http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/index.htmlPastor's blog from MCCenunmei@mac.comCopyright 20102012-05-07T13:20:24+09:00 hourly 1 2000-01-01T12:00+00:00 Mon, 15 Mar 2010 22:02:56 +0900unmei@mac.comHome2012-05-07T13:20:24+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/pastorsblog.html#unique-entry-id-102http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/pastorsblog.html#unique-entry-id-102What was your first thought when you awoke this morning? “Oh no, another Monday(!)”? “So much to do today(!)”? “Too many problems to deal with(!)”? How about this as a “first thought”? “This could be the Day!” Of all the promises in God’s Word, none is clearer than, “This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven”(Acts 1:11). Jesus is coming again! No one knows the day or the hour. All history and destiny is moving forward toward that great Day. If, indeed, “this could be the Day”, how would you like to be found by Him at his return? The reality of the second coming of Jesus Christ has, for over 2,000 years, been the motivation to face suffering bravely; to faithfully obey His calling to serve; to share the love of Christ; to accept our lot in life as “aliens and strangers” in the world; to “hold loosely” the temporary stuff of this life; and to walk very closely with Christ seeking the values of His Kingdom first and foremost. Knowing that “this could be the Day” doesn’t mean we engage in idle “sky-gazing”, but rather in active, faithful, obedient, loving service for Jesus in anticipation of His appearing.

Stay faithful! This could be the Day!

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Matthew 24:36 – 25:46, II Peter 3, Revelation 22:7-21]]>unmei@mac.comHome2012-04-23T08:07:05+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2012#unique-entry-id-101http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2012#unique-entry-id-101On the way to claiming God’s promise and entering His rest, there was only one tiny problem standing in the way of the children of Israel: There were giants in the land! (Numbers 13:31-33). In response to the reality of the difficulties, most of the people elected to be paralyzed with fear and withdraw from confronting the giants and go back to an earlier time and place where they were enslaved (Numbers 14:3-4). Better “the devil you know…”! There was a small minority – two persons to be exact – who choose a different option. Without denying the reality of the giants (for faith is not the same as “let’s pretend”), they chose to focus on the ability of the God who made the promise, knowing that He was quite able and willing to fulfill it, in spite of all the problems they would face (Numbers (Numbers 14:5-9). Such a contrast between “the mob” and “the two”! So much so that God describes one of them as “having a different spirit…” leading him to following the Lord “wholeheartedly” (Numbers 14:24). What are your “giants” that stand between you and fulfilling God’s purpose for your life? We all have them, although they will be different for each of us. As we confront the giants, we have the choice of doing so in the strength of our puny size and wretched resources, or in faith in the ability of the One who will enable us to overcome. Trusting our own resources will fail us and bring us to despair; claiming His will cause us to persevere and ultimately triumph.

Fight the “Good Fight”!

Pastor Howard

For Further Reading and Reflection: Numbers 13-14, Hebrews 11]]>unmei@mac.comHome2012-04-30T08:03:29+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2012#unique-entry-id-100http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2012#unique-entry-id-100An eagerly anticipated time is upon us who live in Japan – “Golden Week” – when several holidays (4 to be exact) converge during a span of a week, giving many people a chance to rest, relax, and recuperate from the frenetic work pace that is Tokyo life. While God established work as part of His good creation (Our first parents had work to do even before sin entered the picture and turned work into wearisome toil!), it isn’t the reason we were made. Worship is! The establishment of the Sabbath, now fulfilled in the Sabbath-rest we have in Jesus Christ, was meant to help God’s people understand that their well-being; even the height of their existence, was to be found in knowing and worshipping the Living God. Worship is why we were made and it is in worship that we find our true life. In a world where – and this quote isn’t original with me – “We worship our work, work at our play, and play at our worship”, connecting with the Father in worship is crucial to our life and health as His dearly-loved children. Work Is necessary to provide the requirements of physical life. Worship is vital in connecting to the One who is true life indeed.

Yours, for living a life of worship…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Genesis 1:31-2:3, Exodus 20:8-12, Hebrews 3:12-4:11]]>unmei@mac.comHome2012-04-16T18:32:42+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2012#unique-entry-id-99http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2012#unique-entry-id-99Gracious Father,

Work in our hearts by the gracious ministry of your Holy Spirit to enable us to see things differently. Help us understand that all the competing loyalties that demand our time, attention, and energies can easily become idols that displace you in our affections and devotion until our hearts have become cold and insensitive to the “gentle, quiet whisper” of your voice. Make us resolute in believing and living the truth that nothing and no one – not the state, not the school, not the company, not the family, not any organization – has the right to make a claim upon us for the devotion and worship that is due you alone. Teach us to resist the idle notions that our joy and well-being come from anything other than our relationship with you. Lead us into a “holy skepticism” that evaluates the words of any human in the light of your infallible Word so that we may be truly biblical in our thinking about the great issues of our times. Holy Father, by your grace, may we live the counter-intuitive truth of Jesus’ teaching that, “whoever would save his life will lose it, and whoever will lose his life for my sake and the gospel, shall find it.” This favor we ask of you in Jesus Christ, our Lord…

…Amen

For further reading and reflection: Deuteronomy 28-30, Ephesians 4:17-5:20]]>unmei@mac.comHome2012-04-09T17:21:58+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2012#unique-entry-id-98http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2012#unique-entry-id-98Easter is over for another year. Or is it? Did God the Father raise the Son from the dead through the power of the Holy Spirit merely to give us a once-a-year celebration before we get on with the everyday life-as-we-knew-it before? The Apostle Paul tells us that, “We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.” (Romans 6:4) The celebration goes on! The newness goes on! The life goes on! Because of the resurrection of Jesus, life for the believer can never be the same as it was before. Here’s a great quote from a good friend and pastoral colleague (which is used with his permission)… “The blood of Jesus is a religious mystery until it runs through our veins, nourishes our values, controls our thoughts. It is then we realize His life is our life. Easter is God's celebration of the identity He has given us.” There it is…a total newness of life and identity. Enjoy the newness!
Yours, for having the celebration continue…
Pastor Howard
For further reading and reflection: John 14:19, John 16:33, Romans 6, Colossians 3:1-4]]>unmei@mac.comHome2012-04-02T10:16:12+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2012#unique-entry-id-97http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2012#unique-entry-id-97It is, of course, a false distinction to make between the “sacred” and the “secular” because all of life is sacred in that our purpose as God’s creation is to “glorify God and enjoy Him forever”. However, honesty would compel us to admit that in the busyness, responsibilities, hurry, and stressors of life, God often gets relegated to a very distant second (or third, or fourth, or…) place in our thoughts and affections. Sometimes, if we have time to “grab” a quick few moments in His Word or prayer, we feel we’ve done pretty well for that day. Throughout Biblical, and post-Biblical, history God has given His people the gifts of special reminders of His awesome saving acts on their behalf. So it is with Holy Week. Beginning with Palm Sunday, we “rehearse” God’s great once-for-all saving act in Christ, culminating with the triumph of the resurrection on Easter Sunday. Times like this call us to intentionally focus on what is of ultimate significance – forgiveness of sin, reconciliation with God, eternal life. This week, the week that changed the world, is to be savored as a great gift from God to us.

Yours, for savoring the sacred…

Pastor Howard

For furthering “savoring”: Matthew 21-25, John 12-17]]>unmei@mac.comHome2012-03-12T13:58:42+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/mar-2012#unique-entry-id-96http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/mar-2012#unique-entry-id-96Dear Lord,

Following Jesus as He walks to the cross comes so unnaturally to us. If we’re honest before you, we confess that our greatest desires revolve around security, health, prosperity, and comfort. Yet the vision of the cross of Christ causes that false illusion of life to dissipate like a morning mist when the warmth of the sun burns it away. You have placed your Church directly in the midst of the pain of suffering, loss, and death in order to show life to the world and bring to many a sure hope of true, eternal life to people who have had all their temporal supports knocked out from under them. Just as everything gave way under and around the people of the Tohoku on one awful day a year ago, now new life and hope, based on a solid foundation, arises in many. Gracious Father, perhaps it has been all along your design that we grow to find in you alone our sure foundation. Perhaps you want to turn our hearts from the many idols that loudly cry, “follow me”; “worship me”; “serve me”; in order that we may find our true life by clinging whole-heartedly to the cross of Christ and the Christ of the cross. But we also confess that our flesh recoils against the whole idea of losing our lives that we may find them in the end and that only through the gracious work of the Holy Spirit can we pursue that which is true life. So, as we solemnly consider the tragedy of Tohoku and the emergence of new life from that tragedy, we humbly plead for grace to pursue the eternally significant. We pray this through the One who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit; one God, forever and ever.

-Amen

For further reading and reflection: Psalm 46, Mathew 6:19-34, I Timothy 6:17-19]]>unmei@mac.comHome2012-03-05T19:23:35+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/mar-2012#unique-entry-id-95http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/mar-2012#unique-entry-id-95“…when you are old, you will stretch out your hands and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” (John 21:18b)

Horror movies are not my favorite type of entertainment, but if you’ve ever been to a horror movie you just know that when a potential victim opens the door to a dark room, there is going to be something unpleasant waiting on the other side. In fact, even though you know it’s “only a movie”, you find yourself thinking (if not screaming), “Don’t open that door!”. But the door always gets opened and, well, you know the rest of the story! Jesus said there is a door to a path that few are able and willing to find and walk because behind the door is the path toward a cross that none of us, yours truly included, would choose for ourselves if it were left up to us. Truth be told, we would all happily choose a path marked with comfort, popularity, and success rather than the path lined with pain, rejection, loss, and death. Yet to follow Christ on His journey to the cross this Lenten Season is to embrace that path and its destination. Only through the gracious work of the Holy Spirit in our lives can we embrace that path joyfully, looking beyond the present to the future glory. If I’m honest with myself, I would much rather enjoy the glory of the resurrection without the pain of the cross, but there is no other way to resurrection other than death. Just one more thing...On this “road less traveled”, we are never alone! The One who walked this path before us still walks it beside us.

A Fellow-Traveler on this Narrow Path…

Pastor HowardFor further reading and reflection: Ecclesiastes 7:2-4, Matthew 7:13-14, Hebrews 12:1-3]]>unmei@mac.comHome2012-02-27T20:48:20+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/feb-2012#unique-entry-id-94http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/feb-2012#unique-entry-id-94After receiving the “imposition of ashes” at the Ash Wednesday worship service, I sat in silent contemplation as others received the sign of the cross made with ashes on the forehead, wondering why anyone in their right mind, as hopefully I am (no comments please!), would willingly have dark ashes spread on one’s forehead? However, it is the words accompanying the “imposition of ashes” that provide the reason…”The mark of sin; the mark of Christ”. The darkness of the stain of the ashes on the forehead is merely symbolic for the darkness of sin that pervades all of us to our very core. The sign of the cross vividly describes the only remedy for that all-pervasive sin and that is the cross of Christ, where the darkness of sin of the entire human race was laid on Christ and in Him was judged with the full weight of the awful wrath of God. It is a humbling thing to have another place, in ashes, the sign of the cross on the forehead. In that humbling act is also the vivid description of the humility required before God by admitting our sin and accepting the one and only provision for dealing with that sin by turning to Christ from all our prideful self-worship.

Yours, for living in the humility of repentance…

Pastor Howard

]]>unmei@mac.comHome2012-02-23T01:07:54+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/feb-2012#unique-entry-id-93http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/feb-2012#unique-entry-id-93As I write this, it’s “Ash Wednesday” morning, the beginning of “Lent”. Don’t try finding these words in the Bible because they aren’t there. However, since earliest days, the Church has observed special seasons to remind us of the gospel and the realities associated with the gospel. Lent is one such season, and while it has been treated with disdain and frivolity by many (“Mardi Gras”, “Fat Tuesday”, etc. in which as much debauchery as possible is practiced prior to Lent), it is none-the-less a gift of God to the Church to draw us away from our self-imposed delusions of self-righteousness and self-sufficiency in drawing near to God. I look forward later today to an Ash Wednesday service during which the “imposition of ashes” will occur in which the worshippers will receive from the pastor a mark (made with ashes) on the forehead signifying our own sinfulness, our own mortality, the cost of our sin, the price paid for our sin in the death of Jesus Christ, and repentance from sinful pride and arrogance. The “imposition of ashes” is most certainly NOT something we do normally or naturally, but then…the gospel isn’t something natural either. It is entirely supernatural! Apart from the gracious work of the Holy Spirit we’re not even motivated to draw near to God in faith, but through the gospel, that way has been made open.

Yours, for drawing near to God in the full assurance of faith,

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Genesis 3:17-19, Job 42:1-6, Hebrews 10:19-25]]>unmei@mac.comHome2012-02-12T18:38:55+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/feb-2012#unique-entry-id-92http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/feb-2012#unique-entry-id-92The person who is determined to follow Jesus will find that there is a very real enemy of our souls who will stop at nothing to dissuade us from followership or render us ineffective in our spiritual life and witness. If we purpose to cling tenaciously to Jesus, we can expect major “push-back” from the evil one. “…everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted…” (I Timothy 3:12). That’s the bad news to start your week. The good news is that what the evil one designs for our discouragement and distress, Jesus redeems for God’s glory and our good. In inciting sinful human beings to crucify Jesus, the devil thought that was the end of God’s plan of redemption. In reality, Jesus’ crucifixion was what God purposed for the salvation of all creation. Take heart when facing devilish push-back! Through the Holy Spirit at work in us, Jesus turns that which was meant for evil into good.

Fight the Good Fight!

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Genesis 45:1-11, Genesis 50:19-21, John 14:28-3, I Corinthians 2:1-10]]>unmei@mac.comHome2012-02-06T16:12:52+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/feb-2012#unique-entry-id-91http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/feb-2012#unique-entry-id-91Did you know that you can “open happy” by merely purchasing a non-nutritive soft-drink? Did you know that by possessing a certain credit card, you can get “20% off = 100% happiness”? If that’s all it takes for a life of fulfillment and joy, count me in! Our minds are ceaselessly bombarded by a world whose fundamental line (or lie) is that acquisition, consumption, and accumulation result in a fulfilled life. So we “go for it” only to discover it was an illusion. The reality is that “Thou hast made us for thyself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it finds its rest in thee.” (Augustine – “The Confessions of St. Augustine”) All of our striving is a striving after “the wind” until we find our true center of life. The person who is at rest with God because of being at peace with God is the one who is truly happy.

To Life!

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Ecclesiastes 1-2, Matthew 5:1-11, Romans 8]]>unmei@mac.comHome2012-01-30T12:35:04+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jan-2012#unique-entry-id-90http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jan-2012#unique-entry-id-90As we introduced the 2012 preaching theme of “Following Jesus”, the point was made that following closely after Jesus will mean that he will lead us in paths and to places we would not choose for ourselves. Case in point: God led the people of Israel from their slavery in Egypt by means of powerful miracles and Passover…right to a “dead-end”! With the Red Sea in front of them and the Egyptians in hot pursuit behind them, they had some cause to wonder about the leading of God (See Exodus 12-14). Yet it was exactly what God had in mind in order to demonstrate his mighty power in what seemed to be an impossible situation. Remember, Jesus was led by the Holy Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil (Luke 4:1). So if we’re facing difficult or what seems to be impossible situations, it may be that this is exactly where God wants us in order to lead us away from prideful self-sufficiency and teach us trust and patience. Just because something is hard doesn’t make it wrong. One of the most remarkable passages in all Scripture tells us that “Although He was a Son (speaking of Jesus), He learned obedience from the things which He suffered.” (Hebrews 5:8). If even the Son of God had to “learn obedience”, what of us?

Stay Faithful!

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Psalm 23, Hebrews 12]]>unmei@mac.comHome2012-01-23T18:30:55+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jan-2012#unique-entry-id-89http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jan-2012#unique-entry-id-89...That’s the interval of time between Joseph being sold into slavery and his rise to power as “Prince Of Egypt” (Genesis 37, 39-41), during which he was falsely accused, thrown into prison, and forgotten in prison. Yet after all that, when the perpetrators of the crime of selling him into Egypt (His own brothers, no less!) came to him, he “spoke kindly to them” (Genesis 50:21b), refusing to let bitterness take root and grow into retaliation. Only the supernatural work of grace in the soul can account for such a trusting, calm peace of mind and heart in the face of all the wrongs that had been done to him. Only the gracious work of the Holy Spirit can direct us to the sovereignty of God in order to live in simple trust even while all our circumstances conspire against us. As Joseph spoke with his brothers after revealing himself to them, he told them that is was “God who sent me before you to preserve life.” (Genesis 45:5b). That is the life of faith and it is the life of patiently trusting God even when situations don’t change, best efforts don’t seem to bring desired results, and the “battle” gets tiresome. The work of the blessed Spirit of God is that of leading us to “cling tenaciously to Jesus” when nothing (or everything) seems to be going right.

Yours, for trusting, hoping, and resting in Jesus…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Genesis 37, 39-45; Philippians 1; I Peter 4]]>unmei@mac.comHome2012-01-08T21:36:26+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jan-2012#unique-entry-id-88http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jan-2012#unique-entry-id-88Making New Year’s resolutions (i.e. – exercise more, eat healthy, lose weight, spend less…etc…etc.) is OK, but the fact-of-the-matter is that the vast majority of “new year’s resolutions” are broken by…oh say…January 2! There are, no doubt, any number of reasons why those resolutions end up in life’s “dust bin”, but due to the reality of the weakness of human nature because of the effects of sin, it shouldn’t surprise us that good intentions so often fail to get translated into consistent good actions. However, there is one resolution that, because of its very nature as being something created and birthed by the Holy Spirit, is possible to keep and it is this: To be a follower of Jesus! Because of the work of the Holy Spirit to create genuine faith and conversion, no person can even have the desire and resolve to follow Jesus through whatever life throws at us apart from that gracious work of the blessed Spirit. Through the working of the Holy Spirit, we have the ability to make one resolution that is sure to last, not only for a year, but for a lifetime. No matter what may come, I am resolved to follow Jesus!

Resolved, to live in simple “followership”…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Romans 8, I Corinthians 12:3, Philippians 1:6]]>unmei@mac.comHome2012-01-02T10:25:34+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jan-2012#unique-entry-id-87http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jan-2012#unique-entry-id-87A Prayer for the New Year…

Eternal Father,

You who are not constrained by time and space, have mercy on us who mark the passage of time and who are but mere mortals. Forgive our sinful impudence in worshipping ourselves, the creature, rather than you, the Creator and giver of life. You never grow weary and your days are unending. Have mercy on us who become tired in the battle and who face the ultimate limitation of our own mortality. As you spread before us the beginning of another year, grant us grace that our followership of Jesus may be unhesitating and unreserved, willing to accept as matter-of-fact that loving Jesus will come at a price in a world in love with itself. Remove from us the love of ease and cause us to joyfully embrace the cross of Christ. By the gracious work of your Holy Spirit in our lives, cause us to leave behind the trivial and set our affections on that which is of ultimate and everlasting significance. Gracious Father, you have set your love on us in Christ and granted us, by your Spirit, the repentance that leads to eternal life. By the work of that same Spirit, always keep us in the love of Christ, for it is there we are secure and find pure joy. This we pray in the Name of the One who loved us and gave Himself for us.

Amen]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-12-25T20:50:47+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/dec-2011#unique-entry-id-86http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/dec-2011#unique-entry-id-86Christmas Went Away…

I don’t know about you, but I really like the lights and decorations of the Christmas season. They add cheerfulness to the dark night sky of the long winter nights. Today Christmas “went away” (on Christmas Day, no less) as we took the decorations down at the church building following the Christmas worship service and fellowship lunch. OK, so we had a “captive crew” of people available to enlist in the “un-decorating” effort so that “many hands would make ‘light work’”. Still, there’s a sense of sadness (sniff…) at seeing the decorations come down for another year. Even though the decorations came down today, Christmas didn’t really “go away”. In fact, in the hearts of believers, Christmas never “goes away” because the light of Christ is always “on” in our hearts; the love of Christ is always stirring; the grace of Christ is always forgiving; the passion of Christ is always motivating; the peace of Christ is always comforting; and the presence of Christ is always heartening! So…maybe Christmas never “goes away” in hearts warmed by the miracle of grace in Jesus.

Merry Christmas!

Pastor Howard

For further reading an reflection: Matthew 1:18 – 2:15, Luke 1- 2:38]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-12-19T10:45:27+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/dec-2011#unique-entry-id-85http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/dec-2011#unique-entry-id-85The gift of God in Jesus Christ is the gift of peace. But what is this “peace” that came into the world with the advent of the Savior? Is it just the absence of conflict and war? Of course, in the world of today, as in the world as it was when Christ was born, the absence of war would be a huge improvement, but the “peace” brought by the Prince of Peace is much deeper than simply the uneasy armistice that marks the end of hostilities among nations. The peace we find in Christ is expressed by the Hebrew “Shalom”, which means a complete health and wholeness of the physical, emotional, and spiritual integrated into a total sense of well-being. This is peace with God, peace within oneself, and peace with others. It is this complete peace that Christ offers to any and all who would have it. It is a peace that nothing in this world can ever give. “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased.” (Luke 2:14)

Yours, for resting in the peace of the Savior…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Micah 4:1-5, Micah 5:2-5, John 14:25-31, Romans 5:1-5, Ephesians 2:11-22]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-12-12T11:51:02+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/dec-2011#unique-entry-id-84http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/dec-2011#unique-entry-id-84Someone – obviously with too much time on their hands – once calculated the total number of gifts “my true love sent to me” on the Twelve Days of Christmas. While I don’t remember the total number of “lords-a-leaping”, “golden rings”, or “geese-a-laying”, the total number of the gifts during those twelve days was truly impressive, probably bankrupting the “true love”! The Advent season reminds us that there is one gift so precious that God literally “emptied the treasures of heaven” in giving this gift to the human race. This gift is His one and only Son, Jesus, the Savior of the world, in whom all the treasures of eternal life reside. This gift, so costly to give; is so free to receive. All the other gifts of the season will soon grow old or wear out. But this gift; the treasure of eternal life in Christ, will never grow old or tiresome. It’s “The Gift of gifts”! It is a treasure to be opened new each day. Sooner or later, all the gifts of the twelve days of Christmas came to an end. God’s gift of life in Christ is one that has no end! Enjoy the Gift!

Your, for opening this gift each day…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection – John 1:1-14, John 3:1-21, I Peter 1:3-12]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-12-05T13:36:28+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/dec-2011#unique-entry-id-83http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/dec-2011#unique-entry-id-83At best life is a “mixed-bag” of the pleasant and painful; successes and failures; gains and losses. Today’s sunshine can be supplanted by tomorrow’s rain; today’s health can give way to tomorrow’s illness; Today’s enjoyment can be replaced by tomorrow’s stress. In the midst of all the variables of life, is there anything in which we can hope that will never prove disappointing? The Advent Season is the celebration of a hope that never lets us down. It is the hope of the promise-kept! God promised the Savior and deliverer of His people. He has kept that promise. Throughout the centuries of their pain and captivity, the people of God must have also wondered if there was any reason for hope. Theirs was a life of sorrow and frustration without much reason to hope. But the prophets’ hope was rewarded in the announcement, “…a Savior has been born to you…” (Luke 2:11). There is yet another promise still to be fulfilled. It is the promise of the return of Jesus to establish His kingdom forever. The Bible calls this the “Blessed Hope”. It is in that hope we live, even when our life-circumstances are a “mixed-bag”.

Yours, for living in the hope of seeing Jesus…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Isaiah 11, Lamentations 3:19-33, II Peter 3:8-13]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-11-28T12:34:22+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/nov-2011#unique-entry-id-82http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/nov-2011#unique-entry-id-82Gracious Father,

Amid the hurry and worry that defines our lives in a busy and complex world, you provide refreshing opportunities to stop, think, and focus on that which is ultimate and eternal. Advent is one of those times when you invite us to breathe deeply, be silent, and listen for your “quiet, gentle voice” among the clang and clatter of a world that would deceive us into thinking that work, acquisition, consumption, accumulation, and “success” equate with real living. Advent is a time when you call us back home to Jesus and help us learn anew that only as we know you through him, do we really live. Dear Father, forgive us for spending so much of our time and energy wandering in the wilderness when all the while you are waiting for us to reside safe and secure in your love in Christ. Father, thank you for the light of Jesus. Teach us and enable us, by your blessed Spirit, to leave the darkness and live exuberantly in the Light. Teach us and enable us to cling to Jesus, not only during this Advent Season, but all the days of our lives, until we arrive safely home. This favor we ask of you in Jesus’ Name…

…Amen

For further reading and reflection: Malachi 3-4, John 1:1-34, John 10:1-16]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-11-21T11:29:30+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/nov-2011#unique-entry-id-81http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/nov-2011#unique-entry-id-81“Thanksgiving” implies that there is a source of all benefits for which we’re thankful and to whom we give thanks. Only sinful human arrogance would suggest that the source of all good things is our own creative genius, cleverness, or hard work. Another characteristic of human sinfulness is to ascribe our benefits to some nameless, faceless “chance” or “luck” or “fate”. The follower of Christ recognizes that God is the source of “every good and perfect gift” (James 1:17) and so pursues a thankful heart that is personal in that it directs its gratitude to the true source of all good things. An unthankful spirit is the essence of humankind’s rebellion as we respond to God’s self-revelation, not with gratitude, but with foolish arrogance at our perceived self-importance (Romans 1:21). One of the evidences of a truly converted person is an attitude of gratitude that responds to the blessings of God with a humble, thankful heart.

Yours, for pursuing the thankful life…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Psalm 103-106, I Timothy 6
]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-11-14T12:41:11+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/nov-2011#unique-entry-id-80http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/nov-2011#unique-entry-id-80Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s famous quote, “When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and die.”, has been reinterpreted by Christendom in affluent societies to read, “When Christ calls a man, he bids him come and get rich, be healthy, and be well-liked.” The purveyors of the “health-and-wealth” ‘gospel’ (which is really no gospel at all!) have completely ignored the fact that Christ’s call to discipleship is a call to embrace the cross. There is no such thing as a painless cross. Yet we act surprised when problems and pain come our way, as if following Christ exempted us from what Jesus experienced and promised. Without at all suggesting that we should go out of our way to create problems, we should embrace the pain of the cross as evidence that our faith is genuine and that we truly belong to Christ. Having to make difficult priority decisions in a world that hates God simply “goes with the territory” of taking the road (far) less traveled to follow Jesus. Accepting the misunderstanding and disapproval of family, friends, co-workers (and bosses) is “part of the deal” of belonging to Christ. Understanding that there is a cost involved in followership indicates a reasoned, intelligent faith. The presence of problems arising because we cling to a King whose kingdom is not of this world simply validates our claim to be his disciples.

Yours, for embracing the difficulties…

Pastor Howard

For Further Reading and Reflection: John 15:18-27, John 16:33, Philippians 1:29-30, I Peter 4:12-19, I Peter5:10, Revelation 6:9-11]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-11-07T12:04:44+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/nov-2011#unique-entry-id-79http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/nov-2011#unique-entry-id-79Doing the right thing out of a sense of duty or obligation is better than not doing it at all or doing the wrong thing! In fact, all religions prescribe certain duties or obligations which are supposed to win favor with God (or the gods). This is where the gospel is much different than religion in that the person who clings to Christ is not given a set of rules and regulations, but a new presence – the Holy Spirit – who graciously works in us to give us a desire to love God; a desire to know more of God and His Word; a desire for the life of Christ to be made visible in our lives; a desire to give and serve; a desire for the fellowship of believers; and a desire that others should share in the delight of knowing Christ. A former leader of the organization in which we serve often used the term, “heart-hunger”, to describe what the Holy Spirit does in our lives. He produces a “heart-hunger” for God and everything pertaining to God. Just as physical hunger motivates us to find food, so the Spirit-produced “heart-hunger” moves us to seek that which will nourish and satisfy.

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Psalm 42, Ezekiel 36:24-36, Joel 2:28-32, Matthew 5:1-12, II Corinthians 8-9]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-11-01T13:02:31+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/nov-2011#unique-entry-id-78http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/nov-2011#unique-entry-id-78Last week’s Pastor’s Page began with the word, nothing, as in…”Nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ.” The “flip side” of this is that the follower of Christ has been given every benefit of being restored to a right relationship with God through the gospel of Jesus Christ. Forgiveness, reconciliation, redemption, the Holy Spirit, adoption, eternal life, peace with God, and community with all of God’s people are fully and completely ours through faith in Jesus Christ. We do not need to waste time and energy trying to acquire these things for they were lavished upon us as God emptied the treasures of heaven on us through Jesus Christ. “Nothing” and “everything” perfectly describes the life of the one who clings to Jesus. Nothing can pry us apart from Christ because God has given us everything in Him.

Yours, for enjoying the “everything”…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Romans 8:28-39, I Corinthians 3:21-23, Ephesians 1:1-14, II Peter 1:3-11]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-10-24T12:24:31+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/oct-2011#unique-entry-id-76http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/oct-2011#unique-entry-id-76…can separate us from the love of our heavenly Father! All of the very real negative “stuff” spoken of by the Apostle Paul in Romans 8 – anxieties, demonic attack, health worries, insensitive words and actions of people, death – can affect us, but they can never separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus. There is no use pretending that adversities leave us unaffected and sometimes tired and discouraged, but none of the “stuff-and-bother” of life changes a thing about the position of the Christ-follower as the beloved child of God. That trust-relationship is one of security, rest, confidence, peace, hope, and assurance. The storms of life are not necessarily indicative that there is anything wrong between us and God. Rather, they are to be expected and it is in just those times that the Father sometimes (and in ways we may not even perceive at the time) pulls us closer to himself through the work of His blessed Holy Spirit who gives us assurance that we belong to Him. Thanks be to God for this indescribable gift!

Yours, for living in the security that nothing can separate us from the love of God…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: John 15-17, Romans 8, II Corinthians 1:8-11]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-10-10T11:32:49+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/oct-2011#unique-entry-id-75http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/oct-2011#unique-entry-id-75…that when I wrote last week’s “Pastor’s Page” ( ‘Stopping to Consider…’ ), a theme woven throughout an excellent PTM conference just completed would be that of “Sabbath”, with the point being made that “Sabbath” is not just a day to be observed, but a life-style in which we cease from our frenetic striving in order to live a life of worship and trust. The follower of Jesus Christ has found in Christ the ultimate “Sabbath” in which we cease striving to earn favor with God through our own efforts and trust the finished work of Christ to bring us into a favored relationship with God. Just as God ceased the work of creation because it was complete, so the believer ceases trying to work for acceptance with God because that acceptance is complete in Christ. God has given us the Sabbath, not as a day full of rules and regulations, but to be a life-style of trust and worship. “Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” (Psalm 46:10 NASB)

Yours, for living the worship and trust of the Sabbath-life…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Genesis 1:31 – 2:3, Isaiah 58, Mark 2:23-27, Hebrews 4]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-10-03T14:21:13+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/oct-2011#unique-entry-id-74http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/oct-2011#unique-entry-id-74There are very few nice things to be said about jet-lag! In fact, the only thing I can think of that is “nice” to say about it is that it gave me a chance to wander outside on a moonless, star-lit night in total stillness when the heavens were in their glory (including a meteorite “flaming out” as it entered earth’s atmosphere). At a time like that, even though I might have wished to be sleeping, there was an incredible opportunity to “consider” the heavens as they reveal the glory of God in all of His creative genius. Our packed, hurried, harried lives afford us precious little time to simply stop and “consider” and yet it is just that stopping and considering that is vital to a close, intimate relationship with the God of the universe who, amazingly, desires to be in relationship with us and has opened the door to that vital connectedness by becoming one of us and one with us in Jesus Christ. Spending that time at 3:00 AM wandering under the glorious heavens made me wonder why I don’t do that more often (not wander at 3:00 AM, but make the time to stop and “consider”).

Yours, for slowing down to “consider”…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Psalm 8, Psalm 19, Mark 3:13-14, Acts 4:13]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-09-26T20:17:17+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/sep-2011#unique-entry-id-73http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/sep-2011#unique-entry-id-73After a wonderful all-church retreat in the beautiful mountains of Karuizawa, the idea of celebration comes naturally to mind because we were reminded anew that, as believers in Jesus Christ, we have much to celebrate! In the world it’s easy to get “down”. After all, Jesus himself said that “…in the world you will have tribulation…”. But he went on to say, “…but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world…”. Scripture actually devotes much space to celebration – celebration of the faithfulness of God; celebration of God’s saving acts for his people; celebration of forgiveness and life through the gospel; and celebration of the “unity in diversity” of the church. As both Japanese and English Departments of the church were together this past weekend, there was a sense of “celebration” that permeated the retreat. This is only as it should be because we have much to celebrate together in Christ! The great thing is that celebration need not be only a fond remembrance of a wonderful time together, but is in Christ a trait that defines life and fellowship with each new day.

Your, for enjoying the party of God’s grace…

Pastor Howard

For Further Reading and Reflection: Psalm 103, Ephesians 1-2, Ephesians 4:1-16]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-09-19T18:12:57+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/sep-2011#unique-entry-id-72http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/sep-2011#unique-entry-id-72Dear Lord…We’re starting a week in which the world will do everything in its power to squeeze your life out of us and its values into us, yet in your teaching, you “stand everything on its head” for you present us with a value system that is totally counter to everything we are and have been brought up to believe. You confront us with values and priorities that are anything but natural to us. Not only do they seem strange; at times they seem repulsive because they lead to a blood-stained cross rather than a pillow-lined couch. To embrace your values means embracing a cross. It means abandoning our natural self and joyfully accepting your own new life in its place; a life contrary to our nature and one that leads us down that narrow “road less traveled”. Dear Lord, to embrace your values and priorities with joy can only happen as a result of the supernatural work of your blessed Spirit. We crave that work of grace in our souls. – Amen

Yours for joyful abandonment to Christ’s new life…

Pastor Howard]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-09-11T19:15:14+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/sep-2011#unique-entry-id-71http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/sep-2011#unique-entry-id-71This is being written on 9-11 and it holds vivid memories for us, as it does for the world. We were traveling that day, intending to fly from Manila to Minneapolis via Tokyo. Of course, we never made it to Minneapolis! Yet ours was a minor inconvenience compared to the unconscionable act of horror visited upon human beings by other human beings, made all the more horrible a crime because it was committed in the name of God. This day has brought a solemn reminder to me that our life and times are in the hand of a sovereign God who dearly loves us and who has spelled out the number of breaths in our span of life. The safest, most secure place to be is in the center of His powerful hand. For the Christ-follower, to “live is Christ” and to die…well, that’s even better! Yet there is one more reminder of this day and it is that we must humble ourselves under God’s mighty hand. To many, such a thought is scandalous, if not downright treasonous, but if a few people, consumed by hatred and evil, could wreck such destruction in just a short period of time, what awaits the world when God decrees that the insolence and violence of humanity is over? September 11, 2001 was a day of unspeakable horror and indescribable courage. There is coming a Day when the perfect justice and judgment of God is revealed in Christ for all the world to see. Then everyone will humble themselves before God. Now would be a good time to start.

Yours for living in humility…

Pastor Howard]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-09-04T18:54:54+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/sep-2011#unique-entry-id-70http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/sep-2011#unique-entry-id-70Gracious Father,

By your Word all things came into being; by your Word all things are sustained; by your Word we who borrow breath from you have life; by your Word your Spirit has enabled us to believe your gospel; by your Word a day is fixed when you will judge the living and the dead. We live in a world filled with words. Along with the explosion in communication technology has also come an explosion of words. We confess that, in our self-worship we attach such great importance to our words, so much so, that we fill our ears with our own words to the exclusion of your Word. Gracious Father, as we go through our week surrounded by the din of so many words, including our own, grant us the privilege of being quiet before you so that we may hear your “quiet, gentle voice”. Only your Word is life-giving and nourishing to our souls. Help us to turn off the flow of multiplied words so that we may receive the “Word which is able to save our souls.

We ask this favor of you through Jesus Christ, the living WORD,

Amen

For further reading and reflection: I Kings 19:1-18, Matthew 4:1-4, James 1:17-25, II Peter 3:3-7]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-08-28T17:49:04+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/aug-2011#unique-entry-id-69http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/aug-2011#unique-entry-id-69Don’t Leave Me…

One of the mystifying passages of Scripture to me is Luke 5:8, not because it’s particularly difficult to understand, but because of Simon Peter’s response to the majesty of Jesus Christ as demonstrated in the miraculous catch of fish: “Oh, Lord, please leave me – for I’m too much of a sinner to be around you!” (New Living Translation) I’m “dialed-in” about the “sinner” part (because I identify really well with it!), but whenever I see that passage, my prayer immediately is: “Oh, Lord, please never leave me – for I’m too much of a sinner to be apart from you!” The Apostle grasps the enormity of his sinfulness, but is yet to understand that it is precisely for sinners that Jesus came, and through His life, death, and resurrection, would draw sinners – who understand that they’re sinners – to Himself in a relationship in which He would never leave them. Fortunately for Peter, and for us, Jesus did not do as Peter requested! Jesus’ Word to everyone who clings to Him in faith is always, “I will never leave you or forsake you”.

Yours, for living in the joy of grace greater than all our sin…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Luke 5:1-11, Hebrews 13:1-16, I Peter 5:1-11]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-08-22T11:31:23+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/aug-2011#unique-entry-id-68http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/aug-2011#unique-entry-id-68Yesterday (Sunday, 21 August), it was my privilege to bring the message in all of the Japanese Department services, in addition to the English Department service. The Brother who translated for me (Thanks Yuichi!) had to listen to the same message 3 times in one day as he was translating for the congregation. Listening to one of my sermons once is usually more than enough for most people (including me!), but the “multiple-hearings” of yesterday got me thinking that there is something we can never get enough of and that is the intake of God’s Word. Reading and studying the Bible is the source of spiritual nourishment for the believer and it is through the Word of God that the Holy Spirit comes to us and energizes us to live “Christianly” in the world. While listening to a sermon once is probably enough, reading, studying, and meditating on the Word of God on a regular, consistent basis is life-giving food and energy for our walk with Christ.

Yours, for enjoying daily spiritual feasting this week…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Amos 8:11-12, I Timothy 4:13, II Timothy 3:14-17, Hebrews 4:12-13]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-08-15T22:29:01+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/aug-2011#unique-entry-id-67http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/aug-2011#unique-entry-id-67Gracious Heavenly Father,

As we begin a new week filled with opportunities to love and serve you, we acknowledge that, “this is the day that the Lord has made…”, receiving it with gratitude from your hand, asking that your blessed Spirit work in us so that we may faithfully accomplish your good purposes in allowing us to borrow life and breath from you. We need and desire to be energized by your Holy Spirit so that there is genuine spiritual vitality and passion in order that we may love you, desire to immerse ourselves in your word, crave prayer, and devote ourselves to the loving service of others. We admit that, left to ourselves, we will love the world too much and you too little. Left to ourselves, we will give ourselves to the cheap, temporary “stuff” of this world and ignore that which is of true importance and eternal significance. Deliver us, in your great mercy from expending our time, energy, and resources on that which has little true and lasting value. Enliven us to recognize, embrace, and pursue that which is of everlasting value. We ask this through Jesus Christ, our true life,

- Amen

Yours, for hungering and thirsting for His Kingdom…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Jeremiah 9:23-24; John 6:26-40; I Timothy 6:17-19]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-08-01T17:00:00+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/aug-2011#unique-entry-id-66http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/aug-2011#unique-entry-id-66The very noticeable earthquake of Sunday morning (31 July) – 4 ½ months after the “big one” – is a powerful reminder that life hasn’t returned to normal. Perhaps it’s also a reminder that life shouldn’t return to normal, if by “normal” we mean a complacency that views this world and this life as “all there is”, without regard to the reality that this world and life is very temporary. The follower of Jesus Christ knows the truth that life, the world, and history is moving ahead to a climactic day when this age will give way to the eternal age to come in which Jesus Christ is the unquestioned and unchallenged ruler over His kingdom in which nothing but righteousness dwells. There is a lessons from all these continued “shakings” – This life, this world, and everything about it, is unstable and progressing to the point of passing away. Only “on Christ, the solid rock, we stand”.

Yours, for living on “solid ground”…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection – Psalm 90, Psalm 102:25-28, Matthew 24:36 – 25:13, II Peter 3]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-07-25T22:53:49+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jul-2011#unique-entry-id-65http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jul-2011#unique-entry-id-65Here’s a “blinding flash of the obvious”: Everyone carries a “load” as they navigate through this life. Sometimes that load seems manageable; at other times it is overwhelming. The load may be grief over the death of a loved one, a battle with life-threatening illness, relationships that have turned sour, distress over family problems, job loss, financial reversal, or other stressors that never seem to go away. Now that your day has been brightened by this bit of cheery news, take heart in knowing that the follower of Jesus Christ doesn’t have to carry the “load” alone. Not only do we have the assurance of sin forgiven and the sure hope of eternal life in Christ, we also have One who “stays closer than a brother” to help us in carrying our “load” in this world. We are always invited to “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you” (I Peter 5:7). Whatever your “load”, allow the One who cares for you to assist you in carrying it. It’s too heavy to carry alone.

Yours, for sharing the “load” with the One who alone is able to carry it…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Psalm 28, Habakkuk 3, Matthew 11:25-29]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-06-13T09:46:51+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jun-2011#unique-entry-id-64http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jun-2011#unique-entry-id-64Having just celebrated Pentecost yesterday, and beginning a new week of “dueling with the world” on Monday, it is good to remind ourselves that the power of the Holy Spirit may be best seen in people who simply “keep faith” by clinging tenaciously to Jesus when the miracle doesn’t happen; when the healing doesn’t come; and when the story doesn’t have a happy ending. It is the Christ-follower who, when “under siege”, exhibits Christ-like grace that is truly living in the power of the Holy Spirit. At Pentecost, the Holy Spirit was given to the church as our permanent possession, thus creating a new Spirit-baptized community to live the values of the Kingdom of God in a world that resists that Kingdom with furious hostility.

“...Blessed are those who haven’t seen me and believe anyway.” - Jesus Christ

Yours, for “keeping faith”…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: John 14:15-29; II Corinthians 4:7-18; II Corinthians 12:1-10]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-06-06T18:14:29+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jun-2011#unique-entry-id-63http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jun-2011#unique-entry-id-63This coming Sunday (12 June) is another of the special days of celebrating the unique, once-for-all, non-repeatable events of the gospel – Pentecost. Taken from the Old Testament celebration of “50 Days” (The meaning of Pentecost), it celebrated the “first fruits” of the harvest in anticipation of an even greater harvest to come. It is not accidental that the Baptism of the Holy Spirit upon the church for all time was planned, in God’s timing, for Pentecost because the gift of the Holy Spirit (God in Us) is the “first fruits” of our acceptance with God in anticipation of greater things to come when we are once-and-for-all welcomed home for eternity on that great day with Jesus Christ appears. Even though Christ’s followers are always under stress in a world that refuses to obey the gospel of God, the Holy Spirit living in us is our “Divine Enabler” who empowers us to live “above the world”, keeping faith, walking closely with Christ, serving with courage, and living in hope of “greater things to come”. Pentecost not only happened once for us, but is a continuing reality in the life of every Christ-follower.

Yours, for living in daily dependence on the indwelling Holy Spirit…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection - Joel 2:28-32; Acts 2:1-21; Romans 8:1-17; I Corinthians 12:12-13; Galatians 5:16-26; Ephesians 1:11-14

]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-05-30T15:29:25+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/may-2011#unique-entry-id-62http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/may-2011#unique-entry-id-62Recent events have taught us that, in spite of what sinful human pride would like to believe, there are many things over which we simply have no control. The tragic earthquake/tsunami of 11 March, the devastating tornadoes in the U.S., and the failed prediction of yet another “doomsday ‘prophet’” remind us that we are not in control of nearly as much as we would like to think. Each new work day reminds us that, to a certain extent, we are even under the control of our employers (If we want to stay employed and continue receiving the money needed to survive!), who “set the agenda” for so much of our waking moments. Is there anything over which we have control? The good news is that indeed there is and that which we can control is our attitude. No one, can force any attitude upon us. With every new day and new situation, we have the ability given us by the Living God to exercise that unique privilege as His special creation – to choose our attitude! “You will keep him in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord, is the Rock eternal.” (Isaiah 26:3-4)

Yours, for choosing our attitude wisely…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Isaiah 26, Romans 8:1-17, Romans 12:1-2, I John 3]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-05-23T12:41:53+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/may-2011#unique-entry-id-61http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/may-2011#unique-entry-id-61…Saturday, 21 May was supposed to have been the day when the “rapture” (The taking away of God’s people from this earth to heaven) was to have taken place, according to a group of misguided souls led by yet another in the long line of those who thought they could pin-point the exact date for the return of Christ. All of those who have tried to set a date for the return of the Lord have had one thing in common – They’ve all been wrong! However, we should not let a bad prediction based on bad theology cause us to forget that the Bible makes very clear statements about the future, namely…
…Jesus Christ will return to this earth to bring closure to the present age, judge the world, and establish His kingdom that will never be shaken. ”This same Jesus…will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.” (Acts 1:11)
…No one knows the day or time. “No one knows about that day or hour…” ( - Jesus – Matthew 24:36a)
…We are to live an “expectant” life in anticipation of the return of Jesus. “And now, dear children, continue in him, so that when he appears we may be confident and unashamed before him at his coming.” (I John 2:28)
Jesus is coming again to receive his own and establish the just and gracious rule of God’s Kingdom forever. Are you ready?

Yours, for living with eternity’s values in view…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Matthew 24 – 25; I Thessalonians 4:13 – 5:10; Hebrews 9:27 – 28; I John 3:1 – 3; Revelation 22:7, 12, 20]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-05-15T18:34:54+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/may-2011#unique-entry-id-60http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/may-2011#unique-entry-id-60Competition seems to be built into the fabric of life. However, wherever there is competition, there are bound to be “winners” and “losers”, as defined by certain criteria, based on the nature of the competition. Of course, in athletic competition, there is only one “winner” (Nobody remembers who came in 2nd place!), and that “winner” receives the crown, trophy, or reward for finishing first. In our sinful pride, we relegate human beings, created in the image of God, into categories of “winners” and “losers” and in a world where only “winners” are valued, heaven help those designated as “losers”! How differently God views each of us…no “winners” or “losers”, just people beloved by the Father who demonstrated His estimation of our value by bringing us into the new community of Jesus where there are no “losers”.

Yours, for seeing others through Jesus’ eyes…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Colossians 1:3-14; I John 3:1-3; Revelation 1:5-6
]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-05-09T19:18:52+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/may-2011#unique-entry-id-59http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/may-2011#unique-entry-id-59Looking at the pictures from the Mother’s Day service would cause one to think that people took a great deal of pleasure in being together in a beautiful setting and relaxed atmosphere! Probably some were even thinking it was so refreshing that it would be a great thing to do this every week! In today’s hurried and harried existence, opportunities to simply “be” and “be together” are all too rare, so that when they do come about, it’s like a “breath of fresh air” to our souls as well as to our bodies. Taking the time to “be” and “be together” is healthy to our individual lives and also to the life of the Body of Christ. After all, as someone (This is not original with me.) has said…”We were created human ‘beings’, not human ‘doings’”. While “doing” and “accomplishing” are important, it is equally important that we take time to “be”, in relationship with God and with one another.

Yours, for living in the enjoyment of “being”…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Matthew 11:25 – 12:8, Acts 2:42 – 47, Hebrews 10:19 - 39]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-05-03T12:37:42+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/may-2011#unique-entry-id-58http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/may-2011#unique-entry-id-58We’re near the beginning of “Golden Week” (depending on when one reckons the beginning of “Golden Week” ), a cluster of holidays that allows workers an extended break from their employment to relax, return home, or travel to other places. Many people are using their holiday this year to volunteer finances, time, and energy to engage in humanitarian relief work in the Tohoku (May their “tribe” increase now and in the future!). The fact that people eagerly look forward to a rest is perhaps unconscious testimony to the fact that God has built into His good creation a “rhythm of work, worship, and rest, which we often ignore to our own peril. We allow ourselves to have our identity defined by our work and so pour our lives away in stressful “over-busyness” that leaves us drained and frustrated. In His creative rhythm, God intends that our lives should be defined by our relationship with Him with our work bringing satisfaction when in proper perspective within that relationship. The “god” of work is a cheap and shabby substitute for the Living God who invites us into His rest through Jesus Christ.

Yours for living in Christ’s “rest”…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Genesis 2:1-3, Exodus 20:8-11, Hebrews 4:1-11]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-04-25T20:38:35+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2011#unique-entry-id-57http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2011#unique-entry-id-57OK, so it’s still Easter Sunday night and not Monday, but yesterday (Saturday), I wrote: …”Silent Saturday” is but a brief Sabbath’s rest for the One who offered his own blood before the altar of God’s uncompromising holiness and then entrusted His soul to the One who had abandoned Him as He hung on the cross bearing the guilt of the world. Just as God rested on the seventh day because His work of creation was finished, so too Jesus Christ, having made the plea for the entire guilty world with His own blood, now rests because His work of redemption is finished. He awaits the verdict of the Righteous Judge. It will not be long in coming…

…Well, the verdict is in! Announced on the very first Resurrection Sunday, I’m very pleased to tell it to you now…”He (Jesus)…was raised to life for our justification. Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ…” (Romans 4:25b – 5:1). For all who will believe it, God has accepted the offering of Jesus Christ as the “payment-in-full” for sin, declaring “not guilty” everyone who has faith in Jesus Christ.

Just thought you’d like to know!

Yours for enjoying peace with God in the sure hope of eternal life…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: John 11:21-27; Colossians 3:1-4; Peter 1:18-21]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-04-23T19:47:03+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2011#unique-entry-id-56http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2011#unique-entry-id-56My soul was encouraged and strengthened by being in attendance at the Japanese Dept. Good Friday service last night as it was a wonderful opportunity to be quiet before God and in silence, song, Word, and Holy Communion reflect anew on the wonders of the cross of Christ. We’re mostly familiar with the significance of Holy Thursday (Jesus instituting the Lord’s Supper), Good Friday (Christ’s sacrifice as our substitute for the sin of the world), and Easter Sunday (Christ’s victorious resurrection by the Father through the power of the Holy Spirit). But what about Saturday, a day of silence when, to all appearances, the forces arrayed against the Son of God have triumphed and God’s purpose to redeem humanity has come to nothing? One can only imagine the gloom that settled over the dispirited disciples. All that had been hoped for died with the Master. Yet…
…”Silent Saturday” is but a brief Sabbath’s rest for the One who offered his own blood before the altar of God’s uncompromising holiness and then entrusted His soul to the One who had abandoned Him as He hung on the cross bearing the guilt of the world. Just as God rested on the seventh day because His work of creation was finished, so too Jesus Christ, having made the plea for the entire guilty world with His own blood, now rests because His work of redemption is finished. He awaits the verdict of the Righteous Judge. It will not be long in coming…

May you make the time this “Silent Saturday” to prepare for the announcement of God’s great verdict when we gather tomorrow…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection in anticipation of Resurrection Sunday: Hebrews 9:11 – 10:18]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-04-18T16:47:26+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2011#unique-entry-id-55http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2011#unique-entry-id-55One of the most difficult and yet most necessary disciplines of life is to “stop and think” about that which is of ultimate, eternal value. Busy people in a busy, stressful environment ( think: “Tokyo treadmill” ) often become “automatons”, going about the daily grind of work and responsibilities, while real life eludes us. Fortunately, God gives us gifts that remind us of that which is truly important. Periodically, the church celebrates Holy Communion that gives us opportunity to stop and think about the awful cost of our rebellion against God that Jesus Christ had to pay for our reconciliation to God. Holy Week is another of those good gifts as we follow the passion of Jesus Christ, beginning with His entry into Jerusalem, then moving on to His institution of the Lord’s Supper (Maundy Thursday), His death on our behalf (Good Friday), and His triumph over death and the grave (Easter Sunday). Holy Week is God’s good gift to us that we may refocus our lives on that which really matters.

“Jesus, I will ponder now on your holy Passion. Let your Spirit now endow me for meditation. Grant that I in love and faith may the image cherish of your suffering, pain, and death, that I may not perish.” (Jesus, I Will Ponder Now – Lutheran Book of Worship #115)

Yours for making time to “ponder”…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Matthew 21:1-11, Matthew 26 - 28]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-04-11T22:39:25+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2011#unique-entry-id-54http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2011#unique-entry-id-54As we continue our journey through the Lenten Season in anticipation of the suffering and triumph of Jesus Christ, there is one event that we anticipate this week and that is Palm Sunday, the day that Jesus was welcomed as King by a crowd that would be screaming for his execution only five days later. Besides the fact that crowds are notoriously fickle, what else accounts for the complete turn-around by the people who one day were throwing their clothes on the road before Jesus and less than a week later jeered in derision as the eternal Son of the Living God is led through those same streets toward his crucifixion? Simply this, the people missed the point of what Jesus came to do for them. They wanted food for their stomachs; he offered the Living Bread of eternal life. They wanted freedom from Roman tyranny, Jesus offered them freedom from the tyranny of sin and death. They wanted health and prosperity; Jesus offered spiritually abundant life. They would have none of it! Sinful human pride always misses the point as to our true need and condition.

Yours, for understanding our true need and God’s true provision for that need…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Zechariah 9:9 – 10:12; Matthew 21:1 – 11; John 18:33 - 37]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-04-04T11:32:04+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2011#unique-entry-id-53http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2011#unique-entry-id-53It never ceases to be amazing that we human beings demand our “freedom” from God to be our own “gods”, yet when trouble or tragedy strikes we require that God somehow explain Himself for the “unfairness” of it all. Only sinful human pride expects that God “owes” us an explanation for tragedy. For those who know Holy Scripture and who know the Christ revealed in Holy Scripture, an explanation has already been given…Our failed attempt to become our own “god” (That’s what the Bible calls “sin”.) has plunged the entire creation into convulsion and upheaval. As part of that creation, we become caught up in that trouble. The message of Lent, culminating in the events of Holy Week, is that the eternal Son of the Living God became one of us and one with us to take on Himself all the trouble, upheaval, convulsion, and pain that is actually what God “owes” us. The sin-caused “trouble” owed us has become His in order that His eternal life and health may become ours through faith; in hope that all of creation will be as it should be when Jesus returns a second time. In the meantime, we wait…

Yours, for patiently waiting, working, watching…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Genesis 3, Genesis 11:1-9, Romans 8, II Peter 3]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-03-27T19:36:44+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/mar-2011#unique-entry-id-52http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/mar-2011#unique-entry-id-52As we move through the journey of Lent, the cross begins to loom ever-larger. As the cross comes to dominate the horizon, any pretension that we may have about not being guilty sinners needing reconciliation with God is stripped away and we are shown in the blinding light of Scripture that apart from the gospel we are without any hope. In this way, the Bible reveals in uncomfortable clarity our own “lostness” as the cross forces us to see the truth that the One to whom we must give account despises everything we esteem and esteems everything we despise. God’s word will not allow us the luxury of deluding ourselves into thinking we do not need of a Savior. The culture of Lent is thoroughly counter-cultural! “Dear Lord, teach us that we are but ‘dust’ and that which we vigorously pursue in this life is but a ‘vapor’ that quickly passes away. In your great mercy, grant us wisdom to embrace and pursue what is of value in your sight. Amen”

Yours, for journeying on the ‘counter-cultural’ road ‘less-traveled’…

Pastor Howard
For further reading and reflection: Matthew 7:13-14, 24-27; Ephesians 2:11-22, 4:20-24
]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-03-21T15:51:52+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/mar-2011#unique-entry-id-51http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/mar-2011#unique-entry-id-51Since the Bible doesn’t command us to observe the season of Lent and many people either “trivialize” its observance or mistakenly use it to try and gain favor with God, why have this special season prior to Holy Week, culminating in resurrection Sunday? Taking some time and space to focus thought on the truths of our mortality (“…dust you are and to dust you will return.” – Genesis 3:19b), our sinfulness before a Holy God (“…I despise myself and repent in dust and ashes.” – Job 42:6b), and the price paid for our reconciliation to God (“…so must the Son of Man be lifted up…” – John 3:14b) brings us back to a reality that often escapes us as we live in a busy, pressure-packed world. Here is that reality…The true life we crave can never be found in anything this world offers. Real life is only found in relationship to the One who created us to know Him and gave His one and only Son in order to achieve it. This is most certainly true!

Yours, for living in reality…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: John 1:1-12; John 3:1-21; John 5:19-30]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-03-13T23:36:34+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/mar-2011#unique-entry-id-50http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/mar-2011#unique-entry-id-50I watched with horror as the news video showed cars, sea containers, and even houses tossed around like so many toys by the tsunami surge. When seeing the ease with which everything worked for is swept away, there is one nagging question and that is, “why?”. “Why do we spend ourselves to gain that which can be simply ‘washed away’ in an instant?” We spend incredible amounts of time, energy, and money on that which is essentially impersonal and temporary at the expense of that which is precious – faith, family, friendships. Through the events of the past few days, many people are understanding anew the truth of Jesus’ words…”is not life more important than food and the body more important than clothes?” (Matthew 6:25b). May God help us to think through the wisdom of the old saying, “No one, on their deathbed, ever wished that they had spent more time at the office!” Maybe Jesus was “on to something” when he said, “Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life which the Son of Man will give you.” (John 6:27a)

Yours, for pursuing what can never perish…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: I Timothy 6:17-19, I Peter 1:3-9]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-03-07T16:42:51+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/mar-2011#unique-entry-id-49http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/mar-2011#unique-entry-id-49The news this past week has been about “Mardi Gras” and “Carnival” where party-makers try to get in as much revelry and debauchery as possible prior to Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent. Lent, beginning with Ash Wednesday this week, is a holy season on the Christian calendar marking a 6 week period of reflection and repentance leading up to Holy Week, culminating in the passion of our Lord and His triumphant victory over sin, death, and hell. Unfortunately, Lent has become a trivial thing for many, as in…”I’m giving up___(fill in the blank)____________________for Lent.” Properly understood, Lent gives us opportunity to humble ourselves under the holiness of God (That’s what Ash Wednesday is all about with the “Imposition of Ashes” a reminder of our nature as “dust” (Genesis 3:19), the need for humility and repentance before the Holy One (Job 42:6), and the awful cost of our forgiveness in the cross of Christ.), and recommit to live in faithful “followership” with Jesus Christ. Lent is a great time to refocus on two great truths…that we are sinners in need of a savior, and that God has provided the One who is indeed that great Savior!

Yours, for rejoicing in God’s great grace…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Job 42:1-6, Romans 5, II Corinthians 7:8-12]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-02-28T17:13:23+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/feb-2011#unique-entry-id-48http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/feb-2011#unique-entry-id-48Many of us are familiar with part of Reinhold Niebuhr’s Serenity Prayer: “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference.” But there is more to this prayer than often quoted…”Living one day at a time; Enjoying one moment at a time; Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace; Taking, as He did, this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it; Trusting that He will make all things right if I surrender to His Will; That I may be reasonably happy in this life and supremely happy with Him forever in the next.” They are supremely happy who understand that God is God!

Yours, for relinquishing all claims to self-sufficiency…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Proverbs 3; I Corinthians 1:18 – 2:16]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-02-23T09:26:19+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/feb-2011#unique-entry-id-47http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/feb-2011#unique-entry-id-47Even as this Monday’s Pastor’s Page is being written, I’m supposed to be attending a conference that I had to cancel out of because of illness (mine!). Sickness really doesn’t have much to commend itself, but there is a “redeeming grace” that comes out of it and that is…um…well…wait a minute…I’ll think of something…don’t help me…oh yes, it is the reminder of our own “creatureliness” (You English teachers, don’t bother trying to teach this word because it probably isn’t a proper word!). That is, we are reminded that we are NOT God; we are creatures who do not determine the course of our own destiny. We can’t even do something as small as decree our own daily health. Our lives are a vapor, God is eternal; our “times are in His hands”. Once in a while, it is a good thing to be reminded of our own frailty in order to humble ourselves under God’s gracious oversight.

Yours, for “numbering our days aright” before God…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Psalm 90; II Corinthians 12:1-10; James 4:13-16
]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-02-14T15:11:56+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/feb-2011#unique-entry-id-46http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/feb-2011#unique-entry-id-46It’s been pretty hard to miss all of Valentine’s Day products filling the shelves of the department stores. “It’s (almost) spring, and a young man’s fancy turns to thoughts of…chocolate (at least in Japan.)!” Putting aside the (enjoyable) romantic notions about love, let’s ask ourselves, “What is real love?” Probably the best definition I’ve ever come across for real, genuine love is this: The unshakable commitment to act for the highest good and well-being of another person. That’s a definition of love against which all other definitions pale in comparison. Romantic love is fickle, physical attraction can wane, emotional excitement wears off, but true love is a lasting commitment. It is this love which God has shown us in Christ as He gives up Himself for the highest good and well-being (forgiveness of sin, reconciliation with God, and eternal life) of those He loves. That is real LOVE!

Yours, for a life of grateful response to the love of God…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: John 3:16-21; Romans 5; I Corinthians 13]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-02-07T20:52:15+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/feb-2011#unique-entry-id-45http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/feb-2011#unique-entry-id-45It would be nice to title this devotional, “If you’re discouraged…”, but the fact of the matter is that it is much more appropriate to say, “when…”, because discouragement is the universal experience of all of us. The pages of the Bible are full of examples of great men and women of God who had to battle discouragement – Naomi, Ruth, Elijah, Jeremiah, Paul, and, yes…even Jesus – just to name a few. If you feel discouraged from time to time, you’re in very good company! Part of being discouraged can be the feeling of abandonment or “aloneness”, but it is during those “down” times that God reveals Himself to us as the “God who is there”, assuring us of His presence, speaking His lessons into our lives, and making available to us practical ways to refresh our souls.

Yours, for faithfulness in the “down” times…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: I Kings 19:1-18, II Corinthians 1:3-11, Galatians 6:1-10]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-01-31T06:54:17+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jan-2011#unique-entry-id-44http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jan-2011#unique-entry-id-44We all love success stories! Be it the “rags-to-riches” stories of those who rise above their circumstances to achieve fame and fortune or accounts of God’s miraculous intervention in answered prayer, they encourage our souls! But do we worship God because of what He does for us or because He alone is the true and living God, who in His very essence is worthy of worship? Too often we treat God as if He were our “personal assistant”, at our beck and call to do whatever we ask of Him, regardless of whether or not it is truly in our best long-term interest or brings honor to His Name. Having full confidence in God’s goodness and ability is one thing; demanding that He bend to our every whim and becoming disillusioned when He does not is quite another.

Yours, for a life of worship in spite of circumstances…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Daniel 3 (note vs. 16-18); Hebrews 11 (note vs. 32-40)]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-01-24T21:51:22+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jan-2011#unique-entry-id-43http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jan-2011#unique-entry-id-43In an earlier “pastor’s page”, I suggested that a great theme for the year (indeed, a life time) is simply…Worship God! The words are easy to write; much harder to live because anything that displaces God as the center of our desires and affections becomes our idol. In a world that pulls us in every direction, there is always the danger that God becomes supplanted by work, family, recreation, possessions, sports, health, personal peace, affluence, and…We may not bow down to images of wood and stone, but if the desire for the worship and glory of God gets pushed into the dim recesses of life in favor of “getting on” well and comfortably in this world, we have become guilty of idolatry. How can we avoid this all-too-natural tendency toward idolatry? Daily “conversion” through the work of the Word of God mediated to us by the Spirit of God!

Yours, for daily conversion from the “idolatry of the ‘self’”…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Isaiah 44:6-20; I Corinthians 10]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-01-17T20:05:48+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jan-2011#unique-entry-id-42http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jan-2011#unique-entry-id-42It’s still early in the year and as the saying goes, "It's never too late to start doing what is right." What is right is that we, as children of God, lead lives of purpose and intentionality rather than simply responding or reacting to circumstances as they happen. Of course, life happens, and we need to respond to situations as they arise, but too often we lead reactionary rather than proactive lives. The question each of us needs to ask at the beginning of the year...well, not only at the beginning of the year, but all of our lives...is "What are my priorities and practices that will move my life forward as a purposefull follower of Jesus Christ?"
Yours, for always asking questions...

Pastor Howard

For further reading a reflection: Matthew 5 -7]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-01-10T12:33:33+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jan-2011#unique-entry-id-41http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jan-2011#unique-entry-id-41The organization in which we serve has 10 “guiding principles” (about which I won’t take the space to elaborate), that inform our decision-making. There is another “guiding principle” for the new year that should inform our decision-making as Christ-followers; it is the principle of spiritual sowing and reaping. Just as the farmer or gardener harvests the crop in accordance with the seeds planted, so we “harvest” the quality of our “followership” of Jesus in direct proportion to what we plant. The Apostle Paul tells us, “Do not be deceived’ God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, this he will also reap.” (Galatians 6:7). This is a guiding principle we can “take to the bank”. We may have many reasons for the choices we make in life, but whatever the reasons, this is an inescapable spiritual principle: “For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.” (Galatians 6:8)

Yours, for wise spiritual “sowing”…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Deuteronomy 30:15-20; Joshua 24:14-28; Galatians 5-6]]>unmei@mac.comHome2011-01-03T21:52:15+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jan-2011#unique-entry-id-40http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jan-2011#unique-entry-id-40Human beings are incurably religious. We were created for worship and we WILL worship something or someone. Even if it be only human intellect –a very small god indeed – we do worship. The only question is “who” or “what” we worship. Ever since our first ancestors believed the lie that they could be their own god (Genesis 3:5), we have replaced the worship of the True and Living God with worship of gods that are not gods. Many years ago, I heard Chuck Swindoll quote (and I don’t know where he got the quote...); “We worship our work, work at our play, and play at our worship”. A good description of modern life! Even the biblical writers at times had a hard time remembering that there can only be one God who is worthy of worship (Revelation 22:8-9). The theme for the year…for a lifetime…for eternity…Worship God!

Yours for living a life of worship…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Exodus 20:1-6, Revelation 4:5-11]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-12-27T14:10:32+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/dec-2010#unique-entry-id-39http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/dec-2010#unique-entry-id-39…at least for 2010! Do you remember the celebration that ushered in the year 2000? Aside from the fears that “Y2K” would shut down the computer-dependent world (Those fears never materialized.), there were joyous celebrations around the world in anticipation of what the new millennium would bring. Looking back at the past 10 years makes one wonder why everyone was celebrating! To be sure, there have been continued advances in science, communication, technology, and medicine for which we can all be grateful. But it’s safe to say that the specter of terrorism, economic meltdown, and political instability have been the dominant themes of the decade. But amidst the din of depressing headlines that scream at us from all sides, there is also one reality that has been constant – the faithfulness of God! In spite of the best (or worst!) efforts of demons and rebellious human beings, God continues to create for Himself a new humanity of Christ-followers in anticipation of the great day when Jesus Christ will appear a second time. The Christmas season now past has been another celebration of the faithfulness of God to His covenant-promises. There is yet one more promise that still awaits fulfillment; the return of the King whose birth we just celebrated!

Happy New Year!

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Psalm 90, Acts 2:11, I Corinthians 15:20-28, Revelation 22:7-20]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-12-20T22:46:29+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/dec-2010#unique-entry-id-38http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/dec-2010#unique-entry-id-38In just a few days we’ll celebrate the great miracle of the incarnation – God becoming one of us! It is the great event in history that changed everything as our darkness was exchanged for His light; our sin exchanged for His righteousness; our death exchanged for His life; our hopelessness for His promise. In one sense, nothing changed because of the incarnation – shepherds returned to shepherding; the despot Herod remained the blood-thirsty tyrant; the Magi returned home; Mary & Joseph went home eventually to eke out a living; and cruel Roman might continued to dominate life for the people. What changed because of the incarnation? Nothing yet everything! In Jesus Christ, the life of the world to come has broken into our world and is creating a new humanity of people who have passed from death to life and have transferred their citizenship from the kingdom of this world to that kingdom which will endure forever! O come let us adore Him with our lives.

Yours, for living in the newness the incarnation has brought us…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection – Ephesians 2, Hebrews 2]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-12-13T19:38:55+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/dec-2010#unique-entry-id-37http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/dec-2010#unique-entry-id-37Two words describe the celebration of the Advent/Christmas Season – “promises kept”! “…Jesus Christ, the Son of God, never wavers between ‘yes’ and ‘no’…he is the divine ‘YES’ – God’s affirmation. For all of God’s promises have been fulfilled in him.” (II Corinthians 1:19 NLT) The message of Advent – the season of hopefulness and anticipation - reminds us that even though the promise may seem long in coming, it will come because God, who cannot lie, always keeps His Word! Every one of God’s promises are sure and true; it’s just that we often confuse what he has promised with what we want! We want personal peace and material affluence; God has promised peace with Himself and the abundant life of knowing Him. We want ease and comfort; God has promised power to meet the challenges of living in a world estranged from Him. We want perfect physical health; God has promised eternal life. Jesus Christ is not our personal assistant who caters to our desires; He is the divine “YES” who relates to us at the level of our deepest need.

Yours, for gratefully enjoying the promises of God…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection – II Corinthians 4 - 5]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-12-06T16:15:27+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/dec-2010#unique-entry-id-36http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/dec-2010#unique-entry-id-36Usually when we tell someone, “Don’t take this personally!”, we’re about to deliver some less-than-enjoyable news. However, the invitation of the Advent/Christmas Season is to take it personally! The announcement of the gospel was a very personal announcement by the prophets: “…to us a child is born…to us a son is given…” (Isaiah 9:6a). Not only did the prophets make the promise in personal terms, the “birth announcement” by the angels to the shepherds came as very personal news: “…I bring you good news of great joy…a Savior has been born to you…” (Luke 2:10-11). Advent/Christmas is the not only the celebration of God’s great cosmic redemption coming to fulfillment in Jesus Christ, it is the celebration of God’s great love for us as individual people – lost, wandering in self-imposed darkness, spiritually starving people. God loves us! Jesus came for us! Take it personally!

Yours for living in the personal love of God in Christ…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Ezekiel 34; John 10:1 - 18]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-11-29T17:59:35+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/nov-2010#unique-entry-id-35http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/nov-2010#unique-entry-id-35Advent 2010 began yesterday and we lit the first of the Advent candles - the candle of HOPE. But the candle of HOPE is also the candle of PROMISE because the prophetic hope was not some vague notion that maybe "everything would turn out OK". The prophetic hope was a specific promise to a struggling, suffering people that their redeemer would come in God's perfect timing, and this redeemer-messiah would do everything necessary to end the estrangement between God and humanity - the real cause of all struggle and suffering - reconciling sinners to God. Even though the promise seemed long in coming, it was kept! Lighting the candle of HOPE/PROMISE reminded us that God keeps His Word! It's been said that human beings can do without most everything except hope. There is much hopelessness in the world, but the gospel gives us a firm hope that just as God has kept His promises, He will also keep His Word to send His Son a second time. In that hope we live!

Yours, for living in the triumph of hope...

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Isaiah 11 - 12; Romans 8:18 - 39]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-11-22T10:04:31+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/nov-2010#unique-entry-id-34http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/nov-2010#unique-entry-id-34It is a good life that God has given us; "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights..." (James 1:17a). Every sunrise, every moonlit night sky, every breath, every morsel of food, every day of health, every expression of kindness...all of it comes as a gift from God's good hand. As if that weren't enough, God "tops it all" by giving us the privilege of knowing Him through Jesus Christ - the greatest gift of all that comes from a loving Father. The only reasonable response to all this goodness from the Father? Humble thankfulness! A thankful spirit is one of the surest signs of a soul at peace with God, having experienced, understood, and delighted in God's self-revelation in Christ. A thankful spirit is deep motivation for a life of service to the One who has given us this good life. "How can I repay the LORD for all his goodness to me? (Psalm 116:12)

Yours, for living the truly good life...

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Colossians 3:15 - 17; I Thessalonians 5:12 - 24; Hebrews 13:15 - 16]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-11-15T17:04:48+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/nov-2010#unique-entry-id-33http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/nov-2010#unique-entry-id-33What is it that makes for “contentment”? Advertisers try to convince us that our lives can only find meaning if we buy their ( “new & improved", “ultimate” ) product. A bigger, better house? Perhaps that’s it. That better-paying job? Finding “Mr. or Ms. ‘Right’”? Having the latest technology at our fingertips (I have a good friend who professes that his greatest joy is keeping several steps ahead of me technologically (which doesn’t take much!).)? Every new thing loses its luster. The better job makes us run ever-faster on the “treadmill” just to keep up. “Mr. or Ms. ‘Right’” are soon discovered to have some “wrongs”. How about this for real living…? “For to me, to live is Christ…” and, “…that I may know Him…” (The Apostle Paul in prison – Philippians 1:21a, 3:10a)?

Yours, for enjoying the contentment of real living…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Luke 12:13 – 34, Philippians 1 - 4]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-11-08T20:43:17+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/nov-2010#unique-entry-id-32http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/nov-2010#unique-entry-id-32There is a line from a worship chorus that says, "...there's no greater joy, Lord, than being with you." A simple, yet profound truth that often gets ignored in our busy, stressed lives. If we are to enjoy the reason for which we were created' "...to glorify God and enjoy Him forever...", it means time spent in the "presence" where there are pleasures to last for an eternity. Being in the "presence" is such a rich banquet of spiritual delights that having just a brief taste will cause us to wonder why we spend so much time and energy on stuff that leaves us spiritually and emotionally starved. God has incredible fullness of joy in His "presence" and He is more than willing to share it with us if only we'll take the time to enjoy.

Yours, for living in the richness of the "presence"...

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Psalm 121-122; Luke 10:38-42]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-11-01T17:42:01+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/nov-2010#unique-entry-id-31http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/nov-2010#unique-entry-id-31Seeing pictures of the start of a marathon is always fun because they always show a crowd of enthusiastic runners close together jostling for position as the race begins. By the time the race is over, the field will be very spread out. Many will be far less enthusiastic, Some will have dropped out, most will be hurting, but for those who finish the race, there is the great satisfaction of crossing the finish line. November 1 is ”All Saints Day” on the church calendar and it is a great reminder that we do not run our Christian race, nor live our spiritual lives in isolation. Not only does the Lord Jesus run beside us, but we run in a vast company of fellow-believers of all time and in all places, some of whom are running their race at the same time as us; others who have run their race and have crossed the finish line and now rest in Christ, awaiting the finish for all of God's people. This marathon we run at times seems long and discouraging, but there is incredible joy for all who cross the finish line.

Yours, for running faithful and patient...

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Hebrews 10 - 12]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-10-25T17:11:30+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/oct-2010#unique-entry-id-30http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/oct-2010#unique-entry-id-30OK, so I'm getting older; OK, so I'm having a little trouble remembering some things (What was it that I was going to write for "The Pastor's Page" this week?)..."Forgetfulness isn't regarded as a great friend and companion ("What was your name again?"), yet there is a "forgetfulness" that means life, health, and peace to us who have placed our trust in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. It is the forgetfulness of God! The amazing thing about God's grace is that He is perfectly able to completely put our rebellious self-worship (sin) out of sight and mind in order that we might live completely free from the guilt and power of sin in order to be fully alive to Him, able to serve with a free and clear conscience. In the words of the great hymn written by Charles Wesley:

"No condemnation now I dread. Jesus, and all in Him is mine. Alive in Him, my living Head, and clothed in righteousness divine. Bold I approach the eternal throne and claim the crown through Christ my own."

The quote is from the great hymn of 1739...And Can It Be?

Yours, for living in the freedom of God's "forgetfulness"...

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection - Psalm 103, Jeremiah 31:31-34, Colossians 2:9-15]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-10-18T18:50:53+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/oct-2010#unique-entry-id-29http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/oct-2010#unique-entry-id-29Reading through the Bible is, in the eyes of some people, a chore when going through the Old Testament, especially a book like Leviticus with its complex, detailed, and (at times) perplexing rules and regulations. Leviticus is where I'm at right now in my own personal devotions and, admittedly, reading through the myriad laws can be a bit taxing (no pun intended). However, one phrase keeps leaping off the pages of the law and it is...”I am the LORD your God.” Behind every command is this one central truth: The people of God find their life, health, and well-being only in being in a right relationship with God. No matter how hard or long we work; no matter how intelligent we may feel ourselves to be; no matter how educated; no matter how high our social rank...It will never produce a sense of well-being apart from living in a close, obedient love-relationship with our God through Jesus Christ. Could it be that many of our stresses and problems in life are as a result of an attitude that says in response to God...”I am the lord my god.”

Yours for living this week in the well-being of submission to the One who alone is God...

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Exodus 32:1 - 8; John 4:21 - 24; James 3:13 - 4:10]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-10-11T22:59:03+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/oct-2010#unique-entry-id-28http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/oct-2010#unique-entry-id-28Over the past few years, a "growth industry" has developed; it is the business of helping people organize their possessions and thus gain control over their "stuff" rather than having their "stuff" gain control over them. In affluent societies, the desire to acquire, consume, and accumulate forces us to work longer and harder just to pay for the stuff that soon loses the luster of its newness and gets relegated to the closet in favor of the next new acquisition. The spiritual danger in all this is that we slip into the mode of being "too busy..." to cultivate an unhurried, deep, love-relationship with Jesus Christ and His people. We become "too busy" to pray; "too busy" to worship; "too busy" for God's Word; and "too busy" for satisfying relationships. The call of God in Christ is to enter into a deep love-relationship with Jesus. Time is everything to that relationship.

Yours, for living this week in true relationship with Jesus...

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Matthew 13:1-23; II Peter 2:19]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-09-22T01:34:40+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/sep-2010#unique-entry-id-27http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/sep-2010#unique-entry-id-27Life is full of discouragement and being a follower of Jesus Christ does not exempt anyone from stress, misunderstanding, illness, pain, setback, loss, and death. Now that you're cheered by those words, here is some truly good news: For every Christ-follower there is a sure hope that is reserved for us and which is to be revealed when Jesus Christ returns to set everything right and receive His own to share for eternity a creation where everything is as it ought to be. The final word belongs to Jesus Christ! The "lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world" is also the "Lion of the tribe of Judah".

Yours, for living in the response of faith and obedience to the "blessed hope"...

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Romans 8:22 - 25, II Corinthians 4:7 - 5:10, Revelation 21:1 - 5, 22:1 - 7]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-09-15T01:36:05+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/sep-2010#unique-entry-id-26http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/sep-2010#unique-entry-id-26Last week was a strange one with the prelude to the 9th anniversary of 9/11 laced with threats of book-burning, media hysteria, and angry rhetoric. In short...it was to weep! In all of it was a valuable lesson to those of us who are Christ-followers and that lesson is that ”your anger can never make things right in God's sight.” (James 1:20 - New Living Translation) and ”A gentle answer turns away wrath, but harsh words stir up anger.” (Proverbs 15:1 - New Living Translation). In a world where those who scream the loudest get the attention, it is for us as Christians to live by a "counter-culture" set of standards of rejecting the "heat" of those who spew anger and embracing the "Light of the world" who said, ”Love your enemies...” (Matthew 5:44).

Yours for living this week embracing and elevating the Light...

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection - Matthew 5:38 - 48; Romans 12:12 - 21]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-09-08T14:54:42+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/sep-2010#unique-entry-id-25http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/sep-2010#unique-entry-id-25I promised myself that I wouldn't add to the conversations about the lingering heat and humidity in Tokyo but since it's the hot (pun intended) topic of discussion these days because of this being one of the hottest summers on record, let me try to turn our discomfort toward a truth that we already know, but sometimes forget: There are a lot of things in life over which we have no control! Certainly the weather is one of them, but our lack of control extends to other areas of life as well - the global economy that impacts our employment; the responses of people to our best-intentioned efforts to be kind; diseases that assault our bodies despite our attempt to stay healthy. These and other factors over which we have no control cause us to look in trust and faith to the One who has all control and from whose gracious hand we receive exactly what we need to face life with all of its uncertainties. When we surrender our lives to the One who is in complete control, we can give up our feeble and ill-advised attempts to be the masters of our own destiny.

Yours, for living this week giving up control to the One who is worthy of our trust...

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection - Psalm 46, Revelation 4 & 5]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-08-25T11:48:31+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/aug-2010#unique-entry-id-24http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/aug-2010#unique-entry-id-24Marilynn and I enjoy hiking mountain trails (not "climbing" mountains, but "hiking" mountains where the danger of falling off and killing oneself is greatly reduced...but I digress...) and we have noticed that most trails are not "straight lines" from bottom to top, but either wind around the mountain or proceed via "switchbacks" that reverse direction as the trail ascends. As the trails ascend around the mountain or in switchback, there are often "dips" in which we're actually descending for a while before the trail rises again. If we were not sure of the trail and the final destination, we might conclude that something is wrong during the "dips", but because of the confidence in the final destination, we keep walking and, sure enough, the trail ascends once again. Our "follower-ship" of Jesus is like that as well. The final destination is certain and secure. The trail we walk (our life-journey with Christ) however has some "dips" along the way. It may be easy to conclude that it is hopeless and useless to persevere, but if we just keep walking the "dips" will give way to ascent toward the goal of Christ-like maturity and ultimately eternal enjoyment of God. Just keep walking...

Yours, for a week of faithful walking with Jesus...

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Philippians 3:7 - 14; Hebrews 6:9 - 12]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-08-16T17:05:48+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/aug-2010#unique-entry-id-23http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/aug-2010#unique-entry-id-23I just received an e-mail update from a good friend who is a bit older and who has been in ministry longer than I and one of the lines in his message caught my attention: "... Pray that my wife and I follow after the Lord passionately to the end of our days. We don’t want to let up!" What a great example of a man who understands The "Called" Life! Far too often we define our lives by our occupation, but our work is only a part of life - not the whole! Our calling is to passionately serve the One who created and redeemed us to belong to Him. Our work may change over the years and even end with retirement, but in Christ, our calling never changes. It is to "...follow after the Lord passionately...” until Jesus either returns for His own or calls us to Himself.

Yours, for living the "called" life this week:

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Ephesians 4]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-08-09T22:47:28+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/aug-2010#unique-entry-id-22http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/aug-2010#unique-entry-id-22A quick read of the stories making news this Monday morning suggests that there's no lack of things to worry about. Add to that the stresses common to our personal and family lives and you have a "witches brew" of anxiety-producers that we have to "drink" on a daily basis. The reality of it all is that our shoulders are simply not broad enough nor strong enough to carry all the weight of anxiety that "piles on" and leaves us tired and frustrated. How is it possible in this world to live the words of the apostle Paul...”Do not be anxious about anything...” (Philippians 4:6a)? The answer is found in the concluding words to a sermon I heard from a wise, old pastor a number of yeats ago: ...Pray...Pray...Pray! Or to put it another way: ”...but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6b - 7). Prayer is our admission that, while our shoulders aren't broad enough nor strong enough, God's shoulders are more than broad enough and strong enough.

Yours, for living a prayerful week...

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Luke 18:1 - 9, I Thessalonians 5:17, I Peter 5:6 - 7]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-08-02T03:01:04+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/aug-2010#unique-entry-id-21http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/aug-2010#unique-entry-id-21A friend, who is somewhat of a "teckkie", posted a suggestion that we try an experiment by which we make a commitment to become "unplugged" from technology for a day each week. My response? ”Count me in”! Of course I have a "love-hate" relationship with technology anyway, so to "unplug" for a day isn't much of a sacrifice for me! Perhaps we need to practice other forms of the Sabbath ("shopping sabbath"? "'consuming' sabbath"?) to remind ourselves that true life and well-being comes not from working harder and longer, nor from acquisition and consumption, but from a close relationship with the Living God. The Sabbath was given by God as a gift to the human race, as part of the "work-rest" rhythm that would cultivate a relationship with God, nourish our souls (not to mention our minds and bodies), and provide the time and "space" to think on the truth that "our lives do not consist of the abundance of what we possess" (Jesus' words). It may seem counter-intuitive to believe that by working less, acquiring less, and consuming less we are actually better off, but that's God's "economy" and the Sabbath-rest, with its many nuances, is a great reminder.

Yours, for living this week in the "Sabbath-rest" that Jesus provides...

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection - Hebrews 3:7 - 4:16]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-07-26T09:38:50+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jul-2010#unique-entry-id-20http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jul-2010#unique-entry-id-20From “Facebook” posts, it looks like folks are tired of the Tokyo heat and humidity already…and it’s only July! Hang in there! Only 6 or 7 weeks more of this and we can begin to cool off and enjoy autumn. The last thing you probably want to read is something about “more warmth” and yet more warmth in the center of our being toward Jesus Christ is that which makes worship, Word, prayer, fellowship, and service a delight and not drudgery. It’s “hot outside”, but more importantly, what’s our internal spiritual “core temperature”?

Yours for living this week with even greater warmth…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection this week: Psalm 119]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-07-19T20:45:48+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jul-2010#unique-entry-id-19http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jul-2010#unique-entry-id-19Today (Sunday afternoon in Minnesota) is a beautiful summer day full of sunshine and pleasant warmth. But last night was a different story when storms with high winds (including some tornadoes) ripped through our area, causing damage. Truth be told, I prefer the "calm and pleasant" to the dark clouds and devastating winds. As Christ-followers, our "lot in life" often has much more "wind and rain" than "calm and pleasant" because the world, the flesh, and the devil all conspire against us to, if possible, tear us away from our secure foundation in Jesus. Even though God has not promised to keep us from the storms of life, He has provided everything we need to keep us safe and secure in Christ in the midst of the storms.

Your, for living securely in Jesus during the storms of the week...

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: I Peter 4:12-19, 5:6-11]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-07-12T23:47:15+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jul-2010#unique-entry-id-18http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jul-2010#unique-entry-id-18On my office desk at church is a reminder of the necessity of constant and complete dependency on God to meet the challenges of life. That reminder is the sacristy prayer of the great church reformer, Martin Luther. It goes like this:

”Lord God,

You have appointed me as a pastor in Your Church, but you see how unsuited I am to meet so great and difficult a task.
If I had lacked Your help, I would have ruined everything long ago. Therefore, I call upon You: I wish to devote my mouth and my heart to you; I shall teach the people. I myself will learn and ponder diligently upon Your Word. Use me as Your instrument -- but do not forsake me, for if ever I should be on my own, I would easily wreck it all.”

Regardless of our appointment from God in this life, each of us is faced with challenges and responsibilities that force us to our knees in humble admission of our complete dependence on His great grace, His great love, and His great ability.

Yours for living in His all-sufficient resources this week...

Pastor Howard]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-07-06T01:38:27+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jul-2010#unique-entry-id-17http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jul-2010#unique-entry-id-17I heard a great message in church this morning (It's still Sunday in the U.S. midwest.) contrasting the true freedom we have in Christ with the false concept of freedom that says life is "all about me" (After all, "free" rhymes with "me".). True freedom is being free to love God, serving Him by making service for others a priority rather than an "after-thought". False freedom is the pursuit of self-service, self-indulgence, and self-protection (Remember my oft-repeated definition of sin as "self-worship"?). The exercise of true freedom in loving service is the surest way to peace and unity; exercising false freedom is the surest way destroy relationships (Galatians 5:15). Outside of Christ, the only "freedom" we had was to serve ourselves. Because of the work of Christ and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, we now have the freedom to serve one another in love (Galatians 5:13).

Yours for living in true freedom this week...

Pastor Howard
For further reading and reflection - Galatians 5]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-06-28T16:31:23+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jun-2010#unique-entry-id-16http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jun-2010#unique-entry-id-16It never ceases to amaze me that we seem to be in a hurry much of the time. Watching people run up the stairs at a station for a particular train, knowing that there is another coming in 2 minutes (OK, I've done that myself on more than one occasion!) makes me ask: "WHY?" Do we live on the "ragged edge" to such a degree that to have to wait another 2 minutes for a train would throw our whole day into disarray? Do we fill our lives so completely to the "edge" that there's no "margin" available to replenish our souls? The Psalmist talked about "...green pastures and quiet waters...", yet the hurry and stress of modern city life seems far removed from any thought of calm and quiet. Our souls can only be nourished by periods of unhurried fellowship with God, but that means that we are going to have to be "counter-cultural" so as to "detach", "unplug", and "slow down" in order to hear the voice of the One who speaks in a gentle whisper.

Yours, for seeking the "quiet waters" this week,

Pastor Howard

For further reading a reflection: Psalm 23, Matthew 6:19-34]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-06-21T16:29:43+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jun-2010#unique-entry-id-15http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jun-2010#unique-entry-id-15Question from child to adult: "Why_________________________?" Answer from adult: "Because_________________________." Response from child: "Why______________________________?" Response from adult: "Because___________________________."
Response from child: "Why_______________________________?" Response from adult: "JUST BECAUSE!"

Sound familiar? It's not only children who ask ”Why?””, but at times all of us look to the heavens and ask, with the Psalmist, "”Why...?”” (See Psalm 10:1). ””Why”” do the strong and arrogant prosper? ”Why” are the poor oppressed? ”Why” do those who desire God suffer while those who ignore Him seem to have no worries? Sometimes, we're disturbed that our ”Why” questions go unanswered, but in those times we are actually being re-directed to the ”Who” question in order that we be trained in the "school of faith" to live a confession that God is both great and good and that the "final word" has yet to be spoken in answer to all our questions.

Yours, for living in the "training school of faith" this week...

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Habakkuk 1 - 3]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-06-14T00:41:05+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jun-2010#unique-entry-id-14http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jun-2010#unique-entry-id-14It's probably fair to say that most people want to have joy in their lives. However, joy doesn't happen because we want it to happen or because we pursue it as a goal. Joy is a result of a certain quality of life described so well by both the Psalmist and the Apostle Paul. The Psalmist said...”Oh the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with scoffers. But they delight in doing everything the Lord wants; day and night they think about His law.” (Psalm 1:1-2: New Living Translation). The Apostle Paul said...”For to me, living is for Christ...” (Philippians 1:21a: New Living Translation). If joy is our pursuit, it will probably elude us. If delighting in God and following closely after Christ is our pursuit, joy will come to us as an outcome of such a life.

Yours for living in close "follower-ship" of Jesus this week...

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection this week: Psalm 119]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-06-07T17:10:53+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jun-2010#unique-entry-id-13http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/jun-2010#unique-entry-id-13We’ve just come through the month of May which, by some accounts, is the worst month for suicides in Japan. Many people, having concluded that all is hopeless, tragically end their lives.

”...where then is my hope...?” (Job 17:15a) The suffering servant of God asked in despair. Having "lost it all" and facing only the grim reality of his own death, he succumbs to the disillusionment that must be the lot of everyone who pins their hopes on anything other than the Living God. That better job...that "perfect" relationship...that bigger, better house or apartment...the "dream" vacation...the next acquisition...more money...All are OK in and of themselves, but wholly inadequate as the source or basis of a rich, satisfying life. God has created us for Himself and only as our lives are "centered" in Him do we have the "abundant life" (John 10:10) that Jesus came to give. Look to any other source for that life is to invite only disappointment. There is an old saying that goes something like..."Look to yourself and you will be disappointed; look to other people and you will be disillusioned; look to Jesus and you will be satisfied."

Yours for "looking in the right places" this week...

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection this week: Psalm 42; Psalm 46; John 10:1 - 18]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-05-31T16:21:15+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/may-2010#unique-entry-id-12http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/may-2010#unique-entry-id-12OK, I’m a “grumpy old guy”, but it seems we’ve got a case of “values-confusion” in the world that can insidiously find its way into our lives as Christ-followers if we’re not careful. Lately, Jesus’ words to the effect that “what is highly valued among men is detestable in God’s sight” (Luke 16:15b) have been causing me no end of discomfort. What is “highly esteemed” by the world? “…the cravings…, the lust…and the boasting…” (I John 2:16) What does God value? “…Righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 14:17b). Why do we spend so much time and energy pursuing that which has such little value and so little time and energy focused on that which has eternal value? “The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever” (I John 2:17)

Yours for living this week in pursuit of what has real value…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: I John 2:15-17; Luke 12:13-34]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-05-24T16:56:28+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/may-2010#unique-entry-id-11http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/may-2010#unique-entry-id-11Everyone is getting nervous again! This time it’s about the financial crisis in the Euro-zone spreading its way around the world and causing investors to panic (What doesn’t cause investors to panic these days?), stock markets to plummet, and fortunes to be lost. Seems like “Chicken Little”, with his, “The sky is falling!” may be right after all as we move from crisis-to crisis with very little (if any) calm in between the crises. So what’s a person to do in such a world? Simplify? Transfer investments? Accumulate more as a “hedge” against disaster? Give in to economic despair and hopelessness? Panic?

Perhaps there is a better way…”Do not worry about your life...” (Jesus – Matthew 6:25a); “So do not worry…” (Jesus – Matthew 6:31a); “But seek first…” (Jesus – Matthew 6:33a)

Yours for living this week in the better way…

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Matthew 6:25 – 34; Matthew 13:3 – 9, 18 – 23; Luke 12:13 - 21]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-05-17T18:48:23+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/may-2010#unique-entry-id-10http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/may-2010#unique-entry-id-10Several years ago, the best-seller, The Purpose Driven Life captivated both Christian and secular readers. That book "touched a nerve" with many people who wanted to know if there was actually a reason for our existence. Long before The Purpose Drive Life was written, another famous author had written about his passionate purpose: "I eagerly expect and hope...that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body...I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in His sufferings...” (The Apostle Paul - Philippians 1:20b; 3:10a). One of the great confessions of the church puts it this way: "What is the chief end of man? - Man's chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever." The power for such living is ours through the Holy Spirit, with whom Christ has baptized every believer (I Corinthians 12:13).

Yours, for a week of living purposefully in the power of the Holy Spirit,

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Philippians 1:12 - 30; 3:7 - 16]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-05-10T17:29:53+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/may-2010#unique-entry-id-9http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/may-2010#unique-entry-id-9I couldn't help but notice that people really seemed to be enjoying themselves yesterday at the annual joint Mother's Day service and picnic; so much so that hours after the service and lunch, most of the congregation was still around, enjoying good conversation and recreation. To take a day off from the "Tokyo treadmill" to connect with God in worship and with each other in fellowship in a beautiful, relaxed environment was pure delight that was keenly evident. These refreshing times of "being" in the midst of busily "doing" add much-needed balance and perspective to our lives. In the midst of the whirlwind of the activity that demands our time and energy, it's necessary to “Be still (or 'cease striving') and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” (Psalm 46:10).

Yours, for living this week with the delight of "being" in the presence of God...

Pastor Howard

For further reading a reflection: Psalm 46; John 6:25 - 58]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-05-03T11:23:38+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/may-2010#unique-entry-id-8http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/may-2010#unique-entry-id-8There seems to be general enthusiasm for the idea of getting a few days off work to relax and spend some time with family and friends (or even alone with a good book!) - so much so that we really look forward to times like "Golden Week", which give us a chance to "decompress" a bit. Maybe, just maybe, we instinctively understand that God has built into His creation a "work/worship/rest" rhythm that we ignore to the peril of our spiritual lives, physical/emotional health, and inter-personal relationships. Stepping back from the frenetic pace of everyday life may help us hear the "still, small voice of the God who created us to "...glorify and enjoy Him forever...".

Yours for a week of listening for that quiet whisper of God...

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Genesis 2:2-3; Exodus 20:8-11; Hebrews 4:1-11]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-04-26T16:59:56+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2010#unique-entry-id-7http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2010#unique-entry-id-7Every day confronts us with choices that demand a decision. OK, some of those decisions are really minor (like, what color socks to put on), while other decisions have consequences that last forever - ”What shall I do, then, with the one you call the king of the Jews?” (Mark 15:12) Some decisions are pretty obvious and immediate in their impact (show up for work or get fired), while others are a little more subtle (spend some unhurried time with Jesus or sleep an extra 30 minutes). Some decisions are a choice between right and wrong; others between wise and foolish, or between the greater of two good things (and sometimes between the "lesser of two 'evils'"). One thing is clear: the life we live today is the cumulative result of decisions leading up to this point. This is particularly true in relation to the quality of our walk with God and life in the Body of Christ.

Yours for living a week of wise decision-making...

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: Romans 8:5-13; James 1:2-25]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-04-19T16:50:49+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2010#unique-entry-id-6http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2010#unique-entry-id-6I saw this quote some time ago and, while not remembering the source (It's not original with me.), thought it descriptive (as well as humorous) of the lifestyle that someone recently described as the "Tokyo Treadmill". The quote goes like this: ”The trouble with the 'rat race' is that, even when you win, you're still a ‘rat’.” There are two very different competitions that call us to join -- the "rat race" with its busyness, frustration, exhaustion, and ultimate lack of satisfaction ("...even when you win...") -- and the "Christian race" with its purposefulness, enjoyment, and ultimate glory of knowing God. One of these races is a "running in circles" only to get nowhere; in the other, there is the great prize of enjoying God forever. In one of these races, only a few can "win" by clawing their way over others to "the top"; in the other, everyone who starts can end a winner by faithfully following Christ and His purpose in our lives. As you run on the "Tokyo Treadmill" this week, may you find some moments to leave the treadmill and focus on the ”...prize for which God has called us heavenward in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:14b)

Yours for a week of living with eyes on the prize...

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection: I Corinthians 9:19 - 27; Philippians 3:7 - 15]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-04-12T15:38:31+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2010#unique-entry-id-5http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2010#unique-entry-id-5Be afraid...Be very afraid...

That's probably not what you want to read on a Monday morning, but it's a message we hear a lot! Politicians pander to our fears in order to convince us that only they (and their particular party) can take away what makes us afraid. "Be afraid" seems to be the theme of most of the news in print, on-line, and on TV and radio. The fear of unemployment keeps us working harder and longer hours in hopes that we can keep our jobs and our life-style. In a fear-filled world, the risen, living Christ greets us with the same words spoken to His disciples on the day in which He defeated fear by His resurrection..."Peace be with you" (John 20:19b, 21a). It was to a group of fearful disciples (John 20:19a) that Jesus appeared and spoke those words of assurance. That which caused their fears did not "go away" by Jesus' appearing, but being in the presence of the Master replaced fear with assurance. As we stay close to the Master through worship, Word, and prayer, fear gives way to...

..."Be confident...Be very confident!"

Yours for living in confidence with Jesus this week...

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection this week: John 14 - 16]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-04-05T08:34:55+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2010#unique-entry-id-4http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/apr-2010#unique-entry-id-4What a joy it was to celebrate together the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the sure hope of eternal life in Him! But Easter Sunday is over and today starts a new week of work, responsibilities, and challenges that will demand wisdom, sap our energy, and tax our patience. OK...it's a chilly, gloomy, rainy Monday morning and so a let down from the glory of Easter worship and fellowship that we enjoyed yesterday. But does the resurrection of Jesus have anything to do with our day-to day lives Monday-Saturday?

"We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”
- Romans 6:4

There it is...new life...through the resurrection of Jesus Christ! Just as Christ was raised from the dead by the power of the Holy Spirit, so that same power is ours. How could we face the challenges of life apart from the knowledge of the living Christ within us? How could we face the inevitability of our own death apart from the assurance of the resurrection of the dead in Christ? How could we be delivered from the "death" of our own self-worship apart from the resurrection life of Christ in us? How could we have any hope of "being changed from one degree of glory to another" (II Corinthians 3:18) in this life without the resurrection?

The "resurrection" is not just something we celebrate once-a-year, but is something we live and celebrate daily.

Yours for daily celebrating resurrection life...

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection this week: Colossians 3:1-17
]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-03-29T11:19:12+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/mar-2010#unique-entry-id-2http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/mar-2010#unique-entry-id-2With Palm Sunday behind us, we continue our journey in the steps of the Savior's passion with everything changed because of this week in the history of the world when the promises of God were completely fulfilled in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. What's so different about the world because of Holy Week (you ask)? A quick look at the news headlines suggests that war, oppression, crime, hate, fractured relationships, and every other kind of evil are still with us. Sin still plagues our existence and death still looms, so what's changed because of Holy Week? Just this: Sin, the grave, and hell do not have the final word! The final word belongs to Jesus Christ. Whereas "...sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." (Romans 5:21). The evil one who has the power of sin and death has been defeated and final victory now only waits to be revealed when Jesus Christ returns!

"This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel."
- II Timothy 1:9b-10

Yours, for living under the reign of grace unto eternal life,

Pastor Howard

For further reading and reflection this week: Romans 5; Revelation 1:17-18

]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-03-22T10:35:17+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/mar-2010#unique-entry-id-1http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/mar-2010#unique-entry-id-1The gracious work of the Holy Spirit in our lives leads us to hold three realities in "balance", living as Christ-followers.  The first of these realities is the holiness of God.  That is, God is in a "class by Himself"; not only set-apart from any kind of wrong, but with a settled hatred of all sin.  The second reality is that sin is pervasive and awful.  That tendency to self-worship infects and affects us completely with the result of estrangement from God and our fellow human beings.  If that were the end of it, we would surely despair, but there is the third truth that the Holy Spirit constantly reminds us of and that is the triumph of grace!  God has satisfied His own holiness and accepted full payment for our sin in Christ. The Holy Spirit enables us to be balanced - keeping us humble by showing us the holiness of God and our own failure to attain it and yet keeping us confident of our acceptance with God because of the triumph of grace in the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Yours for living a grace-filled week,

Pastor Howard

For further reading a reflection this week:  Romans 8
]]>unmei@mac.comHome2010-03-15T22:03:06+09:00http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/mar-2010#unique-entry-id-0http://www.englishchurchtokyo.org/aboutus/aboutengdept/pastorsblog/files/mar-2010#unique-entry-id-0We're now in the 4th week of the season on the calendar of the Christian Church known as Lent, the 40 days leading up to Good Friday and Easter Sunday. These 40 days are a great time to focus on what our salvation cost the Lord in His suffering and death. My Lenten devotions have been centered on the lowliness and servanthood of Jesus Christ, who "...made himself nothing..." (Philippians 2:7a) so that we might have "...every spiritual blessing..." (Ephesians 1:3b) in Christ. It's only fitting that we should have talked about the promise and permanence of the Holy Spirit during Sunday's worship service, and look forward to talking about the work of the Holy Spirit this coming Sunday for only the work of the Holy Spirit can take me - a person who really wants to make himself something - and give a desire to serve out of humility and lowliness. Being a servant is the most unnatural thing I can think of and yet the work of the Holy Spirit in us can accomplish it.

Yours for a week of daily walking in the Spirit,

Pastor Howard

For your reading and reflection this week: Galatians 5:16-26]]>