May 19th
Today is Ben's graduation - the main reason we came to Singapore. I started off the day taking Abel to his soccer practice and game. Ben and Han Jing were not able to take him, so I volunteered to take him, by taxi, to his school for his practice and game. Miriam came along with me. We weren't sure quite what to expect since it wasn't clear if this was a practice or a game, but it sounded like it would be both...which it was. Abel attends the International Community School which is truly international, but also Christian. We were told that many missionary children attend this school.
I was given the task of taking videos of Abel since Ben and Han Jing couldn't be there. While I took videos of Abel's every move, Miriam struck up conversations with parents, grandparents and visitors that were there. There was one Chinese man named Frank which she spent quite a bit of time talking with. I could tell that something special was happening here so I prayed that God would direct the conversation. She talked with Frank long after practice. Frank was at the soccer practice/game to talk to Ben, but since Ben wasn't there (a God-thing, I believe) Miriam was able to meet him and talk with him.
The multi-cultural aspect of Singapore came through in Abel's teammates on the soccer field. His main coach (a volunteer) is from India, married to someone from Singapore. The coach took the players through various drills, and then, finally, they had a scrimmage in a small section of the soccer field. Unfortunately for Abel, he got kicked in the eye by the ball and sat out the last half of the scrimmage. He was not a happy boy after the scrimmage after not being hit in the eye and not being able to score a goal. I tried to encourage him as best I could. We walked a couple of blocks from the school to catch a taxi back to Ben and Han Jing's where we got ready for Ben's graduation.
We drove to Ben's graduation in a van owned by a sweet, godly couple named "L.T." and Ellen. They have been so kind to Ben and Han Jing while they have been in Singapore. Graduation was held in a large university with a huge auditorium. I was taken back at first by how many people were there. I would guess several thousand people were there to witness the 121 graduates of Singapore Bible College. This is the 54th graduating class for the college. God has blessed this institution which has strong Overseas Missionary Fellowship (OMF) ties.
The graduation was done in both English and Chinese. How thrilling to hear the auditorium filled with songs like "Onward Christian Soldiers" "Faith is the Victory" and "Be Thou My Vision." I felt like this was a foretaste in heaven. And even though I couldn't understand the Chinese, there was a close oneness in spirit as we sang praises to our God.
After the two-hour graduation ceremony, there was a reception in the main lobby area which was wall-to-wall people. Somehow, we found ourselves herded into a special roped-off VIP area where the dignitaries, speakers, and leaders of the college were sitting and eating refreshments. Soon we were sitting at the table with the chairman of the board and the speaker for the graduation ceremony! Wow! We found the chairman of the board to be a very gracious man who was at one time an international student in California and was influenced by fellow workers of ours with International Students, Inc. (ISI). What a small world!
Leaving the graduation ceremony, we went back to Ben and Han Jing's apartment to relax a bit before a gathering of friends in the clubhouse area of the apartment complex in the evening. What a great time we had at this gathering. At this gathering were a lot of Ben's friends from his time in Singapore. Many are involved in work with MSI Professional Services in China which endeavors to share Christ in China through various means. It is a wonderful organization which I am finding more about while here in Singapore. I spoke with the president of the organization at Ben's graduation who came from Hong Kong just to see Ben graduate. He sat with us during the ceremony. What a humble, gracious, sincere man. I can see why he and Ben have developed a good relationship.
What a great time of fellowship and meeting so many great people at this gathering in the "clubhouse" of Ben and Han Jing's apartment. God's faithfulness was evident in Ben's life in bringing people like this into both he and Han Jing's life while here in Singapore. I believe mom's presence was a great testimony and encouragement to many there at the gathering. Ben gave testimony to the seed that both mom and dad planted in Ben's life 27 years ago. Many were fascinated with mom's book on China and enjoyed seeing pictures of Ben when mom and dad first knew him.
What a privilege is is to me to witness and rejoice in what God has done in Ben's life and to see some fruit from mom and dad's work in the one year they were in China. It was less than a year, but the impact of their time there has had a lifetime change. Ben is an example of that.
Praise God!
Saturday, May 19, 2007
Friday, May 18, 2007
Day Eighteen
May 18th
Today we got a tour of Singapore. Moses volunteered to drive us around Singapore. We headed south initially to the south part of the island. From there we went to China Town. There we took a little tour in a building that took us back to what life was like for the Chinese who immigrated here to Singapore a hundred years ago or so. I noticed lots of tourists in China Town and vendors who would try to lure us into their shops to buy things from them. I had a good excuse since I don't have any Singapore money.
After China Town we headed to the Esplanades-Theatres on the Bay. This is a huge performing arts center along the Singapore River. They are expanding the center to also have a floating stage in the river. From the Esplanades we saw a statue of a tiger statue (the tiger is a symbol here in Singapore) across the river.
While driving around Singapore I was again struck by the multi-cultural nature of the country. I noticed the British influence here. Singapore got independence from Britain in 1957 and joined with Malasia, but then formed their own country in 1962. I also noticed the interesting trees throughout the city. One tree is known as the "rain" tree. Another one I saw today we called a "banyan" tree in India. I'm not sure what they call it here, but it has roots that stretch to the ground from its branches.
Leaving the Esplanades, we headed to the north part of the island. Here we would get a view of Malaysia. We decided to have lunch here in a converted British officers building. It was quite nice. Hey, I even got to eat squid again! And it was so good, I had a couple of them. This time it wasn't raw, though, as it was in Japan. I definitely enjoyed the cooked squid better!
We had a great time at lunch with mom and Ben sharing about their experiences in China when they first met as teacher and student. I learned a lot more about how the short one year in China for mom and dad changed so many peoples lives forever.
We got back to Ben and Han Jing's in the afternoon and just relaxed until supper which both Ben and Han Jing prepared for us. Earlier in the afternoon we sampled some fruit that is only grown in this area. One fruit looks like a prickly fish on the outside, but tastes like what we used to call "leechies" in India. The other fruit is a bright purple fruit that tastes like the kiwi fruit. This fruit comes in either white color or this bright purple color. Han Jing told us to not get it on our clothes, because you can't get the color out of your clothes. I noticed I had a hard time getting my hands clean of purple stains after finishing eating the fruit. Another new and interesting experience today.
After supper Ben and Han Jing along with their youngest son Aaron took me on a walk to the Singapore Bible College. It is very close to their apartment. It was another warm evening and I was sweating by the time I got to the college. Right away I met the principal of the college. I found out he is a graduate of Talbot Seminary and his wife from Biola where Carol and I graduated from. He also was influenced by the pastor of the Chinese Baptist Church in Los Angeles which is the church my folks know people from. What a small world.
After touring the college, we relaxed in the apartment and slept some knowing that we would be picking up my sister Miriam at 1:00 am. Ben and I went to pick her up. We walked awhile before finding a bus which took us to the downtown business section. We waited there for quite awhile for another bus to take us to the airport, but apparently we missed the last bus of the night so we took a taxi to the airport instead.
It was so good to see Miriam. She's such a spark plug and encourager. She's had a long day, though with another long day ahead of us what with Ben's graduation and everything. He will be at a prayer meeting at the college at 7:30 am. I'll be taking their son Abel to his soccer practice at 8:30 since Han Jing will need to stay home with their youngest son Aaron who is still not feeling too well. Abel and I will take a taxi to and from soccer practice.
I'm looking forward to what God has in store for tomorrow. Before heading to bed, I prayed for Ben and Han Jing and the day tomorrow. After graduation at 3:00 pm they will have about 50 people over to their apartment to meet in a conference room here. It should be a great day of celebration of God's faithfulness in their lives.
Today we got a tour of Singapore. Moses volunteered to drive us around Singapore. We headed south initially to the south part of the island. From there we went to China Town. There we took a little tour in a building that took us back to what life was like for the Chinese who immigrated here to Singapore a hundred years ago or so. I noticed lots of tourists in China Town and vendors who would try to lure us into their shops to buy things from them. I had a good excuse since I don't have any Singapore money.
After China Town we headed to the Esplanades-Theatres on the Bay. This is a huge performing arts center along the Singapore River. They are expanding the center to also have a floating stage in the river. From the Esplanades we saw a statue of a tiger statue (the tiger is a symbol here in Singapore) across the river.
While driving around Singapore I was again struck by the multi-cultural nature of the country. I noticed the British influence here. Singapore got independence from Britain in 1957 and joined with Malasia, but then formed their own country in 1962. I also noticed the interesting trees throughout the city. One tree is known as the "rain" tree. Another one I saw today we called a "banyan" tree in India. I'm not sure what they call it here, but it has roots that stretch to the ground from its branches.
Leaving the Esplanades, we headed to the north part of the island. Here we would get a view of Malaysia. We decided to have lunch here in a converted British officers building. It was quite nice. Hey, I even got to eat squid again! And it was so good, I had a couple of them. This time it wasn't raw, though, as it was in Japan. I definitely enjoyed the cooked squid better!
We had a great time at lunch with mom and Ben sharing about their experiences in China when they first met as teacher and student. I learned a lot more about how the short one year in China for mom and dad changed so many peoples lives forever.
We got back to Ben and Han Jing's in the afternoon and just relaxed until supper which both Ben and Han Jing prepared for us. Earlier in the afternoon we sampled some fruit that is only grown in this area. One fruit looks like a prickly fish on the outside, but tastes like what we used to call "leechies" in India. The other fruit is a bright purple fruit that tastes like the kiwi fruit. This fruit comes in either white color or this bright purple color. Han Jing told us to not get it on our clothes, because you can't get the color out of your clothes. I noticed I had a hard time getting my hands clean of purple stains after finishing eating the fruit. Another new and interesting experience today.
After supper Ben and Han Jing along with their youngest son Aaron took me on a walk to the Singapore Bible College. It is very close to their apartment. It was another warm evening and I was sweating by the time I got to the college. Right away I met the principal of the college. I found out he is a graduate of Talbot Seminary and his wife from Biola where Carol and I graduated from. He also was influenced by the pastor of the Chinese Baptist Church in Los Angeles which is the church my folks know people from. What a small world.
After touring the college, we relaxed in the apartment and slept some knowing that we would be picking up my sister Miriam at 1:00 am. Ben and I went to pick her up. We walked awhile before finding a bus which took us to the downtown business section. We waited there for quite awhile for another bus to take us to the airport, but apparently we missed the last bus of the night so we took a taxi to the airport instead.
It was so good to see Miriam. She's such a spark plug and encourager. She's had a long day, though with another long day ahead of us what with Ben's graduation and everything. He will be at a prayer meeting at the college at 7:30 am. I'll be taking their son Abel to his soccer practice at 8:30 since Han Jing will need to stay home with their youngest son Aaron who is still not feeling too well. Abel and I will take a taxi to and from soccer practice.
I'm looking forward to what God has in store for tomorrow. Before heading to bed, I prayed for Ben and Han Jing and the day tomorrow. After graduation at 3:00 pm they will have about 50 people over to their apartment to meet in a conference room here. It should be a great day of celebration of God's faithfulness in their lives.
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Day Seventeen
May 17th
Since we went to bed so late (3:00 or so in the morning), we slept in till 8:30 or so this morning. After some breakfast, Ben and his wife Han Jing and I left the apartment for some errands while mom stayed back to check on her emails. Ben and Han Jing do not have a vehicle, so rely on walking, bus or taxi to get around. But it really is quite easy to get around in this 647 square kilometers island city/country of Singapore. That translates into around 400 square miles for us Americans. I also found out that the population of Singapore is around 4 million people.
Han Jing joined us since their youngest son Aaron was feeling ill at his day care. After finding a taxi, we dropped her off at the school where she would walk home from. Ben and I were on a mission to do some shopping. Imagine! Here we are two men doing some grocery shopping. It looked like it was a pretty common practice from all the men I saw on our outing.
We stopped off at "Little India" first. Wow! I felt like I was back in India here. It was great! It smelled like India, looked like India, etc. but was definitely a lot cleaner than India. We stopped off at the butcher first where Ben picked out some meat. Ben informed me that he used to go to the super market for meat, until he found out that they were always cheating him there.
After passing by an Indian shop with Indian sweets like jalebies and gulab jamins (yummm!) we found ourselves in the midst of all kinds of produce, meats (some live meat like fish, frogs, shrimp and who knows what all else) and other kinds of grocery products. I tried to push the little cart and keep up with Ben as fast as I could, but I enjoyed it. We got in and out of there in very little time. I wondered how we would get all these groceries home, but that was answered when Ben hailed down a cab and we loaded all the groceries in the trunk of the cab. Then I wondered what we would do with the grocery cart, and just like that, there was a man from the grocery store to take the cart back to the store. One thing I forgot to mention is that to use a cart you must put a coin in the cart to release the cart and use it.
When we got home, I met Aaron for the first time. I played "Connect Four" with him. He's only 3 years old, but very smart and can carry on a good conversation (in English) with you. He had quite a fever, so Han Jing called Ben who had gone out to have lunch with a friend. They took him to the hospital where they got some medication to get the fever down. I still don't know what's wrong with him, but before they left for the hospital I prayed over him that God would heal him and bring his fever down. When they got back, he looked like a new boy.
Did I mention that it's rather warm here? It's quite humid and "sticky." The air conditioning is turned on in both my bedroom and mom's bedroom, but the other part of the house is just left open. The front door is open all the time and the windows opened wide all the time as well. We got somewhat of a reprieve from the hot weather this afternoon when a rainstorm (complete with thunder and lightning) rolled through here. That was a relief, but it is still quite humid and warm.
Ben's friend Moses, who also is a student at Singapore Bible College, took Ben and Han Jing and Aaron to the hospital. Moses' wife is a medical doctor specializing in elder care. He and his wife are from Malaysia originally. Moses is part of a church with around 3,000 members. He will be doing an internship there this summer. They are involved in the service for Chinese speaking people that has an attendance of around 170 people. The name of his church is Covenant Evangelical Free Church. They are trying to encourage other churches to join them in becoming an Intentional Disciple Making Church (IDMC). Both Ben and Moses told me that while there are some mega churches in Singapore, there is little true kingdom growth here. Much of the growth comes from people changing churches or immigrating here.
Ben showed Moses mom's book on China since there are pictures in there of how Ben looked 27 years ago. When Moses saw pictures of dad he thought he looked like Billy Graham. Then in another picture he said he looked like Chuck Swindoll. A little bit later we were looking at some pictures of my family and I asked him who he thought I looked like. "You look like Pastor Rick Warren," was his answer. I'm not sure why he thought that unless it's because Rick Warren, like me, is also sporting a goatee these days. I'm just glad to be me!
For supper, Ben, his oldest son Abel (7 years old) and mom and I went to "Holland Town." I was expecting some sort of European theme, but what I found was a shopping center and a restaurant/cafe lined street. We decided on Indian food, although we were the only customers to start with. I gathered that more customers come later in the evening. Anyway, the food was good, but we sure didn't feel very welcomed by the staff serving us. Abel had not had Indian food before and let us know what foods he didn't particularly care for.
We spent the evening relaxing. I listened to Abel practice his piano. He's using the same Thompson series I used to learn the piano, but his book is in Chinese. I also listened to Abel read to me from a book. He is a very good reader and loves to laugh and have a good time.
I heard more of Han Jing's testimony later in the evening. It was good to hear more of her story and encourage her as she faces an uncertain future. Ben and Han Jing are leaving Singapore after Ben's graduation to go back to Chengdu, China where they are from and used to live. They are not sure what they will be doing, but are trusting the Lord that He will guide them. And I believe He will.
Since we went to bed so late (3:00 or so in the morning), we slept in till 8:30 or so this morning. After some breakfast, Ben and his wife Han Jing and I left the apartment for some errands while mom stayed back to check on her emails. Ben and Han Jing do not have a vehicle, so rely on walking, bus or taxi to get around. But it really is quite easy to get around in this 647 square kilometers island city/country of Singapore. That translates into around 400 square miles for us Americans. I also found out that the population of Singapore is around 4 million people.
Han Jing joined us since their youngest son Aaron was feeling ill at his day care. After finding a taxi, we dropped her off at the school where she would walk home from. Ben and I were on a mission to do some shopping. Imagine! Here we are two men doing some grocery shopping. It looked like it was a pretty common practice from all the men I saw on our outing.
We stopped off at "Little India" first. Wow! I felt like I was back in India here. It was great! It smelled like India, looked like India, etc. but was definitely a lot cleaner than India. We stopped off at the butcher first where Ben picked out some meat. Ben informed me that he used to go to the super market for meat, until he found out that they were always cheating him there.
After passing by an Indian shop with Indian sweets like jalebies and gulab jamins (yummm!) we found ourselves in the midst of all kinds of produce, meats (some live meat like fish, frogs, shrimp and who knows what all else) and other kinds of grocery products. I tried to push the little cart and keep up with Ben as fast as I could, but I enjoyed it. We got in and out of there in very little time. I wondered how we would get all these groceries home, but that was answered when Ben hailed down a cab and we loaded all the groceries in the trunk of the cab. Then I wondered what we would do with the grocery cart, and just like that, there was a man from the grocery store to take the cart back to the store. One thing I forgot to mention is that to use a cart you must put a coin in the cart to release the cart and use it.
When we got home, I met Aaron for the first time. I played "Connect Four" with him. He's only 3 years old, but very smart and can carry on a good conversation (in English) with you. He had quite a fever, so Han Jing called Ben who had gone out to have lunch with a friend. They took him to the hospital where they got some medication to get the fever down. I still don't know what's wrong with him, but before they left for the hospital I prayed over him that God would heal him and bring his fever down. When they got back, he looked like a new boy.
Did I mention that it's rather warm here? It's quite humid and "sticky." The air conditioning is turned on in both my bedroom and mom's bedroom, but the other part of the house is just left open. The front door is open all the time and the windows opened wide all the time as well. We got somewhat of a reprieve from the hot weather this afternoon when a rainstorm (complete with thunder and lightning) rolled through here. That was a relief, but it is still quite humid and warm.
Ben's friend Moses, who also is a student at Singapore Bible College, took Ben and Han Jing and Aaron to the hospital. Moses' wife is a medical doctor specializing in elder care. He and his wife are from Malaysia originally. Moses is part of a church with around 3,000 members. He will be doing an internship there this summer. They are involved in the service for Chinese speaking people that has an attendance of around 170 people. The name of his church is Covenant Evangelical Free Church. They are trying to encourage other churches to join them in becoming an Intentional Disciple Making Church (IDMC). Both Ben and Moses told me that while there are some mega churches in Singapore, there is little true kingdom growth here. Much of the growth comes from people changing churches or immigrating here.
Ben showed Moses mom's book on China since there are pictures in there of how Ben looked 27 years ago. When Moses saw pictures of dad he thought he looked like Billy Graham. Then in another picture he said he looked like Chuck Swindoll. A little bit later we were looking at some pictures of my family and I asked him who he thought I looked like. "You look like Pastor Rick Warren," was his answer. I'm not sure why he thought that unless it's because Rick Warren, like me, is also sporting a goatee these days. I'm just glad to be me!
For supper, Ben, his oldest son Abel (7 years old) and mom and I went to "Holland Town." I was expecting some sort of European theme, but what I found was a shopping center and a restaurant/cafe lined street. We decided on Indian food, although we were the only customers to start with. I gathered that more customers come later in the evening. Anyway, the food was good, but we sure didn't feel very welcomed by the staff serving us. Abel had not had Indian food before and let us know what foods he didn't particularly care for.
We spent the evening relaxing. I listened to Abel practice his piano. He's using the same Thompson series I used to learn the piano, but his book is in Chinese. I also listened to Abel read to me from a book. He is a very good reader and loves to laugh and have a good time.
I heard more of Han Jing's testimony later in the evening. It was good to hear more of her story and encourage her as she faces an uncertain future. Ben and Han Jing are leaving Singapore after Ben's graduation to go back to Chengdu, China where they are from and used to live. They are not sure what they will be doing, but are trusting the Lord that He will guide them. And I believe He will.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Day Sixteen
May 16th
Today's the day we have to leave Japan. It's hard to believe our time in Japan is coming to a close. Such happy memories we've shared and new experiences we've enjoyed these past two weeks. But now a new chapter opens up as we think about the trip to Singapore.
Miko and Madoka took us to the Narita Airport. Narita is the main airport in Japan, about an hour or so outside of Tokyo. Before we went to the airport, we took a brief tour of Yokohama and the Yokohama Bay. I like Yokohama! We stopped off at a rose garden where we also had a view overlooking Yokohama Bay. After that we stopped to grab some sandwiches which we would eat in the car on the way to the airport.
When we got to the airport, I did some more shopping for souvenirs and gifts for those back home. I found some good things which I'm anxious to share with those I love. All too soon we had to say good bye to Miko and Madoka. This was hard, but I hope to be back in Japan someday soon with Carol.
Before boarding the plane mom and I relaxed in the Northwest Airlines lounge which was nice. I noticed some Americans (loud and obnoxious ones, it seemed to me). They were speaking quite loudly about the Yankees. I thought to myself, "Wow, what a difference in these loud Americans compared to the quietness and grace shown by most Japanese."
Mom and I were the first ones on the plane (again!) It was nice to get settled in before the plane filled in. The plane ride went well and seemed to go pretty fast for me. Before too long we were landing in Singapore at 1:15 am, but I wasn't tired at all. It was good to see Ben's smiling face when we got past immigration and customs.
We took a taxi to Ben's apartment. I notice that there are lots of taxis here. And this was early in the morning. We actually gained an hour coming to Singapore since they are an hour behind Japan in their time zone. I also noticed right away how hot and humid it is here. It's like stepping immediately into a sauna. Ben's wife Han Jing met us at the door of their apartment. We got settled in and starting talking. Their two boys Abel (7 years old) and Aaron (3 years old) were already asleep, so we'll have to wait to see them tomorrow. Han Jing shared how she first met Ben and how she became a Christian. It's a fascinating story which I don't have time to talk about, but God showed her specifically through a specific sign which she prayed for, that Ben was the man she should marry.
Ben and Han Jing shared some snacks with us (eating again, right?) and I had the most delicious mango I've had in years! It was SO good! Mangoes are my favorite fruit, so this was such a treat for me. Before we knew it, it was already 3:00 o'clock! We headed for bed, but I wasn't tired. I was so excited to be here and to experience more of God's blessings in the days ahead.
Today's the day we have to leave Japan. It's hard to believe our time in Japan is coming to a close. Such happy memories we've shared and new experiences we've enjoyed these past two weeks. But now a new chapter opens up as we think about the trip to Singapore.
Miko and Madoka took us to the Narita Airport. Narita is the main airport in Japan, about an hour or so outside of Tokyo. Before we went to the airport, we took a brief tour of Yokohama and the Yokohama Bay. I like Yokohama! We stopped off at a rose garden where we also had a view overlooking Yokohama Bay. After that we stopped to grab some sandwiches which we would eat in the car on the way to the airport.
When we got to the airport, I did some more shopping for souvenirs and gifts for those back home. I found some good things which I'm anxious to share with those I love. All too soon we had to say good bye to Miko and Madoka. This was hard, but I hope to be back in Japan someday soon with Carol.
Before boarding the plane mom and I relaxed in the Northwest Airlines lounge which was nice. I noticed some Americans (loud and obnoxious ones, it seemed to me). They were speaking quite loudly about the Yankees. I thought to myself, "Wow, what a difference in these loud Americans compared to the quietness and grace shown by most Japanese."
Mom and I were the first ones on the plane (again!) It was nice to get settled in before the plane filled in. The plane ride went well and seemed to go pretty fast for me. Before too long we were landing in Singapore at 1:15 am, but I wasn't tired at all. It was good to see Ben's smiling face when we got past immigration and customs.
We took a taxi to Ben's apartment. I notice that there are lots of taxis here. And this was early in the morning. We actually gained an hour coming to Singapore since they are an hour behind Japan in their time zone. I also noticed right away how hot and humid it is here. It's like stepping immediately into a sauna. Ben's wife Han Jing met us at the door of their apartment. We got settled in and starting talking. Their two boys Abel (7 years old) and Aaron (3 years old) were already asleep, so we'll have to wait to see them tomorrow. Han Jing shared how she first met Ben and how she became a Christian. It's a fascinating story which I don't have time to talk about, but God showed her specifically through a specific sign which she prayed for, that Ben was the man she should marry.
Ben and Han Jing shared some snacks with us (eating again, right?) and I had the most delicious mango I've had in years! It was SO good! Mangoes are my favorite fruit, so this was such a treat for me. Before we knew it, it was already 3:00 o'clock! We headed for bed, but I wasn't tired. I was so excited to be here and to experience more of God's blessings in the days ahead.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Day Fifteen
May 15th
Today was a very restful day as we prepared to leave Japan tomorrow. After a late breakfast Madoka and Miko took mom and me on a shopping spree to look for some gifts for family back in the States. We were successful on some accounts as I was able to find some "yukatas" (the Japanese word for a kind of house coat) for Anna and Wyatt.
For lunch we ate at an Indian restaurant called "Moti." Moti means "pearl" in Hindi. Wow, they served some big "naan." Non is a word used to describe a type of bread in Hindi. Actually, I remember it more as "naan roti." "Roti" is the Hindi word for bread. It was good to have some Indian food again. But I was so full! Madoka took all of her naan and most all of her chicken curry home in a take out bag.
When leaving the shopping center, I just had to stop to take a picture of a Tully's Coffee shop. Across the street from that was a shopping area with Baskin Robbins, Starbucks, Sports Authority, and Toys-R-Us in it. That was weird to see that!
When we got back to the Horikawas we just rested and relaxed. It seems like we are more tired on days that we don't have anything planned. Maybe we are running so much on adrenaline that we don't realize it until we don't have a lot to do in a day. Anyway, it was a restful afternoon. I napped and listened to music.
For supper we ate at a bakery restaurant. They had really good bread. I ordered just the salad bar and bread, but I was so full by the time we were done. The waiters and waitresses kept coming around with piping hot bread fresh out of the oven. How can you resist that?
When we got back to the Horikawas we had fun playing with Madoka's dog Maple. Poor Maple had a trying day. She was at the Horikawas when we were shopping. By the time Ken got home from his kidney dialysis, Maple was crying at the top of the stairs. Apparently she can go up the stairs, but can't come down, so she was stuck upstairs the whole time we were shopping.
Today was a very restful day as we prepared to leave Japan tomorrow. After a late breakfast Madoka and Miko took mom and me on a shopping spree to look for some gifts for family back in the States. We were successful on some accounts as I was able to find some "yukatas" (the Japanese word for a kind of house coat) for Anna and Wyatt.
For lunch we ate at an Indian restaurant called "Moti." Moti means "pearl" in Hindi. Wow, they served some big "naan." Non is a word used to describe a type of bread in Hindi. Actually, I remember it more as "naan roti." "Roti" is the Hindi word for bread. It was good to have some Indian food again. But I was so full! Madoka took all of her naan and most all of her chicken curry home in a take out bag.
When leaving the shopping center, I just had to stop to take a picture of a Tully's Coffee shop. Across the street from that was a shopping area with Baskin Robbins, Starbucks, Sports Authority, and Toys-R-Us in it. That was weird to see that!
When we got back to the Horikawas we just rested and relaxed. It seems like we are more tired on days that we don't have anything planned. Maybe we are running so much on adrenaline that we don't realize it until we don't have a lot to do in a day. Anyway, it was a restful afternoon. I napped and listened to music.
For supper we ate at a bakery restaurant. They had really good bread. I ordered just the salad bar and bread, but I was so full by the time we were done. The waiters and waitresses kept coming around with piping hot bread fresh out of the oven. How can you resist that?
When we got back to the Horikawas we had fun playing with Madoka's dog Maple. Poor Maple had a trying day. She was at the Horikawas when we were shopping. By the time Ken got home from his kidney dialysis, Maple was crying at the top of the stairs. Apparently she can go up the stairs, but can't come down, so she was stuck upstairs the whole time we were shopping.
Monday, May 14, 2007
Day Fourteen
May 14th
This morning we left Tetsuya & Hiroko's in the Gunma Prefecture (a Prefecture is kind of like a county) to head back to the Tokyo area. But before we left in the morning we were treated to a wonderful breakfast, a harpsichord performance by Hiroko, and the beauty of their home inside and out. We also enjoyed some time in the Word as we read from Our Daily Bread. We were challenged by Christ's words in Matthew 23:1-12 to make sure that we are people of inner substance and not just outward appearance. We were also challenged to have an attitude of humility and to serve others as Christ did.
We took the Shinkansen ("bullet train") into Tokyo. Hiroko joined us since she wanted to meet Keiko along with us. Both Hiroko and mom knew Keiko from the same church in Shizuoka. Keiko is a dear lady in her mid-80's and is very active and rides her bicycle yet. In fact, she was recently bitten on her leg by a dog, but that didn't deter her from continuing to ride her bike.
From the bullet train we took a "local" train to Shinjuku Shinjuku is an area of Tokyo that is the busiest section of Tokyo. The train station there is the busiest in Japan, and probably the world. From the Shinjuku station we walked a few blocks to the Keio (pronounced "kayo") Plaza Hotel where we met up with Ken & Miko as well as Jordan Nogaki. Before we would enjoy a huge lunch buffet, we checked our bags at the "Cloak Room." I was relieved to unload my heavy computer bag along with the two other small bags we had taken with us this weekend.
What a great time we had at lunch, just enjoying the great food and fellowship with each other. But soon we had to say goodbye to Hiroko, Keiko, and Jordan. Since Jordan is heading back to Seattle for his brother Dan's wedding later this month, mom sent a small bag of things with him so she wouldn't have as much stuff to take to Singapore and China.
Next we spent some time shopping at the Keio Department Store. I was glad to find some gifts for family and friends back home. Following the shopping we went to the 8th floor of the store for some coffee, tea and dessert (eating again!). Here we met Lan and her mother Fumiko Mochizuki. The Mochizuki's were mom and dad's landlords in Shizuoka. Mr. Mochizuki is the great hunter. Lan is in her last year at the International Christian University here in Japan. She is an accomplished musician like her mom, but she plays the violin rather than the piano like her mom.
After saying goodbye to Lan and Fumiko, we headed "home" to Ken & Miko's. On the way home, I took some pictures of some things that have caught my eye about life here in Japan which I haven't mentioned. One of those things are these hotels they call "love hotels" here in Japan. They are hotels where couples can rent rooms by the hour or day to spend some time together. I think you can tell what might go on in these rooms. These hotels have unusual signs and names. Names like "Hotel Sweet" or "Hotel Seeds" or "Hotel Liberty" are common names for these hotels. One hotel had a replica of the Statue of Liberty on it.
Another picture I got was of a mechanical machine that looks like a guard, directing traffic or warning motorists of construction. It's quite an unusual thing. Another unusual thing I noticed is what looks like sound barriers on the tollways (they aren't "freeways"). These sound barrier things are curved inward toward the tollway. I'm assuming that is to act like a sound barrier, but I'm not sure why they are shaped like that.
After finally getting home, we took it easy and enjoyed a nice light supper. After supper we dug out a classic movie "Joan of Arc" starring Ingrid Bergman, made in 1948.
It's hard to believe that tomorrow is our last full day in Japan. The days have been very full. We've packed a lot into our days here, but it has been such a rewarding experience for me. The people here have been so kind, hospitable, and incredibly generous to us. It will be sad to say goodbye to Japan!
This morning we left Tetsuya & Hiroko's in the Gunma Prefecture (a Prefecture is kind of like a county) to head back to the Tokyo area. But before we left in the morning we were treated to a wonderful breakfast, a harpsichord performance by Hiroko, and the beauty of their home inside and out. We also enjoyed some time in the Word as we read from Our Daily Bread. We were challenged by Christ's words in Matthew 23:1-12 to make sure that we are people of inner substance and not just outward appearance. We were also challenged to have an attitude of humility and to serve others as Christ did.
We took the Shinkansen ("bullet train") into Tokyo. Hiroko joined us since she wanted to meet Keiko along with us. Both Hiroko and mom knew Keiko from the same church in Shizuoka. Keiko is a dear lady in her mid-80's and is very active and rides her bicycle yet. In fact, she was recently bitten on her leg by a dog, but that didn't deter her from continuing to ride her bike.
From the bullet train we took a "local" train to Shinjuku Shinjuku is an area of Tokyo that is the busiest section of Tokyo. The train station there is the busiest in Japan, and probably the world. From the Shinjuku station we walked a few blocks to the Keio (pronounced "kayo") Plaza Hotel where we met up with Ken & Miko as well as Jordan Nogaki. Before we would enjoy a huge lunch buffet, we checked our bags at the "Cloak Room." I was relieved to unload my heavy computer bag along with the two other small bags we had taken with us this weekend.
What a great time we had at lunch, just enjoying the great food and fellowship with each other. But soon we had to say goodbye to Hiroko, Keiko, and Jordan. Since Jordan is heading back to Seattle for his brother Dan's wedding later this month, mom sent a small bag of things with him so she wouldn't have as much stuff to take to Singapore and China.
Next we spent some time shopping at the Keio Department Store. I was glad to find some gifts for family and friends back home. Following the shopping we went to the 8th floor of the store for some coffee, tea and dessert (eating again!). Here we met Lan and her mother Fumiko Mochizuki. The Mochizuki's were mom and dad's landlords in Shizuoka. Mr. Mochizuki is the great hunter. Lan is in her last year at the International Christian University here in Japan. She is an accomplished musician like her mom, but she plays the violin rather than the piano like her mom.
After saying goodbye to Lan and Fumiko, we headed "home" to Ken & Miko's. On the way home, I took some pictures of some things that have caught my eye about life here in Japan which I haven't mentioned. One of those things are these hotels they call "love hotels" here in Japan. They are hotels where couples can rent rooms by the hour or day to spend some time together. I think you can tell what might go on in these rooms. These hotels have unusual signs and names. Names like "Hotel Sweet" or "Hotel Seeds" or "Hotel Liberty" are common names for these hotels. One hotel had a replica of the Statue of Liberty on it.
Another picture I got was of a mechanical machine that looks like a guard, directing traffic or warning motorists of construction. It's quite an unusual thing. Another unusual thing I noticed is what looks like sound barriers on the tollways (they aren't "freeways"). These sound barrier things are curved inward toward the tollway. I'm assuming that is to act like a sound barrier, but I'm not sure why they are shaped like that.
After finally getting home, we took it easy and enjoyed a nice light supper. After supper we dug out a classic movie "Joan of Arc" starring Ingrid Bergman, made in 1948.
It's hard to believe that tomorrow is our last full day in Japan. The days have been very full. We've packed a lot into our days here, but it has been such a rewarding experience for me. The people here have been so kind, hospitable, and incredibly generous to us. It will be sad to say goodbye to Japan!
Sunday, May 13, 2007
Day Thirteen
May 13th
Today is Mother's Day. I'm missing Carol and the kids today. They are all together in Washington for Mother's Day and our youngest grandson, Ace, will be dedicated today. Well, at least I can spend Mother's Day with my mom, right?
Before going to church at 10:30 am, Seiya dropped me off at Jin's soft tennis match at 9:00 am. It was quite an educational experience watching this match. In traditional Japanese tradition, the two teams bowed before the match. The teams also spent time going to the opposing coach and hearing some instruction and encouragement. I sat at center court, visiting with Jin's coach. Remember him? He's the guy who thought I was a scout checking him out yesterday. He must have got word that I wasn't a scout after all. He asked me where I was from. I told him the United States and Idaho. Immediately he said, "Oh, Idaho...BIG potatoes in Idaho!" It seems everywhere I go here, people associate Idaho with potatoes.
Back to the soft tennis match... All matches are doubles in soft tennis. The scoring is the same except they only play one set, first team to win four games wins the set. After each set, each doubles team goes to each coach and listens to some instruction and encouragement. After one of these times, Jin's coach made the comment that this was probably quite different from America where competition is so emphasized. I agreed and told him I really liked the Japanese style in this regard.
Soon, way too soon it seemed to me, Seiya was back to pick me up to take us back to his home so we could go to church. Jin and Kan would not be at church since they both had sporting events to go to. Kan had a rugby match, even though he wouldn't be able to play, and Jin would still be playing soft tennis. Schools here in Japan think nothing of scheduling events on the weekend. When I told Seiya and Yoriko that this would never happen in America, they were pleasantly surprised to hear this.
The church service was more of a traditional service than last week. Everything was in Japanese. They had a little organ on one side of the platform and a piano on the other side. Around 50 people (actually on the large side for a Japanese church) squeezed into the sanctuary. The building is a two story building with the 2nd floor being a residence for the pastor. This church is now being served by an interim pastor from Germany. He and his wife are with the Liebenzell Mission, which founded this church around 20 years ago. This church is part of a larger association of about 200 churches in Japan called the Japanese Association of Evangelical Churches. The pastor and family will be leaving next month for a year of furlough back in Germany.
This Sunday no mention was made at all of Mother's Day. A woman doctor shared her testimony and how she is planning to be a missionary in Bangladesh. After singing a few hymns, the missionary pastor preached a message in Japanese. He speaks perfect Japanese, Seiya tells me, since he has been here for close to 16 years now.
After the message, various announcements were shared and the tables were set up for lunch in honor of the missionary doctor and also mom and I. The microphone was passed around to everyone who shared their thoughts about the morning.
Following lunch, we headed back to the Kagatanis where we would be picked up by Tetsuya Watanabe who would take us to his home where we would spend the night with he and his wife Hiroko. Tetsuya and Hiroko were also in mom and dad's church in Shizuoka. Hiroko is Junko's sister, who we spent the day with last week (was that just last week?) in Atami. Tetsuya and Hiroko both studied in Fresno. Hiroko went to Fresno Pacific and Tetsuya went to Fresno State. When I told Tetsuya that Fresno State is a rival to Boise State, he soon went to get his red Fresno State Bulldog jacket and red Fresno State tie.
The Watanabes have a wonderful new, Western-style home. They designed and had it built just a year ago. No tatami room at this house! Yea! No sleeping on the floor tonight! Hiroko served a fabulous meal (remember how we eat all the time here?) We even had meat loaf! I've never been so glad to see meat loaf in my life.
After supper, we watched a DVD of a made-for-TV movie called "The Simple Life of Noah Dearborn." What a great movie starring Sidney Poitier. I felt like I was back in the States after being in a Western-style home, eating food I was used to, and watching a movie in English.
Tomorrow we head back to Tokyo and then back to the Horikawas where we will be until we fly to Singapore on Wednesday. I'm enjoying this experience tremendously. New and wonderful experiences are coming my way daily and I feel like God is giving me strength and the right words of encouragement to share with those we meet. This was no more evident to me than my time at the Kagatanis over the weekend. I'm truly humbled to see God at work in and through me to bring encouragement and help to others, especially a special family like the Kagatanis.
Today is Mother's Day. I'm missing Carol and the kids today. They are all together in Washington for Mother's Day and our youngest grandson, Ace, will be dedicated today. Well, at least I can spend Mother's Day with my mom, right?
Before going to church at 10:30 am, Seiya dropped me off at Jin's soft tennis match at 9:00 am. It was quite an educational experience watching this match. In traditional Japanese tradition, the two teams bowed before the match. The teams also spent time going to the opposing coach and hearing some instruction and encouragement. I sat at center court, visiting with Jin's coach. Remember him? He's the guy who thought I was a scout checking him out yesterday. He must have got word that I wasn't a scout after all. He asked me where I was from. I told him the United States and Idaho. Immediately he said, "Oh, Idaho...BIG potatoes in Idaho!" It seems everywhere I go here, people associate Idaho with potatoes.
Back to the soft tennis match... All matches are doubles in soft tennis. The scoring is the same except they only play one set, first team to win four games wins the set. After each set, each doubles team goes to each coach and listens to some instruction and encouragement. After one of these times, Jin's coach made the comment that this was probably quite different from America where competition is so emphasized. I agreed and told him I really liked the Japanese style in this regard.
Soon, way too soon it seemed to me, Seiya was back to pick me up to take us back to his home so we could go to church. Jin and Kan would not be at church since they both had sporting events to go to. Kan had a rugby match, even though he wouldn't be able to play, and Jin would still be playing soft tennis. Schools here in Japan think nothing of scheduling events on the weekend. When I told Seiya and Yoriko that this would never happen in America, they were pleasantly surprised to hear this.
The church service was more of a traditional service than last week. Everything was in Japanese. They had a little organ on one side of the platform and a piano on the other side. Around 50 people (actually on the large side for a Japanese church) squeezed into the sanctuary. The building is a two story building with the 2nd floor being a residence for the pastor. This church is now being served by an interim pastor from Germany. He and his wife are with the Liebenzell Mission, which founded this church around 20 years ago. This church is part of a larger association of about 200 churches in Japan called the Japanese Association of Evangelical Churches. The pastor and family will be leaving next month for a year of furlough back in Germany.
This Sunday no mention was made at all of Mother's Day. A woman doctor shared her testimony and how she is planning to be a missionary in Bangladesh. After singing a few hymns, the missionary pastor preached a message in Japanese. He speaks perfect Japanese, Seiya tells me, since he has been here for close to 16 years now.
After the message, various announcements were shared and the tables were set up for lunch in honor of the missionary doctor and also mom and I. The microphone was passed around to everyone who shared their thoughts about the morning.
Following lunch, we headed back to the Kagatanis where we would be picked up by Tetsuya Watanabe who would take us to his home where we would spend the night with he and his wife Hiroko. Tetsuya and Hiroko were also in mom and dad's church in Shizuoka. Hiroko is Junko's sister, who we spent the day with last week (was that just last week?) in Atami. Tetsuya and Hiroko both studied in Fresno. Hiroko went to Fresno Pacific and Tetsuya went to Fresno State. When I told Tetsuya that Fresno State is a rival to Boise State, he soon went to get his red Fresno State Bulldog jacket and red Fresno State tie.
The Watanabes have a wonderful new, Western-style home. They designed and had it built just a year ago. No tatami room at this house! Yea! No sleeping on the floor tonight! Hiroko served a fabulous meal (remember how we eat all the time here?) We even had meat loaf! I've never been so glad to see meat loaf in my life.
After supper, we watched a DVD of a made-for-TV movie called "The Simple Life of Noah Dearborn." What a great movie starring Sidney Poitier. I felt like I was back in the States after being in a Western-style home, eating food I was used to, and watching a movie in English.
Tomorrow we head back to Tokyo and then back to the Horikawas where we will be until we fly to Singapore on Wednesday. I'm enjoying this experience tremendously. New and wonderful experiences are coming my way daily and I feel like God is giving me strength and the right words of encouragement to share with those we meet. This was no more evident to me than my time at the Kagatanis over the weekend. I'm truly humbled to see God at work in and through me to bring encouragement and help to others, especially a special family like the Kagatanis.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)