Pray for Japan on Sunday, August 6, 2017

Lectionary Selection: Matthew 14:13-21

Prayers for Japan:

Compassionate God,
On this Hiroshima Day, we pray for peace.
We pause to remember the devastation caused by the atomic bombs 72 years ago and the human suffering that continues to this day.
We also remember the horrific nuclear disaster in Fukushima 6 years ago. Be with the people of Fukushima and neighboring areas who still suffer.
We pray for a world that is free from the suffering caused by nuclear weapons and nuclear disasters.
Give our leaders the wisdom and the leadership that is needed for true peace in this world.
As Jesus had compassion for those who were hungry and sick, let us too have compassion. Let us also share what we have so that all are able to eat and be filled. Let us believe that with faith in God, we too can make possible what seems impossible!
Help us God so that we are not complacent with systems that leave people to suffer. Help us give voice to the injustices that exist and help bring about the peaceful world you meant for us.

Be with us and guide us,
Amen

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Mission Stewardship Moment from Japan:

The Bazaar Café in Kyoto is a place where many people who come will find themselves filled, and not only with good food! It is a coffee house ministry of our partner church in Japan. We serve a variety of ethnic food, like Thai, Korean, and Filipino dishes, as well as good coffee and cake.

Among the many activities at the Café, a “bible sharing” takes place once a month. We start off with a simple meal, usually leftovers from that day. After the meal, the leader (a local pastor or myself) reads a Bible verse and gives a reflection. Then there is time for free sharing. Most of those who attend are not Christian. Among those attending are those recovering from drug addiction, some have been in and out of prison, some are LGBTQ, some have AIDS, or a mental illness, some are foreign residents, and some are students. I am always amazed by the depth of this time of sharing. Though many in attendance have never read the Bible, they are able to relate the verse to their lives and have something to share. They share about their lives – their struggles with addiction, discrimination, being misunderstood, or rejected. They speak about their brokenness and struggles, but also their hopes. There are tears, but also laughter. It is a circle of compassion and healing. I sense Christ’s presence in this sharing of food and sharing stories.

The gospel is lived and shared!

(Prayer and Mission Moment by Martha Mensendiek)

Mission Partners in Japan:

More information on Japan: http://www.globalministries.org/japan

Global Ministries Mission Coworkers in Japan:
Martha Mensendiek, serves with Doshisha University, Kyoto, Japan as a social welfare teacher. Her appointment is made possible by your gifts to Disciples’ Mission Fund, Our Churches Wider Mission, and your special gifts.

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