Dear Everyone,
I hope you are well.
This month we have started Let's Start Talking, which uses English as a
teaching tool to teach Japanese about the gospel.  We have four volunteer
teachers from Yokota church of Christ.  I put an Ad on the daily papers.  We
have received several phone calls and have nine students who are interested
in learning English.  We use a text book made by LST staff at Oklahoma City.
This book is based on the gospel of Luke.  I would like this program to be
an ongoing program as long as we have volunteer teachers.
 
I have learned a great lesson concerning evangelism.  As the Son of God,
Jesus began his ministry by himself.  He died alone.  Although he was with
the Heavenly Father all the time, physically speaking he was alone.  He was
given by his Heavenly Father authority and power to do his ministry.  He
taught people with all the backgrounds from scholars to the homeless.  On
the other hand, Jesus' disciples went everywhere as a group consisting of
two or three.  Jesus sent out 70 people two by two.  Peter and John went to
preach the gospel together although Peter was always a spokesman.  Paul and
Barnabus with John Mark went the first missionary journey.  After the first
one, Paul was with Titus and Timothy, Barnabus with John Mark.  I do not
think this was an accident.  As a group, they could preach many backgrounds
of people.
 
In my two years of mission work, however, I thought I could do all by
myself.  I did not need any partner.  It was my work and responsibility.
Besides, that is what I was supported for.  I was 100% wrong.  I needed a
partner and assistance.  I prayed about this matter.  My conclusion is that
my partner is Mari, my wife.  Mari was working for a financial reason, which
made my life also hectic.  After a long discussion, we decided that she
ought to quit working in October.  This is really a blessing.  She is
helping me in many areas.  I have also started seeking an assistance and
help from the Yokota members.  However, I still pray for a partner, who
works with me as a full time.  Before this takes a place, two things need to
happen.  First, I need to be shaped by God because I still have lots of
rough edges.  Second, I need to grow spiritually and rely on God in every
aspect of life.
 
My web page has been continuing growing.  Next year I will have more
students than I can handle by myself.  Thanks for your support and prayers.
In His service, Masa