We are often hesitant to try something new or different because we don't know what to expect. The anxiety over the unknown is a real thing. This principle is especially true of missions service. Not knowing what missions involves can make us reluctant to explore or stretch ourselves beyond what is comfortable and familiar.
I recently received a copy of a video from a past JEMS team. It provides a peek into their summer mission experience. Take a moment to enjoy it.
Tuesday, February 23, 2016
Thursday, February 11, 2016
I survived
It took a bit of self-convincing on Saturday morning, but I made it out to the West LA Church retreat at the Oaks in Lancaster (Lake Hughes) this past weekend.
It seems so strange after years of leaping headlong into strange and unknown travel and ministry environments in South America to struggle with a local trip to the mountains.
I am grateful for the West LA church family for the encouragement and support that they have given me.
It was also good to reconnect with JEMS co-worker, Kevin West. It was my first opportunity to hear him speak as he serves in a different ministry field (Japan).
A significant adjustment for me will be the transition from being active and independent to becoming less so with the limitation of medical requirements. Pray for me that I don't lose the emotional and spiritual side of the battle. Thanks.
It seems so strange after years of leaping headlong into strange and unknown travel and ministry environments in South America to struggle with a local trip to the mountains.
I am grateful for the West LA church family for the encouragement and support that they have given me.
It was also good to reconnect with JEMS co-worker, Kevin West. It was my first opportunity to hear him speak as he serves in a different ministry field (Japan).
Monday, February 08, 2016
Seollal!
 |
| KPop group, GFriend (Yeoja Chingu) posing for Seollal in traditional Korean hanbok (chima jeogori) |
North Americans and Japanese traditionally observe New Year's Day at the beginning of the calendar year. Other cultures, such as the Korean, Chinese and other southeast Asians celebrate the Lunar New Year, which is today! The word, "Seollal" 설날 in Hangul is the welcome greeting of the new year.
The lunar observance has a long history in the Jewish culture as well. The season that we approach just ahead with Passover (Jewish), Good Friday (Christian) and Easter (Christian) are all based on the lunar cycle. Unlike the Asian calendar which marks the new year today, the Jewish calendar marks Rosh Hashanah as the beginning of the new calendar year. This coincides with the new moon of the month of Tishrei and occurs usually in the fall (September usually, but sometimes in October).
In Brazil, they celebrate Carnaval this week and wrap up their festivities on Tuesday, heading into Lent on Ash Wednesday this week. Those dates are also based on the lunar calendar.
Culture and customs differ around the world. As we work to build bridges to other communities, it is vital that we understand our audience's world view and perspective if we are to communicate the good news of Jesus effectively. This is not only the task of pastors, missionaries and ministries, but of every follower of Christ!
Friday, February 05, 2016
Stretching our Perspectives
 |
| Click photo to enlarge |
Our world can become too narrow. Too routine. Too predictable.
There is no doubt that God has much more planned for us this coming summer than binge watching Netflix, updating Facebook and checking out that latest new KBBQ place on Western. But in order for us to discover that plan, it requires us to take active steps to explore opportunities that he provides.
Among the many opportunities to serve, to invest , to explore is a three-week commitment to serve cross-culturally with JEMS in South America.
JEMS will be receiving applications for team ministry in Brazil or Paraguay from July 5 to 25, 2016. Deadline for applications is March 15th.
For specific information, contact Pastor John at the JEMS office or via email.
For specific information, contact Pastor John at the JEMS office or via email.
Transitions
Pictured at the JEMS office with Pastor Brian Nakamura as we work together on the details of the pastoral transition in West Los Angeles.
The timetable for Pastor Brian's installation is still in flux pending his wife Emiko's professional situation as well as their move from San Diego to Los Angeles. Pastor John's interim responsibilities with West LA Holiness will continue through the end of June 2016.
Pastor Brian was recommended and approved by the West LA Holiness Church Pastoral Search Committee and the Board of Deacons to serve as the incoming full-time pastor. His new position was publicly announced to the congregation on Sunday, January 31, 2016 during the morning worship service. With Pastor Brian assuming these responsibilities, Pastor John will return to ongoing ministry with JEMS. Our prayers are with Pastor Brian as he assumes his new responsibilities.
The timetable for Pastor Brian's installation is still in flux pending his wife Emiko's professional situation as well as their move from San Diego to Los Angeles. Pastor John's interim responsibilities with West LA Holiness will continue through the end of June 2016.
* * * * *
The word has gone out and we await confirmation of mission opportunities for this coming summer. At least five South American churches have requested JEMS teams and we hope to fulfill their requests.
PJ will be working to invite former JEMS alumni to consider serving as team leaders and resources in light of his own absence from the field this coming summer. Please pray that we can find at least five who would be willing to lead mission teams in July.
Tuesday, February 02, 2016
Confronting our Blindness
Audio of the Sunday morning message at West LA Holiness Church, Sunday, January 31, 2016. "Confronting our Blindness" by Pastor John.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)