Our service starts at 3PM at a rented community center in the city of Nokendai, which is basically a suburb of the city of Yokohama. We had a smaller group of people than usual, probably because it was raining, and also because school events like camp, baseball/sports clubs all are finishing up for the summer before the Obon break in about 2 weeks.
The Sharing
Matt helped us lead our time of worship. Then Tim and Susan shared their testimonies (Tim left the podium before I could snap a picture). Tom then explained the general structure of the VBS program and Sharon ended by sharing a cliff-hanger story from the book of Luke about Peter, about whom the bible stories are based all week. We ended with Matt, Vincy and Tim leading the first VBS song to teach us the hand motions. The NBF adults commented that they really liked the song and wanted to learn the hand motions too!
The Fellowship
And what better way to end a great service than to share a Costco meal with old and new friends?! We look forward to a fruitful week of VBS, that God would clear the skies of rain, and that He would bring many kids to our program this week.
The Scripture
I did not know this year's bible stories were based on Peter. Only when Sharon told us all the bible stories were based on Peter did it even register in my brain. Well, that kind of spiritual blindess serves a purpose, too, because it confirms again and again that the Lord is at work and He leads those who are willing and available for His work to the right place at the right time and reveals how He wanted it all to come together. God lead me to "1 Peter" during my devotional time this past week as I was praying for VBS at TMK. This has happened consistently the last 2 years we have had the privilege of hosting VBS at NBF, all of us choosing the same scripture and/or stories independently. If that is not a God sighting, then I do not know what is.
1 Peter 5:2-4
2Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; 3not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. 4And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.
Amen, and again I say, Amen.
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