A Sign to the nations

Jesus says in Luke 12 29-32 Jesus tells the people they are evil and seek for a sign. The only sign he says the people will get is the sign of Jonah. Looking at Jonah I see a rebellious prophet of the Lord running away from his duty and then while on the ship he is in the midst of a raging storm in life and what is he doing? Sleeping! Wow can this be a picture of the US? The pagans are rowing the boat and trying to stay alive they are fighting the evil storm coming against them and the servant of God is sleeping not praying. Dr. Richard Bennett in a message he preached a few years ago said, "You can't pray when your disobedient." A disobedient servants prayers are routine and smug and very self-centered. The men in the boat are asking why are we in this storm? It is easy for the follower of God to qwip, "Oh it's the pagan people, the pagan's are bringing the wrath of God." When in reality it is a disobediant servant of the Lord that is in the boat. Could the problems we are facing in reality be as a result or lack of our inactivity and disobedience?

Jesus Says look at the sign of Jonah. So when we look at the sign what happened? The Men didn't know what to do with Jonah..Jo said throw me overboard. The men said what are you talking about? You need some rest and take a sabbatical and we'll get you help. The world's solution is not God's solution and the storm got worse. If you seek the worlds answers to your problems chances are your storms will get worse. So they launch Jo over the bow. What happens to a servant of God reputation when they go overboard? The Rep goes with him. What about his stuff? It goes too. When we serve Christ we are not to be worried about what others will think we are to be obedient. That is what Jesus our real example did. The Bible says, "But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: Phil 2:7. Jesus became lower than the angels to love a sinful humanity back to God. To the evil generation of Jesus day he pointed himself to identify with the prophet that went overboard and died to all that he represented.
The Sign over his life was I am a Hebrew and the list went on. He could tell them of all his accomplishments and yet when he went overboard that didn't matter. Jonah was a reputable prophet in the Bible 2Kings 14:25. They too lived under wicked leadership and political problems on every side. Yet it says in Kings v26 that no helper was found. In this evil time Jonah hears clearly to "Go to that great city of Nineveh and cry against it." A city more evil than his own. He wants God's wrath to fall on them. So Jonah get pickled in the belly of a Whale for his disobedience. Maybe your in a pickle and can's see a way out. What did Jonah do? He prayed. Not just any prayer but the words he used you can find every one in the Psalms. Psalm 120, 86, 42, 16, 18 all have the words Jonah used. He had the words in his head. But when he finally came to that place of surrender while in the storm; while in the sea; while in the belly of a stinky fish did the word of God finally get into his heart and he appropriated it for himself. It is easy to give others their medicine. It is easy to tell others what to do but for the majority of Christianity it is very hard to assimilate it for ourselves.

So Jesus points to Jonah to identify with as the sign to the evil generation. The sign is the 3 days an nights in the belly of the whale. That is what Jesus is known most for his death, burial, and resurrection. The sign was death to the flesh life. I look at Jonah and wonder what kind of sign am I to this generation? Am I dead to the world? Am I dead to my reputation (as if I have one)? Am I letting go of my possessions as I go overboard for Jesus? There are many signs that we look at each day some serious some funny some warn, some inform. What sign are you? I don't mean your astrological sign either. The sign Jesus identifies with is a man though he was disobedient went overboard for God and got the word of God into his heart and then obeyed. Can Jesus Identify with my signage? Hmm, I must admit I need to be thrown overboard.

Girls cut their hair

As I say this blog isn't just for ministry but it is also for family to hang out and see everyday life. This week the girls, Rachel and Jane, had the opportunity ie Coupon to get their hair cut prior to going to the the US on the 19th. Aren't they just cute. In the South they may say..."Well, don’t you look prettier than a glob of butter melting on a stack of wheat cakes!" Or something like that.

Midnight at the Temple Evangelism

Some may not agree some may get mad some may say right on. Such is the life of trusting in Jesus and the leading of the Holy Spirit. Mark Bedow is a great friend and encouragement to me and he invited me to come along for a midnight romp in a local Buddhist temple. Hundreds gather at midnight to ring a bell and receive a blessing for the new year. Mark goes right up to the stairs of the temple and starts preaching the good news of Jesus Christ. Mark lives with a conviction from God to impart the good news of Jesus into the ears of who so ever will. He mostly spends his mornings at the train station preaching to the masses that commute to Tokyo. In fact, at the temple one observer noticed Mark as we walked by the line of people and said to the person next to them, "Hey look it's that guy who preaches at the train station!"

I was personally uneasy with going into the temple grounds but I was there to encourage and pray for Mark. The people were very nice and didn't seem to mind some even thanked him. There was one person who had unkind words. But Mark nodded and kept preaching until all the line was gone. The highlight was a young boy who came up and shook Marks hand and introduced himself and ask him what he was saying. Mark spoke kind and explained to the young boy how to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. The boy thanked him and rejoined his parents in line. I pray that he will listen to the truth.

If there were persons of another religion coming into our worship service I would be upset so I do think we should respect others. I can see standing outside and handing out tracks and conversing with people. Yet I am not being critical of Mark but as my first time out this was a great experience to see first hand what the Japanese people traditionally do on New Years. They line up to pull a rope that rings some small bells and they give an offering and say a prayer then they receive from the priest a wooden plaque with a fortune or blessing written on it. There was a bon fire at the entrance of the temple for the people to burn last years good luck charms and last years blessings.

I felt like Peter as I warmed myself by the fire. It was -2 Celsius and need I say more. After an hour I was ready for a hot coffee. That is what we did at Jonathan's coffee shop. It was great to bring in the New Year in a new way with new understanding of the culture here in Japan. Most people at the temple were filled with the spirits of what they had been drinking all evening. It was humorous to watch some ring a big bell as they left the temple. But I am ashamed to laugh at a great bunch of folks who are without Christ and don't know really what all the things mean nor why they do them. It is just tradition. May God break their traditions and usher in a new era of men and women falling in love with Jesus and yielding their lives to the living God and Creator of Heaven and Earth. May God bless Mark this year and may there be much fruit abounding to the Kingdom of God.

Happy New Year

Hello Everyone and Merry Christmas and Happy New Year,

It has been one of the most memorable years for us all around. We have been in Japan now for more than a year and a half. We left so much back home in California but yet we have gained double here spiritually than we had. God is so gracious and loving and has shown us his favor. In this last year we have been blessed to start an ESL class with 8 kids. They are great kids and we have sown the seeds of the gospel many times now. It is a blessing to have this opportunity to love on them. The parents too have heard the good news and our Christmas party had 20 kids and 8 mom's come which was a real surprise for us. We had been attending church at the wonderful Calvary Chapel Tokorozawa with Pastor Travis Takamiya and Dawn his wife. They gave us much grace while we went through much adjusting and changing and our not communicating. In June of this year we were re-informed of a church facility that was available. There is still a small church body there. The Ai no Kyoukai family are wonderful Christians that love Jesus. The church property of 5 buildings was built in the 60's and 70's by an independent missionary couple. God used them to establish a school of coorespondence for discipling young Christians. They also had a preschool on the premises. The founder went to be with the Lord 11 years ago and the church struggled under different leadership. They were going to close the church down 3 years ago and actually shut the doors for a time. The 5 board members then were very sad and heart broken. They had been praying for God to revive the church. They were praying not for mans solution but for God to do a new work. The facility had gone into decay and was destroyed with overgrowth and garbage. We prayed about coming to visit this place we had not yet seen. When we arrived it was overwhelming. We too were heart broken. We didn't care if we were to plant a church in Iruma or not; we just wanted to see this church to once again look beautiful. It was a shame that the house of the Lord was in such a shambles. So we were given permission to go ahead and start cleaning the facility. We prayed for a car and the Lord provided one. In a few weeks things were taking shape. We then asked permission to have an afternoon service as Calvary Chapel in their sanctuary facility. They said, great go for it. So August 2nd we began services as Calvary Chapel Iruma. In September, we asked if we could fix up one of their unused buildings in the back of the property to use as one of our own. They said sure. So we began to clean and scrape and patch and paint and glue and create the chapel. We officially had an dedication ceremony on November 28th. It is beautiful. God is good. In December, we were asked if we'd like some chairs for our chapel. So we have received 44 stackable chairs. Now we have a place and everything is ready we are now turning to do more outreach in the community and getting the word out about the Chapel. We still have much to clean and construct and the grounds are always growing back so the work is endless. We are praying that God would work our the details. I am continuing to perform worship. I say perform because it is not natural for me to lead worship. I do it because I have to and I enjoy it but I find it to be an area of ministry I am willing to let go as soon as someone steps up for the challenge. Many of you know that one Sunday I was singing a song that had a long drawn out word Hosanna and I was trying my best to match the notes. I was hearing something funny down in front from my kids. They were singing the song of the vendor in our neighborhood selling gyoza. If your from Japan or know this it is really funny but I wasn't laughing as it was a worship service and my kids were mocking my singing. (Pray for me) Lately, we have been singing the old hymns in Japanese and it is a blessing for everyone. We are wanting to after the new year begin classes in the ESL school on site. They made an ESL classroom and it was used for many years and the teacher moved on. We are wanting to use it again. Pray we can get new kids and adults. There is a Women's University nearby and we'd like to offer ESL at the Church and at the school.

As we look on into next year we find many new challenges coming ahead. Mihoko's Mom and Dad moved to the US in 1993 and started a Sushi Teppan Restaurant which has done really well in previous years. They sad news is difficult times have resulted in the restaurant being shut down. The Hori's are going to move back to Japan and maybe fully retire finally at 72. We are praying.

The kids are being home schooled by us and they are doing well. We struggle like everyone..."are the reading enough?" "Are they getting the concepts?" "Do they really care or are they just acting to get me off their back?" We find the basics have a tendency to vanish into thin air if they are not daily reviewed. Times tables, spelling rules, grammar jingles, writing tips, don't read lying down, sit up straight, and the constant staring out the window and those questions about how a ladybug who is a male of the species gets black spots on red shells when they should be finding the area of a square; are what we struggle with. Yet we have fun at least I am.

Nathan is growing into a pretween. His voice cracks at 11 soon to be 12 in April. He wants a facebook account for his birthday. I say why do you want to poison your mind with the constant dribble that you read. He quickly reminds me of my addiction to post weird stuff on Japan. Nathan proceeds to amaze us with his eye for drawing. he sees things that we don't see and he can recreate scenery with amazing detail. Rachel is our lady who loves fashion. We have to keep our eye on her and what she wears out of the house. I have totally been possessed with the values of my parents and then some. I thought I'd be a really cool dad but alas I am one of those dads who tell their daughters what they can and cannot wear out side. I know we will fight about it. Right now at 8 she protests my strictness but is compliant. Her health is a constant battle as a post-transplant life can be, God has been very gracious and we have not had any real sickness or complications. Thank you for praying for her health. Jane (5) is our love bug. She still is the hug monster and we gladly welcome her very big warm hugs. She had mastered the Japanese language and performed in her school Christmas pageant and did well. She is studying both English and Japanese together. So far she is very adept in both languages. She loves to do school work like Nathan and Rachel so we haven't told her it is yucky homework yet. She still thinks it is fun activities.

Japan is a wonderful place to live. There are contradictions It's that way in the US too. Most I talk to claim to be very happy. Not all are happy people though for a 12th straight year Japan topped 30 thousands suicides. See the link http://www.japantoday.com/category/national/view/suicides-in-japan-top-30000-in-2009-for-12th-consecutive-year. I (my opinion injected here) just see a people and a culture still needing to be convinced through love and grace and the straight forward teaching of the Word of God that Jesus is the true God for them. Nothing hinders the gospel here and is quite well received. I am surprised that whom ever I share with will listen. On a couple occasions we were asked what Christianity was all about. Only the foreigners here respond with negativity mostly because of past misrepresentation of the Lord or false teaching that they believe. God is good to continually provide opportunities to share the gospel.

Pray for my (Dan) language acquisition capabilities. I am over 40 and I try to memorize vocabulary and bible scriptures and it is a most challenging activity to say the least. I must endeavor to work at it as I work at worship with practice it does become more natural but it is really mortifying to have to ask your 5 year old what someone just said. Jane just giggles with pleasure to help me out but then makes that comment, "Oh daddy, your really need to learn Japanese why don't you come to school with me it's real easy." I want to cry. I was able to visit a temple on New Years eve with my evangelist friend Mark. He walks up to the bottom of the stairs that people climb to pull a rope with a bell, throw and offering and say a prayer, and receive a wooden good luck plack; and he preaches the gospel open air. About 200 maybe more folks were lined up at midnight to do this act of worship. The people are so lost. Most of them don't know why they do it. More than half were drunk. They are so lost and blind to the god of this world. Pray for their salvation. Pray for God to awaken this land to the true reality of the living God who loves them so very much.

I'll end with a note to say we were blessed in December to afford plane tickets to come back home for a couple of weeks. The best prices landed us a January 19th date as the cheapest day to come back. We will be having a get together on Friday January 22nd at 6pm for dinner and a time of sharing. If your interested in coming please email or call me and we will give you the address of the Fujikura's where we will host it. We love and miss all of you. God bless.

Dan and Mihoko, Nathan, Rachel, and Jane,
CC Iruma, Japan

PRAYER: For wisdom in clean up and allocating resources to the most important projects first. Pray for the women's Bible study Mihoko is leading it is a blessing to see the ladies fellowship together in the word. Pray for some outreaches in January through a friend offering opportunities to share our testimony in a few different places. Pray for wisdom for Homeschooling and the facilitating a learning environment. Dan's language acquisition. Pray for Rachel's hand as she got nipped by a dog while it was eating and it drew blood. She is fine and the doctor said it is okay. The dog had all it's shots. Pray for a few people who have come to church and are not yet saved. There are couple of mom's and a gentleman who have been coming. The man in particular is very close to salvation but at many invites continues to not yield his heart to Jesus. Pray he will surrender. Pray for new students. ESL remains one of the most effective tools for ministry to see souls come to Christ. Pray for young Christian men to want to commit to some classes for the beginning of a School of Ministry. Pray for one man's back that is constantly going out. Pray for Kato san who has medical issues. Pray for Fujita san who keeps saying he is going to die soon pray he gets his eyes on Jesus and glorifies him no matter how many days he has. Pray for the plumber helping us at the church to receive Christ he and his wife who also has come to church a few times. Pray for our time with the Lord to be protected from all the busy issues of the day. We need like Mary to sit at his feet and receive for ourselves and appropriate the word into our hearts and not just our heads. Pray for our safe travel to American and back. Thank you for praying.

Ai no Kyoukai Christmas Party

Sunday was a great day as Noda Sensei and I split the message and loved on the people. It was so much fun as Noda Sensei is a good guitarist and he travels around performing music. I was able to hit a cajon while he played guitar and Sachiko played the Piano. We shared the Christmas Story from Luke and it was a wonderful time worshiping and glorifying Jesus. We then had a great time of fellowship afterward with a great meal and a gift exchange. Sachiko invited some of the neighborhood kids to come and participate. It was so much fun. Nathan wasn't happy to receive some flash cards to learn the Japanese writing. He didn't like getting homework for Christmas. He was cool with it and we will enjoy using the cards. It will be good for me too. Coming up later this week is our ESL Christmas Party. We are looking forward to that. God bless you all.

Flower Arranging and Testimony

One of the blessings of our small Chapel is we have a new lady who has been coming with her son Tomo San. Tomo is a special person and is an adult. Mrs Kikuchi loves to share Jesus with many people. Mihoko was asked to come to a Flower arranging(ikebana) tea party and to share Rachel's testimony. It was a powerful time and many ladies were blessed. They were also able to arrange some flowers. Mihoko made a lovely arrangement. She was very happy the way her flowers turned out. She has been asked to share at a couple of other meetings as well. May God bring those who hear into his Kingdom.

Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer in Japanese I think?

It's Sunday night and we are messing around on the computer. Here is one for the Grandparents to see Jane adapting to Japanese language very well. I am actually jealous as her little sponge brain has absorbed the Japanese language in less than a year. Pray for me to listen to Jesus' teaching and become like a child to learn the language. I have been at it for 20 years and I am all over the place grammatically. I feel like I ride a bike with loose handle bars and it turns every which way and pops out altogether sometimes. Jane's Rendition of the song has some cute enunciation slips as certain sounds are similar but the intonation can mean something different. I guess the content of the song will be only for those who can speak Japanese. Merry Christmas Grandma and Grandpa.

More Chairs

What a blessing we now have 44 chairs in the Chapel. Lord please fill those chairs. Amen

Fabio and Sakurako

We were blessed to be invited by Fabio and Sakurako to come and dine with them in their new place. God has blessed this family. They attend Grace Christian Fellowship and we are trying to steel them away. NOT! But they are great people and we loved the fellowship with them. Fabio is from Brazil lived in the US in Boston and then Married Sakurako and came back to Japan. They have 2 Kids Sorae and William and love Jesus. It was a blessing. Gochisosamadeshita. God bless you guys.

How do you like the RED shirt my Mom got me? She likes to see be stand out. It's not enough for me to be fat and blond and foreign she has to get me this blaring flag of he look at me. I am so glad I am not a missionary in Spain cause those bulls would love me.

The Big Sandwich WOW

I was in Tokyo today and we decided to get a Big Sandwich for lunch. The packaging is appealing and looks delicious. When I opened up the sandwich to inspect the goods we found there weren't any goods. This was absolutely shocking to me. I spent about 225 yen or $2.50 for somthing that was supposed to be a Big Sandwich. It is a big surprise sandwich as to there being nothing on it. I miss TOGO's and the little green pickle. They have Subway in Japan but it not the same.

Sachiko's Birthday

From the picture below you might think Sachiko is one year old, but I think she is giving the one way symbol,or how many blows it will take to blow out all the candles. At any rate, She had a great time of fellwoship and invited many of her friends from work and church. It was a good time to share with them the love of God and to just get to know the ladies who are not saved. One lady asked Mihoko how to find a decent church to attend? Mihoko thought it was a trick question at first but just answered sincerely and she later indicated she might come to Church on Sunday so pray for God to add to his church daily as He leads.

You know it’s cold when

I am stealing material from the Brother-In-Laws website I got a good laugh out of the last one. enjoy.

You know it’s cold when
Posted December 4, 2009


What happens at these Fahrenheit temperatures:

+65 – Hawaiians declare a two-blanket night.

+60 – Californians put on sweaters (if they can find one).

+50 – Miami residents turn on the heat.

+45 – Vermont residents go to outdoor concerts.

+40 – You can see your breath. Californians shiver uncontrollably. Minnesotans go swimming.

+35 – Italian cars don’t start.

+32 – Water freezes.

+30 – You plan your vacation to Australia.

+25 – Ohio water freezes. Californians weep. Minnesotans eat ice cream. Canadians go swimming.

+20 – Politicians begin to talk about the homeless. New York City water freezes. Miami residents plan vacation farther South.

+15 – French cars don’t start. Cat insists on sleeping in your bed with you.

+10 – You need jumper cables to get the car going.

+ 5 – American cars don’t start.

0 – Alaskans put on T-shirts.

-10 – German cars don’t start. Eyes freeze shut when you blink.

-15 – You can cut your breath and use it to build an igloo. Arkansans stick tongue on metal objects. Miami residents cease to exist.

-20 – Cat insists on sleeping in pajamas with you. Politicians actually do something about the homeless. Minnesotans shovel snow off roof. Japanese cars don’t start.

-25 – Too cold to think. You need jumper cables to get the driver going.

-30 – You plan a two-week hot bath. Swedish cars don’t start.

-40 – Californians disappear. Minnesotans button top button. Canadians put on sweaters. Your car helps you plan your trip south.

-50 – Congressional hot air freezes. Alaskans close the bathroom window.

-80 – Hell freezes over. Polar bears move south. Green Bay Packer fans order hot cocoa at the game.

-90 – Lawyers put their hands in their own pockets.

(from The Daily Dilly) cited in an email newsletter from PreachingNOW [PreachingNOW@preachingmagazine-info.com]

Jane's Christmas Pageant

Lot's of Mommies and Daddies and grand parents filled a large auditorium in our city. Hundreds of kids 3 to 5 years of age are running around the place. Jane has for a long time been practicing dance steps and singing Christmas songs in Japanese. She has been tired of all the rehearsals. Then as we climbed the stairs and she sees all the people and realizes she is going to be on stage performing for them all in just a moment there is a look of fear that was priceless. She had some cold feet but after a few friends reassured her it cool she went back stage and when the curtain went up she gave the performance of her life. We are so proud of Jane and all the hard work she put into getting everything just right. It was a wonderful Christmas Pageant that had nothing to do with Christmas. Her theme was a safari tribute. Why I am not sure? We just enjoyed the day and had great time. Good job Jane your doing wonderful. We love you.

Can you pick her out of the crowd? She is on the top row.

Grace and Thanksgiving

After Pastor Phil delivered a great sermon at Calvary Chapel Tokorozawa in the morning and then at Calvary Chapel Iruma in the afternoon; we went to Grace Christian fellowship in the evening and had a thanksgiving dinner and message with them. The family of God is so wonderful and such a blessing. We had a great day and are so filled both spiritually and physically. Praise God.

I'm Stumped

Nathan prior to the dedication service decided to tackle the largest stump in our yard and for two days he whacked and cut and chopped on this thing. I was quite surprised at his endurance and veracity with staying the course and knocking this thing out. He was so excited to defeat the rooted monster and we both rejoiced at the victory. It also was a teachable moment about sin in our lives that can get rooted deep down and to try and pull it up as he was attempting to do doesn't work. He learned when your stumped about sin to cut the roots and sever the ties and throw it out of the hole and get rid of it. If things are left sometimes they grow back. Also Nathan learned we can leave a hole but we have to fill it with good soil and sow the seeds of the word of God to be reassured that the monster won't grow back. Job 14:7 For there is hope of a tree, if it be cut down, that it will sprout again, and that the tender branch thereof will not cease.

Now if I can get him to dig up the 15 other stumps in our church place...

Dedication service

It was such a blessing I can't begin to describe it. It is now a blur and we are still savoring the fellowship we had with the other Calvary folks that came out to bless. The Ai no Kyoukai folks were overwhelmed and filled with Joy to see God's grace being manifested. It was shocking to for them to see Pastor Phil vacuuming the chapel prior to the service and they wanted to provide him a resting station as most Japanese Sensei require but we told them that God blesses through us serving one another. The pastor is not above the people and is first and foremost a servant of Jesus Christ and then the people and then their own needs. The weather was perfect and sunny and clean. Pastor Phil delivered an awesome message on dedication of ourselves to the service of the Lord. It was beautiful. God bless all who came and continue to pray with us as the ministry work moves forward.

Pastor Phil in Calvary Chapel Kokobunji

Calvary Chapel Kokobunji with Pastor Chizuo Sakurai. It was so cool to hook up with him and see the Lord's blessings upon his family and the church the Lord has belssed him with. We went out to a traditional Japanese restaurant and sat on a floor and ate things I can't tell you what they are as I have no idea. I discovered I might be aclimating to the Japanese culture because I actually enjoyed all the food. 4 years ago at a similar place in Shinjuku I almost lost everything when I got to a dish called chawamushi. I thought it was a sweet flan pudding but it was a tofu clam pudding and it was all I could to do to not launch it at my hosts. But today was a victory because I knew what was coming and it wasn't bad. I enjoyed the chawamushi and my mom would be proud as I ate everything. Pastor Phil enjoyed it more than me. He is quite the adventurous sort to eat everything first time out. Anyway, we went to CC Kokobunji and we had such fun that I forgot to take pictures. We were even serenaded by Pastor Chizuo and his daughter Hanna as they played the song "Hallelujah Jesus" in Japanese for me. I love this song and want to play it in Japanese. God bless you Chizuo May God continue to pour out his love through the Holy Spirit into your ministry and family.

Pastor Phil day 2 Roses are in bloom

The weather could not be more perfect for the dedication ceremony. Today, we discovered some Roses had bloomed early and Pastor Phil was taking picts but more importantly is Sachiko was so blessed to receive Phil and be prayed for. She met Phil at the missions conference in Hong Kong and it was surreal for her to see him here blessing us. After a tour of the place off to Kokobunji.

Guess Who is Here?????? IT's Pastor Phil Twente

We are having our Chapel Dedication service/potluck on Saturday at 11 and the Lord put it on Pastor Phil's heart to come on out and bless us. He is so encouraging and such a blessing. We returned from the airport kind of late and instead of running home and having a thankgiving dinner we decided to have Thanksgiving KURA KURA SUSHIiiiiiiiiii. Pastor Phil is even able to navigate the chop-sticks without flipping food everywhere. I still do that once in a while. Tomorrow we head out to CC Kokobunji with Pastor Chizuo Sakurai.

We are ready I think? No wait...Okay yea...

Well it has taken a lot of work and creativity. God has blessed us and Saturday is the dedication Ceremony. We are not ready completely and will have to use the Ai no Kyoukai sanctuary for our service until the electricity can be turned on. The Meter box was removed a few years ago and they have to order a new one. It takes two to three weeks. So we are still going ahead with the ceremony on Saturday. The potluck will be in the new chapel and we will just eat and fellowship in there. The heat can't be hooked up until we have the electricity. Wow, who knew? (God did) We didn't turn the electricity on until the last minute to cut back on our expenses. We just didn't expect to have to order a meter.

Don't forget Christ in the Christmas season

This was forwarded on to me in the email. I liked the clever play on words and the message that Christ is the reason for the season.

Twas the Month before Christmas

Twas the month before Christmas

When all through our land,

Not a Christian was praying

Nor taking a stand.

See the PC Police had taken away

The reason for Christmas - no one could say.

The children were told by their schools not to sing

About Shepherds and Wise Men and Angels and things.

It might hurt people's feelings, the teachers would say

December 25th is just a ' Holiday '.


Yet the shoppers were ready with cash, checks and credit

Pushing folks down to the floor just to get it!

CDs from Madonna, an X BOX, an I-Pod

Something was changing, something quite odd!

Retailers promoted Ramadan and Kwanzaa

In hopes to sell books by Franken & Fonda.

As Targets were hanging their trees upside down

At Lowe's the word Christmas - was no where to be found.

At K-Mart and Staples and Penny's and Sears

You won't hear the word Christmas; it won't touch your ears.

Inclusive, sensitive, Di-ver-si-ty

Are words that were used to intimidate me.

Now Daschle, Now Darden, Now Sharpton, Wolf Blitzen

On Boxer, on Rather, on Kerry, on Clinton !

At the top of the Senate, there arose such a clatter

To eliminate Jesus, in all public matter.

And we spoke not a word, as they took away our faith

Forbidden to speak of salvation and grace

The true Gift of Christmas was exchanged and discarded

The reason for the season, stopped before it started.

So as you celebrate 'Winter Break' under your 'Dream Tree'

Sipping your Starbucks, listen to me.

Choose your words carefully, choose what you say

Shout MERRY CHRISTMAS ,


not Happy Holiday !

Please, wish everyone you meet

MERRY CHRISTMAS


Christ is The Reason' for the Christ-mas Season!

God of Wonders is awesome

See the whole thing here: http://www.hischannel.com/streambird/9000/9002/hdtv.html

Trip to Aunt Emikos Home in Gotemba near Fuji San

Mihoko's Aunt Emiko invited us months ago to go to their home in Gotemba. Go what bah? Well, we didn't know what all the fuss was about until we were obliged to follow through on a promise. I must admit I have a full plate of to-do's but God had other plans. Aunt Emiko, she made the arrangements and we had to go. I went moping...grumbling. God we have so much to do...Gotemba now? Okay I'll go. WOW this place rocked. Gotemba is a community at the foot of Mount Fuji that many famous people in Japan live and play. There is so much to do here. We went to a monkey show, saw caves, went to a wild animal park and the hippo smiled for the picutre, we went to an open air Coed (Swimsuit required) Hot Springs (Onsen). It was fun and the best part is that this time of the year is excellent for clear weather and seeing Mount Fuji. A lot of the time it is covered in clouds but our two days was beautiful and picture perfect. God gave us a time to relax and not stress about the ministry and just kick back. Aunt Emi was treating us to many blessings. Thank you Aunt Emi God bless you. We are praying that you will believe in Jesus.

Children's Outreach

We had an outreach to some neighborhood kids. Sachiko contacted some of the former students of the Ai no Kyokai Kindergarten who are now grown up a little. It was a great time to share the gospel not only with the kids but also their mom's. We were able to play with the kids and build a relationship. One child and his mom want to take English classes with us. So keep praying that we can further love them into the kingdom. It was a fun day.

Little projects

There are many projects simultaneously happening depending on the weather and my body I do that for the time being. I was able to carve our some fun in making a dove and a pulpit. We still have to cut the last bit of carpet and I am needing to buy some glue for the second room. We have two mirrored rooms one will be the chapel and the other multipurpose. The multipurpose room still needs glue and a few other items. Pray we can get these things out of the way as well.

Deka Boko not good when painting a floor

We have an entry that has a deka boko floor. It is bumpy. The glue from the previous linoleum has left us with a surface that won't allow paint to stick to the concrete. Our Grace Family came out to help us in scraping the floor. They worked a long time. It was hard but it is getting better. We still have a lot to do. We took breaks and enjoyed the last fruit of the season on our persimmon tree. God bless you guys for blessing us with your help.

Visit of some friends

It was a pleasure to have a visit from some Costa Mesa friends. Actually friend. Hayako Ohtsubo came to visit us with her friend Midori form Chiba. They came to the service and had a great time. It was a busy Sunday and I had just preached twice that morning at Grace Christian Fellowship and then at Calvary Iruma at 2pm. They came to see the chapel work in progress and were such a blessing and encouragement to us. Thank you for coming and God bless you.

DOG WASH? Yup only in Japan

I wonder if I could wash my kids in there? Would that be offensive to the dogs? Are there that many dogs to wash to make it profitable? 40 minutes for 11 to 12 dollars US. I don't know about you but every time I washed a dog it was no longer than 5 minutes. This thing even has hot water. What happened to just a garden hose or a river? I am worrying about things that I don't need to be. Back to work.

Sapporo Help Arrives

What a great week as Steve and Michiyo Lorincz (Victoria too) came down from Sapporo Hokkaido. It is such a blur as so much was accomplished. I was stalled on a few projects and they were dynamic in pushing us over the top. We were able to glue down one room of carpet after much scrapping of old linoleum flooring and then we installed our sound stuff. God really blessed us in many ways.



It was Awesome to get to know the Lorincz family but there is more to them than meets the ear. They are professional musicians and are extremely talented. Michiyo is an Opera Singer in Hungary where Steve and Michiyo come from and Steve is a Jazz pianist. He played 15 years in Hotels and on Cruise ships. The Lord led Steve to start church services on the cruise ships and 4 of the churches are still in operation. Praise God. We got a bargain deal on a Yamaha Clavinova Piano that was overpriced and talked the manager down (Learned that from Tommy in Okinawa). Steve was trying it out in the church and his wife came in and began to sing. We all thought someone had put in a CD. Her voice was so powerful and beautiful. Mario and Sachiko said we have to have a concert. So we had an impromptu concert the next night and God blessed as the Lorincz family rocked the house.

Pray for these wonderful people as they are working on planting a Calvary Chapel in Sapporo. May God richly bless them and use them for His glory.

Our visit to the Hori's in Nagano

Takemichi Hori san Mihoko's Uncle asked us to come up for a visit. So we did and it was a blessing. They are such wonderful people. They loved us so much. They took us to see some lovely sights and fall trees and we went to a real onsen in the mountains they had an outside bath over looking the Nagano valley. It was weird for me as I was insecure about this. I felt like Adam and was looking for a fig leaf. The men are on one side and the ladies are on the other divided by a wall. Yet we could hear them. ANYWAY...Mr Hori lost his leg in a freak accident two years ago. He was a Taxi driver and was waiting for a call at the train station and standing between two cars talking to another taxi driver. The car before his got a call and the sleepy driver jumped up and accidentally jamb the car into reverse and crushed Hori Sans leg. He was in the Hospital for many days and they leg got an infection. They took it off from above the knee. He is adjusting and having much time now retired. He has been reading a lot. He is mostly studying Buddhism but is also reading about Christianity. So at night when kids were asleep and we were warming ourselves in the Kotatsu sipping coffee and eating yummy snacks. Hori san asked us what is Christianity all about. We talked past midnight in a God ordained appointment of educating a man searching for meaning and purpose. I wish I could tell you he received Jesus but he is confused because of his dedication to his countries roots. He know now how to ask and receive salvation. It is now a matter of time and God's faithfulness to grow the seeds of faith placed into his mind. I pray they will settle into his heart and sprout an eternal work of God. Let's pray and water the seeds for his faith to grow. Pray for truth to be manifested and for the lies of the devil and false religion to be crushed. Pray for his wife and two daughters. They are such wonderful people. My heart was deeply touched by their love and kindness. Oh how I wish to be with them in heaven for all eternity.






We had some fun at a restaurant. When all attempts at speaking the language fail then you make faces. Although, Hori san tried to mimic me he wasn't that successful. But it was funny to say the least.

I liked this and thought you might too

http://www.new.facebook.com/home.php?filter=app_2309869772#/video/video.php?v=1137213956210&ref=nf Are you ready?

Global climb of Taxes

Climate Chains from Climate Chains on Vimeo.

The World is primed and ready for the coming world leader. Are you ready? Jesus will rapture the church before the tribulation and it is coming fast.

Lieutenant Pastor Steve Brown

Hey my buddy Pastor Steve Brown who has been heading up the Armor of Light ministry at Camp Pendleton California has been deployed. He is on Ship with his new commission as a Lieutenant. He had his first Sunday services this week and 65 attended and it was a blessing to see such a turn out. Steve and I went to School of Ministry together it was a blast and we had some awesome prayer times together. It is great to see that God has used all of that to direct us to his perfect will. Praise God and where he leads us. Just a note of information Steve is one of the few the proud the Calvary Chapel Marine Chaplains. He is on the cutting edge of ministry as Calvary's have grown so much the military has recognized the need to commission Pastors of the Calvary style and allow ministry to bless the troops.

Also Pray for his wife and kids all 4 of them. They are home in California really missing him a lot. Steve and Dawn are a true team as they tag team the kids in loving on them. Without Steve it can be such a trial. Pray for the Brown family and all the other Men in the military whose families are left to fend for themselves.

Now and Then

The Ai no Kyokai folks are having a memorial service and I have been making a slide show for them. I found in the church some photos from the mid 90's and then compared them to now. kind of fun. This is one of those you have to be here to see it and say oh wow. Things are going great here I'll post more later

Taking Steps backwards

We are making a lot of progress here at Calvary Chapel Iruma but some days we find we have to stop our plans and take a step backwards. I was ready to tear up some more linolium flooring and finish painting the Chapel when Nohato and Mario came in saying they won't take the carpet at the dump. What? Why? It is too big? Oh so we have to cut it smaller and like roll it up and tie it? No. We have to cut it into 20cm X 20cm square swaths or smaller. What we just took out over 2000sq ft of carpet and padding and it all has to be cut that small? Yep. Come and help us please.
So I drop what I am doing and go out to cut the rug literally. We worked for hours and the carpet was the moldy stuff what was still wet from the typhoon we had last week. Needless to say I was at first grumbling and complaining how strict the Japanese are in these recycling rules. You can go to some other cities and the rules are different. Iruma is strict. So as a Christian/missionary I submit to authorities and do what they say. Once I do it for Jesus and not the city then the work is light and we just had a pleasant time working together. I got to know Nohato san more and Mario went crazy and made a Halloween mask. He is one fuuny guy. It was gross work as the carpet was yucky but it got done. We still have half the padding but the carpet was completely cut. Praise God.

Bible Charades

When I was a kid we had family devotions. They were sometimes very fun sometimes not so fun. Mom and Dad were sure to try and make sure we were listening and comprehending the stories of the Bible. So every once in a while we'd have a Bible Charades night. It was more like after a week of learning then we kids put on a play for Mom and Dad. Well I am keeping with the family tradition. We do many nights read our Bibles together yet at least once a week we do Bible Motions or Charades. The kids put on skit of their favorite Bible stories and then Mom and I try to guess what they are doing. Sometimes we get into the act ourselves and just have fun. I hope you don't mind us being in our jammies. It's cool with us. If you have a thing about seeing someone in their sleepwear quick close your eyes. See if you can tell what Bible Stories we were acting out?

Police Box redefined

In Japan they have the Koban or police box where a police field office holds one or two policemen. I have seen some Koban hold 5 or 6 for a meeting. While we were in Tokyo near Tokyo Tower I saw this police guy sitting in this metal box near an intersection. Now that is a police box but he is not directing traffic and he is not really doing anything that we could see of reconnaissance type work. He was just pleasantly watching cars go by. So he is really the police in a box. He looked very happy in his box. I wonder how long he stays there and can he nibble snacks while in there. What if a car hits the box? Does he have an escape route procedure to follow? I wonder if there was a phone and TV in there? Where does he go to the bathroom? There are vents in the bottom for gas to escape I guess. My kids wanted to visit the box because it was cute. This is just one of those posts that just informs my family of what I am seeing here in Japan and experiencing. God bless

Spiritual Abuse by Holland Davis

One of my friends Holland Davis posted this on Facebook. We have some friends here who have been dealing with Spiritual Abuse from church leadership which happened years ago at some denominational type ministry; and it still affects their relationships today. I thought I'd post this for others to watch for warning signs. Pray for your leaders and love them. The enemy wants us to attack leadership and beat them up but we have to see things from God's perspective.

Ten Signs Of The Presence Of Spiritual Abuse
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Today at 9:10am
Ten signs of the presence of spiritual abuse, manipulation, domination, or intimidation. Spiritual Abuse (which is always expressed in varying degrees) is occurring when a pastor, leader, or even a friend:

1. “Hears” God for you. God apparently “goes through” him/her to speak to you. (This requires a sense of superiority – from him or her and is often framed as being “more mature,” and a sense of being “less” from you.)

2. Alienates (shuns, ignores) you if you do not adhere to his/her guidance, leadership, or authority. (This is usually VERY subtle – so it is easy to deny.)

3. Suggests that rejection of his/her “higher understanding” is done so at your spiritual or even physical peril. (You will hear things like, “Be careful. You will move yourself from the covering and protection of God.”)

4. Rewards your obedience with inclusion, and punishes your questioning or resistance with withdrawal. (Compliance gets stroked, resistance gets struck!)

5. Demands “cathartic” honesty. Unless you spew out every detail of your life you must be hiding or withholding something (and that “something” will, of course, impede your spiritual development).

6. Lavishes you with praise, acceptance, and understanding when you are “good” and “pushes” you away when you are “bad.”

7. Is apparently fixated on the use of titles like reverend, pastor, elder and cannot appear to relax in the company of “ordinary” mortals. The issue is not in the use of legitimate titles (or robes or religious garb) – it is that identity seems impossible without the titles or the trappings.

8. Leaves a trail of cut-off relationships. Usually in the trail are those who refuse to bow, to submit, to stand in awe of, to be thoroughly entranced by, the will of the pastor, the leader or the friend. Always regard with suspicion or caution leaders who are cut off or alienated from members of their family, especially their parents.

9. Lives from a “for me/or against me,” “black/white,” “all/or nothing” platform of “relationships.”

10. Genuinely sees God’s Call so zealously, so fervently that any signs of resistance are seen as the expressions of The Enemy or an enemy – thus, relationships are expedient (disposable) in the light of getting on with God’s work.

Planetarium Field Trip

The Yokota Airbase Homeschoolers group had a field trip to a local Planetarium. We were invited to come and hang out and we also had the Ohkawara kids come along. It was a fun day of discovery. It was a great time to get to know some of the families that are stationed at the airbase. They are great people with great kids. God bless the Military men and their families.

Tokyo Tower

We took the day and went on a family field trip to Tokyo Tower. It was fun. The girls and I had a great time looking down from 250 meters high and we enjoyed the glass floor that was scary but fun at the same time. Nathan was not liking the height. He didn't have too much fun and got mad when I picked him up and carried him to stand on the glass panel. He had a very real fear of falling through the floor. I have repented of my provoking him to anger and promise to be more sensitive next time we go to Tokyo Tower.


The view was marred by the hurricane that was passing by. We did have a break in the rain and did get some shots of Downtown Tokyo. Yet on a clear day you actually can see the outline of Mount Fuji from the tower...so they say? Like you can see Downtown LA from Palm Springs? Clear day? What's that? We still had a great time and enjoyed the new food court. Mihoko and I came here 20 years ago before we got married. I was a short term missionary here for 3 months and we took a date and went to Tokyo Tower. I was so in love I don't remember much of that date other than the beautiful girl I was with. But I did recognize that they have added an amusement park and a pretty cool food court. They even had McDonalds. Yep I am so not Japanese I always punt for the safe call of a cheeseburger when in doubt. Plus the cost was so within the budget. You can't get much on 500 yen these days at Tokyo Tower.

Lost in the Subway

Today was a holiday for Jane and we decided to take a break and go to Tokyo Tower. On the way wondering around the Subways of Tokyo we found these wall presentations that looked very life like. Mihoko and I gained some ideas for the front of the church and then as we took pictures we began to have fun pretending the art was real and the kids had a great time with the trick photography. Okay I know it isn't that trick but we still had fun. We did finally make it to Tokyo Tower.

Speciat Guest muscian for worship

Sunday after the Undokai we went to church and had fun teaching the Word of God. We were privileged to have a special guest this Sunday Rachel my daughter stepped up to play the Djembe drum in front of the church. It was wonderful to have some percussion in the worship set. Good job Ray keep practicing and God will use you mightily. We also had Noda Sensei jam on guitar with me. He plays a cool lead. I want to get him playing an electric guitar. His rifts are very sweet and I am just a noisy mess. Somehow those two cleaned me up pretty well. It was a blessed service.

Undokai day 2

Still under the looming clouds of rain threatening the day we went ahead and participated in Jane's First Undokai. It was a blast. We met many families whose kids had been telling them so much about Jane and her family. Now we get to meet. Fortunately it was all good and we haven't had any complaints so far... It was really fun as they ran and danced and did a "Para-balloon" activity along with a basketball game with the parents. I got to throw the tama(Ball) into the net(neto). We then marched off the field with our kids on our shoulders. It was a fun day. I am sure Jane will treasure many memories. At least I will. We had to cut out early on Sunday to make it to our 2pm service which God blessed.

More of the rained out Undokai

Saturday we got rained on...

Undokai and rain don't mix

Undokai is "Sports day" The kids have been thoroughly brain washed on what to do and how to do it. This is like the 4th of July to Japanese. They invite neighbors and relatives to see their little Erina chan participate in the annual Undokai festival. They take lunches and set out blankets and the festivities and laughter begin. We were having a great time until some grumpy clouds gathered overhead and busted out some fierce rain drops. In America, all the people would be running and be scrambling and it would be mayhem. But here in Japan everyone has the power of Gamon. That is a tough type of patience that will endure the harshest of conditions and stay the test of time and win over opponents or overcome great obstacles. So they stood there in the rain in their umbrellas. I was like nailed with one foot to the ground trying to run to the car and then trying to not embarrass Mihoko and act like a sissy Man wanting to get out of the rain. So I attempted the power of Gamon. I was blessed by our friends the Futagis had a pop-up canopy. It was easier to gamon by not being in the rain. We waited for 30 minutes in the deluge and then they voted to try it again tomorrow. On Sunday? Yep they are not a Christian nation and so they have work and school activities sometimes on Sunday's. Our service is at 2pm so this is not in conflict with us so it's cool. Funny part is about an hour after we left the park the sun came out again. Hee Hee. I guess we didn't gamon long enough.

It ain't got cup holders....yet

Using some of the scrap lumber I was able to fashion this pulpit. All it needs now is a dove on the front and a cup holder. I am joking on the cup holder guys. The top of the pulpit is the top piece of a dresser that we burned up . The drawers had water damage and the bottom of the dresser had mold so I took the top and it is nicely rounded for a hard surface to pound on. I guess I am old fashioned as new preachers don't use pulpits and they walk and just sit on a stool. Someday I may mature and grow into that right now I'll stick with the training wheels of a pulpit and hold on as Jesus rocks the house. I did think about putting a squirt gun inside the pulpit to wake up people as I teach.

Crazy Girls gotta love em

I love my girls they are crazy hard working and cute. Sometimes a little too goofy at the wrong time but then as Grandpa always says, "The nut don't fall far from the tree." referring to me being the nut tree. I was pounding away on some walls when the girls got all excited and wanted to help. I was humored thinking they'd pound for 5 minutes and then quit. They did an hours work and earned a big reward. I was very concerned as they were wearing flip flops doing this so CAL OSHA would not approve of the safety gear or the lack there of. They had fun and worked very hard. Praise God we need all the help we can get.

Who we really are

For the past three months cleaning the church and ministering to the body and beginning services that are Calvary Chapel, One senior member has remained skeptical about who we really are. Calvary Chapel has a marred name in the Land of Japan among the Christian community. Others claimed the name for profit and prosperity and yet they are not the same flavor of ministry. Every church based on what the Pastor believes and teaches, his leadership style, organization, diligence, and love for the people give each church a distinctive flavor. There are many other factors which I am not listing. We had one of those conversations that led to an association about us being affiliated with another church and pastor that had a questionable reputation regarding motives. We were able to clear the air and explain some of the history which led to one of the biggest sighs of relief I have ever heard. This man who was not quick to smile was smiling. He had been slumped over with responsibility. He had been expecting us to declare our true reason for being there as if we have some secret alternative motive for doing what we do.

We were able to confidently clear the air which led to this man smiling from ear to ear. Even one of the other members said, "Wow, I have never seen you smile that big." It also led him to stand tall and rejoice that we are truly his answer to prayer. I am just an observer to the things God is doing. It is kind of weird as if I am a piece of a puzzle and being in the right place at the right time gives others a clearer picture of what God is making. Keep praying Psalm 34:8 O taste and see that the LORD [is] good: blessed [is] the man [that] trusteth in him.

Futagi Family

Pray for this family's Salvation. Jane met Amani chan at her Yochien(Preschool) and they are good friends. This led to us meeting her parents over dinner the other night. Hiroaki is with the Japan Air Defense Force. We have been praying for the men at the airbase and asking God to make a connection there. We had great fellowship and explained the gospel to them. They have many questions. Jane had a play date with Amani Chan today and Mihoko was able to share some more. Pray as they are very interested in Jesus and his solution to man's problem of sin. No other religion offers the love and grace that Jesus gives.

Gifts from Hong Kong for the kids

The kids love it when Mom goes away because she always brings gifts home. The Girls loved their Chinese dresses. I'll have to take a picture when they wear them. Nathan got a transformable toy. I know it is supposed to be a transformer after the movie but hey this is china at it's best. The imitate everything. So a transformer is now a transformable. I was alarmed as the paint on the windows was pealing so we have shelved it for admiration and not for playing as it could have lead. Yikes. Jane was also blessed with a late birthday gift from a fan and she got some rain boots and a pair of imitation crocs. I have a pair and they are really comfortable and light.

More picts of Hong Kong

One thing about Hong Kong is the skyline. It is amazing as there are so many highrise buildings. It is any wonder the land doesn't sink into the ocean. But more blessings abounded as Mihoko was blessed with the presence of Jeremiah and Gigy Boek (Beck sound) and look there is everyone's favorite Felice. What is that she is doing at the desert bar? She is not stuffing her sweater with moon cakes and snacks? Felice we need to talk. I am just kidding but Mihoko did say she spent an awful long time at the desert bar. Maybe it was she went back for seconds and thirds so fast that it looked like she was a long time there. LOL We love you Felice.

Mihoko's Hong Kong trip

The Lord provided at the last minute for Mihoko to go to Hong Kong with Sachiko. Sachiko is one of the Ai no Kyokai board members who has been faithfully coming to our church services and she loves the Calvary style. She had never been out of the Tokyo area in her some 40+ years of life. This was her first time in an airplane and to visit another country. She was so blessed and the family of God loved on her greatly. Praise God. Mihoko got to see some old friends she hadn't been able to hook up with and they encouraged one another and were blessed by the Lord with messages to regain vision and focus on the important thing. Jesus he is to be our focus. Tommy and Joanna from Calvary Chapel Ginowan and the CCBC Japan were there with Chuck and Yumi Robb they are always a great bunch of fun and love. John Chubik from the CC School of Ministry in Coast Mesa he teaches and was a missionary planting churches in Ukraine for many years. Mihoko was also blessed with the hook up to see Noboru Ichikawa and his family. We knew Noboru back before Mihoko and I were married. He went to the CCBC when it was at Twin Peaks. He came to my folks house where we hosted a Diakonos meeting for you really old dogs if you remember the Diakonos band your old now LOL. What good times and memories of the Lord working in our hearts and strengthening us and maturing us in the Spirit. Noboru is a missionary from Pastor Dave Rolph's Church Calvary Chapel Pacific Hills. They are working with a church in the Gunma area. Praise God to see him walking in the Lord and his family is blessed. Last but never least Mihoko had some great fellowship with Marcelli from CC Tokorozawa. She is actually from Brazil and is a fashion model. She travels the world based out of Japan for modeling shoots. She is on fire for Jesus and it just so happened that while she was working in Hong Kong she could attend the conference. God bless all you guys.

Pride Stinks

Pride? who invented it? it stinks, it blinds, it cripples, it inflicts pain, it separates, it ignores, it kills, it lies, it puffs up, it is not controlled, it is not kind, it is not gentle, it it is proud, it is rude, it demands its own way, it is irritable, keeps records of all wrongs, it crys foul when truth is tolerated and enforced. Is it just me or does this smell of the flesh. No wonder God hates pride so much. It is the absolute anthithsis of his purpose for creating us to have a loving relationship with Him & others. Pastor Romaine used to say we try so hard to mask the flesh with perfumes and deoderants and make-up but no matter what you do to the flesh it still rots and stinks.May we have the fragrance of Christ and put on love it smells so much better.