March 13, 2023

Romans 12:2. Trent returned from Tokyo Saturday night with amazing stories of sharing Jesus with people in Tokyo. In Japan less than 2% claim to be Christian so the country is a desert of believers. He explained that it’s so difficult to break through with the Japanese because nearly all are so focused on being Japanese. In other words, there is an extreme focus on being perfect in the Japanese culture. When you introduce Jesus it’s counter cultural. The weak are strong. The poor are rich. Reject power, wealth and status. So presenting Jesus is counter to the prevailing Japanese culture. But really we have the same issue here in America where we are chasing “the American dream.” In our busyness we don’t see the neighbor in need, a family member who is hurting emotionally and spiritually or a friend who is grieving. Bottom line, the Japanese and the Americans need Jesus. And if you and I can’t travel to Tokyo we can certainly check in with a neighbor, family member and friend. In Romans it says “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is —his good, pleasing and perfect will.” I pray we all do not conform to the culture around us and find ways to proclaim Jesus.