships in Japan can be wonderfully deep and often last a lifetime.
We’ve gone through some lonely and tearful seasons, as we’ve slammed into this “wall,” when some friends have withdrawn, afraid to be transparent and move deeper into relationship. Recently however, we have seen some exciting glimmers of hope in several of the relationships that we have been investing in…
Sharing Christ by Sharing our Lives
We’ve grown close to two special families with whom we’ve shared many meals in our home. Our kids are the same age, and we enjoy spending time together. In fact, all of our two-year-olds are in the same swimming class right now. But, they seemed guarded, only willing to share their lives with us from a distance. Until recently…
Suddenly, it seems that the Holy Spirit is tearing down these walls! In two weeks time, we have been invited as a family to share a meal at BOTH of these family’s homes. They are beginning to trust us enough not only to let us into their homes, but into their lives.
One of the wives opened up to me about her struggles in communicating with her husband. The other couple has been vulnerable with us about the stress in their marriage because of his job and their difficult financial situation.
They are watching the way we raise our kids and our marriage relationship, and are starting to ask questions about our faith. Would you hold up these precious families in prayer? Pray that they would hunger for Jesus and that He would shine His love through us into their hearts?
A Safe Place
Another bright spot for us right now is our friendship with a young Christian couple at our church. We’ve been blessed to share our lives with them and to be able to coach and mentor them through some pretty big life decisions.
Recently, the husband said something to Sean that really encouraged us in our desire to truly touch people’s lives.
“I am indebted to many people in the ministry for helping me grow in my faith. But, in most of those relationships, it was very clear that they were the “sensei” (teacher), and I was the student.
But, you have been my FRIEND. You don’t talk down to me, or try to “teach” me, although you do give me advice when I ask. You see me as a brother in Christ. I can talk to you about any thing. I feel safe with you.”
Thank you for being a part of our ministry to the people of Japan. Without your love, support and prayers, we couldn’t be here!
I (Alice) come from Mississippi, the Hospitality State, where inviting people to your home is a natural way to build a friendship. Usually, the invitation is reciprocated and friendships between families grow, by sharing life together. But, here in Japan, there seems to be an invisible cultural wall built around people’s homes and private lives. Seldom are you really invited inside.
Between the two of us, we’ve lived in Japan for nearly 20 years. Over this time, we’ve learned that breaking through these barriers to build heart connections can be very challenging, and can sometimes lead to disappointment. When the breakthroughs do come however, relationships in Japan can be wonderfully deep and often last a lifetime.
We’ve gone through some lonely and tearful seasons, as we’ve slammed into this “wall,” when some friends have withdrawn, afraid to be transparent and move deeper into relationship. Recently however, we have seen some exciting glimmers of hope in several of the relationships that we have been investing in…
Sharing Christ by Sharing our Lives
We’ve grown close to two special families with whom we’ve shared many meals in our home. Our kids are the same age, and we enjoy spending time together. In fact, all of our two-year-olds are in the same swimming class right now. But, they seemed guarded, only willing to share their lives with us from a distance. Until recently…
Suddenly, it seems that the Holy Spirit is tearing down these walls! In two weeks time, we have been invited as a family to share a meal at BOTH of these family’s homes. They are beginning to trust us enough not only to let us into their homes, but into their lives.
One of the wives opened up to me about her struggles in communicating with her husband. The other couple has been vulnerable with us about the stress in their marriage because of his job and their difficult financial situation.
They are watching the way we raise our kids and our marriage relationship, and are starting to ask questions about our faith. Would you hold up these precious families in prayer? Pray that they would hunger for Jesus and that He would shine His love through us into their hearts?
A Safe Place
Another bright spot for us right now is our friendship with a young Christian couple at our church. We’ve been blessed to share our lives with them and to be able to coach and mentor them through some pretty big life decisions.
Recently, the husband said something to Sean that really encouraged us in our desire to truly touch people’s lives.
“I am indebted to many people in the ministry for helping me grow in my faith. But, in most of those relationships, it was very clear that they were the “sensei” (teacher), and I was the student.
But, you have been my FRIEND. You don’t talk down to me, or try to “teach” me, although you do give me advice when I ask. You see me as a brother in Christ. I can talk to you about any thing. I feel safe with you.”
Thank you for being a part of our ministry to the people of Japan. Without your love, support and prayers, we couldn’t be here!
Our Worlds Combine
January/22/08
Our Worlds Combine; a story of an international wedding
Over the past few years, we’ve shared with you about our dear Chinese friend Joy, a doctor, who came to know the Lord in Japan through Setsu, one of our church members. You may also recall that Joy led several of her family members (living in China) to Christ, and last year, baptized her mother and sister!
For a season, Sean and I (and our church family) had the awesome privilege of walking with Joy and helping her to discover the rich life that God intends for all of his children. God has blessed and encouraged us greatly through Joy’s love for Him and her passion to reach the lost.
Our Worlds Combine…
When we were first getting to know Joy, one of her desires was to meet other doctors who shared her passion for Jesus. She had never worked with any Christians, and naturally, she wanted to talk about her faith with someone who could understand the unique issues she deals with in her profession.
Immediately, we thought of one of our close friends, Kris King, a chiropractor from Alice’s hometown. Not only was Kris a doctor, but he also had been actively involved in outreach to Chinese students for over 10 years and was prayerfully considering going to China as a missionary.
Soon afterwards, Joy and Kris became good friends and eventually decided to get married! Their wedding ceremony was held last month in Mississippi.
The Grand Entourage
God worked it out so that we could attend the wedding after CRM’s worldwide mission conference in California. Four Japanese women from our church in Japan joined us, including our pastor’s wife, and Setsu (who led Joy to the Lord). Also in attendance were Joy’s mom and brother (who flew in from China), and her bridesmaid, Yumi, a woman she worked with in Japan. Talk about an international wedding… Three languages were being spoken throughout the whole wedding weekend!
In Christ, We Speak The Same Heart Language
For a season, Sean and I (and our church family) had the awesome privilege of walking with Joy and helping her to discover the rich life that God intends for all of his children. God has blessed and encouraged us greatly through Joy’s love for Him and her passion to reach the lost.
Our Worlds Combine…
When we were first getting to know Joy, one of her desires was to meet other doctors who shared her passion for Jesus. She had never worked with any Christians, and naturally, she wanted to talk about her faith with someone who could understand the unique issues she deals with in her profession.
Immediately, we thought of one of our close friends, Kris King, a chiropractor from Alice’s hometown. Not only was Kris a doctor, but he also had been actively involved in outreach to Chinese students for over 10 years and was prayerfully considering going to China as a missionary.
Soon afterwards, Joy and Kris became good friends and eventually decided to get married! Their wedding ceremony was held last month in Mississippi.
The Grand Entourage
In Christ, We Speak The Same Heart Language
One of the highlights came on the morning of the wedding. My mom and I hosted a “brunch” for Joy and the women in her wedding party. I guess a brunch the morning of the wedding is a truly southern thing to do. We have done many, but this one was by far, the most special.
Our pastor in Japan had prepared a DVD for Joy, with photos that spanned the time of her baptism in Japan until the time that she left Tokyo for the USA a year ago. Joy wept tears of joy (most of us did!) as she watched the video of her spiritual “home” in Japan and listened to congratulatory messages from her first church family.
We rejoice with Joy and Kris as they celebrate their new life together! Isn’t it exciting that we can be a part of God’s wonderful plans and divine purposes? Thank You, Jesus!
Looking Back
January/02/08
Happy New Year! We are excitedly looking ahead at what the Lord has in store for us this new year! And, we are also reminiscing about what the Lord did for us in 2007. The last twelve months went by in a whirlwind, full of many exciting developments and changes. We look back at 2007 with much gratitude to the Lord. Take a walk with us through memory lane…
We celebrated the birth of our second child on November 9th. It’s hard to believe that in 24 months we’ve gone from childless to a full house. Joy, joy, joy!
Growing pains seems to be an appropriate theme for our lives and ministry. Growing is never painless and requires a mix of faith and perseverance. In the natural, our family has grown. And in the spirit, we are pregnant with expectation as God is giving new depth to relationships we’ve been sowing into over the past four years here in Japan.
Something about having children on the mission field… far from taking away from ministry, has added depth to existing relationships and provided opportunities for new ones. It’s as if people suddenly think, “They must be serious about their love for Japan if they’re willing to have kids here!”
Kadin at 3 months with Meg at 20 days. Growing up together... Meg and Kadin today
Some things we celebrate…
*Our church is growing and hopes to purchase land in order to build a multi-purpose center where we can minister to the community in a variety of ways.
*God is using Alice’s passion for prayer through her involvement in CRM’s global intercession team and through mentoring intercessors in our church.
*Sean coached CAJ’s soccer team to their 2nd Far East Championship in three years.
*Alice obtained her professional certification as a video editor and produced her first professional video for the Japan Cell Church Mission Network.
*Sean completed a professional coach-training program that has helped him to more effectively empower, equip, encourage, and support leaders.
*New relationships with families as opposed to relationships only with moms and their children.
We celebrate all of this and much more. We praise God for you and thank Him for the part each of you have played in sowing into God’s harvest in Japan. May the Lord bless you richly!!!
Burn-out/Exhaustion Plagues Japanese Men
July/19/07
“It is possible to move men, through God, by prayer alone.”
--Hudson Taylor
Earlier this summer, our church held a men’s retreat several hours west of Tokyo in the Japanese Alps. It’s not the sort of retreat that Christians in North America are used to, with lots of activities, a popular speaker, and so on. Most of these men are far too exhausted from working 70-80 hour workweeks for anything intense.
Instead, there’s lots of down time, where the men can be alone with God outdoors and just hang out with each other. It’s sad, but for most, this will be one of the few times this year where they will have an extended time with the Lord.
As you can imagine, years of working long hours and time away from family takes it’s toll. Many Japanese men, inside and outside of the church, will struggle with burn-out and depression. Stories abound of men who simply burn out and take extended leaves of absence from their jobs in an effort to cope.
It’s heart-breaking to see how the burnout and exhaustion can cause men to lose sight of their purpose and calling in Christ. One of the men at the retreat—a leader in our church-- when asked about his calling replied:
“I don’t know. I’m too tired to think about it. I’ll figure it out when I retire in six years. I just want to survive until then. After that, I can think about how to serve God.”
I know many men like this, men trying to survive when God’s heart is for them to thrive! My desire is to come alongside and support the men of Japan, the many who are tired, who have lost hope and are stuck in a spiritual quagmire. Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest…”
Would you take some time this month to pray for the men of Japan? Pray for those who already know the Father, that God would touch their weary souls and bodies, refresh their spirits, and give them renewed vision to live out their calling in Christ.
Pray also for the many men who don’t yet know Christ. Pray that the Lord would stir up a spiritual hunger in them to know their Maker and the lover of their souls. Pray that the seed of the Gospel would fall on fertile hearts and they would be transformed by the life-changing power of Jesus..
Finally, please pray for me, (Sean) that God would provide more opportunities to come alongside and encourage these men whom God has called to be pillars for the church, their families and a nation.