Down the Christmas Shopping Trail

Yesterday I went Christmas shopping with Mom.  For those of you who have had this experience with me know, this can be a very exhausting, frustrating experience.  Usually in the hustle and bustle of the season this task is pushed to the last possible moment increasing our stress.  This year we worked it in earlier.  The pace was more relaxed as we headed to a new mall.  As usual, I knew in my mind what the perfect gift looked like for each person.  The trouble begins as we hit the shops only to find the shops do not have that same “perfect gift” anywhere on their shelves.  This means it is time to shift to flexibility mode.  My flexibility mode is almost always out of order, so the frustration begins to mount.  This time we were not as pressured for time, so we kept strolling along.  The mall was crowded.  The shops had many nice things, but either the color or size or price was wrong.  Then, I found a great present.  Mom and I looked around in that shop for more, but this was the only offering.  I bought it feeling great joy, only to be reminded that this was only one of several.  The day was long.  We went to other malls and stores.  After endless hours of walking and shopping and spending I was able to come home with the task complete.

Much later I was reflecting on the first Christmas. God gave us the very gift that He planned.  He did not have to settle for second best or less.  He gave the gift He imagined.  He gave the perfect gift.  I am so thankful for that perfect gift which was Jesus all wrapped up in a human body.  It was Jesus coming to offer me salvation.  My gifts seem insignificant in comparison.  Giving gifts to those we love is fun.  I need to remember the perfect Gift has already been given.  I can never match that.  My gifts are just tokens to express my love.  God’s gift was eternal.  Thank You, God for this matchless gift.

Salad for Lunch

Today I am just relaxing.  This morning saw me escorting my mom to the local mall, well, mini-mall, and getting my crooked glasses straightened out- a result of taking a nap with them.  Once that was done my mom was in shopping mode, but not me.  I was in “Let’s get home” mode, but shop we did.  Fortunately, I was able to convince her all we had time for was groceries, like bananas, mikans, grapes and some meat.  Next, as I was thinking “Home, here we come” she was driving me to another store to buy some household items.  Boring, but necessary for life.  I was so exhausted I came home and took a nap, without glasses, and then I was sure lunch would be ready, but not!  Oh dear!  Starvation was about to set in, but Dad saved me with a snack.  At last this fantastic lunch showed his face, but he was only salad.  I hope dinner is a better fare, or I may waste away.  However, I am chagrinned to remember those who only eat once or twice a day.  I have three meals and nourishing snacks through the day. How dare I grumble.  Lord, forgive me for not appreciating Your abundant supply in my life, even if it is just salad.  “Give thanks in all things, and Jeffrey, that means you.”

“Okay, Lord.  I will work on this.  I want to obey.”

Now to get my stomach to agree. 

See Wedding Slideshows, etc.

The below slideshows and short movies come from Abi's wedding and receptions.

Note the passwords needed for viewing.

Title: Abi & Naooki's paths come together

Password: thebelovedabiandnaoaki

Address: http://vimeo.com/27184188

Title: Engagement Ceremony

Password: engagement

Address: http://vimeo.com/28184924

Title: Here Comes the Bride

Password: weddingmarch

Address: http://vimeo.com/28184059

Title: Wedding Vows

Password: promised

Address: http://vimeo.com/28184167

Title: Selected Wedding Photos

Password: weddingphotos

Address: http://vimeo.com/28345696

(**These photos are a bit stretched, a tech problem I hope to fix in a week or two.  But a lot of good photos, just everybody looks a bit fat.)

Papa Hill w/Jeffrey's permission

Hope Amidst Pain

Hope amidst pain

As across the land I gazed

I gasp at the barren field.

The panorama has been razed,

A great wound unhealed.

A floor of polished wood

Defiantly glares at me

Walls and roof once stood

Now all are washed to sea.

Days ago the Gospel here spoken

Now only a floor and cross remain,

The cross of comfort, a token

Of hope amidst the pain.

Upon this spot Good News once poured

Into the thirsty, the tired, hurt.

Most hardened and left uncured.

Choosing to live in dark desert.

This church all in its beauty

Could only reach a precious few

Bravely she fulfilled her duty,

Out of granite hearts a church to hew. 

Working hard to be oasis

To the burdened, heavy laden.

To give a drink of salvation’s chalice

To shine, a place of haven.

Yet here stands the cross of comfort

A sign of hope and deep, sure peace.

At this cross gather the stalwart

Where they find joy and release.

Now hearts that were encased and hard

Are becoming cracked and tender

Devastation has left them scarred;

It is time for the Gentle Mender.

Love and grace release your scent,

By the arms of the Church heal.

From Thy blood freely spent

Let them see what indeed is real.

Jeffrey Hill

August 23, 2011

Note:  This is written about the Kessenuma First Bible Baptist Church which was destroyed in the March 11, 2011 Tsunami.  It is located in place which for many years has resisted the Gospel.  Today the pastor is living in a refugee shelter and is ministering to those in his community.  He is being the hands of Jesus there where so much has been lost.  My dad and many others are helping as this is a special opportunity for Japan where less than one half of one percent are Christians.  My mom says it is an expensive opportunity and should not be wasted.

A major event is occurring in my family this summer.  Twenty one years ago I was praying for a baby to come to our family.  I was filled to overflowing when my beautiful, exquisite, tiny baby sister came to our house.  She has been mostly a delight to me ever since.  We have shared a room, shared secrets, shared untold memories.  Abi, remember getting in the car in our pajamas and heading to Disney? 

Now, Abi has found me a big brother.  He is a handsome, loving, wonderful big brother.  We have begun making memories with him, Naoaki.  I have gone to the game center, gone to Disney, put our feet in cold springs, ridden in his fun car.  He is the best big brother I could have.

July 23 Abi and Naoaki will start a new family.  They will be making new memories.  They will live far away. I know the meaning of “bittersweet” in a new way.  I have great joy and great sadness all at the same time.  I look forward to sharing new memories with them.  I am excited to see how God will use them.  I am sad for they will not be part of my daily life.

In the midst of these thoughts God comforted me with this thought.  Because of our common faith in Jesus, we will be able to meet each other daily at the Throne of Grace.  As we pray for one another’s needs, lives, and dreams we will meet at that throne.  Will it be different? Yes!  Will it be hard?  Yes!  Will it be difficult? Yes!  Will it be good?  Yes!

So, I conclude with this message to Abi and Naoaki.  See you at the Throne!

今年の夏私の家族の中で大きなイベントがあります。２１年前、私はヒルファミリーに赤ちゃんが加わるようにおいのりしました、私は、小さな可愛い赤ちゃんが来たときは大喜びでした。彼女はその時から私たちを喜ばせています。ルームシェアをしたり、秘密を分かち合ったり、素敵な思い出がたくさんあります。アビ、パジャマのまま車に乗ってディズニーに行ったの覚えている？？

アビは私のためにお兄さんをみつけてきました。彼はかっこよくて、優しい、素敵なお兄さんです。彼、なおあきと、思い出を作り始めています。ゲームセンターに行ったり、ディズニーに行ったり、湧水の中に足を入れたり、ドライブに行ったりしています。彼は最高のお兄さんです。

７月２３日にアビとなおあきは新しい家族をはじめます。彼らは新しい思い出をつくりはじめます。彼らは遠くにすみます。ほろ苦いという言葉の意味を新しく知った気がします。私は同時に大きな喜びと大きな悲しみを体験しています。私は二人と新しい思い出を作れることを楽しみにしています。神様が彼らを遣わすことを期待しています。でも、毎日彼らに会えないのは寂しいです。

こういう気持ちがある中でも神様は私を慰めて下さいました。私たちは共通するものがあります、それはイエス様を信じる信仰です。なので私たちは毎日神様の御前で会うことができます。お互いのために祈るとき私たちは会うことができます。いつもと違いますか？はい。大変ですか？はい。難しいですか？はい。素晴らしいですか？はい！

アビとなおあきにこのメッセージを送って終わりたいと思います。神様の御前で会いましょう！！

2011 April 11 - Praise & Pray - Hills of Japan

  ***YOUR PRAYERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE!!***

We celebrated the one month anniversary of the “Eastern Japan Great Earthquake” with another medium shaker. 

Isaiah 59:19 “From the west, people will fear the name of the LORD, and from the rising of the sun, they will revere His glory, for He will come like a pent-up flood that the breath of the LORD drives along.”

A PASSIONATE APPEAL BY A JAPANESE PASTOR FOR HIS NATION

Pastor Chida birthed the vision for the Keisen Christ Church to birth other chapels across Japan which would in turn birth chapels that would birth chapels.  He mentored Pastor Okita the pastor with whom we partner.  Pastor Chida who now serves as the Barnabas Pastor of the Keisen Christ Church continues to train other pastors and churches in the principle of birthing churches that will birth churches that will birth churches, that in fact birth networks of chapels that birth networks of chapels.  He travels across the nation from Hokkaido to Okinawa and is known for his humble spirit devoted to the Lord and his passion to spread God’s love across Japan.

The following link will allow you to listen to Pastor Chida’s passionate appeal (translated) for worldwide prayer that God’s tsunami of love will shake up this nation, saving them from becoming victims of traumatic syndrome, but rather healing their hearts by the love of Jesus Christ resulting in praise to the creator God for the opportunity given to them by this oceanic tsunami to be saved by the Lord’s “love tsunami.” 

Please listen to this at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XZBA99Apquk

Please, PLEASE join us in humbling ourselves before the Lord with the same tender heart of Josiah (2Kings 22:19) to appeal to our Lord God for the saving tsunami love of Jesus Christ to change our Japanese friends.

Thanks so much for your faithful prayers!!  We are DESPERATE for your prayers!

BTW I tried to attach some photos to the last ePraise & Pray of Pastor Minegishi and the destruction to his church.  You can see those at http://jeffreymaki-ink.com/blog/

PLEASE direct other interested “prayer warriors” to http://jeffreymaki-ink.com/blog/ to read these updates.Remember, Cling to the LORD your God! (Cp. Deuteronomy 13:4) --- Then hold on for the ride of your life!

 

Love Blossoms

Family With You In Christ,

Abi, Jeffrey, Cheryl & Leon

THANKS!!… to the many of you who have contributed financially for this ministry to the Earthquake victims.

You can participate in this emergency ministry by contributing to the WorldVenture Japan Earthquake.  These funds for the most part will be used for the relief efforts lead by the Japanese Association of CB Churches and us partnering missionaries.  Click below… (or copy and paste it.)

https://worldventure.com/Give/Support-Projects-Ministries/Projects/JAPAN-EARTHQUAKE.html

We thank all of our supporters faithful supports!!  We thank God for those who have been able to increase and the new supporters in this past month.

OUR SUPPORT NEED: $1,777/month.

To contribute or make support commitments go to:

www.worldventure.com
Find our name under the “FIND A MISSIONARY”.
Then look for the “make a donation” or “make a commitment” near the top of the page.

Or send to:

WorldVenture
1501 W Mineral Ave.
Littleton, CO
80120-5612.

Thanks!!

 *** *** *** *** ***
FROM:  Leon & Cheryl Hill
ADDRESS:  3-6-14 Matsuba
            Ryugasaki Shi, Ibaraki Ken
            Japan  301-0043
TEL/FAX:  0297-66-5030
            (from USA) 81-297-66-5030
Cell:  090-6537-2635
WorldVenture:  http://worldventure.com/

*** *** *** *** ***

2011 April 7 - Praise & Pray - Hills of Japan

***YOUR PRAYERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE!!***

Below I have copied in a report forwarded to me from a dear friend and pastor in Hawaii.  He received this report from another friend of his, Rev. Inafuku, who pastors a church in downtown Tokyo.  He and his church have also sent teams to the area most affected by the earthquake and tsunami.  Though a different church group than ours they have ministered significantly for one of the pastors in our church group.  I declare, how wonderfully God brings us together.

Yoshiko & Hiroshi Minegishi with Elmer Inafuku

We had another good shaking at 7.4 this evening with the epicenter in the same place as the big one.  But not to worry, it was just an ‘aftershock’. 

Please continue to pray for the multitude of families who still live from day to day.

Please read this exciting testimony and report by Rev. Inafuku regarding Rev. Minegishi.  

*** *** *** *** ***

On our first trip to Miyagi (3/18-20), we met Hiroshi and Yoshiko Minegishi, pastor of First Bible Baptist Church of Kesennuma, Miyagi, a city with a population of 70,000. His city was one of the hardest hit in the earthquake and tsunami catastrophe of 3/11.

Pastor & Mrs. Minegishi and Pastor Inafuku

Vivid videos of the tsunami hitting Kesennuma can be seen on YouTube at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QYhVIUjWN8E

 

The city was also engulfed in a raging fire that burned all night. That can be seen at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bdmvCydsjC4

 

Pastor Minegishi was working in his church office when the earthquake struck at 2:46PM. They have many earthquakes in their area, and actually had had one just a few weeks before. At that time, the tsunami warnings sounded, but there was only a small wave. But on 3/11, the jolt was so strong, Pastor Minegishi sensed this time was different.

 

He had worked at a nuclear power plant before and was trained to check the sea right away whenever a quake occurred. So he jumped in his car and rushed to the sea to check whether it was receding or not. Actually he relates he didn’t see a strong recession, but the warning sirens were sounding, and his instincts told him this was the real McCoy, so he rushed home, picked up his wife and daughter, and headed for higher ground immediately. The roads were still clear, and they could leave the area without any problem. The tsunami hit 40 minutes later.

 

Many people weren’t sure whether there would be a tsunami or not. When they finally realized one was coming, they all tried to make a getaway in their cars. But by then it was too late – the roads got jammed, and they got stuck in the traffic. The tsunami crushed them in its relentless path.

 

An older lady in Pastor Minegishi’s church shared this story of what happened to her brother. He picked up his daughter with his car, and they headed for his daughter’s child’s kindergarten. They made the fatal mistake of trying to pick up her child instead of escaping themselves and trusting the kindergarten to watch over the children. The schools in Japan are trained to protect the children in their care at the first sign of danger. So her child was already being taken to higher ground while they were headed for the kindergarten. Sadly, they got caught in the traffic jam that trapped many. As danger approached, the father ordered the daughter to get out of the car and seek safety in a nearby 3-story concrete building. She did so, but he was still determined to go to the kindergarten. The daughter relates the last words she heard from her father while talking over their cell phones were: “The water’s come!” and then he was cut off. The tsunami slammed into the car and swept it away. She has searched in vain for her father and their car, but has not been able to locate either.

 

Pastor Minegishi returned to his church and home the next day. To his horror, they were both swept completely away, and nothing is left where they once stood. They had built a new church sanctuary and dedicated it just 3 years ago. But they have lost everything. He loves to read and down through the years had collected thousands of books covering many Christian as well as secular topics. But every single book in his library has been washed away. He felt like he has experienced what Job went through when Job lost everything – his home, possessions, business, and even children. Through this experience, Pastor Minegishi has realized that God’s love is the most valuable thing in life, far above all material possessions. He has renewed his dedication to God and wants more than ever to love Him and live for His purpose. He quotes Song of Solomon 8:7a often, “Many waters cannot quench love; rivers cannot wash it away.”

Where the Kesunnuma Church once stood...unbelievable!

As much as 80% of sections of Kesennuma have been demolished. But Pastor Minegishi feels a strong calling and burden for the people of his city. He wants to impart hope and life to them in the midst of this catastrophe. A few days ago, he found a large farmhouse which he can use as a storage space. If he can receive relief goods, he wants to distribute them to the afflicted in his city. And as he is able to, he would like to purchase land on higher ground and build a new church sanctuary there, where it will be safe from tsunamis.

 

On our 3^rd trip, we want to send a team and a truck loaded with 2 tons of supplies to Kesennuma to assist Pastor Minegishi’s ministry of distributing relief goods to the needy. Thank you for partnering with us in this vital mission to a stricken city.

 

On our 3^rd trip, planned for 3/30 – 4/4, we will have 3 trucks carrying 6 tons of materials and 8 vans, transporting 40 people! This week we are hitting a peak in momentum as both domestic and international teams are coming together to offer help any way we can. I will write more details about this trip later.

 

Please pray for Kesennuma First Bible Baptist Church:

1.    To be able to serve as a distribution center in their city.

2.    To be able to build a new church sanctuary and parsonage.

3.    To effectively share the love of God to many in their city.

4.    For the people of Kesunnuma to be able to overcome the immense hardships confronting them and to unite to rebuild their lives and their city.

*** *** *** *** ***

Thanks so much for your faithful prayers!!  We are DESPERATE for your prayers!

PLEASE direct other interested “prayer warriors” to http://jeffreymaki-ink.com/blog/ to read these updates.
Remember, Cling to the LORD your God! (Cp. Deuteronomy 13:4) --- Then hold on for the ride of your life!

Family With You In Christ,

Abi, Jeffrey, Cheryl & Leon

THANKS!!... to the many of you who have contributed financially for this ministry to the Earthquake victims.

You can participate in this emergency ministry by contributing to the WorldVenture Japan Earthquake.  These funds for the most part will be used for the relief efforts lead by the Japanese Association of CB Churches and us partnering missionaries.  Click below… (or copy and paste it.)

https://worldventure.com/Give/Support-Projects-Ministries/Projects/JAPAN-EARTHQUAKE.html

We thank all of our supporters faithful supports!!  We thank God for those who have been able to increase and the new supporters in this past month.

OUR SUPPORT NEED: $1,777/month.

To contribute or make support commitments go to:

www.worldventure.com
Find our name under the "FIND A MISSIONARY".
Then look for the "make a donation" or "make a commitment" near the top of the page.

Or send to:
WorldVenture
1501 W Mineral Ave.
Littleton, CO
80120-5612.

Thanks!!

 *** *** *** *** ***
FROM:  Leon & Cheryl Hill
ADDRESS:  3-6-14 Matsuba
            Ryugasaki Shi, Ibaraki Ken
            Japan  301-0043
TEL/FAX:  0297-66-5030
            (from USA) 81-297-66-5030
Cell:  090-6537-2635
WorldVenture:  http://worldventure.com/

*** *** *** *** ***

2011 April 2 - Praise & Pray - Hills of Japan

***YOUR PRAYERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE!!***

CLARIFICATION REGARDING OUR PERSONAL SITUATION
The news sources out of the USA do NOT represent what WE PERSONALLY face on a daily basis.  We live 150 miles south of the Nuclear Power Plant.

A NOTE FROM CHERYL
Today in the car I heard a card written to a music program. It was from a doctor in Miyagi prefecture which is the area so devastated by the earthquake and tsunami.  He related how where his hospital was there was still no water or gas.  There was no internet or television.  Therefore, the music of the radio was very comforting.  He talked about the music of Bach, and how that encouraged all of his patients.

This made me think that as Christians we need to be going with music into these areas.  We need to be filling that despair with hope and love and Jesus.  Music can do that.  I pray that someday we will not be hearing about how wonderful the secular radio station was, but about how comforting the church was in this time.  We cannot afford to let this costly opportunity slip away without us making a big impact with the Gospel.  Now is the day of salvation.  Now is the time to move forward as a mighty army.

We have heard that a large population of refugees from the north will move into a facility in Ryugaoka.  Pray for Pastor Okita and us as we consider how to minister to them.

Pray also, as anger and depression have shown themselves among the refugees.  As Cheryl says may we bring the eternal song of the love of Jesus and His certain hope to them, while we minister to their very real physical and emotional needs.

Thanks so much for your faithful prayers!!  We are DESPERATE for your prayers!

PLEASE direct other interested “prayer warriors” to http://jeffreymaki-ink.com/blog/ to read these updates.

Remember, Cling to the LORD your God! (Cp. Deuteronomy 13:4) --- Then hold on for the ride of your life!

Family With You In Christ,

Abi, Jeffrey, Cheryl & Leon

You can participate in this emergency ministry by contributing to the WorldVenture Japan Earth.  These funds for the most part will be used for the relief efforts lead by the Japanese Association of CB Churches and us partnering missionaries.  Click below… (or copy and paste it.)
https://worldventure.com/Give/Support-Projects-Ministries/Projects/JAPAN-EARTHQUAKE.html

We thank our new supporters!!
OUR SUPPORT NEED: $1,812/month.
(For you who read this far, last time I put in the annual not the monthly need.)
To contribute or make support commitments go to:
www.worldventure.com
Find our name under the "FIND A MISSIONARY".
Then look for the "make a donation" or "make a commitment" near the top of the page.

Or send to:
WorldVenture
1501 W Mineral Ave.
Littleton, CO
80120-5612.

Thanks!!

 *** *** *** *** ***
FROM:  Leon & Cheryl Hill
ADDRESS:  3-6-14 Matsuba
            Ryugasaki Shi, Ibaraki Ken
            Japan  301-0043
TEL/FAX:  0297-66-5030
            (from USA) 81-297-66-5030
Cell:  090-6537-2635
WorldVenture:  http://worldventure.com/
 *** *** *** *** ***

2011 March 26 - Praise & Pray - Hills of Japan

***YOUR PRAYERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE!!***

THANK YOU FOR YOUR PRAYERS!!!

Seemingly things calm down a bit more every day.  Please do not be lulled to sleep regarding how serious the threat.  250,000 still reside in refuge centers.  Currently reports state over 10,000 dead, but they have not yet searched the evacuated circle hit by the tsunami around the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant.  It will still take some time to do that.  It will take months or longer before the full clearing of all the debris.  The rebuilding will take even longer.  Costs will continue to raise for all, impacting those in great need the most.

Please, PLEASE pray that the Japanese also will not be lulled to sleep regarding their precarious position spiritually.  As they rise again out of the dust and ashes, may they not mistake this temporal recovery for the eternal recovery offered by our LORD Jesus Christ who rose up from the grave.

Pray especially for the Nuclear Power Plant employees that they will be safe.  Pray that a final solution will be found and pray that the world will know that the LORD Jesus Christ gave them the solution.

We as a family will be out on Monday helping as we can in a community a little more than an hour north of us.

Thanks so much for your faithful prayers!!  We are DESPERATE for your prayers!

PLEASE direct other interested “prayer warriors” to http://jeffreymaki-ink.com/blog/ to read these updates.

Remember, Cling to the LORD your God! (cp. Deuteronomy 13:4) --- and hold on for the ride of your life!

Family With You In Christ,

Abi, Jeffrey, Cheryl & Leon

You can participate in this emergency ministry by contributing to the WorldVenture Japan Earth.  These funds for the most part will be used for the relief efforts lead by the Japanese Association of CB Churches and us partnering missionaries.  Click below… (or copy and paste it.)

https://worldventure.com/Give/Support-Projects-Ministries/Projects/JAPAN-EARTHQUAKE.html

 We thank our new supporters, but now…

OUR SUPPORT NEED: $22,449/month.  Falling $ strikes AGAIN

To contribute or make support commitments go to:
www.worldventure.com
Find our name under the "FIND A MISSIONARY".
Then look for the "make a donation" or "make a commitment" near the top of the page.

Or send to:
WorldVenture
1501 W Mineral Ave.
Littleton, CO
80120-5612.

Thanks!!

 *** *** *** *** ***
FROM:  Leon & Cheryl Hill
ADDRESS:  3-6-14 Matsuba
            Ryugasaki Shi, Ibaraki Ken
            Japan  301-0043
TEL/FAX:  0297-66-5030
            (from USA) 81-297-66-5030
Cell:  090-6537-2635
WorldVenture:  http://worldventure.com/

 *** *** *** *** ***

2011 March 18 - Praise & Pray - Hills of Japan

***YOUR PRAYERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE!!***

Below is a letter by our pastor whose church is 5 kilometers from the nuclear power plant that is at risk in Fukushima Prefecture.  Please read it and feel the passion of this pastor’s heart.

************

Refugee Life Report by Rev. Akira Satoh

I give thanks for your prayers.  On March 15^th at 1 in the morning, my wife and I, having joined a truck which was full of relief supplies, stopped at a local store, taking anything we could get our hands on from the shelves, buying it all and filling our trunk and back seat area; with these supplies we headed north straight for Fukushima.  Though on the way we saw sink holes in the road and houses that had partially collapsed we moved smoother than we expected, yet we also heard via the media about another explosion at the nuclear power plant and the leakage of radioactivity and added to that we heard reports of the enlarging of the evacuation area, prohibitions regarding entering the evacuation area and the like, so though perplexed we chose the inland road.  It took 10 hours, but finally we arrived safely in Aizu at the refuge shelter (a church) at 11o’clock in the morning.  Hallelujah!

About one-third of the 60 church members came from near the nuclear power plant, the radioactivity contamination testing not yet done they then joined us in the afternoon.  At that time when we immediately started with a worship service, I began to hear their sobbing voices and I realized just how much each had passed through upon arriving here.  In the evening we went to a nearby hot springs and shared the joy of bathing for the first time in five days.  We were deeply touched by the kindness of the Aizu Church.  One by one, trembling with emotion, I saw them call out and embracing each other saying “Your alive!” and the flow of tears started flowing again.

And all that to realize, they have just started Gypsy like wanderings, no longer having a home, and I ask these who left with just the clothes on their backs, “Do you need to launder anything?” and when they answered “We have NOTHING to wash.” I could not find the words to respond to them.  When I asked, I found that some of them have had nothing to drink or eat for 3 days; others had spent those days numb with cold.  This drifting lifestyle has just started with the pressing need to secure gasoline and a place to stay.  This large family of 60 people trying to live together, and making matters worse this is a nationwide emergency in which it is hard to make decisions, so we have decided to head north preparing to establish ourselves, anticipating a protracted situation.  Perhaps as a result of exhaustion, there are those who have received I.V. in the hospitals, from the old to the babes as God’s people after the exodus, we will be traveling in the “wilderness”.  Will we ever be able to return to that town?  Will it become ruins?  Will we be able to return in 2 or 3 months?  When will we again be able to open our front doors to the church and our homes?  All seems to be a drift, in the midst of feeling our way we unite our strength guided by the pillar of fire and cloud, no other option but to wander.

The day before we left, the police gave a special “disaster relief” certification for our car so we were able to get a full tank of gas.  Tomorrow the Yonezawa Church will pay a great sacrifice by receiving us in their building.  We give thanks for their compassion and sympathy, and we can do nothing but kindly accept this means of survival.  It is just like living out a scene in a drama, I never thought I would have this kind of experience in my lifetime.  O Lord, may you protect this flock which is precious in your eye, which has begun to wander scattered about in various places like the “Remnant” like a people left behind.

Psalms 121

¹I lift up my eyes to the hills.
   From where does my help come?
² My help comes from the LORD,
   who made heaven and earth.

 ³He will not let your foot be moved;
   he who keeps you will not slumber.
⁴Behold, he who keeps Israel
   will neither slumber nor sleep.

************

Please make PRAYER A PRIORITY for this congregation a priority, and ALSO PRAY FOR THE SALVATION OF THE MANY others now in similar circumstances that still do not know the love of Jesus or the fellowship of His family.

Thanks so much for your faithful prayers!!  We are DESPERATE for your prayers!

PLEASE direct other interested “prayer warriors” to http://jeffreymaki-ink.com/blog/ to read these updates.

Remember, Cling to the LORD your God! (cp. Deuteronomy 13:4) --- and hold on for the ride of your life!

Family With You In Christ,

Abi, Jeffrey, Cheryl & Leon

You can participate in this emergency ministry by contributing to the WorldVenture Japan Earth.  These funds for the most part be used for the relief efforts lead by the Japanese Association of CB Churches and us partnering missionaries.  Click below…

https://worldventure.com/Give/Support-Projects-Ministries/Projects/JAPAN-EARTHQUAKE.html

OUR SUPPORT NEED: $1871/month.  Falling $ strikes again.

To contribute or make support commitments go to:
www.worldventure.com
Find our name under the "FIND A MISSIONARY".
Then look for the "make a donation" or "make a commitment" near the top of the page.

Or send to:
WorldVenture
1501 W Mineral Ave.
Littleton, CO
80120-5612.

Thanks!!

 *** *** *** *** ***
FROM:  Leon & Cheryl Hill
ADDRESS:  3-6-14 Matsuba
            Ryugasaki Shi, Ibaraki Ken
            Japan  301-0043
TEL/FAX:  0297-66-5030
            (from USA) 81-297-66-5030
Cell:  090-6537-2635
Email:
  Leon & Family:  leon@hillsofjapan.com
  Cheryl:  cheryl@hillsofjapan.com
  Jeffrey:   jeffrey@hillsofjapan.com
  Abigail:  abigail@hillsofjapan.com
Links:
HillsofJapan:  under reconstruction

WorldVenture:  http://worldventure.com/

 *** *** *** *** ***

2011 March 16 - Praise & Pray - The Hills of Japan

***YOUR PRAYERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE!!***

We were on the brink of sending this out when the earthquake took center stage.  Now seems to be a good time to share our good, earthshaking news with you.  Join us in celebrating this time.

Leon & Cheryl Hill and Masaki & Shizu Konno would like to announce the engagement of their children, Abigail Megumi Hill and Naoaki "David" Konno.  The engagement ceremony will be held on the 20th of March during the worship service at Keisen Christ Church Omitama Chapel, where the Konnos are the lay Pastors.  The wedding will be held at Keisen Christ Church Midorino Chapel on July 23rd.

For those of you who do not know Naoaki, he is a wonderful Christian young man from one of our network churches.  We have known his parents since before he was born.  He is currently a medical student at Akita University in Northern Japan.  They will locate in Akita after the wedding.

As we have observed Abi and Naoaki over the last few years we have seen the work of the Lord in their lives.  They will make a good team and will be about the Lord’s work.  It is an exciting time, and while there are some added challenges due to the changing situation in Japan right now from day to day, we are moving ahead as planned.  I shared this with a neighbor yesterday.  Her response was that is so good to have this happen now.  It shows there is still life and hope.  We agree, and want you to share in our joy.  Join us in praying that in this event, also, the name of Jesus will be lifted up.

Thanks so much for your faithful prayers!!  We are DESPERATE for your prayers!

PLEASE direct other interested “prayer warriors” to http://jeffreymaki-ink.com/blog/ to read these updates.

Remember, Cling to the LORD your God! (cp. Deuteronomy 13:4) --- and hold on for the ride of your life!

Family With You In Christ,

Abi, Jeffrey, Cheryl & Leon

OUR SUPPORT NEED: $1871/month.  Falling $ strikes again.

To contribute or make support commitments go to:
www.worldventure.com
Find our name under the "FIND A MISSIONARY".
Then look for the "make a donation" or "make a commitment" near the top of the page.

Or send to:
WorldVenture
1501 W Mineral Ave.
Littleton, CO
80120-5612.

Thanks!!

 *** *** *** *** ***
FROM:  Leon & Cheryl Hill
ADDRESS:  3-6-14 Matsuba
            Ryugasaki Shi, Ibaraki Ken
            Japan  301-0043
TEL/FAX:  0297-66-5030
            (from USA) 81-297-66-5030
Cell:  090-6537-2635
Email:
  Leon & Family:  leon@hillsofjapan.com
  Cheryl:  cheryl@hillsofjapan.com
  Jeffrey:   jeffrey@hillsofjapan.com
  Abigail:  abigail@hillsofjapan.com
Links:
WorldVenture:  Under reconstruction

 *** *** *** *** ***

2011 March 14 - From the Hills of Japan

***YOUR PRAYERS MAKE A DIFFERENCE!!***

HOUSEKEEPING

Some you did not get our March 12^th ePraise & Pray.  Last Monday my computer started breathing its last breaths, yet in ‘safe mode’ I made fairly comprehensive backups.  But unfortunately, when I copied over the email address into the new computer not everything followed.  So I used my online google account just as it was, forgetting that those addresses had not been attended to for some time.  Hopefully I have fixed that now.

EARTHQUAKE UPDATE

We continue to have multiple aftershocks daily and nightly.  We hardly respond to mildly strong earthquakes which previously caused us to jump out of bed and make preparations.  We open our eyes just enough to consider for a bit.  We are told that some of these exceed 4 on their scale here.

Electricity:  We were told we would have daily power outages starting from noon – 4p today.  As of yet (4:20pm as I write) we have not had any.  Maybe tomorrow?

Water:  We now get what Cheryl calls “a thin stream” of water from the tap, that is, until somebody flushes.

Gas:  Working

Gasoline:  Gas tanks full enough and have not checked yet ourselves, but reports of closed stations or limitations abound.  We are just trying not to drive.

Food:  Our stock is adequate.  Again stocks are low and the question remains, “Will the grocery stores begin to get deliveries?”

The above represents our situation.  Abi’s is about the same.

 FOCUSED PRAYER NEED

One of the larger churches in our association is just 5 kilometers from the “at risk” Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant.  The authorities have evacuated a 20 kilometer range around this plant.  This includes most of the 100 plus members of this church, who now find themselves in emergency shelters.  The Sr. Pastor, Pastor Satoh, finds himself 200 kilometers south near Tokyo.  He and his wife were attending the same seminary graduation ceremony I was at, for their son-in-law’s graduation.  They tried to return but could not.

Worst Case Scenario:  Too much nuclear radiation could make the region where the church stands and the people live a ‘no man’s land’.

Please pray Romans 8:28 for them.  Pray that disaster will be turned to opportunity for the Kingdom of Jesus Christ Our Lord.  Pray for comfort and adequate food, water, & etc.

Thanks so much for your faithful prayers!!  We are DESPERATE for your prayers!

Remember, Cling to the LORD your God! (cp. Deuteronomy 13:4) --- and hold on for the ride of your life!

Family With You In Christ,

Abi, Jeffrey, Cheryl & Leon

OUR SUPPORT NEED: $1871/month.  Falling $ strikes again.

To contribute or make support commitments go to:
www.worldventure.com
Find our name under the "FIND A MISSIONARY".
Than look for the "make a donation" or "make a commitment" near the top of the page.

Or send to:
WorldVenture
1501 W Mineral Ave.
Littleton, CO
80120-5612.

Thanks!!

 *** *** *** *** ***
FROM:  Leon & Cheryl Hill
ADDRESS:  3-6-14 Matsuba
            Ryugasaki Shi, Ibaraki Ken
            Japan  301-0043
 *** *** *** *** ***

2011 March 12 - From the Hills of Japan

***THANK YOU FOR YOUR PRAYERS!***

First, we are safe and uninjured.

Second, we have never experienced anything of this magnitude in our 26 years here.

I am writing a quick note to cover a wide scope of those wondering about us.  I will try to answer the many emails soon, which were sent to us while we tried to sleep last night.  (Cheryl thinks that the writer of "Shake, Rattle and Roll" must have been in an earthquake and aftershocks like these.)

We have had minor damage (minor breakage inside, some roof repair will be needed) compared to many others in the north.  We are in the greater Tokyo area albeit the northeast side.  Abi is an hour north and they were without electricity.  Good friends (and missionaries) north by an hour and a half from us have had life changing events there.  They and their house are safe though much on the inside is broken, but, all of their neighbors have had to locate in a shelter for now.  Their houses are no longer viable.

Further north yet, (4 – 6 hours) our friends have been unreachable by us and we like you watch the news and see the terrible scenes.

Unlike many others we have heat, electricity, and gas.  But no water.  It stopped during the night.  Buckets are at the ready for the toilets.  Aftershocks continue.

I (Leon) was at a seminary graduation ceremony at which a young man I have known and participated in his discipleship since he was in high school, was graduating.  The earthquake hit in the middle of the ceremony and at first everybody tried to ignore it, but it would not let up and we first ducked for cover under the benches, but quickly everyone left the building.  We waited around in a large open space watching to see which way the bell tower might fall.  I and my missionary friend, Paul Sadler, who came by train soon decided to try and get to our homes in my car.  That trip distinguished itself only by the swaying bridge over the largest river in the area.

Cheryl and Jeffrey had taken cover under the kitchen table watching the bookshelves empty themselves.

Tears fill our eyes as we read the multitude of FB & email messages speaking of your prayers.  We believe these prayers continue to effect protection for us and the others here.

This is not over yet and we will continue to crave your prayers for us.

Well so much for short.  I will now try to send this out.  The other tragedy this week centered on the collapse of my computer.

Thanks so much for your faithful prayers!!  We are DESPERATE for your prayers!

Remember, Cling to the LORD your God! (cp. Deuteronomy 13:4) --- and hold on for the ride of your life!

Family With You In Christ,

Abi, Jeffrey, Cheryl & Leon

OUR SUPPORT NEED: $1871/month.  Falling $ strikes again.
To contribute or make support commitments go to:
www.worldventure.com
Find our name under the "FIND A MISSIONARY".
Than look for the "make a donation" or "make a commitment" near the top of the page.

Or send to:
WorldVenture
1501 W Mineral Ave.
Littleton, CO
80120-5612.

Thanks!!

 *** *** *** *** ***
FROM:  Leon & Cheryl Hill
ADDRESS:  3-6-14 Matsuba
            Ryugasaki Shi, Ibaraki Ken
            Japan  301-0043
 *** *** *** *** ***

Goals! Goals! Goals!

A new year!  I have thought about setting goals, but not sure what.  I, for sure, will finish school.  I want to write more. I want to improve my communication skills.   I want to improve my walking and running skills.  I want to improve my social skills.  Those are good goals, and I need to work on them, but what are my goals that will match with Kingdom values?  These are harder because they involve heart changes.  I need to be prayerful in these goals, and then be earnest about the follow through.  One goal I have pondered is to live my life so every aspect of it points to Jesus, the King.  I can be more intimate with Jesus this year.  I can certainly be a greater light than I was last year.  I can more fully embrace kingdom values.  Now maybe I need to concentrate this year on learning what those kingdom values are.  I need to more fully understand the King.  I need to keep maturing is my walk with Jesus.  That is a task I will not complete in one year, but I can move closer to it in the coming year.  It is in some ways an impossible array of goals.  Then again, I draw from the King’s well.  His specialty is strength in weakness.  I will be resting in the hands of Jesus, and let Him be in control.  When I am tempted to jump out of those hands I will remember the cross. So I am going out this year to do the impossible in the name of Jesus.

明けましておめでとうございます！目標を立てようと思っているんですけど、どんなのを立てればいいかわかりません。もちろん、学校は卒業します。そして、もっと詩とか書きたいし、コミュニケーションのスキルも磨きたいです。もっと上手に歩いたり、走ったりできるようになりたいし、もっと社交的になりたいと思っています。こういうのも良い目標だし、もちろんそのために努力しなければいけないけど、神様に喜ばれる木曜はなんでしょう。これは、心も変えなければいけないから難しいです。そのためにはもっと祈らなきゃいけないし、そして、実際に行動もしなきゃいけない。ひとつ考えているのは、自分の人生がすべての面で王であるイエスに向くこと。今年はもっとイエスさまに近づける。僕はもちろん去年よりもっと輝こうと思います。完全に御国の価値観を受け入れようと思います。だから、今年はその価値観が何なのか学ばなきゃいけないと思います。これからもイエス様にあって成長をしなきゃいけません。これは、１年で完成できることではないけど、この１年を通してその目標に近づきたいです。ある意味では無理な目標です。でも、僕は神様の井戸から飲みます。神様は弱わい時にこそ働いてくださいます。僕はイエス様の御手の中にいて、すべてを委ねます。その手から飛び降りようとするとき、十字架を思い出します。なので、今年はイエスの御名によって無理を可能にします！