I just received my certificate of eligibility in the mail, and am told that this means that I have been accepted for a work visa here in Japan 100%.
It may take a week or two for the actual work visa to be put on the passport, but nonetheless I wanted to take the time to acknowledge that this is confirmation that I am in the right place for this season.
thanks to all who have prayed for me and for the people of Japan!
Looking forward to knowing Jesus more and seeing others come to life and love found only in him.
Amen.
Tri. :0)
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Friday, March 29, 2013
Baptism
Below is what I have prepared to share at a time of baptisms for some of my family in Christ here in Japan.
Baptism
What is baptism?
To be honest, I don't fully know nor understand what baptism is.
The only thing I know for sure, is that it is a wonderful thing.
It is like going from death to life, or breathing fresh and clean air for the very first time.
Baptism is like saying goodbye to loneliness, and hello to eternity with God.
It is like letting go of everything that is attached to self worth, and all of a sudden receiving God's worth.
It is saying to sin, pride and lies;
"No, you will not have your way with me...for there is only one who deserves me, and that is the one who, created me, was born for me, lived for me, died for me, and overcame death for me."
Baptism is all about the love and power of God.
It is about the nature of the perfect one who took upon himself our imperfection and rebellion, and said, "Let me take it from here."
The day after I was baptised I was sitting in an area that I last saw my dad about 8 or 9 years before. I was but a young child then, but now I was a young man. I was sitting down when I suddenly felt the desire to ask my dad in heaven for a favour. Having just been baptised and with faith of and as a child, I asked my heavenly dad if He could help me do three things.
I wanted to:
1. See my earthly dad
2. Hear my earthly dad
3. Touch my earthly dad
I'll fast forward two weeks and let you know what happened.
I got to see my dad, hear his voice and touch him.
Because that very day, my heavenly father led me to get in touch with my earthly father by way of His leading and love for me...it was a miracle.
I just want to share with you today, that salvation and baptism go hand in hand.
What I mean is this:
God has done the work of salvation for you, and in so doing this you go from death to life. Baptism is not about what you have done, or what you can do for God...it's about God's love for you based upon His very nature being love.
Yes, baptism is ALL about who God is. It's about what God has done for you, and that all that He requires of you is that you would simply trust in Him. Yes, trust Him...
will you trust Him today? Baptism was not necessarily meant to be a seperate act apart from salvation, as a kind of "graduation". No, it was meant to be a new beginning, your very opportunity to say no to sin, and yes to God's love.
Now let me clarify this; I am not saying that if you haven't been baptised you are not saved. No, I am simply stating that the intention was always that baptism would follow or be a part of the beginning of your new life with Christ.
Jesus did this, though he had no sin...will you do this, and look forward to blue skies?
Finally, baptism is acknowledging that there are blue skies, and sunny skies beyond the trouble and darkness found in this world due to sin...yes, baptism is saying yes to Jesus.
Baptism
What is baptism?
To be honest, I don't fully know nor understand what baptism is.
The only thing I know for sure, is that it is a wonderful thing.
It is like going from death to life, or breathing fresh and clean air for the very first time.
Baptism is like saying goodbye to loneliness, and hello to eternity with God.
It is like letting go of everything that is attached to self worth, and all of a sudden receiving God's worth.
It is saying to sin, pride and lies;
"No, you will not have your way with me...for there is only one who deserves me, and that is the one who, created me, was born for me, lived for me, died for me, and overcame death for me."
Baptism is all about the love and power of God.
It is about the nature of the perfect one who took upon himself our imperfection and rebellion, and said, "Let me take it from here."
The day after I was baptised I was sitting in an area that I last saw my dad about 8 or 9 years before. I was but a young child then, but now I was a young man. I was sitting down when I suddenly felt the desire to ask my dad in heaven for a favour. Having just been baptised and with faith of and as a child, I asked my heavenly dad if He could help me do three things.
I wanted to:
1. See my earthly dad
2. Hear my earthly dad
3. Touch my earthly dad
I'll fast forward two weeks and let you know what happened.
I got to see my dad, hear his voice and touch him.
Because that very day, my heavenly father led me to get in touch with my earthly father by way of His leading and love for me...it was a miracle.
I just want to share with you today, that salvation and baptism go hand in hand.
What I mean is this:
God has done the work of salvation for you, and in so doing this you go from death to life. Baptism is not about what you have done, or what you can do for God...it's about God's love for you based upon His very nature being love.
Yes, baptism is ALL about who God is. It's about what God has done for you, and that all that He requires of you is that you would simply trust in Him. Yes, trust Him...
will you trust Him today? Baptism was not necessarily meant to be a seperate act apart from salvation, as a kind of "graduation". No, it was meant to be a new beginning, your very opportunity to say no to sin, and yes to God's love.
Now let me clarify this; I am not saying that if you haven't been baptised you are not saved. No, I am simply stating that the intention was always that baptism would follow or be a part of the beginning of your new life with Christ.
Jesus did this, though he had no sin...will you do this, and look forward to blue skies?
Finally, baptism is acknowledging that there are blue skies, and sunny skies beyond the trouble and darkness found in this world due to sin...yes, baptism is saying yes to Jesus.
Jesus says this: "In this world you will have trouble, but take heart for I have overcome the world."
Sunday, March 24, 2013
Learning Japanese
Recently I have had the honour and pleasure of facilitating an English Class with an emphasis on community.
There were some points that I clarified in regards to the class purpose that I found also stated in a Japanese learning application which I recently downloaded onto my android device.
The applications name is JA Sensei. I have only briefly begun using this app, but so far am delighted with the introduction and overview of the app so far.
I am really hoping and praying that I will improve my Japanese over time to the extent that I won't have to use a translator in deeper conversations, and in particular conversations that could lead that person to eternal life found in Jesus.
Hopefully this app and other Japanese Study resources coupled with the right attitude will see me update this blog in future with positive results.
Either way, there are blue skies right now, and the sun is always shining, even if behind the clouds.
Jesus truly is amazing, and there is this wonderful life that we each have been blessed with in which we can walk with Him, and see our lives invested and spent to see His eternal kingdom and will be done here on earth as it is in heaven.
Bless you in Jesus,
Tri. :0)
There were some points that I clarified in regards to the class purpose that I found also stated in a Japanese learning application which I recently downloaded onto my android device.
The applications name is JA Sensei. I have only briefly begun using this app, but so far am delighted with the introduction and overview of the app so far.
I am really hoping and praying that I will improve my Japanese over time to the extent that I won't have to use a translator in deeper conversations, and in particular conversations that could lead that person to eternal life found in Jesus.
Hopefully this app and other Japanese Study resources coupled with the right attitude will see me update this blog in future with positive results.
Either way, there are blue skies right now, and the sun is always shining, even if behind the clouds.
Jesus truly is amazing, and there is this wonderful life that we each have been blessed with in which we can walk with Him, and see our lives invested and spent to see His eternal kingdom and will be done here on earth as it is in heaven.
Bless you in Jesus,
Tri. :0)
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Hidden in Christ
So I'm sitting here in an italian restaurant in my local area in Japan and I suddenly think about how great it would be to be completely lost in Jesus. By lost I mean that I would find my identity in him completely rather than on the basis of the fleeting things of this world. Of course there are things in this life that point to the person and character of God but at the same time they are but like fingers pointing to the real thing. A finger is never a replacement for the thing to which it is pointing to.
Jesus is more than just a finger, he is God.
As I was sitting here I recalled the scripture that says:
Keep your eyes fixed on the author and perfector of your faith, Jesus Christ, who for the joy set before him, endured the cross, scorning it's shame to sit at the right hand of God.
When I couple this scripture with the one which I believe the Holy Spirit has been speaking to me recently:
In this world you will have trouble, but take heart, for I have overcome the world.
I can see something of the truth and reality of the bitterness of life in this world when actually walked according to way found in Jesus. Yet this bitter reality is actually simply stated as is the cross which Jesus bore and the way in which he scorned it's shame. Yes, the bitterness is not so much the sole focus, but rather a word of clarification, clarification with regards to the joy or life aspect which Jesus lived out and is wanting us to "take heart" in, or rather, be encouraged in.
So what is it about the way Jesus lived, or the way in which he overcame the world that is to bring us some kind of deep joy and life that would surpass anything that we face, particularly those things which would come against the sons and daughters of God?
That which comes to mind is this:
That source of joy and strength, and indeed life itself to which Jesus walked in IS the kingdom of God, or at the very least, the seeds of the kingdom of God.
To be honest I don't really know what I am talking about, but something tells me, and by something, I am actually really saying someone, that Jesus wants me to live out of the kingdom of God.
What do I mean, or rather, what could God, the Holy Spirit, be referring to here?
What is the connection between the kingdom of God and the kingdom(s) found here on earth?
What sort of connection is there?
Well if we look to the bible, and in particular look at Jesus himself, perhaps we will see what that connection is.
My very faith is needed because I am still here on this earth where there are other kings and gods. Yet, there is only one eternal king and God.
If I am to live here on earth with a purpose and mission as Jesus lived, perhaps I need to invest my very life wisely.
Perhaps prayer and the word of God are more important to me losing my life in Jesus than I currently understand or am aware.
Perhaps prayer is not just a matter of me talking to God, but also, God talking to me. Perhaps prayer is not just me sharing my heart, and in a sense for the all knowing God to know me experientially, but also a way for me to know him experientially.
Perhaps it is time for me, and indeed others, to begin to hunger and thirst for righteousness...ie the things of heaven to be here on earth.
Perhaps you have heard the saying that there are some people who are so spiritually minded, that they are no earthly good.
But I say, that it is impossible to be too heavenly minded that you are no earthly good. By this I simply mean that Jesus whilst being here on earth with the purpose of the cross, had his eyes set on heaven. Yes, he had his eyes set on the kingdom of God, and it was because of this that he was able to have joy set before him and endure the cross, scorning it's shame, to sit at the right hand of the Father.
When we have our eyes set on heaven, the kingdom of God, our eyes are set on the Father, yes they are set on Jesus, and yes, they are set on what the Holy Spirit is doing. They are no longer set on ourselves and on what we can create or achieve, but rather are set on the things which are eternal, and fill us with the deepest of joy, giving us strength to do the will of God.
Holy Spirit is here with us to do one thing to help us to walk out the life that Jesus paid the price for with his very own.
Holy Spirit will help us to live out of the kingdom of God.
As I learn to submit to the Holy Spirit in both word and spirit/prayer, it is this life that perhaps resonates and lines itself with the worshippers that the Father seeks:
those who will worship Him in Spirit and in Truth.
Holy Spirit, thank you for your work in our lives.
I pray that we would grow in sensitivity to you, your presence, heart, and voice in our lives in a moment by moment basis.
May it be that we are filled to overflowing with the joy of the Lord, and that we are shaped by you and your word, so much so that we truly lose our lives for Jesus sake...lose our lives in Jesus.
For the kingdom of God is like treasure hidden in a field.
May we be that treasure, and may Jesus be that field.
Jesus please take me and those reading this deeper and deeper, and deeper into you.
May we be lost in you, so that your kingdom would come, and your will would be done here on earth as it is in heaven.
Yes, let there be salvation here today, and indeed tonight we pray, in Jesus name,
amen.
Jesus is more than just a finger, he is God.
As I was sitting here I recalled the scripture that says:
Keep your eyes fixed on the author and perfector of your faith, Jesus Christ, who for the joy set before him, endured the cross, scorning it's shame to sit at the right hand of God.
When I couple this scripture with the one which I believe the Holy Spirit has been speaking to me recently:
In this world you will have trouble, but take heart, for I have overcome the world.
I can see something of the truth and reality of the bitterness of life in this world when actually walked according to way found in Jesus. Yet this bitter reality is actually simply stated as is the cross which Jesus bore and the way in which he scorned it's shame. Yes, the bitterness is not so much the sole focus, but rather a word of clarification, clarification with regards to the joy or life aspect which Jesus lived out and is wanting us to "take heart" in, or rather, be encouraged in.
So what is it about the way Jesus lived, or the way in which he overcame the world that is to bring us some kind of deep joy and life that would surpass anything that we face, particularly those things which would come against the sons and daughters of God?
That which comes to mind is this:
That source of joy and strength, and indeed life itself to which Jesus walked in IS the kingdom of God, or at the very least, the seeds of the kingdom of God.
To be honest I don't really know what I am talking about, but something tells me, and by something, I am actually really saying someone, that Jesus wants me to live out of the kingdom of God.
What do I mean, or rather, what could God, the Holy Spirit, be referring to here?
What is the connection between the kingdom of God and the kingdom(s) found here on earth?
What sort of connection is there?
Well if we look to the bible, and in particular look at Jesus himself, perhaps we will see what that connection is.
My very faith is needed because I am still here on this earth where there are other kings and gods. Yet, there is only one eternal king and God.
If I am to live here on earth with a purpose and mission as Jesus lived, perhaps I need to invest my very life wisely.
Perhaps prayer and the word of God are more important to me losing my life in Jesus than I currently understand or am aware.
Perhaps prayer is not just a matter of me talking to God, but also, God talking to me. Perhaps prayer is not just me sharing my heart, and in a sense for the all knowing God to know me experientially, but also a way for me to know him experientially.
Perhaps it is time for me, and indeed others, to begin to hunger and thirst for righteousness...ie the things of heaven to be here on earth.
Perhaps you have heard the saying that there are some people who are so spiritually minded, that they are no earthly good.
But I say, that it is impossible to be too heavenly minded that you are no earthly good. By this I simply mean that Jesus whilst being here on earth with the purpose of the cross, had his eyes set on heaven. Yes, he had his eyes set on the kingdom of God, and it was because of this that he was able to have joy set before him and endure the cross, scorning it's shame, to sit at the right hand of the Father.
When we have our eyes set on heaven, the kingdom of God, our eyes are set on the Father, yes they are set on Jesus, and yes, they are set on what the Holy Spirit is doing. They are no longer set on ourselves and on what we can create or achieve, but rather are set on the things which are eternal, and fill us with the deepest of joy, giving us strength to do the will of God.
Holy Spirit is here with us to do one thing to help us to walk out the life that Jesus paid the price for with his very own.
Holy Spirit will help us to live out of the kingdom of God.
As I learn to submit to the Holy Spirit in both word and spirit/prayer, it is this life that perhaps resonates and lines itself with the worshippers that the Father seeks:
those who will worship Him in Spirit and in Truth.
Holy Spirit, thank you for your work in our lives.
I pray that we would grow in sensitivity to you, your presence, heart, and voice in our lives in a moment by moment basis.
May it be that we are filled to overflowing with the joy of the Lord, and that we are shaped by you and your word, so much so that we truly lose our lives for Jesus sake...lose our lives in Jesus.
For the kingdom of God is like treasure hidden in a field.
May we be that treasure, and may Jesus be that field.
Jesus please take me and those reading this deeper and deeper, and deeper into you.
May we be lost in you, so that your kingdom would come, and your will would be done here on earth as it is in heaven.
Yes, let there be salvation here today, and indeed tonight we pray, in Jesus name,
amen.
Monday, March 4, 2013
Grateful
I haven't written a blog for a while and felt that I would write one tonight.
I have been in Japan for just over a month this year, and whilst here have had quite the journey.
Tonight though, I just felt to write about how much I value relationships. The kind I am talking about tonight though is the kind between a husband and wife.
I am really thankful to have met a number of couples in my life over the years, but in particular I am grateful to be in a stage in my life where I am really starting to take delight in the delight of others.
It is a wonderful thing to be in a community where there are people of all types. Each person has something to bring to the party. Yet there is something special and unique that a husband and wife bring to a community, particularly when there is a willingness to submit to one another in Jesus.
By special and unique I mean that there is something that God reveals about Himself between a man and woman who are committed to learning how to love one another, and this beginning with learning to lay down their lives for Jesus.
I met a couple today, who have taken steps of faith in following the voice and heart of God, and as such have gone against what their flesh and perhaps some might say "common sense". It's not so much that they are trying to live dangerously, but rather there is an awareness that God actually wants to lead each of us, and that includes couples and families.
I could see the love of God and faith amidst worldly pressures at play in this family. I could hear hope and expectation of a personal God with an eternal plan. Yes, I could see destiny in the faces of their children. Yet with all of this, one thing stood clear...Jesus.
It is Jesus offering up of his very own life, both in his ministry, and on the cross itself. I believe that there is nothing more beautiful to God than when His children lay down their lives for another. It is this very kind of life that reveals the glory of God.
I am looking forward to meeting more couples and families like this. Yes, one day I would be honored to be in such a kind of relationship where living is found in dying, and dying brings the life of Jesus to others. I want to live a life full of the destiny of God. I want my life to produce life in others...eternal life.
I have been blessed today, and I hope that each of you would also be blessed by this God who brings life to those who are willing to give up their lives for his sake.
May you be blessed with the knowledge of the love of God found in Jesus, the very cross he bore, and grave he left.
Your brother in Jesus.
Tri.
I have been in Japan for just over a month this year, and whilst here have had quite the journey.
Tonight though, I just felt to write about how much I value relationships. The kind I am talking about tonight though is the kind between a husband and wife.
I am really thankful to have met a number of couples in my life over the years, but in particular I am grateful to be in a stage in my life where I am really starting to take delight in the delight of others.
It is a wonderful thing to be in a community where there are people of all types. Each person has something to bring to the party. Yet there is something special and unique that a husband and wife bring to a community, particularly when there is a willingness to submit to one another in Jesus.
By special and unique I mean that there is something that God reveals about Himself between a man and woman who are committed to learning how to love one another, and this beginning with learning to lay down their lives for Jesus.
I met a couple today, who have taken steps of faith in following the voice and heart of God, and as such have gone against what their flesh and perhaps some might say "common sense". It's not so much that they are trying to live dangerously, but rather there is an awareness that God actually wants to lead each of us, and that includes couples and families.
I could see the love of God and faith amidst worldly pressures at play in this family. I could hear hope and expectation of a personal God with an eternal plan. Yes, I could see destiny in the faces of their children. Yet with all of this, one thing stood clear...Jesus.
It is Jesus offering up of his very own life, both in his ministry, and on the cross itself. I believe that there is nothing more beautiful to God than when His children lay down their lives for another. It is this very kind of life that reveals the glory of God.
I am looking forward to meeting more couples and families like this. Yes, one day I would be honored to be in such a kind of relationship where living is found in dying, and dying brings the life of Jesus to others. I want to live a life full of the destiny of God. I want my life to produce life in others...eternal life.
I have been blessed today, and I hope that each of you would also be blessed by this God who brings life to those who are willing to give up their lives for his sake.
May you be blessed with the knowledge of the love of God found in Jesus, the very cross he bore, and grave he left.
Your brother in Jesus.
Tri.
Friday, February 8, 2013
Obedience
Obedience is not following Jesus for what you will get in return.
Obedience is following Jesus for what he will get in return...you.
You need to give your life over to Jesus period.
"If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it." -Jesus
Don't be fooled into a marketable Jesus that presents a Jesus as trying to buy you, or win you over. Jesus paid the price for you, you are bought...you either believe this and receive this or you don't.
Preaching the gospel isn't preaching a sales pitch of how Jesus is really good for you. My friends Jesus is good...period.
You either turn from sin, and turn to him...or you don't. No sales pitch necessary...just the truth, Jesus.
It's the Holy Spirit's role to convict the world of sin, righteousness, and the coming judgement. Not ours. We just present the truth in love, and leave the rest up to the work of the Holy Spirit in you and your response to Jesus.
The gospel is the power to save for those who will believe, for those who don't, you already stand condemned.
Because the gospel is the power to save, we don't have to try and come up with fancy ways of presenting the gospel. It's the gospel that IS the power to save and the Holy Spirit IS the one who convicts people of their need to repent and put their faith and trust in Jesus.
If we rely more on our own wonderful ways of describing the gospel and less on the work of the Holy Spirit to convict people of sin and their need to repent and receive Jesus, we are not trusting in the power of the gospel to save.
Forgive me Father in heaven for trying to sell my friends Jesus your son, when you already gave him up for us, paying the full price for our sins on the cross. Jesus isn't for sale, and never was. Jesus was and is your Son, and you chose to give him up "freely" for me. Thank you Father for giving up your Son to take on my sin and shame, and for making me your son in Jesus name. Thank you that I am completely forgiven and cleansed of all my sin, and that you fill me with your Holy Spirit to live for you and tell others about you.
You the reader now have a choice to make, how will you respond to Jesus? The call is simple:
"Repent from your sin, and receive Jesus as your Lord and Saviour today".
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
Relationships
Time in Australia with a theme of Relationships.
In my time in Australia God has taught me a lot about relationships.
This seems to be a theme in which God has taught me a lot about myself, the calling placed on my life, and looking for that special someone.
In the last few months, I felt God show me these things:
God has made me with certain "no compromise" areas, whilst other areas are areas which are changeable.
I'll start with the first…the no compromise area.
What I felt God show me about myself in this last few months in Australia is that there is a calling or "edge" that God has put within me that I need to acknowledge, accept, and rest in.
This edge or calling, has to do with recognising the leadership of Holy Spirit as the one who will lead and do the work of revealing Jesus "through" his people and word.
It is the Spirit of God who is to go before, behind and around us. He fills us.
I have found that this part that makes me who I am, or provides the edge to make me sharp for His purposes, is pivotal to the calling of Salvation in Japan.
I have learnt that there is a sense of freedom that is found with some people, and not with others.
This is not to judge people, but rather to recognise that within the context of my future marriage, that in "this" area, there needs to be a sense of freedom.
Now, with regards to Godly wisdom in relationships, I have received a lot of this through trusted and Godly council.
I have learnt that there are areas of my life and who I am or what I do, that do in fact need to be adjusted and modified to suit God's work of love in any relationship.
I realise that there are styles of living and relating to God that are good and holy in their own right, and that I need to honour and respect people in their ways of living these out.
I realise that there are areas that I need to work on that aren't my strength or style at this particular time.
Some of these things include considering how others feel respected and honoured in any given culture or context.
I have learnt that it is also important to consider some traditions that people hold, and to respect those to an extent.
To summarise:
I have learnt that there are areas that make or define who I am, and that these are no compromise areas, given to me for God's purposes. Regarding relationship with my future wife to be, God desires a sense of release and freedom in these areas.
On the other hand, God has shown me that there are areas of my life that I do actually need to grow in and take action upon when the opportunities arise. These areas include learning about other people's love languages and acting accordingly to accommodate and communicate.
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Happy New Year 2013 (from Australia)
Hi there my wonderful family in Christ! :0)
Hope you are sensing God's joy which is your strength for your life today for 2013.
If not, I pray that you do, starting from right now.
I was journaling today and felt to share it with you in the hope that you are encouraged to bring your humaness to the feet of God and see Jesus pick you up and begin to show you the character that you play in His story of life, of which the theme is LOVE, his undying and eternal love for you and I.
No matter what mistakes or sin you have done in recent times, the blood of Jesus and work of Holy Spirit is much stronger, full, humble and gentle.
Be blessed my friends.
Journal entry for:
January 1st 2013
"I felt to drive to Tuggerah Westfield today and have lunch.
I believe that Jesus wants me to live a life which is full of him.
We live in a world where although made by Jesus for Jesus, we simply don't experience him to the full.
There is indeed an enemy who has his own kingdom of darkness.
God has created me to live in deep relationship with Himself.
I have made a lot of mistakes in recent times and have even blamed God for things.
One day I will leave this world…
that time may seem like a long way away, but the reality is that that day will come for ALL of us.
There is no glamour or glory in death…
the reality is that the enemy uses the minds of people to deceive them.
God says that the enemy has blinded the minds of unbelievers.
One thing that I felt God say to me on the way here is this:
Keep your eyes fixed on the author and perfecter of your faith = keep your eyes fixed on Jesus who is the author of your life.
Thank you Jesus.
Have your way in me, and let me be a song pleasing to you.
Let me be a character in your story who brings you utmost glory.
Help me to let go of my own ideals of what my life should be and instead RECEIVE the LIFE and FAITH you have for me…yes YOU died for ME.
KILL the work of satan and the rebellious attitudes/mindsets that arise in me and around me in JESUS name. Thank you Holy Spirit that you are applying the finished work of Jesus blood to my life every moment and every day. Holy Spirit you are God in me and through me, you make me God's son…forever.
May 2013 be a year in which you are supremely blessed through me LORD JESUS. <3
I am thankful for the peace that you have put in my heart that the worries of this life and lies of the enemy cannot take away, the world cannot take away your peace nor separate me from your love.
Holy Spirit help us because you are our helper to live, think and feel what Jesus does…today and indeed every day this year 2013."
This year is going to be a year when fame, fortune, and all the values of success and fullness of life in this world will pale in comparison to the REAL and ETERNAL treasures of HEAVEN distributed via Holy Spirit and the sharing of the gospel in word and power through the body of Christ.
Your brother and son in the faith,
Tri. :0)
Monday, July 23, 2012
Support details and time in Australia.
Hi,
for those looking to give to the work of salvation here in Japan and help support me as I serve God in Japan please put support in my Australian home church account:
Grace Community Baptist Church
BSB: 032 545
Acc No: 219770
Please put in the info line "Tri Japan".
Thanks in advance. :)
As of June 18th 2012 I will be in Australia whilst the religious activities visa process is under way.
In Australia I will be:
Spending time with Leaders of key ministries
Communicating with existing and potential supporters
Looking for part time work
Doing an international missions short course
Helping out with various Outreaches
Preparing for my return to Japan
Thank you for your continued prayer and financial support in the work of Salvation in Japan.
Your brother and son in the faith,
Tri Nguyen.
for those looking to give to the work of salvation here in Japan and help support me as I serve God in Japan please put support in my Australian home church account:
Grace Community Baptist Church
BSB: 032 545
Acc No: 219770
Please put in the info line "Tri Japan".
Thanks in advance. :)
As of June 18th 2012 I will be in Australia whilst the religious activities visa process is under way.
In Australia I will be:
Spending time with Leaders of key ministries
Communicating with existing and potential supporters
Looking for part time work
Doing an international missions short course
Helping out with various Outreaches
Preparing for my return to Japan
Thank you for your continued prayer and financial support in the work of Salvation in Japan.
Your brother and son in the faith,
Tri Nguyen.
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Trip to Seattle
Hi there,
Just thought i'd give you an update on my recent trip to Seattle. :^)
View from the plane over the ocean between Japan and the U.S
What happened in Seattle?
I landed in Seattle last Tuesday, and as is the norm found that driving on the right hand side of the road was a shock (compared to Japan and Australia). Apart from that though, the scenery with many trees of a Christmas Tree appearance and the wide open spaces kept me wide eyed...enough to notice the beautiful mountains in the distance with snowy peaks...oh what a sight!
Throughout the trip I got to meet a lot of people at the Cornerstone Seattle church of which Cornerstone Tokyo is an extension. There was a real sense of acceptance and love between the people of the church which overflowed into my time with each of them.
A waterfall next to a cafe I was taken to. :^)
Pho (a vietnamese dish which I truly enjoy) was also on the menu both in trips to the shops and at a Core Team meeting at a Vietnamese persons house. There is a real sense of the growing awareness of the need to rely on the person, work, and power of Holy Spirit.
I just returned from Seattle yesterday afternoon and so far feel back on track regarding the time difference.
What did I learn?
Even a 9 hour plane trip across the ocean from Japan "love is still love"...by this I mean that love is still the most valuable thing in a community of people/believers. Humility plays a big part in the love which I felt at Cornerstone Seattle.
Having a heart for the Spirit of Sonship, Outreach, and the prophetic, I was shown that it is the Spirit of Sonship which Outreach and the prophetic are to flow out of. As such I am able to lead and serve in these areas with a heart that inspires and encourages others in their identity as sons and daughters of God to overflow in those areas by the work of the Spirit.
Although you can be given a leadership role, what each of us must ask is what God has put in each of our hearts. I believe Jesus calls each of us to serve and as such each of us to lead. Jesus said that whoever wants to be the greatest, must be the least. I believe God has put greatness in each of us, and as such the call to serve...the call to lead. With 1% of believers in Japan being counted as believers, if that 1% doesn't lead...who will? What a blessing Jesus desires to pour out by the Spirit upon and through the current and future believers in Japan.
I am looking forward to taking more responsibility but even more than this, am looking forward to learning from the master, who has a gentle and humble heart, and who will complete his work of creating the same heart in me...and in EACH OF US. :^)
Above is a picture of the original Starbuck in Seattle. On the right are some gospel singers. :^)
The journey
My friends and family in Jesus,
this adventure and journey of discovering the greatness of our God has only just begun and there is much more to experience and grow in the life and great commission He has given us with His Spirit and love at the center.
As we read and hear the word of God may our hearts be listening and watching out for what Holy Spirit is revealing to each of us, that we would be doers of the word...and oh what a great word it is!
The word of life!
your brother and son in the faith,
Tri.
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Living for Him.
So I'm typing this while in bed close to 1am after the Saturday night service at Cornerstone Tokyo. I am just going to put some of my thoughts and desires down here, hoping that this will give people more insight into the path God has me and some other people here in Tokyo on.
It's simple: I want to live for Jesus.
I don't want to live for myself.
My life is not my own.
When I lose my life for Jesus sake, then, and only then, will I find my life.
"For I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave himself for me."
Friends, do we really get this:
Jesus the Son of God gave up his life for each and every one of us.
Jesus gave up his life for me.
The Father, gave up his Son for you and for me.
Then Holy Spirit's power rose Jesus from the dead...for you and for me.
The Father in heaven desires so much to send Holy Spirit to fill us and clothe us in power for the sake of Jesus name.
What is in a name?
Well, in Jesus name is the very character and fulfilled promises of God.
He is faithful to all that His name encompasses.
So here we stand...
I'm here in Japan, and I realize this:
Jesus loves the people of Japan, and died for every single one of them.
The Father desires that NONE would perish, but that ALL would come to repentance and faith in Jesus the Son of God.
My friends in the name of Jesus there is life, love and restoration!
We my friends are not the center of life.
God is.
Yet, He has made each and every one of us the object of his love and affection.
Yet we all need to let go of the reigns of our own lives, come to the end of ourselves, and give up...
then He is able to be EVERYTHING to us.
If we live this life for ourselves...it means nothing in the end.
but if we by the power of His Spirit, and the name of Jesus, live for Jesus...
than that my friends is a whole other story.
Jesus has a passionate love for the people of Japan, and I am here.
I am not here for my sake, but for the sake and name of Jesus.
He loves the people here, and desires for people to come to salvation.
So too is this my desire.
Lord, give me your dreams for this nation...your dreams for me.
Carry me, and lead me to walk with you, yoked to you, learning from your gentle and humble heart, and having your strength take the burden which is light, whilst sensing and feeling your easy yoke.
Holy Spirit come, fill me to overflowing, overcome me, and glorify Jesus here in Japan.
Save the people here...save them.
Reveal to us the ripe harvest...Lord, send out more workers into your fields, with your heart, your power, and your presence...your Spirit.
Continue to teach us humility.
Jesus speak to the people of Japan, baptize them with Holy Spirit and fire.
It's simple: I want to live for Jesus.
I don't want to live for myself.
My life is not my own.
When I lose my life for Jesus sake, then, and only then, will I find my life.
"For I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave himself for me."
Friends, do we really get this:
Jesus the Son of God gave up his life for each and every one of us.
Jesus gave up his life for me.
The Father, gave up his Son for you and for me.
Then Holy Spirit's power rose Jesus from the dead...for you and for me.
The Father in heaven desires so much to send Holy Spirit to fill us and clothe us in power for the sake of Jesus name.
What is in a name?
Well, in Jesus name is the very character and fulfilled promises of God.
He is faithful to all that His name encompasses.
So here we stand...
I'm here in Japan, and I realize this:
Jesus loves the people of Japan, and died for every single one of them.
The Father desires that NONE would perish, but that ALL would come to repentance and faith in Jesus the Son of God.
My friends in the name of Jesus there is life, love and restoration!
We my friends are not the center of life.
God is.
Yet, He has made each and every one of us the object of his love and affection.
Yet we all need to let go of the reigns of our own lives, come to the end of ourselves, and give up...
then He is able to be EVERYTHING to us.
If we live this life for ourselves...it means nothing in the end.
but if we by the power of His Spirit, and the name of Jesus, live for Jesus...
than that my friends is a whole other story.
Jesus has a passionate love for the people of Japan, and I am here.
I am not here for my sake, but for the sake and name of Jesus.
He loves the people here, and desires for people to come to salvation.
So too is this my desire.
Lord, give me your dreams for this nation...your dreams for me.
Carry me, and lead me to walk with you, yoked to you, learning from your gentle and humble heart, and having your strength take the burden which is light, whilst sensing and feeling your easy yoke.
Holy Spirit come, fill me to overflowing, overcome me, and glorify Jesus here in Japan.
Save the people here...save them.
Reveal to us the ripe harvest...Lord, send out more workers into your fields, with your heart, your power, and your presence...your Spirit.
Continue to teach us humility.
Jesus speak to the people of Japan, baptize them with Holy Spirit and fire.
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Ways to Give to His work here in Japan
Hi there friends and family in the faith!
There are a number of ways that you can give to what God is doing here in Japan as well as support me financially as I walk by faith here in the wonderful nation of Japan.
You can give directly to my account:
Account name: Tri Thanh Nguyen
Account number: 717083725
BSB: 637000
You can give through Wamberal Grace Community Church:
Account Name: Wamberal GCBC
Account Number: 162532
BSB: 032545
In description please put in "Tri Support"
For support sent through the mail:
Grace Community Baptist Church
PO Box 3070
Wamberal, 2260, NSW Australia
Please note "Tri Support" as a description.
Thanks in advance! :^)
There are a number of ways that you can give to what God is doing here in Japan as well as support me financially as I walk by faith here in the wonderful nation of Japan.
You can give directly to my account:
Account name: Tri Thanh Nguyen
Account number: 717083725
BSB: 637000
You can give through Wamberal Grace Community Church:
Account Name: Wamberal GCBC
Account Number: 162532
BSB: 032545
In description please put in "Tri Support"
For support sent through the mail:
Grace Community Baptist Church
PO Box 3070
Wamberal, 2260, NSW Australia
Please note "Tri Support" as a description.
Thanks in advance! :^)
Monday, March 19, 2012
Sunday, February 26, 2012
What I feel is God's heart for Japan.
I taped this just before I came back to Australia to inform people of what I feel God is doing and wanting to do in Japan. I ask for grace if there be any pride in me whilst taping this, and that rather than hearing what I have to say, that you would hear God's heart, and that anything of me would fall to the ground. Be blessed my friends. Your brother in the faith, Tri. :^)
Saturday, February 25, 2012
A kind of vision of heaven, angels and the Lord
On Wednesday night,
I was laying in bed and asking God to teach me about tongues, and for Him to send angels to attend to my needs.
I then began reading a book called God's Generals, and as I opened the pages, I felt that I had to speak in tongues.
After a few minutes of this, I then read a few pages, then closed the book, turned off the light and got ready to try and sleep.
Usually I take a couple of hours to fall asleep (on average), but suddenly:
I felt I was immersed in a spiritual darkness and fear...one which I have felt before.
Now the light was off, so it was dark, but not this kind of deep darkness.
The fear was so much so that I tried to say Jesus name and felt that I barely could, as my mouth was trembling.
I then felt my spirit say to God please take me to a place of your peace, realising that this was now my last resort.
Next thing I know the spirit of darkness and fear leave me, or I leave it, and although I can’t see anything, I feel a sense of being in a different place with life.
I hear the sound of tongues, but not just any tongues, it was as though they were coming from angels...beings worshipping the Lord.
I now started to notice the sound of a piano in the back ground towards the upper left of wherever I was...the piano was far away and up high but still very clear and was playing a beautiful melody or song mainly in the higher pitch/octave range...thus I could sense I was in a vast space, with what could only be described as having heavenly acoustics.
I then felt my hands being lifted up by the hands of another.
I felt that this other was the one who loved me, who loves me, and really knew me.
He was right in front of me, though I couldn't see him.
I felt peace as he put his hands under mine and began to lift them up.
He then began to gently swing both of my hands to one side, and then to another, as though playing and dancing with me. I felt such absolute peace, nothing like I have ever felt before...yet similar to when you are a baby in the arms of a loving mother...but deeper.
He had answered my prayer request.
I felt his love for me, a constant, eternal, deep and intimate knowing kind of love.
At some point during this time in what seemed to be a visit to a, or the, heavenly realm I felt myself go back to the worldly realm, the first time this happened I think I could still feel fear, but once I focused on the heavenly realm where he dwelt and the praises, songs, tongues, and music of heaven was heard, I was immediately back there.
After a couple of visits back to this place I then came back to the realm of the world and upon trying to visit again, felt that that was it for now. It was after feeling Jesus dance with me, that I recall waking up, looking at my hands and seeing that they were not apart as in the vision, but were clasped together in a kind of prayer pose around a pillow.
More to the point, the fear that I felt was now gone.
Instead I felt the fragrance of His love on me from head to toe.
God taught me that tongues comes from Heaven and originates from there as a language of worship.
God showed me how close the angels were and how their singing could act like warfare keeping the enemy at bay.
Finally God showed me that spiritual beauty is beauty you can experience even when you can't see anything. Spiritual beauty is eternal and comes from the Lord himself. He is the source of spiritual and eternal beauty, for He himself is the beautiful one, who's love for each of us is beyond comprehension my friends.
Friday, February 24, 2012
Back in Oz
From Nihon to Japan
and
my initial Impressions and actionings in my pursuit of Pho!
Upon my return to Oz, I find that there is indeed a plethora of cultures at play, more so than my first return to Australia some 6 years ago from Japan. My first return just made me see blonde hair and hear dinky dye Aussie accents everywhere I went, particularly at the airport.
Finding myself in Sydney City only an hour or so after landing at Sydney Airport I immediately go on the lookout, with suitcase in tow, for a Pho restaurant near Central Station.
Looking at the time and seeing 6.59am meaning 8.59am I notice that the earliest a Pho restaurant will open is 9.30am.
Nearby are some adult stores/shops with one lady opening up a store standing directly in front whilst peering intently down one end of the footpath. I notice this and make eye contact. I then notice that the Adult shop is right next door to the Pho restaurant that would soon open up.
With 30 minutes remaining on the wait for that delicious bowl of pho, a kind of 2nd breakfast after the Qantas plane b-fast, I decide to go to a cafe which is a couple of shops down. I order my chai latte large paying the $3.80 and after browsing the selection of pies noting the over $5 price I notice a back section.
Lugging the suitcase out the back but leaving it midway in the hall to better check out the back end scene of this newly found cafe I see a group of asian girls and an older asian lady. I also semi eavesdropped the moment I felt the inkling of Japanese in their midst. So I decided that I would bring the suitcase over to a table that gave me a good bit of space to pull out the macbook but also give the group some space.
It then immediately became obvious that they indeed were talking in Japanese, though I wasn’t sure if it was a Japanese lesson, or if it was some other sort of get together. One of the girls wore a big cross, and I do mean big. It was silver and kind of funky looking. Unfortunately though, not long after settling into the groove with chai latte in hand, the group begins to making ready their move to head out of the cafe.
Seeing the Japanese group, or group talking in Japanese, gave me a rye sense of confirmation that indeed I will be returning to Japan soon. I already have a number of strong feelings and direction on this, but it was just funny that the moment I decided to sit down in Sydney to chill out for a bit before my Pho fix, I find that I am right back in Japan...well kinda.
Monday, February 6, 2012
Journal entry of thoughts (whilst at Tully’s cafe in Higashi Kurume)
.jpg)
What happens If the word of God is exactly that...
the word of God?
If God has said something to me...
words that give me life...
then what if they were the words that I needed to hear...that I needed to listen to.
3 people stand before us...
a Priest, a King, and God.
who do you choose to listen to?
as a follower of Jesus, I (hope that I) follow him based on both his identity and his actions/will.
Jesus is God the Son, the King.
Jesus will is that none would perish, but that all would come to salvation through repentance and faith in him.
Does it matter any more what a Priest or King of this world says compared to what Jesus says, and his actions say?
This is what and who my faith is in.
Yet, without obedience and his love and power working through and leading my life...
all the faith in the world may come to nothing in the “following” of Jesus.
Sure I may be “saved” but he says to me “follow me”...
through faith I can follow him.
Holy Spirit lead and fill me...over power me with your presence, love and purpose.
Lead me to follow Jesus, not just have a faith in him.
Jesus is not a good luck charm.
Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life.
This means he is to be everything to me...
everything...
yes,
EVERYTHING.
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Life in Japan with Jesus
Living in Japan with Jesus
(written a couple of weeks ago)
So I’m sitting here in a Gyoza and ramen shop and waiting for my 12 gyoza, rice, soup and pickled veggies to be cooked and served.
I brought my computer here to begin typing out what I feel I am going through at the moment in various aspects of my life here in Japan.
It started snowing this morning, and I was like “hmmm...there you go.” Though actually I found out that it was snowing due to reading an email where a friend noted how it was now snowing in Tokyo...I pulled back my blue curtain and saw the white snow covering large patches of grass...haha...the world we live in!
My gyoza has arrived...so I’ ll start eating it, and then get back to this blog.
-------------
yummm...oishkatta yo!!
So, now that my stomach is partially full, I shall continue...
(I say partially because there may be another trip to a different shop...specializing in Ramen and Tsukemen noodles...pretty much just across the street)
Last night was actually quite an invaluable night in that whilst spending time in prayer, worship and sharing with some brothers in Christ in my new home town, I could feel God was softening my heart and teaching me about the humility required in being part of and leading/serving in a relatively new church.
It was as though my eyes were opened up to the different dynamics of serving where there is more responsibility with a team of leaders feeling the call to “feed Jesus’ sheep”. My pride seemed to be further uncovered and felt in contrast to the softening that occurred during our discussions last night.
Of late in my life there has been an increased awareness of the various teachings in the “Christian world” which though having many appealing points, at times seem to contradict or oppose each another. I found myself questioning my beliefs on certain matters of my faith experiences. Though at times confused, I felt that it was indeed an important time.
In the end the question I asked myself regarding all of these teachings was this: “what do all of these teachings and christians have in common?”...the answer was and is Jesus.
So that was a healthy wake up call to focus on the core of my faith and my life...Jesus.
Over the past couple of weeks I have begun to read the bible recognizing the importance of myself discovering truths, rather than a reliance on other people whom I trust, or simply those who are very convincing in their delivery. During this time, I have found the voice and words of Jesus very comforting and at the same time surprising. Jesus I am finding says things that only he could say. “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life”, and “no one comes to the father except through the son”, the list goes on.
At the end of the day, I want to see God’s kingdom come, just as Jesus intended it to. I am free to confess my weaknesses...yes, even as a person who is saved by grace. As I confess my sin and areas of weakness, God is then able to reveal himself to me and those around me.
There is no need to hide, whether prior to salvation through Christ, or after. With the focus heavily on leaders and pastors within churches we are learning here that more and more, Jesus is desiring for the leaders to be transparent with God and with people, confessing their weaknesses and sin, and continuing to point people to God, point people to Jesus...who is the perfect one. If leaders don’t have the heart to serve God and His people, then they are not...we are not...God’s chosen leaders.
We desire and try all to often (even myself right now as I type) to draw attention to ourselves to receive glory and edification from one another...and though encouragement isn’t bad in and of itself...the state of our hearts and pride give way to ourselves preventing God from receiving the glory that He deserves...why? because we stand in the way...soaking up what was, is, and always will be intended for him.
A message in itself, whether from the word, or divine revelation in and of itself may not get “the job done”. I feel that we here at Cornerstone Tokyo are coming to a greater realization of the need as believers for the Father to give us here in Japan an outpouring of the power of the Holy Spirit. As believers we are sealed with the Holy Spirit upon our faith in Jesus, but the baptism and power of the Holy Spirit which the world so desperately needs is something we believe we need to ask for, seek, and knock on God’s door for.
May God correct our mistakes and the direction in which we walk...but for God to truly receive glory in this world...it has to not only be our own faith...and our own power that does the will of God...but God’s power and Spirit himself.
Even as followers of Christ...we must seek to see Jesus receive glory and not ourselves. I don’t believe this to be false humility...because to walk in that (“false” humility) we must first understand what true humility is...and I at least speak for myself when I say this, but I don’t think we truly understand the meaning of this true humility yet...and as such let’s pray that we would come to understand and walk in true humility as sons and daughters, servants, and friends of God...
Glory to your name Jesus.
(written a couple of weeks ago)
So I’m sitting here in a Gyoza and ramen shop and waiting for my 12 gyoza, rice, soup and pickled veggies to be cooked and served.
I brought my computer here to begin typing out what I feel I am going through at the moment in various aspects of my life here in Japan.
It started snowing this morning, and I was like “hmmm...there you go.” Though actually I found out that it was snowing due to reading an email where a friend noted how it was now snowing in Tokyo...I pulled back my blue curtain and saw the white snow covering large patches of grass...haha...the world we live in!
My gyoza has arrived...so I’ ll start eating it, and then get back to this blog.
picture from http://www.foodjunkiechronicles.com
-------------
yummm...oishkatta yo!!
So, now that my stomach is partially full, I shall continue...
(I say partially because there may be another trip to a different shop...specializing in Ramen and Tsukemen noodles...pretty much just across the street)
Last night was actually quite an invaluable night in that whilst spending time in prayer, worship and sharing with some brothers in Christ in my new home town, I could feel God was softening my heart and teaching me about the humility required in being part of and leading/serving in a relatively new church.
It was as though my eyes were opened up to the different dynamics of serving where there is more responsibility with a team of leaders feeling the call to “feed Jesus’ sheep”. My pride seemed to be further uncovered and felt in contrast to the softening that occurred during our discussions last night.
Of late in my life there has been an increased awareness of the various teachings in the “Christian world” which though having many appealing points, at times seem to contradict or oppose each another. I found myself questioning my beliefs on certain matters of my faith experiences. Though at times confused, I felt that it was indeed an important time.
In the end the question I asked myself regarding all of these teachings was this: “what do all of these teachings and christians have in common?”...the answer was and is Jesus.
So that was a healthy wake up call to focus on the core of my faith and my life...Jesus.
Over the past couple of weeks I have begun to read the bible recognizing the importance of myself discovering truths, rather than a reliance on other people whom I trust, or simply those who are very convincing in their delivery. During this time, I have found the voice and words of Jesus very comforting and at the same time surprising. Jesus I am finding says things that only he could say. “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life”, and “no one comes to the father except through the son”, the list goes on.
At the end of the day, I want to see God’s kingdom come, just as Jesus intended it to. I am free to confess my weaknesses...yes, even as a person who is saved by grace. As I confess my sin and areas of weakness, God is then able to reveal himself to me and those around me.
There is no need to hide, whether prior to salvation through Christ, or after. With the focus heavily on leaders and pastors within churches we are learning here that more and more, Jesus is desiring for the leaders to be transparent with God and with people, confessing their weaknesses and sin, and continuing to point people to God, point people to Jesus...who is the perfect one. If leaders don’t have the heart to serve God and His people, then they are not...we are not...God’s chosen leaders.
We desire and try all to often (even myself right now as I type) to draw attention to ourselves to receive glory and edification from one another...and though encouragement isn’t bad in and of itself...the state of our hearts and pride give way to ourselves preventing God from receiving the glory that He deserves...why? because we stand in the way...soaking up what was, is, and always will be intended for him.
A message in itself, whether from the word, or divine revelation in and of itself may not get “the job done”. I feel that we here at Cornerstone Tokyo are coming to a greater realization of the need as believers for the Father to give us here in Japan an outpouring of the power of the Holy Spirit. As believers we are sealed with the Holy Spirit upon our faith in Jesus, but the baptism and power of the Holy Spirit which the world so desperately needs is something we believe we need to ask for, seek, and knock on God’s door for.
May God correct our mistakes and the direction in which we walk...but for God to truly receive glory in this world...it has to not only be our own faith...and our own power that does the will of God...but God’s power and Spirit himself.
Even as followers of Christ...we must seek to see Jesus receive glory and not ourselves. I don’t believe this to be false humility...because to walk in that (“false” humility) we must first understand what true humility is...and I at least speak for myself when I say this, but I don’t think we truly understand the meaning of this true humility yet...and as such let’s pray that we would come to understand and walk in true humility as sons and daughters, servants, and friends of God...
Glory to your name Jesus.
Sunday, January 8, 2012
6 weeks and counting...
Hey there family and friends.
It’s been just over 6 weeks since I arrived back in Japan. The first couple of weeks I just couldn’t get the smile off my face...I really missed Japan and was so glad to be back.
I’m currently typing this from a spot close to where I used to live, just on a river in a city I now also live in called Higashi-Kurume. There is something special about this town. It’s got a real family vibe to it. There are some paddocks amidst some bulk housing/flats and also new and older style homes. Love the sound of the flowing water over rocks. :^)
One thing I really missed about Japan was the people and lifestyle. I enjoyed the sense of honor that there seemed to be here as well as how smoothly life seemed to run. This includes the transport system, restaurants, and just about any other aspect of practical living.As the weeks have rolled on, I have found that I have had the opportunity to minister to people and be ministered to. I believe that Jesus is teaching me a lot about dependance on the Holy Spirit, humility and how all the glory truly does belong to him.
I do apologize that I have not been keeping people updated on my time here in Japan. I’m in the phase of looking for work and as such still feel that I am in a transition phase, so prayer for God’s wisdom, guidance, and my adherence to his leading would be much appreciated.
Whilst here in Japan I have felt God reveal to me the importance of love in his Church. God has led me to partner with some people in a relatively new church in Tokyo/Ikebukuro called Cornerstone Tokyo. (Above you'll see a video inviting people to our Christmas Party)
Here at this church upon my first visit I found the rawness of emotion and desire to know God quite refreshing. There did not seem to be “one person” who had all the answers but instead a realization of our need to know and be led by “the one” who is the answer...Jesus.
Prayer would be appreciated for the pouring out of the Holy Spirit here in Japan. I feel, as well as a number of others here, that Japan is in desperate need for the Holy Spirit to have his way, rather than man’s seemingly good intentioned way.
The cry of our hearts is for more of his presence, more of his power...more of his love to come and invade our lives, the very lives of his body and his church.
We want no man to receive glory for this work, the work of his Spirit, but instead, the one to whom all glory belongs. Even as I type, I believe the Spirit is saying, more glory, more glory, more glory to whom the glory is due...Jesus...King Jesus.
Thank you for being vessels of Gods transforming power and love over the past few years to me...let’s keep praying, and confessing our need for the life giving power and work of Jesus in the lives of those in our lives. Let no glory fall on us, and may God be rid of any desire we have of such glory.
I pray God’s peace and presence guide us and teach us daily as we walk with him.
Tri.
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