On November 2, 2007 we made a formal decision to step out on faith and begin the next phase of our spiritual walk... flight that is. This decision will take us 7,770 miles from the comfort of our home in Kissimmee, Florida to Tokyo, Japan - a land where an unseen battle had been raging for the last several centuries. In our carry-on luggage we have:

• Belt of truth
• Breastplate of righteousness
• Footwear of readiness
• Shield of faith
• Helmet of salvation
• Sword of the Spirit (more on this in later posts)
  

It is the sword of the Spirit of God, His Holy Word, that compels such a drastic action on our behalf. Being a Christian isn't a spectator sport, it is a battle. It is not a way of life, it is the way of life. Japan is unique in that less than 1% of the total population understand this reality. In fact, nearly 2,400 Japanese people die die every single day without a relationship with their Creator. What's ironic is the vast majority worship His creation as part of their culture and ancient tradition, but God's Word says they have no excuse for not seeking the one behind it all.

With that, we will attend the Church Planting Institute's conference in Hakone to meet other like-minded followers of Christ, embrace the challenge before us, and strategize how to become better equipped to enter the battle. It's going to be an exciting journey no doubt. There are still so many unasked questions, but it is the peace that surpasses understanding that is leading us into this new mission. We're confident that God can use what little we bring as an offering to further His kingdom. Amen!