Email sent July 2, 2008.        Email index

Dear praying friend,

Thanks for praying.

Today we had HUGE surprise! Mrs. Katoh, a lady who trusted Christ about 8 years ago, but because of pressures from husband and extended family separated herself from our church for the last 5 years, out of the blue came to our ladies’ Bible study today! I have been visiting her occasionally; just to let her know we have not deserted her.

It took all the courage she had to come today. But she said, "I felt that at least Laurence and Leona would welcome me back." Now she is trying to overcome the shame involved in the "loss of face" involved in being away from our church for over 5 years and then trying to come back. Please pray that she can overcome the feelings of shame and plunge herself deeply into God’s grace and love. Ask the Lord to give her boldness not to delay anymore but to come to church this next Sunday already! She told me today that she has been lonely and realized that she needs others to help her along.

The other thing she shared was this, "I can see how important it is to keep on keeping on." She continued by saying, "Recently I have been thinking about how Laurence and Leona have just kept on keeping on all these years. That’s why there is a church group here. That’s why there is a church building here!" (She understands of course that it is only by God’s grace that we are able to see any of this happen.)

Also, she realized that it is simple to do something for a short time, but real value only comes when we endure over the long haul. Wow! Awesome words! Anyone else out there need to hear those words? They did my heart good today! A word from the Lord for me at the right time! Thank you Jesus!

Leona and I had a great time in Hokkaido taking a break from ministry to spend some quality time together, celebrate 25 years of marriage, and to do some sightseeing. It was a really special time for us.

The couple considering divorce is still hanging in there and coming to church. It seems things are improving slowly. Continue to pray she will have victory over a 20 year habit that is one of the trigger points for disagreement and conflict in their marriage. Pray too that they can continue their commitment to pray together each morning before the husband goes to work.

Our "needy" family continues to struggle. They are fasting and praying this week for God to do a healing work in their daughter’s life. Join us in prayer for a God-glorifying breakthrough!

Leona has spent time with a member of our "dysfunctional" family. She feels the volatility has subsided a bit. But there has not been any resolution yet. Much prayer and grace is needed.

Thanks again for praying.

We are thankful for each one who keeps on keeping on with us!
"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

Blessings!
Laurence

3-1-11 Izumi-cho
Toyota City 471-0803
Japan
TEL (011-81) 565-88-3126

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