The Hope of a Nation

It's easy to get caught up in the interesting sights and cultural differences in a place like Japan.  The impact for newbies like MattyDub and myself is pronounced and exhilarating, and we've had one positive experience after another.  But not lost upon us are some of the deeper cultural implications and complexities of the Japanese people, especially as they relate to spiritual issues.  One of our stops today was at the Osu Temple, a Buddhist shrine that is a nexus of religious faith for many people of Nagoya.  Although we enjoyed the architecture, colors and uniqueness (to us, anyway) of the complex, we were struck by what we perceived to be the futility of the belief system present.  One of the attendants at the Temple told us that most of the people who visit do so when times are tough and luck has run badly.  They believe (actually, they simply hope) that by donating an amount of money, saying prayers, and burning candles and incense they might see an end to their misfortunes and find better luck.  

The sight of so many praying, sounding a gong, and covering themselves in the incense smoke reminded us of the lack of understanding of the God of the universe who wants to be personally connected with His creation through His Son.  Their paths offer little assurance of hope in this life or the next, apart from their continued efforts to do good.  And we know that none of us wants to count on that as the measuring stick for our blessings today...or for eternity.  Please pray for the Japanese people, less than 1% of them Christians, to find the life, the hope, the purpose and the peace that Christ has for them.  And pray that believers here, both indigenous and international, will be used effectively by God to share that life message.

The video I'm posting today introduces Andy Rodriguez of MSGF.  As you listen to his words, hear his heart for God and for the people of this great nation.  You'll be blessed and challenged, of that I'm certain.

(PS- don't forget to check out www.matthewwhelchel.blogspot.com for MattyDub's take on things!)

Solace we found at a Japanese Garden this morning

Front of the Osu Temple in Nagoya

Woman covering herself with incense smoke, representing prayers

Buddhist priest performing rituals inside the Osu Temple

Nagoya skyline, 52 floors above the ground