3 minute read
GANBATTE KUDASAI - Japan Missions Networking
“MMS has reached out to seven nations for over three decades. It is time to explore new fields,” said Rev Derrick Lau, Executive Director of the Methodist Missions Society (MMS).
Mindful of the wisdom writer’s caution, “The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps” (Proverbs 16:9), MMS leadership strategically evaluated three potential mission fields. As circumstances unfolded, Japan became the clear choice. This decision was guided by both external validation and internal witness.
MMS consistently partners with churches and missionaries in its mission endeavours. The Apostle Paul’s exhortation to the church in Corinth forms the foundation of our efforts: “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth” (1 Corinthians 3:6). We recognise that several Methodist churches and missionaries are already serving in or exploring outreach opportunities in “the land of the rising ‘Son’.”
One faithful servant is Kathy Zheng from Bukit Panjang Methodist Church (BPMC), who has been serving the Lord in Sakai, Osaka, for over 25 years. Some of our local churches are actively partnering with and supporting her outreach ministries.
Other churches and missionaries are also exploring missions opportunities or obeying the Lord’s Great Commission in other parts of Japan.
On 24 October 2024, MMS organised a Japan missions networking session “Ganbatte Kudasai” to bring together several churches that are either exploring or already engaged in outreach in Japan. The purpose was to gather like-minded churches to discuss their interests, plans, and engagements; to explore possible areas of collaboration for more effective and strategic stewardship of God-given resources; and to establish a network of God’s people united for a common goal.
Truly, “The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few. Therefore, pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest” (Luke 10:2).
We warmly welcome all our local Methodist churches and those who feel called to serve as missionaries and ambassadors of Christ to join MMS. Together, let us bring the message of reconciliation—that in Christ, God is reconciling the world to Himself. Partner with MMS, the mission agency of the Methodist Church in Singapore, to seek and save the lost and to fulfil the Great Commission.
- - - - - - -
“Ganbatte Kudasai” is a Japanese phrase that means “please do your best”. It’s a polite way to encourage someone to give their all and strive for their highest potential.
- - - - - - -
Email mms@methodist.org.sg to contact MMS. You may view more Ganbatte Kudasai photos on MMS Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/mms.org.sg.
DO LIKE AND FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK!
