As we near the close of our time at Kids Gospel here in Nagoya, our hearts are full – overflowing with gratitude, awe, and hope. Today's morning devotionals set the tone for all we do, and we want to share with you how they've shaped this week's ministry in powerful ways.
Called Out of Darkness
In Acts 17:23, Paul speaks of an altar "to the unknown god" – a symbol of a deep yearning for the divine among those who do not yet know Jesus. Walking these streets has been humbling. So much here is marked by spiritual longing, but it is yet unfulfilled apart from Christ.
Peter's words in 1 Peter 2:9-17 echoed deeply for our team. We are reminded that our role is not only to proclaim but to live as those called from darkness into light – bringing the hope of the gospel to children and families who have rarely, if ever, heard that truth.
Before the start of Kids Gospel, Kaji led us in Psalm 51:10's prayer. This plea undergirds our every act of service: we come not in our own strength, but seeking a renewed heart and spirit, so that the gospel might shine clearly through our hands and hearts.
"Jesus Loves Me"
Soushiro's crafted picture frame reads simply and beautifully, "Jesus loves me."
This small phrase is a yes and amen to all we pray for these children. It is not just words on a frame – they represent the deepest desire of our ministry: that each child truly knows this truth not only in their minds but in their hearts.
Learning to Praise: Instruments & Joyful Worship
Throughout the week, children have been learning to play instruments, joyfully exploring songs like "Awesome God," many for the very first time hearing the name of Jesus lifted in worship. The transformation from strangers to worshippers is tangible.
Our team – pictured here – will lead worship and dance at the Kids Gospel festival on Saturday, a moment we eagerly anticipate as a foretaste of the heavenly worship we read about in Scripture:
Keiden, Kaji's eldest, poured his heart during our team's rehearsal, reminding us that worship is more than music; it is a heartfelt offering from those whose lives have been transformed by grace.
Fellowship, Friendship & Grace in the Ordinary
Our evenings have been filled with warm fellowship alongside our new friends from Nisshin Christ Church. From shared meals and laughter to quiet moments, these ordinary acts knit us together as family in Christ, reminding us that mission is as much about relationship as it is about proclamation.
Prayer Requests
Please continue holding these precious needs before the Lord:
Maki Goto: Pray fervently for Maki's salvation. She has been attending Nisshin Christ Church for over ten years and has faithfully assisted in Kids Gospel each year but has yet to profess saving faith in Christ. Pray the Holy Spirit would soften her heart to truly receive the gospel this season.
Sana: Pray for Sana, a high school student who has participated in Kids Gospel since kindergarten and now serves alongside the team. She also attends Hospi, the local university ministry. Pray that God would draw her into deeper faith and a personal relationship with Jesus.
Kaji: You may recall Kaji from the video update shared during GRC's recent Missions Conference this past March. His final ordination papers are due this Sunday – a critical and stressful milestone. Pray God grants him endurance, wisdom, and peace as he completes this important step. If the Lord wills, his ordination and appointment as senior pastor of Nisshin Christ Church will take place this fall. Pray for God's grace to steady and prepare him for this significant calling.
The Jensens, our missionary partners: Pray for God's abundant blessing on the Jensens during this busy and pivotal season. Ask for physical and spiritual refreshment for them and their children, protection in ministry and personal life, and breakthrough faithfulness in their work in Nagoya. Also pray for their fundraising efforts – that God would provide the increased support needed to sustain and expand their vital ministry and for clear guidance in every decision.
Nagoya Church Planting Team: They are prayerfully discerning where to plant next in Aichi Prefecture. Pray God would grant crystal-clear direction, unity among team members, and divine preparation of the places and people He will use for gospel growth.
Yu: Pray for Yu as he finishes his Bachelor of Theology and prepares to enter the ordination process with the Presbyterian Church in Japan. Pray God would shape and sustain him for faithful gospel ministry in the years to come.
Atsushi: As an MTW national partner and intern with the Nagoya Church Planting Team, Atsushi is also preparing to enter the ordination process with the Presbyterian Church in Japan this fall. Pray for perseverance, humility, and encouragement during this demanding time, and for clear confirmation of God's calling upon his life.
Ted: Pray especially for Ted's ongoing battle with vertigo. Ask the Lord to grant relief from symptoms, daily strength, and peace of mind.
Continued needs
Spiritual protection: For every child, volunteer, missionary, and family involved at Nisshin Christ Church and on our team. Pray they would be shielded from discouragement, temptation, division, and spiritual attacks.
Unity & humility: As schedules remain unpredictable and cultural challenges arise, pray that our team and the local church would walk in love, patience, and mutual submission, reflecting Christ's humility.
Endurance & joy: For renewed strength and steadfast joy amid weariness, that all who serve would persevere faithfully, keeping eyes fixed on Christ.
Fruit that lasts: That the gospel seeds sown during Kids Gospel – and throughout our time in Nagoya – would take deep root and bear lasting fruit for God's kingdom.
To Our Faithful Supporters
Through every craft, every chord played, every prayer lifted, and every friendship forged, we see the hand of God leading us and working powerfully in ways unseen. Your prayers and encouragement are the lifeline that makes this possible.
Thank you for being part of this story. We join Paul in longing that the "unknown God" would be known and that these children would one day confidently declare: "Jesus loves me – this I know."
May God continue to renew our hearts and fill us with His joy as we serve Him together.
WOW!!! Thanks Kevin for another great report. Please share with the team how proud we are of you all and how grateful we are to Jesus for your ministry. Praying for you and praising God with you.