An absolutely fabulous Sunday!

The only part that wasn't exactly fabulous was probably waking up early and getting ready to leave Ichikawa by 8.30 am, but it was all worth it! The service at Yotsukaido was highly encouraging indeed. The Yotsukaido Family Church is a very vibrant one. The congregation, especially the praise and worship team, sang with such joy. And what a privilege it was, to be able to partake in this joyful fellowship, as we sang words like 'God chose me, and God saved me', and the universal word of praise 'Hallelujah'. The well-prepared sermon message on Mark 10:13 - 16 had the upcoming Kids' Gospel programme in mind, and it reminded us of what we could learn from children, i.e. child-like dependence on God and trust in Him, in everything and especially with regard to our salvation.

After the service, many stayed behind to chat with and pray for one another. The love that they have for one another was evident and was certainly edifying. It is no wonder that the church somehow attracted up to 50 children to participate in this year's Kids' Gospel programme! And the support and enthusiasm that some church members have shown for the programme simply impressed us; they sacrificed a week's of leave just to join us and help out. As much as the church encouraged us tremendously, we hope that the song that we sang (we decided on 'There is a Higher Throne' instead) was a reminder for everyone of us to look forward to heaven: the one hope to which we were called, by the grace and mercy of our one God and Father of all.

After the service and a wonderful lunch of takoyaki (octopus balls) and onigiri (rice balls), we were kept in suspense as to what's in store for us in the afternoon. And much to our delight, the secret plan was karaoke with some of the church members and their children who will be joining the Kids' Gospel. Being a church outing of some sort, it should come as no surprise at all that songs such as 'Amazing Grace' and 'You Raise Me Up' were among the songs we sang (in addition to some classic, and sometimes cheesy English pop songs). It was absolutely enjoyable (the pastor and his kids joined in the fun too!) and very helpful in breaking the ice.

Following that, was a lovely dinner at a restaurant that specialises in unagi (eel), which was surprisingly delicious! Just as we ended our day with some good stuff, so will this blog entry:

1. Thank God for building His church at Yotsukaido.
2. Pray that it will continue to grow in love and be a beacon of light that testifies to the goodness of our Lord.
3. Thank God for the joyful fellowship that we can have with our brothers and sisters in Japan (or anywhere in the world for that matter).
4. Pray that God will bless and provide for the Kids' Gospel programme at Yotsukaido from Tuesday (24th) to Saturday (concert on 28th).
5. Pray that it will bear fruit eventually, in His time.