by Jon Konnerup
Our hearts are saddened by the recent tragedy in Japan. We have not yet seen the full scale of the damage, death, and destruction. Despite these things, God is still in control and desires to be exalted and turned to in times of distress, according to Psalm 46:1-5.
As I write this article, it has only been a few weeks since the earthquake, and by the time this is in your hands there will have likely been many changes. Here is what we know right now.
Our missionaries and Japanese pastors report ongoing problems. The entire affected region is being governed by federal mandates carried out by the National Self Defense Forces. In most places, civilian entry to the affected area is being restricted. People are suffering from shortages of gasoline, roads have been damaged or destroyed after more than 50 reported earthquakes, and the fear of radioactive fallout from the damaged nuclear plants is ever present. All of these inhibit most relief efforts, but our churches are doing what they can to assist during this time of uncertainty.
Churches and individuals can give to the BBFI Mission Office Japan Relief Fund to assist our missionaries and churches. All money this fund receives will be directed to missionaries and Japan BBF pastors as the needs are shared.
Following are some of the needs already reported:
- Several pastors in the area have reported damaged buildings. Their congregations are also facing unemployment in addition to the shortages of gasoline, electricity, food, water, and medicine.
- A campsite is being set up to take in some evacuees from the damaged areas. Many supplies will be needed to assist with food, water, and bedding.
- One of our missionaries has been in contact with a Christian organization involved with providing relief services. He has been offered the opportunity to go under their “umbrella” to provide some relief supplies transported at his own expense. This organization has received approved certification to go into the needy areas to provide relief. Our missionary will need help to obtain this transportation in order to deliver the supplies given to him.
A Japanese pastor writes, “I believe that God is showing us Japanese Christians the importance of physical life, but more importantly, the eternal life given by our Lord Jesus Christ through His suffering at the cross on Calvary.”
Missionary Lavern Rodgers writes, “I dare to say, this is a wakeup call from God to draw attention to the biggest need, the spiritual need of the most unreached nation for Christ. I know our people will respond from both sides of the Pacific, and it will impact this nation as never before!”
Certainly we can pray for wisdom for our missionaries as they minister to these down and destitute who are considering the uncertainty of life.