This morning we worked at the home of an elderly woman only a block or so from base camp. She lives in a very nice home, probably with several other family members. But she was home alone while we worked …
When Good Fortune Feels Unfortunate
Today we spent time in the morning putting together packages for several people we had visited yesterday in Taro. We were able to give them a lot of things yesterday but several had special requests that we weren’t able to …
And here come the little ones!
I’m back in Iwate again. This is my fifth trip to Tohoku since the earthquake and my team mates this time are two fellow pastors from the NSKK (Japan Covenant). We have linked up with a team of ten from …
Does anything make sense?
We made it home after three days of hard driving and as I tried to sort through my thoughts I was struck by all the conflicted images and emotions we’ve had. It started with the tears of joy and sorrow, …
Death that Leads to Life
Today was another day of stark contrasts. We got up early and were treated to a great breakfast by our friends at the Morioka Minami Church. They are so friendly and seem genuinely happy to have guests. Pastor Otsuka showed …
Tears of Joy, Tears of Sorrow…
May 3rd was a day of celebration for the Japan Covenant Church. We gathered at the Covenant Seminary and celebrated the 60th anniversary of this denomination. Our guest speakers were Gary Walter, President of the ECC, and Curt Peterson, Executive …
Back in Iwate
This week’s trip to Iwate actually started on Monday night when fellow ECC missionary Tim Johnson and I loaded a borrowed one ton truck with a load of 23 bicycles and as much other stuff as we could fit. It …
Iwate (Part 2)
Yesterday we got an early start for the two hour drive from Morioka back to Miyako, on the coast. Our first stop was the Miyako Community Church, where we dropped off some supplies and picked up some more volunteers. Fortunately …
Round Two – Iwate (Part 1)
I’m back in Tohoku! After spending a week at home with Hydi and the kids I was suddenly given an opportunity to come back to Tohoku. Our group met up at IBF (the church where I was attending a pastors’ …
Fumes, a prayer and a song!
Our team safely returned from a week in Sendai last Saturday night. It was quite an adventure and it kept us on our toes right until the end. Fuel shortages are gradually diminishing, but still have a long ways to …