tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26088394691665246792024-02-06T18:33:30.103-08:00Sprouting Seeds: Missions to JapanA blog of the missions activities of Alex, Tomoko, Daisy, Caleb, Hazel, and Olive Robinson in JapanAlex Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824630632584342796noreply@blogger.comBlogger87125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2608839469166524679.post-30138155792317555242023-03-08T05:51:00.002-08:002023-03-08T05:55:42.984-08:00Our Last Missions Blog<p> </p><div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><h1><span style="font-size: small;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3kd77EpeH33ngLZI70Zg1lXbPM-OLOT5Jk9rllarUakb1Fl3Cl_DYonlhIdcvEBLtxn4K86AE8I_a3vMbV5i8WnOqWf7gybW4y69AYGRPB2AL8HMRMtUM7zZFU04CY7v3udrxJCF6OQPS8tNF985ud4uIuS1bFq5DW97x8pg_YNn5OI_KL0gFIBY/s4032/IMG_4416.HEIC" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3kd77EpeH33ngLZI70Zg1lXbPM-OLOT5Jk9rllarUakb1Fl3Cl_DYonlhIdcvEBLtxn4K86AE8I_a3vMbV5i8WnOqWf7gybW4y69AYGRPB2AL8HMRMtUM7zZFU04CY7v3udrxJCF6OQPS8tNF985ud4uIuS1bFq5DW97x8pg_YNn5OI_KL0gFIBY/s320/IMG_4416.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div>Dear friends,</span></h1></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">15 years ago God called me to take a step of faith and to trust that he would do something that was impossible. To trust that he would make a way through the waters. Much as he had made a way for the children of Israel through the waters of the Red Sea, he called me to trust the he would make a way through the Pacific Ocean to Japan. And at that time I trusted him. And he made a way for me. He cleared visas and provided all I needed to go. He took me from my small California town to the heart of Tokyo. And during my time here, he always made a way for me. And though I came alone, the Lord blessed me and added to me, and my family of one became a family of 6. And even with 6 (which is a big number for Tokyo) He still made a way.</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">Last year, when he called me to take a step of faith, stepping out from the church I had served for all of my time here, little did I know that he was going to make a way through the waters again. Perhaps I should have known when he asked me to step out before I saw the way, much like the children of Israel stepped out before the Jordan parted. But I had no clue at the time.</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">During the last months at Horizon we had been in contact with many people and groups, prayerfully seeking wherever God would send us whether here in Japan or abroad. Among them was a group called Poimen ministries (a group that serves churches in many ways, one of which being connecting pastors with churches that need them.) We had been contacted by a pastor of Poimen ministries who was interim pastoring Calvary Chapel Bemidji, Minnesota. The church was looking for a senior pastor and we had interviewed with him and the elders there a couple times. It was a blessing to talk to them and my wife and I were encouraged and refreshed by our conversations.</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">Our last day at Horizon came and went, still without any open doors. Our foot was coming down but the waters had yet to move. A way was yet to appear. But then, the very next day we were contacted again from Calvary Chapel Bemidji and asked if we would have one last interview. And so the first day of the new year found us speaking with them one last time and only days later the word came that we were being invited to come for a long weekend to visit the church and meet with the leadership. We couldn’t believe it and wondered at it greatly. But it was a clear call to bring our feet into the waters. To put our weight into the step and see what God would do. And as we prayed about the trip we prayed that whatever God was going to do, we would be able to be as much of an encouragement and refreshment that weekend as they had been to us.</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">The beginning of February found my wife and I with little Olive in Minnesota, arriving on the coldest day the interim pastor had experienced in his time there, with temperatures hitting -25 degrees. But whatever cold we experienced there was outmatched by the warmth and passion of the church body there. We were blessed to find that they were a group of people dedicated to the study of the word who spoke from the heart and loved one another greatly. Our time there was short but very sweet. And we left with a sense that whatever God had wanted to do had been done that weekend. But with no idea of what would have come of it or where we would go next. But then, to our amazement and great joy, God opened the way.</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">The elders of the church, after a week of prayer, decided to receive me as pastor Calvary Chapel Bemidji.</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">15 years after He had done it before, God has done it again. He has made a way through the waters of the pacific. For me and for the family he has given me in my time here.</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzbiWg6d7U56G2h2XTwchS8DdblI0Omin5wk6FsQ4e-ORZLvEgvqRHQfwkt2Q07pH1RvtisAStlCTRiZSj1WmSgbS9uQQoATcqgqoqiJl93SZ6oTOwjWuwqf5BalTl0wxxPX2vtvNp4JC2k9cWKzt1Vg_wlixs4vcX5nXcM-0dNMZSjShCRl8ZG3A/s4032/IMG_4423.HEIC" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzbiWg6d7U56G2h2XTwchS8DdblI0Omin5wk6FsQ4e-ORZLvEgvqRHQfwkt2Q07pH1RvtisAStlCTRiZSj1WmSgbS9uQQoATcqgqoqiJl93SZ6oTOwjWuwqf5BalTl0wxxPX2vtvNp4JC2k9cWKzt1Vg_wlixs4vcX5nXcM-0dNMZSjShCRl8ZG3A/s320/IMG_4423.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div>While I write this we are in the midst of cleaning out our house, applying for a visa for Tomoko, and getting everything in order to leave. I am going to be making a two week visitation to Calvary Chapel in April and from June 1st I am going start pastoring Calvary Chapel Bemidji. My family will follow as soon as Tomoko’s Visa goes through. We ask that you join in prayer with us that the visa would be cleared with supernatural speed and favor as he cleared visas for me before. We also ask that you would pray for this next season of my family’s ministry as well, that we would see his hand working there as we have seen it here.</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">Accordingly, this will be my last missions blog. I want to thank you all for your time, support, and prayers. We are so grateful and blessed that we were given the opportunity and honor to partner with you all in sharing the love of Jesus and his word in Japan. And while we are being moved into a new season of ministry, we continue to ask you to join us in keeping Japan in prayer that all these planted seeds would grow into a bountiful harvest and that kingdom would be enlarged here as in every other country in the world.</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">May you abound in the grace of Jesus Christ as you continue to be His witnesses to the world.</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">Much love,</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #1d2228; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;">Alex, Tomoko, Daisy, Caleb, Hazel, and Olive Robinson<br /></div>Alex Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824630632584342796noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2608839469166524679.post-268129378194924652022-12-19T19:30:00.000-08:002022-12-19T19:30:03.042-08:00Stepping Out<p><span style="font-size: medium;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbO6U0EqRKFCcPi5dJOGwK3aWqAWYU7ffutWtzDolCPmnucyGsIkcGcqcDXx7iS_iMxUTJcdgKvk4TM7Fjsqs9Nv5omigEXuJDCVaJglTwehGpew6YPF1GVQIMQzUsc2YHAzfIgOkO1LpsYkj59JISwUZVcB49N8VcWiUWrbkawhVPjTuC__u3eKc/s4032/IMG_4191.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbO6U0EqRKFCcPi5dJOGwK3aWqAWYU7ffutWtzDolCPmnucyGsIkcGcqcDXx7iS_iMxUTJcdgKvk4TM7Fjsqs9Nv5omigEXuJDCVaJglTwehGpew6YPF1GVQIMQzUsc2YHAzfIgOkO1LpsYkj59JISwUZVcB49N8VcWiUWrbkawhVPjTuC__u3eKc/w320-h240/IMG_4191.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Men's Cabin Fellowship</td></tr></tbody></table><br /> <span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue";">Hello Friends,</span></span></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Merry Christmas to you all! The Christmas season naturally brings to mind the nativity story as well as the the extraordinary faith of Mary and Joseph. Both were simple people from the small and poor town of Nazareth who were planning on getting married and living quiet and simple lives. Probably both had a strong image of what life was going to be like for them. Then suddenly God showed up and called them to live much differently than they had planned. To take part in something that neither they nor anyone else had ever done before: To be the Step Father and Mother to the Son of God himself. While the most natural answer would be to say no and to hold on to what they had planned or to buckle in fear at the weight of what they were being called to do, these two did not. They trusted God knew what he was talking about.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>They received what God was calling them to do immediately and with great faith. And because of their faith, they were able to take part in the greatest work of God on this earth which we continue to celebrate to this day.</span></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">There are those times when our plans have been made and everything is set and then suddenly God shows up with something much different than you had imagined and calls us to faith that He knows what he is talking about.</span></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">At the beginning of this year, I would have said to you that I was going to be<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUOfM94Oo-cbhKGI9ayq6onZmt5hB36hz0ZFtGgvP2-G27rVmtmod9YiDz5UKqxkmLo_ZrBRbTEJI54R-GMQtyOYiaTs0WKzRrBAs1CiIX_AsS6xqZJq1Zn4apn_NAVczMRe_u-VL96Qih6R7P8BUPaubRNkzOs0vUhrCivFdNdpiKqQDWQO3TLFY/s1706/IMG_4157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1706" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUOfM94Oo-cbhKGI9ayq6onZmt5hB36hz0ZFtGgvP2-G27rVmtmod9YiDz5UKqxkmLo_ZrBRbTEJI54R-GMQtyOYiaTs0WKzRrBAs1CiIX_AsS6xqZJq1Zn4apn_NAVczMRe_u-VL96Qih6R7P8BUPaubRNkzOs0vUhrCivFdNdpiKqQDWQO3TLFY/s320/IMG_4157.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunday School Christmas</td></tr></tbody></table><br /> Pastoring at Tokyo Horizon Chapel for the rest of my life. That was the plan and the image that I had for myself and my family. We have been serving at Horizon for the last 14 years and as such we are the longest serving missionaries that the church has ever had up to this point. We were blessed very much by our years at Horizon as well. I was trained for ministry and ordained as a pastor here. My wife and I met each other here. We raised our kids here. God used our time at Horizon to grow us in our faith and relationship with Him. And all the ministry that we have ever done was done at or through Horizon.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">However during the course of the year, God showed up and began to speak to me and my wife about stepping out from Horizon and into a new season of ministry. Now while we were willing, we continued to ask where He was sending us. To show us a door that we could walk through. But no door appeared. Just the continued leading to step out.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNUeMl6n_jNgcuHF19b_cTr7BqZ83hcN_x_wt4OW_1Qj78CHOaBKt1CPyx7h_eAf0yGqXQ7Bh3FuMPozFzEtZbAKGYxPr1mtV0RhlcqQYuzGbnhs-HdS_QPAHWCYbFJX2hFZT7Lz91ht6vCbvDRntxYcaW1-hQEBBe53kNqueRVR1-n6fBXhOUIrQ/s4032/IMG_4013.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNUeMl6n_jNgcuHF19b_cTr7BqZ83hcN_x_wt4OW_1Qj78CHOaBKt1CPyx7h_eAf0yGqXQ7Bh3FuMPozFzEtZbAKGYxPr1mtV0RhlcqQYuzGbnhs-HdS_QPAHWCYbFJX2hFZT7Lz91ht6vCbvDRntxYcaW1-hQEBBe53kNqueRVR1-n6fBXhOUIrQ/s320/IMG_4013.HEIC" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Setagaya International Fellowship Time</td></tr></tbody></table><br />At first I did not want to acknowledge the leading because I wanted a destination God was calling us to first. But during the course of the year, God convicted me (by one of my own messages that he spoke through me). I was preaching that often God will give us an instruction and wait for us to be faithful in taking that leading before revealing his next work, much as the priests were called to put their feet in the Jordon before it was parted. Even as I spoke it out, I realized God was speaking to me.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It was then that I set in my heart that before the year was out, I would follow his instruction. And if I had not had clear leading by then, I would go into a transitional time of seeking, studying, and serving in anyway I could.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Once convicted, I shared with my wife and together we started making steps in that<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRlOTIv3zEhaDXZmB6Kjic2-ZqJD0Wu8ImrMULVuP1D3QizBlbs5nnfwq4O3N0tjqdm_4SRtbi2329udSY6lW_ZEHsRiixMWkGMAQubYS_H8GkjbkZAyarJMJTfAtKlzJycIjYEyHJKDhn4hDkE3DLVL2VW-ts7dpZuG4uBvDMYcjda9FEEHHQiRU/s4032/IMG_4153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRlOTIv3zEhaDXZmB6Kjic2-ZqJD0Wu8ImrMULVuP1D3QizBlbs5nnfwq4O3N0tjqdm_4SRtbi2329udSY6lW_ZEHsRiixMWkGMAQubYS_H8GkjbkZAyarJMJTfAtKlzJycIjYEyHJKDhn4hDkE3DLVL2VW-ts7dpZuG4uBvDMYcjda9FEEHHQiRU/s320/IMG_4153.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tokyo Pastors Meeting</td></tr></tbody></table><br /> direction. And it indeed felt like God brought the earth up to meet our feet with every step we took into the unknown. Suddenly, by “chance” we started to meet missionaries and people from outside of Horizon. One missionary family that God brought us into relationship with had been brought out of a long period of service in the same ministry one year earlier and had gone through a similar transitional time as the one that God was calling us to do. They gave us much insight and wise council for the season. Through this family as well, we were connected with Grace Garden Church, a church plant in Ebina which is only 15 minutes away from us. The pastor there understood our situation and said we were welcome to attend and serve at his church while we were seeking. As soon as the next step revealed itself, he said we were free to move on from them with their blessing. He also said he would be introducing us to other church’s as well during our time there that we could expand our connections and understanding of what God is doing in Tokyo. Then God connected us with a group of pastors serving in Tokyo that meet on a monthly basis to support one another and I learned much from meeting with them as well. God willing, we will be able to continue in connection with them as my family steps out in the new season.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDF8nKwEx9zeQWoyMRhBdX-czBVjrTfNj7s8OvtAOC8FAp82EqFSHktl8lFK4KAQPKCt9rzGf7bEc-Hx14O5xeNh5NnUqk1wlz0BfSQcybQM1EXq5Lx_bmT25KQFpOoslzkVfE_lq6ni6lYRG7CaMT8ALxUOe5ZtnXimNEaFZFohkqSuVMZLdBT6o/s2035/IMG_4174.heic" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2035" data-original-width="1711" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDF8nKwEx9zeQWoyMRhBdX-czBVjrTfNj7s8OvtAOC8FAp82EqFSHktl8lFK4KAQPKCt9rzGf7bEc-Hx14O5xeNh5NnUqk1wlz0BfSQcybQM1EXq5Lx_bmT25KQFpOoslzkVfE_lq6ni6lYRG7CaMT8ALxUOe5ZtnXimNEaFZFohkqSuVMZLdBT6o/w168-h200/IMG_4174.heic" width="168" /></a></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />And so, as I write this to you all, we are now one week out from our last day at Horizon. God has been filling the needs and currently my previous responsibilities and ministries in this church have been filled by a variety of faithful servants. In our time preparing to leave, God also blessed us with many confirmations about the work He has done through us to teach His word and to point people to Jesus. This was our greatest hope. Also many encouragements came from those we have been serving that God will continue to use us outside of this place, with many praying for us. And from next week<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4NW7qehOnISVhmHnSlPn93uWv1IqPLFMD0ZyjtFoMRkOTiarG2XsSJzjpLGo1HDj3F8hr9V7OPVaeaY2JhPJ0ROJSuL1cYEQ6TRJkztj_r1Mobo8PftPO3BTsxOscTaphaRLhV850wUcFf87ImTywarldXC5NMpqgngR2bWyIcJzhWjN2YsXTBLA/s4032/IMG_4173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4NW7qehOnISVhmHnSlPn93uWv1IqPLFMD0ZyjtFoMRkOTiarG2XsSJzjpLGo1HDj3F8hr9V7OPVaeaY2JhPJ0ROJSuL1cYEQ6TRJkztj_r1Mobo8PftPO3BTsxOscTaphaRLhV850wUcFf87ImTywarldXC5NMpqgngR2bWyIcJzhWjN2YsXTBLA/s320/IMG_4173.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bible College Students</td></tr></tbody></table><br /> we take that first step of faith off of the map and into what the Lord will show us. Please continue to pray for us that God would continue to meet us as we are stepping out. And that more and more he would open the way to the next season of the ministry he has for us, whether here in Japan or anywhere he would call us.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><p></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">We thank you always for your love, support and prayers. We are praying for you all!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzSgVMqoqNiEXwKOE1-A8hi2_qyvED9QMlbjX_VuZPcO-vGAMEn8nO-JPt4zt5guh9ioN161TCxPK5ZqG_8x4YDQVZMQGjRLK6DK4MUrotBTxdkphGlaNWHc8elR4CeVa5PZ3PQx3ZUPFRhnFjBx2m9Jcfx6uuKJWECp7G0UV1YoIZuW6lsw-7Diw/s1479/IMG_4156.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1109" data-original-width="1479" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzSgVMqoqNiEXwKOE1-A8hi2_qyvED9QMlbjX_VuZPcO-vGAMEn8nO-JPt4zt5guh9ioN161TCxPK5ZqG_8x4YDQVZMQGjRLK6DK4MUrotBTxdkphGlaNWHc8elR4CeVa5PZ3PQx3ZUPFRhnFjBx2m9Jcfx6uuKJWECp7G0UV1YoIZuW6lsw-7Diw/s320/IMG_4156.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br />Much love and Merry Christmas,<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><p></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Alex, Tomoko, Daisy, Caleb, Hazel, and Olive Robinson.</span></p><p class="p2" style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><br /></p>Alex Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824630632584342796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2608839469166524679.post-67925372367663139642022-12-19T18:55:00.004-08:002022-12-19T18:56:52.539-08:00VBS Summer 2022<p>https://youtu.be/XUhGD5TuYQ4</p>Alex Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824630632584342796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2608839469166524679.post-47934289268906671452022-04-01T20:12:00.008-07:002022-04-19T17:16:32.069-07:00Blossoms<div class="separator"></div><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgbDjze_moaUZx1xgUm6LDGENajlX7koKho6G7l862zonGcY7NeWh_nptw3pBs4nE0j9nracS4cj8Mgf0dh7vKYXmCtKpQJsG4g2H3YuOFN7Hoq06E_b9-d22lX5tx48ulBhyImRSGKzE6--faq1B7NuRQJlQCcy57Hy722mZ1QMvdpzTM_a9toI_I" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgbDjze_moaUZx1xgUm6LDGENajlX7koKho6G7l862zonGcY7NeWh_nptw3pBs4nE0j9nracS4cj8Mgf0dh7vKYXmCtKpQJsG4g2H3YuOFN7Hoq06E_b9-d22lX5tx48ulBhyImRSGKzE6--faq1B7NuRQJlQCcy57Hy722mZ1QMvdpzTM_a9toI_I" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Men's Fellowship Bowling Night</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"> <span style="font-family: arial;">Hello friends,</span></div><p></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">It is good to be writing you all at the end of a very long winter. This month in Tokyo, the cherry blossoms bloomed and all of Tokyo turned pink. What is interesting is for most of the year, you really don’t realize how many cherry trees there are in Tokyo. I pass by them everyday going to and from church, not giving them any thought whatsoever. But suddenly, for about a week every year, they bloom in their full glory and I realize that I am surrounded by them. They are absolutely everywhere. And I walk around dumbfounded and awestruck all week, even after living here for 15 years. And for weeks after, even after the cherry trees have stopped blooming, there is nowhere my feet can take me where I am not stepping on pink petals… I think the mercies of God are a lot like that. It is easy for me to go about the day to day without even realizing that they are there. But from time to time, God pulls back the curtain for me and I realize His mercies are everywhere. That they have been surrounding me the whole time though I did not realize it. And every step I have been taking has been by those same mercies. Much like Jacob said… [Gen 28:16b-17a ESV] …”Surely the LORD is in this place, and I did not know it." And he was afraid and said, "How awesome is this place! …” It has been a time like that for me recently. And God in his mercy has been revealing little blossoms in all that he has called my family to do.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiqrJicKxFwXKOEEbRLDsFTW7hx55wieYCjrr7yBmypR_9Z8hmLfYNwbxcthsD5pfJ--k6uVA8F5IsrsHNuQp7EqX4nS5D9Cd79oRAlT3q4SWqQ9EycamhkozonmcFKK-iAQ4HsFwH1WzRXCIsRjC9JGygnjUosHM-QVYWbd1pnOSwAfFir81G-EQI" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></a><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzFX0YOBz6nrrO_uQAQcnaYbf1D82jxG_2uuAJxx3vb5y5NUjnPloy7vYCug6cobC2BrvCbw0SRZYVhY6fnMGqkJatqFXvRCvLl8vEXfdHQfUoRKDq4qasJ0wPrnXkJpd6xbHngUOufTtIUlbYRrSdWp6SAiQPXIYAG1ETwu0vGjO1TA4qlQ9aj-I/s1478/IMG_3302.JPG" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1108" data-original-width="1478" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzFX0YOBz6nrrO_uQAQcnaYbf1D82jxG_2uuAJxx3vb5y5NUjnPloy7vYCug6cobC2BrvCbw0SRZYVhY6fnMGqkJatqFXvRCvLl8vEXfdHQfUoRKDq4qasJ0wPrnXkJpd6xbHngUOufTtIUlbYRrSdWp6SAiQPXIYAG1ETwu0vGjO1TA4qlQ9aj-I/w320-h240/IMG_3302.JPG" title="Easter in the Park" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Easter in the Park</td></tr></tbody></table>The Setagaya International Fellowship that I am pastoring has been growing. I have seen it grow in worship. For quite some time we did not have enough leaders and our brothers from Calvary Chapel Ginowan in Okinawa were making videos for us so we could have worship every Sunday. But God has provided us with worship leaders and we have not had to use videos for the last two months. I have seen our fellowship grow in community and those who have started attending recently say that it is like visiting family every Sunday. Last month we were able to have potluck for the first time in a while and all together we had 22 people who joined us, and it was a time of much rejoicing and high spirits. But even more than this I have seen our fellowship grow in their hunger for the word, sharing the word with one another throughout the week in our church chat rooms. Some of the people from the International service have started attending my class at the Horizon Bible college weekly. Also the joint Machida/Setagaya Online Bible Study that we have on Wednesdays (that used to be sometimes only 2 people) has in the last few months grown to 8 of us that are meeting faithfully every week to dig into the word. In addition we were able to start up our joint men’s and women’s fellowship events again for the first time in two years.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></span></span></div><p></p><p class="p2" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; text-align: left;"><br /></p><span style="font-family: arial;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg0VGk-Ys-ZtmYq7mgmccNjgFL4obZGDl3T6ysoBxZTfpjM0uIww_MQDJKue5uoFGJJEkP3fIhOpgvMCV8YZbjRN1G9Y_MEnUGUK8Y30iTBwBUwSVfVKcaTuTAUuHG-ZR6vMTj86ZZo9Xi6EPK3YRP5id95l7bhSiMKNSkSJbhY9ddztDORO3TpNgQ" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1108" data-original-width="1478" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg0VGk-Ys-ZtmYq7mgmccNjgFL4obZGDl3T6ysoBxZTfpjM0uIww_MQDJKue5uoFGJJEkP3fIhOpgvMCV8YZbjRN1G9Y_MEnUGUK8Y30iTBwBUwSVfVKcaTuTAUuHG-ZR6vMTj86ZZo9Xi6EPK3YRP5id95l7bhSiMKNSkSJbhY9ddztDORO3TpNgQ" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Our children’s ministry as well is starting to blossom again. During the course of the last two</div><div style="text-align: left;">years of corona, we lost contact with many children and their families from our children’s kindergarten and from shine kids as we were not able to meet with them regularly. But suddenly, many of these families reached out to us again. Some who we haven’t seen or heard from in 4 years. And they have been reconnecting with us. My wife Tomoko was able to invite many of the mothers and children to our home as we used to do often in the past and guests who come through our door just keep increasing.The numbers of Shine Kids in Setagaya had dwindled during the beginning of this semester, but now they are all back in full number and we are ministering to 25 kids there each week. A mother recently shared with me that she has never been to an English school where the kids were treated with more kindness and understanding. The English Time program which we recently started in Machida is growing. We have partnered with other church members in this ministry and I have been moved to see my kids and the other church children lovingly ministering to the children from outside the church as my wife and another mother from church minister to the mothers, listening to their stories as their children learn English. Pastor Jonathan and Rie his wife, who I have been serving under in Machida, have developed a program that helps children who have been through traumatic experiences called OPsafe. (He is going to be going this month to Poland to train people ministering to Ukrainian refugees.) And they have agreed to train the Sunday school teachers and I in this program and Lord willing we are going to use the training to minister to Tokyo kids this summer and incorporate the program into our VBS.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><br /></span></div></span><p></p><p class="p2" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEitudoPqkyqoUN4NM7OBJRN-korm3OKABz6OAph7_IoRaOmxYcZ65ftqp4tLz6Q1iBV3Mob6IP3YNfBPMlzTZbPW1viG8-GgLHbxHWvvV7nCs6MvldtXRsZucdiIvR_rEVZYN6f6c2WE2HD26dUhsiCleh3UwXlceFnI_7TBV-KY9VqBNCcifQPHYY" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEitudoPqkyqoUN4NM7OBJRN-korm3OKABz6OAph7_IoRaOmxYcZ65ftqp4tLz6Q1iBV3Mob6IP3YNfBPMlzTZbPW1viG8-GgLHbxHWvvV7nCs6MvldtXRsZucdiIvR_rEVZYN6f6c2WE2HD26dUhsiCleh3UwXlceFnI_7TBV-KY9VqBNCcifQPHYY" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">My family and I thank you all for your prayers and support. We thank those who have reached out to us with letters and encouragement. We keep you all in our prayers and look forward to the time when we can fellowship again, face to face.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></div></span><p></p><p class="p2" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Because He lives,</span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Alex, Tomoko, Daisy, Caleb, Hazel, and Olive Robinson</span></p><p class="p2" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; text-align: left;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgyUVPIM_2BpEHX33QRjN-bb-I10AGMJooe__cASwUd_Z_24_G3O_heLhVIexk2evDoHPUjPZ8E98zkfiqzdQ20RUaYt-CTPPB3BjLI46-PGK56YzKVbqPBE7Wy9wFXMT-Ol3avm1xzujUtBdS05NERkjujbD3XpxtAx1fmfBI-viLA5NltpxNf7mw" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: left;"><img data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgyUVPIM_2BpEHX33QRjN-bb-I10AGMJooe__cASwUd_Z_24_G3O_heLhVIexk2evDoHPUjPZ8E98zkfiqzdQ20RUaYt-CTPPB3BjLI46-PGK56YzKVbqPBE7Wy9wFXMT-Ol3avm1xzujUtBdS05NERkjujbD3XpxtAx1fmfBI-viLA5NltpxNf7mw=w150-h200" width="150" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></span><p></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><div style="text-align: left;">PS. Our kids are doing great. They continue to home school and serve a lot in the church. Our oldest Daisy has been going crazy about Kenya recently, pouring over books and making clothes and even trying to learn some Kiswahili. (We have some members of the International Service that come from Kenya.) Says she wants to be a missionary there someday. Exciting to see what the Lord has in store for these little ones.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></div></span><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><p></p><p class="p2" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; text-align: left;"><br /></p>Alex Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824630632584342796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2608839469166524679.post-29496552424854512462021-12-15T17:45:00.001-08:002021-12-15T18:24:59.381-08:00Do Not Withhold Your Hand<div class="separator"></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiszVNe4L7mYncwu15CO4bELivr4ueLmjIqjBc5vfV9IwpADDCf9d1QOEZ1WSpV8tgVmKSS94RcihOpOlxowl0oA0iF0fed-0v9tczpgFUPh1hozZ8v1UtJqwbiaQlnXfSb4PYPfbtM_BQ4r6CvNzrLq2tVPR4DCptkDMvCzmTp472cYdRP4Anl-Ew=s1280" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="852" data-original-width="1280" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiszVNe4L7mYncwu15CO4bELivr4ueLmjIqjBc5vfV9IwpADDCf9d1QOEZ1WSpV8tgVmKSS94RcihOpOlxowl0oA0iF0fed-0v9tczpgFUPh1hozZ8v1UtJqwbiaQlnXfSb4PYPfbtM_BQ4r6CvNzrLq2tVPR4DCptkDMvCzmTp472cYdRP4Anl-Ew=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br />Merry Christmas, family.</span><p></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">This Christmas finds my family and I at the end of a long spiritual journey.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">For the last 14 years, I have been outreaching through English classes to the children in the community of Machida and Setagaya here in Tokyo. I have been blessed that for all of those years aside from the time that I was in bible college, there has never been a time that I did not have students. Even during the time of Corona, God made a way to keep the school open and still have students come.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">And many of the students that God has blessed me with have been with me for a very long time. </span><span style="font-family: arial;">This last April, a large number of my students graduated and moved on from the English school and entered Junior High. I had been teaching these kids since they were in Kindergarten. They had attended church events, VBS after VBS, I had been able to speak and share with their parents. And I have been blessed to be able to plant many seeds of the gospel over the years in their lives and their family’s. And this is not the first time I had experienced someone I have</span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="clear: right; float: right; font-family: arial; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjKLra11uCSDcfaqqmjOF9116h5qBVWiFzXu5bRM0K_jx-r7JYGTILtNLWdLmVlYy6zOQcQ4vxmNsCkI_YwrS5Dl3o6BCIWaO2VmnqJzO63sWcgyjIuiidNS4r_iOOjmgkRWnzWHE6t9uYNXG1sIoloAMaW22ZxuJbjI-3HYhQW6RF6-rEWf_HdL7Q=w320-h213" width="320" /></span>taught and shared with for years move on, but this time it hit me quite differently. Years of ministry were about to walk out the door… and I had so little to show for it. None of them believed in Jesus during my time with them, nor did their families. And this caused me to wonder what I am doing it for. Following this I went through a time of crisis. I wanted to leave the children’s outreach behind and move on to something else. I closed the English school in Machida and was about to close the school in Setagaya as well.</span></p><p class="p2" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjKLra11uCSDcfaqqmjOF9116h5qBVWiFzXu5bRM0K_jx-r7JYGTILtNLWdLmVlYy6zOQcQ4vxmNsCkI_YwrS5Dl3o6BCIWaO2VmnqJzO63sWcgyjIuiidNS4r_iOOjmgkRWnzWHE6t9uYNXG1sIoloAMaW22ZxuJbjI-3HYhQW6RF6-rEWf_HdL7Q=s6000" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div><p></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="clear: left; float: left; font-family: arial; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1108" data-original-width="1478" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjKJbovagb3_UaBcod_u8KQo-peDSk5TSQuld9Ni_AsYMdvnRCVajNF52jRlmddRsH5PxJXXwP9YEk22AcUwJXBviCAafGXrBjywZggH_IybB5WAqQdlgN_AgufZ-5gh_AIj0yAUKIySPLMHW8RFjFZQibBR7h4ubPOBPY3j-h5lvuCTht3Deezn50=w320-h240" width="320" /></span><span style="font-family: arial;">However, one night as I was in prayer about moving on to a new season with my wife Tomoko, the Lord brought to mind all the faces of the children from the English School. I could see one face after another flashing in my mind. That night God convicted me that these were all faces of the children that He gave to me to care for. The faces that I was abandoning because of my own pride. Because I had not seen what I wanted to see from them. But I had given no thought to what God wanted for them. That He wanted person that would care about them and listen to them and have fun with them and love on them every week. That He wanted them to know that his church was a place like that. And He convicted me that the time the children spent in my care would be remembered and would bring fruit, for He makes all things beautiful in His time.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>And I knew this to be true, for I have heard the testimony of countless Japanese Christian’s of starting in a Sunday school or a kids program when they were young, only to return to the church years later and believe… He made me realize I was throwing something beautiful away.</span></p><p class="p2" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Ecclessiastes 11:4-6 says that we don’t know how God is going to move or how he is going to bring life to people. And if we spend our life trying to figure it out ourselves, looking for the right situation, we will not plant much seed at all and will not reap much either. So instead, we plant as much as we can. Whether the situation looks favorable or not doesn’t matter. God is able to work through it if we do not withhold our hand, taking every opportunity given to us.</span></p><p class="p2" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjKJbovagb3_UaBcod_u8KQo-peDSk5TSQuld9Ni_AsYMdvnRCVajNF52jRlmddRsH5PxJXXwP9YEk22AcUwJXBviCAafGXrBjywZggH_IybB5WAqQdlgN_AgufZ-5gh_AIj0yAUKIySPLMHW8RFjFZQibBR7h4ubPOBPY3j-h5lvuCTht3Deezn50=s1478" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdHJZCKZkaGJxyX_d0Su4DVTUC2pn3zE2Vc8jjZlW3j1vr-oI5vubHMnV8SSFYOXj_uiFiIfojtpDxIO7-5kdF2Q8kmEIr3bF5EycwTRfT3lHxzllG-D9-TIArohCGfn7zvuBGLGN24LxIZ-MBR1_VgfGN8k97fbbgMLDJqWVkEcuAEVZYDBWwIzw=s3088" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2320" data-original-width="3088" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdHJZCKZkaGJxyX_d0Su4DVTUC2pn3zE2Vc8jjZlW3j1vr-oI5vubHMnV8SSFYOXj_uiFiIfojtpDxIO7-5kdF2Q8kmEIr3bF5EycwTRfT3lHxzllG-D9-TIArohCGfn7zvuBGLGN24LxIZ-MBR1_VgfGN8k97fbbgMLDJqWVkEcuAEVZYDBWwIzw=w320-h240" width="320" /></a></div>So for the time being, that is what I am convicted to do. For I realize I am blessed with many opportunities.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Whether in pastoring the<br /> International fellowship, teaching at the Horizon Bible College, leading the International Wednesday night bible study, and especially outreaching to Tokyo kids, I am not going to withhold my hand. My wife and I, along with my children started a new English club in Machida since then called “English Time”. It is a real family affair now, with my kids attending the classes and helping other children learn English. They are enjoying it a lot and are natural teachers. We are a small club now, but more children are starting to come. I continue to teach<br /> Shine Kids in Setagaya and have seen the numbers of kids continue to grow. In July we had our VBS in Machida. We had to cut numbers in half due to Corona and social distancing, but we had a 37 kids come, almost entirely from outside the church. Just a couple weeks ago, we had a children’s Christmas program in Machida as well and this time children from the English Programs in both Machida and Setagaya as well as their families attended and heard the true Christmas story. We also have more Christmas outreaches planned in other churches this month, so please be praying for that.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><p></p><p class="p2" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhxrqjsC6QsVci7SgUh4JdtzzIY1x-ZfVZ7hld2onvizuWFqJjS3PkKvJtomwqqCsIGDRueeV62fGah1h2gNzobgainJv-aEOuYTleoILql4gW7iYGpLT1Rg4TRONXgxCN31BCmNiPspaKPGb0JWe7dyjpFyZNen3MlludgFVu977kdrSFv8rA_hR4=s1476" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="clear: left; float: left; font-family: arial; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1110" data-original-width="1476" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhxrqjsC6QsVci7SgUh4JdtzzIY1x-ZfVZ7hld2onvizuWFqJjS3PkKvJtomwqqCsIGDRueeV62fGah1h2gNzobgainJv-aEOuYTleoILql4gW7iYGpLT1Rg4TRONXgxCN31BCmNiPspaKPGb0JWe7dyjpFyZNen3MlludgFVu977kdrSFv8rA_hR4=s320" width="320" /></span>Thank you all for your prayers and support. We thank you for the letters that you have sent to us and all the encouragement. My family sends their Christmas greetings to you. My children think of their time in America often and excitedly look forward to the time when they can visit you all again. We love you and are praying for you in whatever opportunities God would give you in this season and in whatever conditions He would give them to you. How blessed we are to have a God that goes beyond our understandings.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span><p></p><p class="p2" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="p2" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">With Great Love,</span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Alex, Tomoko, Daisy, Caleb, Hazel, and little Olive Robinson</span><br /></p>Alex Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824630632584342796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2608839469166524679.post-8370101987108848242020-06-29T21:39:00.000-07:002020-06-29T21:39:02.190-07:00New video!Hello friends!<br />
Very excited that our international fellowship in Setagaya now has been given access to a new camera and now we are able to record video for the Sunday message! Praise God!<br />
<br />
Here is the video from last Sunday’s message.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=gYmDjGiVlQA">https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=gYmDjGiVlQA</a>Alex Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824630632584342796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2608839469166524679.post-13373232946606709092020-06-17T19:39:00.000-07:002020-06-17T20:53:07.139-07:00The Many Graces of God<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFhjuGm3pdPNpZIW7slflBczl4-5sUknND-LarhBxnkLpaEcDP9ZC6NJJZIXeUjGTrs5UwZuxSeQBRKKys57nx96z76MZ5hBXuIMA3AU6a5dRna1NGy7R79GFyKph4yc2sVZ3ccvinw5c/s1600/IMG_1252.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFhjuGm3pdPNpZIW7slflBczl4-5sUknND-LarhBxnkLpaEcDP9ZC6NJJZIXeUjGTrs5UwZuxSeQBRKKys57nx96z76MZ5hBXuIMA3AU6a5dRna1NGy7R79GFyKph4yc2sVZ3ccvinw5c/s320/IMG_1252.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Dear friends,</span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">With all that is going on around us, I am in prayer daily that as Ephesians 6 says, as shoes for our feet, we would put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. That God would use us at all times and in various ways to speak the true peace found in Jesus Christ to a world that has none right now and to one another that we would not let each other forget all that we have been given in Him. That which can never be taken away from us.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">In Japan, as everywhere else, these last months have been very different and have brought us different struggles than we have ever faced before. However, though many programs had to be suspended for a time, by the grace of God, during all that went on, the church in Japan was allowed to continue meeting for worship (with great care and sanitation). This included the Setagaya International Fellowship which I am pastoring and the Machida International Service where I am associate Pastor. And in all the times we met, the Lord has had his hand of protection over us, in that no one in the church got sick in either the Machida or Setagaya campuses. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">In addition, in the midst of all this, the graces of God have been evident. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Because of the virus, the English school attendance decreased dramatically and the kids club had to be canceled. However with the time that was afforded me by this, I was able to make a website for Machida and Setagaya International Fellowship which we have not had for years. Please give it a look when you have the time. It is kept up to date with all messages preached and bible study notes. Lord willing, we will start posting devotional videos as well soon. </span><br />
<span style="font-kerning: none;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Here is the link:</span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.horizoninternationalfellowship.com/">https://www.horizoninternationalfellowship.com</a></span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Also, with the English programs closed down, we wanted to keep contact with the students. So my kids and I made a little video English lesson for them. The students have been asking for more of them, so this will probably be the first of more to come. </span><br />
<span style="font-kerning: none;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Here is the link:</span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wFvt5imxFjQ">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wFvt5imxFjQ</a></span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Due to restrictions placed on people working on the U.S. military base, we had to stop meeting for our international Wednesday night bible study. So we switched over to Webex meetings. Now before, due to strenuous work conditions in Japan and how late people come home, it was usually only two or three people that had been able to attend the Bible study. However, moving the Bible study later in the evening and doing it online, we now have 10-14 people attending the Bible study every Wednesday. And we have had people attending the meeting from both Setagaya and Machida now which has never happened before. Also, because people leading the Bible study have to prepare a presentation for the web meeting, we have been able to post all the presentations on the church website as well. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI1w5igK1R0et9nwRrxm3ipR7I1JofglyzvDvkPpCLTOADlqSStk40Ib6FN-4CSuQ690_owtxEYntIxhj7h_HiU6tpxtjwnVsrZ4xOKsdle7ATh8S3rBczVQiZx2H23IA8qLXekJpVJqw/s1600/IMG_1212.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="1334" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI1w5igK1R0et9nwRrxm3ipR7I1JofglyzvDvkPpCLTOADlqSStk40Ib6FN-4CSuQ690_owtxEYntIxhj7h_HiU6tpxtjwnVsrZ4xOKsdle7ATh8S3rBczVQiZx2H23IA8qLXekJpVJqw/s320/IMG_1212.png" width="320" /></a><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">When it came to Funky Friday Night, our college group, at first we didn’t know what to do. Though technically people could meet at the church, colleges required their students to stay home. So we started a weekly broadcast for them. Though it was one way video, they could text in messages to us while we gave a message, took prayer requests, gave praise reports, and even played games together. It was a lot of fun. At the same time, while I was leading Funky, I had really been feeling the leading of the Spirit to focus my efforts on pastoring the international fellowship. So, though I loved the time I spent leading the Funky Friday Night group, I believed a new season was starting for both the group and I. So, I had been praying for someone who could take over leadership there. And though this is a crazy season, God is faithful. And in His own way, He has provided a Japanese National who He had been preparing for this time. And so, by the Grace of God, he will be taking leadership of Funky starting from next month. We have also agreed to continue joint efforts between the Internationals and Funky that have opened up during my time of leadership, which is huge benefit within a Japanese Church. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">And as if this were not enough, God decided to give us an even bigger blessing and grace. And I am proud to announce that Tomoko is pregnant!. In September, our good Lord will be adding one more to our family. <b><u><span style="color: magenta;">A baby girl!</span></u></b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">We thank you for your prayer and support. We love you and will continue to keep you in prayer. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgydQGXo43BueS7lAYmr0_uQVCLl7feqLfJtY1X8vKatY4FQoK2t701JJ7IbQ1IaZn9AyUdakFc5dUEL6JNsMI4rw4uiz-HVFZLUVlMc4kUyAbCabiqoL0VFQvQfmUWUUvNORLm2C-SWBw/s1600/IMG_1253.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1478" data-original-width="1108" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgydQGXo43BueS7lAYmr0_uQVCLl7feqLfJtY1X8vKatY4FQoK2t701JJ7IbQ1IaZn9AyUdakFc5dUEL6JNsMI4rw4uiz-HVFZLUVlMc4kUyAbCabiqoL0VFQvQfmUWUUvNORLm2C-SWBw/s320/IMG_1253.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Much Love,</span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Alex, Tomoko, Daisy, Caleb, Hazel, and Baby Robinson.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue"; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">P.S. The kids are doing great. We had been preparing to switch over to homeschooling right before everything started and we were able to go right into it. We are still trying to find the balance in homeschooling, so please pray for us and them.</span></div>
Alex Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824630632584342796noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2608839469166524679.post-85638291641338690832019-07-23T04:37:00.000-07:002019-07-23T04:37:00.173-07:00Overflow<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3JkAYr7K4dj8tmjZIsPs7szZqBlOq1nqLpSgZXMv9XAzDGSnMkrqvaf1e8QPcGqbdSfmhksAg249aX3gLMfXQkJ8e9H_1y0LMP9gGnxWGWnCG3CDkXlGqMSB0WXlHJ4ghWyR6HmF9HNU/s1600/DSC_2323.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3JkAYr7K4dj8tmjZIsPs7szZqBlOq1nqLpSgZXMv9XAzDGSnMkrqvaf1e8QPcGqbdSfmhksAg249aX3gLMfXQkJ8e9H_1y0LMP9gGnxWGWnCG3CDkXlGqMSB0WXlHJ4ghWyR6HmF9HNU/s320/DSC_2323.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a>Hello Dear Friends,<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As it says in Luke 6:38 "Give and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This year, I have been overwhelmed by the generosity of God. How he has continued to go above and beyond the measure that I have used. The amount of opportunity that has been poured into my lap that surpasses what I am deserving of continues to leave me in awe of His mercy and grace towards me. There have been times when the hustle of everything has made me forget to be grateful and forget how good He has been to me. And I have grumbled against Him and lost my way a few times since I wrote you all last. But as I have had to look back at all that has happened in writing to you, I am brought back to a renewed thankfulness. God is good. He gives us a good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, poured into our laps. And yeah, sometimes that can get messy, but it is always beautiful. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtiX5wy80WLNYIJX41_UO0AeqxnYLmIvVxQ_pWOZpDoqm1YZyfxIIaR9kQ9Hks5pIJjapZ86glLnOX9swhLe7V5f_KtZBbqh_y23xvV-xSICgAT6i1N2Z5KKozURAcOUTMStHarBkafQY/s1600/DSC_2294.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtiX5wy80WLNYIJX41_UO0AeqxnYLmIvVxQ_pWOZpDoqm1YZyfxIIaR9kQ9Hks5pIJjapZ86glLnOX9swhLe7V5f_KtZBbqh_y23xvV-xSICgAT6i1N2Z5KKozURAcOUTMStHarBkafQY/s320/DSC_2294.JPG" width="320" /></a>We just finished with our Summer VBS "Superhero City". This year was a very special VBS for us. <br />
We started out the event with several complications when it came to school schedules and did not think many children would be able to come. But as we brought it to God in prayer, we started seeing miracles happen and this ended up being the largest turnout we have ever had for a VBS. Altogether we had 67 children in attendance, with a cancelation waiting list of 9 more due the small size of our facility. This year was also the fastest that a VBS has ever filled up, with registration closing 2 weeks before the event. Also what amazed us is where God brought children from. Almost all the children that attended came from families outside the church and many of those had never stepped foot inside a church before. Many came in timidly, but all the kids left singing and dancing with big smiles on their face, many asking when they could come to church again. Many of the moms also were able to sit in on parts of the VBS including the messages, which all stated clearly how Jesus is the greatest hero of all. In addition to the children, we were blessed to <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUPsvfuT8P97AbPoEohWF2ctrBiU7H-Z3rs3M8jGKUKDwWKFt3RkZMtZemCYmfWZ65juChANLB1CW99rNh2mqzOr1HPqLPA74cfVk1U4i0uuQl3xKyJnEvWs0UCe7mJrcjfDwlXozR_hI/s1600/DSC_2437.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUPsvfuT8P97AbPoEohWF2ctrBiU7H-Z3rs3M8jGKUKDwWKFt3RkZMtZemCYmfWZ65juChANLB1CW99rNh2mqzOr1HPqLPA74cfVk1U4i0uuQl3xKyJnEvWs0UCe7mJrcjfDwlXozR_hI/s320/DSC_2437.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
have a team of 10 from Second Level Ministry that came and lead the VBS program this year. As I have mentioned before. Second Level Ministry is a group that ministers to Japanese Foreign exchange students in Atlanta and has been making plans since last year to work with us here at Horizon. With their team, our own staff of 30 people, and all the mothers and children included, we had well over a hundred people packed into this building. It was almost bursting at the seams! Please pray for all the seeds that were planted and for those who attended VBS to also attend our church camp that we invited them all to. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKUPMgzupe3OQKqMLP4AQqdWU8oBdKwIH-LT2joUCwYoam9j5r_R_yfluoUYnjuZrKAwDB_-hRfZtVlAeE7tj7fsvLzqyhAAPyYov5lSkKNRSdz31lCfC2nBbY-6hkQW_0GOofSZ-gSmo/s1600/67163898_10156759056098878_5254739469856145408_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKUPMgzupe3OQKqMLP4AQqdWU8oBdKwIH-LT2joUCwYoam9j5r_R_yfluoUYnjuZrKAwDB_-hRfZtVlAeE7tj7fsvLzqyhAAPyYov5lSkKNRSdz31lCfC2nBbY-6hkQW_0GOofSZ-gSmo/s320/67163898_10156759056098878_5254739469856145408_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhImnv9WowUXYyEZxSEJZm6vFP5NxM61uTIaDuTu_Cp-1_he81aaFqXJaHKF96Lc-u5BoLTpVj4IUnh3hFvKnpkeVjrwp_GuhnrpOShkoJJeihmtsLiaPxT5UZscDCAEh6iI-ZdTcTGzVs/s1600/67641941_10156759045598878_4778129710682996736_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhImnv9WowUXYyEZxSEJZm6vFP5NxM61uTIaDuTu_Cp-1_he81aaFqXJaHKF96Lc-u5BoLTpVj4IUnh3hFvKnpkeVjrwp_GuhnrpOShkoJJeihmtsLiaPxT5UZscDCAEh6iI-ZdTcTGzVs/s200/67641941_10156759045598878_4778129710682996736_o.jpg" width="200" /></a>In addition to leading the VBS program, Second Level Ministry also held two reunion parties for students they had ministered to in Atlanta that have returned to Japan. Between the two events, I believe we had about 45 or more students in attendance right here at Tokyo Horizon Chapel. We were able to talk and share with them, invite them to Funky Friday Night , our college group, and also invite them to services on Sunday. Some have been attending our English services ever since. Please pray for God to continue to work in the heart of the students and draw them towards <br />
Himself. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlMbi7cAPrLyMre-qBdtqZRqz-egKImJ0IhB7ltIkaYgW5iiHZI5ii6ihxhUMJch0oa1_f1Cn0niCIZcMgeAqdQTRqiRxUyXU720KUF3amJp47YnGRzT60GjoNtpvSPCdBEofzS47BI3E/s1600/67365536_2130893730370071_5820374001175756800_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="608" data-original-width="1080" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlMbi7cAPrLyMre-qBdtqZRqz-egKImJ0IhB7ltIkaYgW5iiHZI5ii6ihxhUMJch0oa1_f1Cn0niCIZcMgeAqdQTRqiRxUyXU720KUF3amJp47YnGRzT60GjoNtpvSPCdBEofzS47BI3E/s320/67365536_2130893730370071_5820374001175756800_o.jpg" width="320" /></a>Thank you for your prayers for Funky Friday Night as well. As we entered into the summer months, <br />
in order to minister to the new members that have been coming, we shifted our format from a bible study to a youth group setting. Every week, we prepare a meal, have a message and sharing time, games, and fellowship. The response has been blessed and we have seen God breath new life into the group. Please pray for us as we are going to be having a big summer get together for Funky on Aug 10. Please pray for new connections to be made and also for God to continue to draw Funky together in unity. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFzDHqJtF4DNgWVteFdmO_NbQ6aJl-lCcvpJ8T5E0GShFxfOTGdvp-0LJJyWLrFRPHwKra2WGVKCgJs1tbqUHDVuetF_EGtliVfCczeLZA7usRiAW4KZCxGwAGv_WRRrKt5W1owzVL4Ok/s1600/65275642_2431519583558197_3570189821043277824_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFzDHqJtF4DNgWVteFdmO_NbQ6aJl-lCcvpJ8T5E0GShFxfOTGdvp-0LJJyWLrFRPHwKra2WGVKCgJs1tbqUHDVuetF_EGtliVfCczeLZA7usRiAW4KZCxGwAGv_WRRrKt5W1owzVL4Ok/s320/65275642_2431519583558197_3570189821043277824_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Thank you for your prayers for the Horizon Bible College. I just finished teaching my 3rd semester at the college and it was my first time teaching a full 10 week course. This semester we studied through the book of Judges and it was an eye opening time for me even as I was teaching through the class. I really came up against some of the limitations I had put upon God as to the kind of people He can work through and the situations that that He can use. If God can use a man like Samson, there is no way I can say He can't use me. If God can use a civil war amongst his own people to bring repentance, He can truly use anything for his purpose. The students also had a blessed time and there was a lot of honest communication. Please pray for me as I prepare classes for the fall semester and please continue to pray for students as we had many graduate in June.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Thank you for your continued prayers for the Shine English Language school. Honestly, God keeps filling us up. The parents over in Setagaya started showing interest in having adult classes over in Setagaya and so from the beginning of this year we began adult classes over there. Now we have six Shine Kids Parents taking classes in Setagaya weekly. Also, though it declined for a while, Shine Kids Setagaya is being filled up again recently and now we have 27 kids coming to classes as well. The classes in Machida continue and we have now 38 students taking classes every month. I thank God that he is giving me opportunity to share with so many people every week through these English classes. But honestly, at least when it comes to Machida, I am starting to have to turn people away. I am full to max capacity when it comes to my teaching schedule, especially after school. If you could, please pray for someone like me, who can teach English and has a heart for ministry that I could partner with to minister to this overflow.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-GC_YFpXgswCaOXpknzaCmh9gYjqXtDZMBH-wv18fOg5UsReG2IeRyv4s_1ugMjfzKKU_A0xbYpJp3GhIQYI9GGA4tEjmwrE5OAAeMcULUMFBotBca2Y2hx_seMONfNk3lOvxrJVPOy0/s1600/54730665_2894347693923886_1571787606033694720_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-GC_YFpXgswCaOXpknzaCmh9gYjqXtDZMBH-wv18fOg5UsReG2IeRyv4s_1ugMjfzKKU_A0xbYpJp3GhIQYI9GGA4tEjmwrE5OAAeMcULUMFBotBca2Y2hx_seMONfNk3lOvxrJVPOy0/s320/54730665_2894347693923886_1571787606033694720_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>Finally, please keep the International service here at Horizon in prayer. Recently, we have had a <br />
suddenly surge of attendance from children outside the church who want to learn English. So much so, that I started a whole new Sunday school class for them that teaches English through the Bible. Please pray for the new kids, that this interest in English would be the stepping stone that would lead to a lifetime relationship with Jesus. Also, in the International service, we are about to go through a very big transition. Our pastor, Rich Chang, who has been serving here at Horizon for over 8 years is going to be heading back to the U.S. very soon. Naturally this is going to be a big change for our church and it has not yet been decided what is going to done in his absence. Of course, it is going to be difficult to loose such an amazing pastor and fellow worker here, especially when fellow workers are so few. But God is good and I know He has a perfect plan for this. Please pray for peace for the congregation and for clarity as we seek His will for the next season.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Thank you all for your prayers and support. We really miss you all and pray for God to open up a window of opportunity to be with you all again soon. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyb7oC1jGoVG5zpwxLvSivwCP7MF13fiD_BaRNbWyIxDyANT230FtlZjF1ov4clKtUcaqOT-3pWXxYLVbmgKZArOzv-kjQt0F8-1ZGykeczWYhb8LRf1brbV9x5s4fNHPOc8F1WrmnF6E/s1600/IMG_0454.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyb7oC1jGoVG5zpwxLvSivwCP7MF13fiD_BaRNbWyIxDyANT230FtlZjF1ov4clKtUcaqOT-3pWXxYLVbmgKZArOzv-kjQt0F8-1ZGykeczWYhb8LRf1brbV9x5s4fNHPOc8F1WrmnF6E/s320/IMG_0454.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Love,</div>
<div>
Alex, Tomoko, Daisy, Caleb, and Hazel Robinson </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
P.S. Our kids are doing great. Daisy is going to starting Elementary School next year. Please pray for us as we are praying about homeschooling her. Caleb is doing well, always finding ways to make everyone laugh. And Hazel is toddling around and starting to say her first words.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Alex Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824630632584342796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2608839469166524679.post-28269000667057233102018-12-19T21:12:00.002-08:002018-12-19T21:27:15.541-08:00Christmas Greetings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhjtPxP6JO8_21GaVfb-6bWI9oFkqHiNjaxUP7NV0rl6ucLHwtHhSnCk43owmxEi5NDWwpQoF37GXU4Nl24FaK5X5WYwlfZuQ0l0Ny5_eUBvYSl4iEtNNkRD5eGwKaMAl-s7YtY7zTC30/s1600/47322201_10156715562669156_7854039224830394368_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhjtPxP6JO8_21GaVfb-6bWI9oFkqHiNjaxUP7NV0rl6ucLHwtHhSnCk43owmxEi5NDWwpQoF37GXU4Nl24FaK5X5WYwlfZuQ0l0Ny5_eUBvYSl4iEtNNkRD5eGwKaMAl-s7YtY7zTC30/s320/47322201_10156715562669156_7854039224830394368_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Dear Friends,</span><br />
<span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Merry Christmas to you all! May we all count ourselves blessed during this season as we remember that God himself, in love, set aside His glory and chose to live among us that we might experience the light of life. I miss you all and think about you often, especially during this time of year. I want to thank all of you who have reached out recently to us as it has been a huge encouragement to me and my family. I was also very excited to hear about plans to bring a team from Calvary Chapel Sonora to work alongside us here next October! I can't wait to receive all of you who are able to come and to minister with us here! Your help is very needed and deeply appreciated!</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOGGNYbwOft1mgP63iHCwIYzNELLF6FMhlqNN0SfOOVae2S14PfQgYGavsKLLQgOWqIuWhOqlYLT_jv5dpMLEro-DBJD2Vl1_p5irrIt7o9BMnOp24kv3YiJL83Vu0ejLW4tr60q6czLQ/s1600/DSC_2181.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; color: white;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOGGNYbwOft1mgP63iHCwIYzNELLF6FMhlqNN0SfOOVae2S14PfQgYGavsKLLQgOWqIuWhOqlYLT_jv5dpMLEro-DBJD2Vl1_p5irrIt7o9BMnOp24kv3YiJL83Vu0ejLW4tr60q6czLQ/s200/DSC_2181.JPG" width="200" /></span></a><br />
<span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">We are still in the full rush of the Christmas season. In Japan, Christmas is an extremely popular holiday, though the meaning is unknown. And a lot of opportunities have been afforded to us to share and reach out. As I write you, I am preparing for Funky Friday Nights kids program this Saturday at the Myanmar church in central Tokyo(which looks to have about 40~50 children in attendance) and also the Horizon Christmas Program/Outreach that is coming up on Sunday. Please pray for both of these events. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">We kicked off on the first of December with our Sunday School Christmas. I want to thank </span></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; color: white;"><span style="background-color: #cfe2f3;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">you for continuing to pray for God to open hearts here, because the response for this year was bigger than ever before. Because of VBS this summer, word spread through many of the mothers in the Shine program and also at Daisy and Caleb's Kindergarten. Also church members invited their non christian family and we ended up having 46 children come to the event. More than came to Machida VBS this summer. We are praying of about making the event as big as our VBS program next year. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; color: white;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span>
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; clear: right; color: white; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXY8DR06mKHRqp2_fCbKzf5Qi86QH5oKvZSirmAAnzXRd-4Lhc7xrJ0B0hCmSH8YM2jPBBPSOCRXOrRcCYWAnADswqGY3gzTuc_VbF7jWyGQYQz4JfdE8PpSoAOsFO9iyGYguM3p99df4/s1600/1545279183960.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; color: white;"><img border="0" data-original-height="890" data-original-width="1188" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXY8DR06mKHRqp2_fCbKzf5Qi86QH5oKvZSirmAAnzXRd-4Lhc7xrJ0B0hCmSH8YM2jPBBPSOCRXOrRcCYWAnADswqGY3gzTuc_VbF7jWyGQYQz4JfdE8PpSoAOsFO9iyGYguM3p99df4/s320/1545279183960.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><span style="background-color: #6fa8dc;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; color: white;">Thank you all for praying about the Funky Friday Night College Group. Taking leadership of this group has been a very stretching experience for me. In all honesty it has revealed more areas where I need repent and grow than I care to count. But God has been faithful in walking me through the process. As it says in 2 Corinthians 4:16 "</span><span style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; color: white;">we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day." I am starting to understand that verse better and better. And God, in his mercy, has been blessing the ministry. We continue our study through Hebrews and have just started working through chapter 11. The conversations have been very good and have been getting deeper as time goes on. We also have kept up having a dinner night with guest Testimony every month. Last month we had a big Thanksgiving dinner night with both the Funky Friday Night and the old Alive members and had 42 people come. And a week ago,</span><span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; color: white;"><span style="background-color: #6fa8dc;"> we had a street ministry night with the international members </span><span style="background-color: #6fa8dc;">that was awesome. </span></span></span></span></span><span style="-webkit-text-stroke-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-stroke-width: initial; background-color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Georgia; font-size: 14.5px;"><span style="color: white;">In addition, last summer we were visited by Second Level Ministry, a group who is doing ministry to Japanese exchange students in Atlanta. And in the mysterious way that God works, we are now in planning with them for their mission trip next year as they are seeking to connect the students they have ministered to in the past with our church. So please pray for the group as we are going into this new season. Please pray for some of our members who are just starting out their walk with Jesus and some who are still seeking who have been visiting us frequently.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjafumgeoeac9hbr0OnCCSrasO35Nq1cQ-2MaAVJx1gBOorwyOSY2VEpEPrCblZZQNC-7Ca7PGaoomrN6e5VwPi5-fihyphenhyphen0I6w2qcCuFF3SxwR8oCLqdcztoPu-sNTjgiqFwUdLTuGDIiMQ/s1600/46485643_2095098643866961_6541946481341890560_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjafumgeoeac9hbr0OnCCSrasO35Nq1cQ-2MaAVJx1gBOorwyOSY2VEpEPrCblZZQNC-7Ca7PGaoomrN6e5VwPi5-fihyphenhyphen0I6w2qcCuFF3SxwR8oCLqdcztoPu-sNTjgiqFwUdLTuGDIiMQ/s200/46485643_2095098643866961_6541946481341890560_o.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">As for the Shine English Language School, we continue in patient ministry to our 37 students in Machida and our 23 students in Setagaya. We are starting to see some changes as some of our adult students recently visited Sunday Service for the first time, but it is still one small step at a time. Please pray for a patient and unselfish heart for us as we love on them and serve them. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; color: white;">Thank you also for your prayers about my new role teaching at the Horizon Bible College (HBC). This semester went very well and even though everything was all in English, I think the class was a powerful time for the students and myself as well. I am now preparing for my class next semester on the book of Ezra which will be a 7 week course.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; color: white;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg93ujs-VXof6BWtlBGJ3AUJAHqP92NoFvPPf7UA29vyUjIpdu6KjjlWIqcRLhJp4P-b3rRmVLSzQVo_TGv_GWxSqU7iXfWl3CCkA0bbQQxH_K5BaLCxWAVVjpitfazJcDrYMzucS7m8wk/s1600/1545282400281.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; color: white;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1188" data-original-width="890" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg93ujs-VXof6BWtlBGJ3AUJAHqP92NoFvPPf7UA29vyUjIpdu6KjjlWIqcRLhJp4P-b3rRmVLSzQVo_TGv_GWxSqU7iXfWl3CCkA0bbQQxH_K5BaLCxWAVVjpitfazJcDrYMzucS7m8wk/s320/1545282400281.jpg" width="239" /></span></a><span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Lastly, please pray for my wife and family. More and more, my wife Tomoko has been given opportunities to minister to the mothers at our kids kindergarten. They have come over to our house multiple times and are always full of questions about our faith. They even came to the international service a few weeks back. She also is continuing on with her mother's group here at the church and God has been blessing the time powerfully. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; color: white; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; color: white;">We thank you very much for all your prayers and support! We love you all and can't wait to welcome all who come with the team next October!</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; color: white;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; color: white;">Grace and Peace,</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; color: white;">Alex, Tomoko, Daisy, Caleb, and Hazel Robinson</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; color: white;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #001320; font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="background-color: #6fa8dc; color: white;">P.S. The kids are doing great. Daisy and Caleb love their school and though we were a bit worried at first, Caleb is taking to his all Japanese school like a fish to water. Hazel is a very happy girl, and though she is not crawling yet, she has been dragging herself around the house at quite a fast pace.</span></span></div>
<br />Alex Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824630632584342796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2608839469166524679.post-43975874461909462702018-09-10T23:47:00.001-07:002018-09-10T23:49:12.907-07:00As The Winds Blow<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFtd7SAJI1LvMQs_z2mL7emnD9c6_YCTUpdfwRYmDJocpjZ5VVwDivRxBXLPLcT-_KgN1syuj0M39FptCwLpwLRZBzpZ1XNS0eZkr5MzDB8hzYLiYJk_K_c1Hz6atnc08JIK176svza8Y/s1600/36783094_10156382999749156_905001818889650176_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; font-size: 11px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFtd7SAJI1LvMQs_z2mL7emnD9c6_YCTUpdfwRYmDJocpjZ5VVwDivRxBXLPLcT-_KgN1syuj0M39FptCwLpwLRZBzpZ1XNS0eZkr5MzDB8hzYLiYJk_K_c1Hz6atnc08JIK176svza8Y/s320/36783094_10156382999749156_905001818889650176_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-kerning: none;">Dear Friends,</span></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">I hope this letter finds you all safe and well. We continue to pray for you all who have been affected by the wildfires. Praying for protection and that the Lord would keep you all in his good grace. I miss you all and look forward to the day when I can see you again. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">John 3:8 says “The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.” Many times the Spirit takes us on quite a ride. We don’t know where it is all going or even where some of the opportunities he presents us with have come from. All we can do is remain flexible and go with the wind. This last summer was a lot like that for me</span></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<br />
It started during our annual VBS in July. The last time I wrote to<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlUZlp_7P7zA0gJsQ7kb4Bi-zXotMQIP4P06zokYuUrHydrp3jy4aX6GhGgZwZFG1bqyWRq7AV0rgPpUNPDtSMpD6WGQbEYJ9MBHfM7ixfXqQmYKFeGIilInM0CvaP6aGsS4nSt39TDrU/s1600/36819769_10156382999369156_5811578788621844480_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlUZlp_7P7zA0gJsQ7kb4Bi-zXotMQIP4P06zokYuUrHydrp3jy4aX6GhGgZwZFG1bqyWRq7AV0rgPpUNPDtSMpD6WGQbEYJ9MBHfM7ixfXqQmYKFeGIilInM0CvaP6aGsS4nSt39TDrU/s200/36819769_10156382999369156_5811578788621844480_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-kerning: none;">you all, I asked for prayer for a softening of heart for all those we minister to through our English outreach. And yours prayers impacted. I did nothing different, but the flood gates opened up and we had more kids from Shine outreaches come than ever before. But it was more than that, because suddenly people we never even invited started showing up. Shine kids we haven’t talked to in years suddenly started contacting us out of the blue and asking if there were any summer events this year. We mentioned it to one of the mothers at Daisy’s Kindergarten, and suddenly she is inviting all of her friends to come. And even though Daisy’s Kindergarten is a Christian school, most of the people who came to VBS where not christian and had never set foot inside a church before. Even a government worker who was assigned to check up on our youngest, Hazel, ended sending both of her kids as well. Never saw it coming. Between the two VBS events we had around 65 kids show up. And some kids had such a great time at the Machida VBS that they went all the way to Setagaya the following Saturday to attend VBS there too. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio5Cl0s2aTxIt1OhCQYnWlq55FfG_xg06iuK3JglpFZ_b-GLwGlvh-eD7cVxVDwaW2vz5bH_H2ZP12g4DkLGoLUPFH4h7JCdHONFSy9e_X4_h7IIQAg8Ex_8VBU2GXuKNyWtktOIHF-0Y/s1600/37924361_2748244345201859_4128151943044399104_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="1080" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio5Cl0s2aTxIt1OhCQYnWlq55FfG_xg06iuK3JglpFZ_b-GLwGlvh-eD7cVxVDwaW2vz5bH_H2ZP12g4DkLGoLUPFH4h7JCdHONFSy9e_X4_h7IIQAg8Ex_8VBU2GXuKNyWtktOIHF-0Y/s200/37924361_2748244345201859_4128151943044399104_o.jpg" width="160" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDmOjXfyyRcPc6KPnuLfIrHDqZJw8AiIE7dDjPhGy5XKhfIGiuls_NRS_pxYF2wnHCrr4kSgEsO3kjLeiyrc5_CPujPMB4vIj52orSYdDv0VCS0j5T0s6wMy5s5wR9w444oHkdo4gh2aQ/s1600/IMG_20180831_205155.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1254" data-original-width="940" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDmOjXfyyRcPc6KPnuLfIrHDqZJw8AiIE7dDjPhGy5XKhfIGiuls_NRS_pxYF2wnHCrr4kSgEsO3kjLeiyrc5_CPujPMB4vIj52orSYdDv0VCS0j5T0s6wMy5s5wR9w444oHkdo4gh2aQ/s320/IMG_20180831_205155.jpg" width="238" /></a><span style="font-kerning: none;">Soon after, the pastors of our church came to me and asked me to take over leadership of Horizon’s college group, Funky Friday Night. I never saw it coming. Now, I had never written about this before, but the reason this is so amazing is that this group had been on my heart for years and actually (and Zach Wise can attest to this) I had been praying for a way to minister to this group for quite some time now. However, I could not due to certain cultural issues that had kept me at a respectful distance. But suddenly the wind blew in a new direction and now I am leading the group. I still can’t believe it. We have been studying through the book of Hebrews and are up to chapter 5 now in our bible study. The discussions that are going on are awesome to hear. And a week ago we had our second dinner night with guest testimony from my friend Hide who shared about how the word of God saved him out of depression and changed his life. So amazing to see. Pray for me as this is the first time I have lead a group entirely in Japanese and am still getting used to it. I have been feeling the limits of my Japanese especially, so please pray for my continued growth to meet the needs of the group. Also pray for the continued spiritual growth of the group itself.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOU0l-cVL912240nBQR9sSOF8kaHuPKcsfvB7hMdognR1x5NX4PYkdf38JFZvDvARXIK7ZOnOKAz9a1we39IFTfA-GwDQpWFxijh5dIxRLn2sc2W-lJ5quDSemlQDtMfz4I1YAs7zEh1o/s1600/IMG_20180911_105819.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1254" data-original-width="940" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOU0l-cVL912240nBQR9sSOF8kaHuPKcsfvB7hMdognR1x5NX4PYkdf38JFZvDvARXIK7ZOnOKAz9a1we39IFTfA-GwDQpWFxijh5dIxRLn2sc2W-lJ5quDSemlQDtMfz4I1YAs7zEh1o/s200/IMG_20180911_105819.jpg" width="149" /></a></div>
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Not long after that, the wind gave me another turn. One of the teachers here at the bible college decided that she wanted to retire. And with a spot open, the pastors came to me and asked to teach a class once a week here at the Horizon Bible college. And again, I was just in shock. I didn’t think I would ever be teaching at the bible college here. The class I was asked to teach is an English immersion class on the book of 1 John. We actually just had our first class today and it was a very blessed time. Often times seeing the Word in another language can often give us new perspectives on passages that we have become accustomed to, and I think it will will be a blessing for the student. For me also, the preparation for the class has been very powerful and simplifying 1 John to language an English beginner can understand gave me a new perspective.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwriGDf9d4KOV8GiXUw-iETsrKTAFl7o0LRLweCg5kxQjN4GfS1G8yp3kgai6K_ShBPXiyCTU6iJ2eg9LRFi7kip7lYzJRyk1am4jRLzNzDmBTkQFi95lbF-MzMr_ZZl7TaI5139EC038/s1600/37819870_10156431248119156_224100634612203520_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwriGDf9d4KOV8GiXUw-iETsrKTAFl7o0LRLweCg5kxQjN4GfS1G8yp3kgai6K_ShBPXiyCTU6iJ2eg9LRFi7kip7lYzJRyk1am4jRLzNzDmBTkQFi95lbF-MzMr_ZZl7TaI5139EC038/s320/37819870_10156431248119156_224100634612203520_n.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="font-kerning: none;">Please pray for Shine Kids as this Fall semester will be starting from this week with around 27 students in Setagaya. The Shine English language school started already from last week with 36 regular students. And pray for more children to come to the program in Setagaya and deeper relationships with those who are return students.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Thank you all always for your continued prayers and support. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Grace and Peace,</span></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Alex, Tomoko, Daisy, Caleb, and Hazel Robinson</span></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-size: 11px;">P.S. Daisy and Caleb are doing great and now are both going to Japanese Kindergarten starting from last week. Hazel is doing very well and smiles, laughs, and squeals constantly.</span>Alex Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824630632584342796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2608839469166524679.post-42272039936378238512018-05-15T19:15:00.000-07:002018-05-15T20:05:04.737-07:00A New Thing<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq2c_qDFwWiU8H_iNap3EWkb7jHJ8XW38hSxk26kSednSnuSXB2sz1h_PZqGoShGjhqD-3MAV_LYvPlyvvGFuTVHb_WnuV3PKBAEap2wZzEExrXv_QTNRhPpwVtMlFlBrS3JEdTvt-xBA/s1600/28471794_1396028617168943_1609954997992559180_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq2c_qDFwWiU8H_iNap3EWkb7jHJ8XW38hSxk26kSednSnuSXB2sz1h_PZqGoShGjhqD-3MAV_LYvPlyvvGFuTVHb_WnuV3PKBAEap2wZzEExrXv_QTNRhPpwVtMlFlBrS3JEdTvt-xBA/s320/28471794_1396028617168943_1609954997992559180_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-kerning: none;">Dear friends,</span></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">It is good to be writing you all again. In Isaiah 43:18-19, it says “Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” On January 1st of this year, God brought me to this verse and has brought me back to it many times afterwards. And through this year, what I have seen time and time again is that He works in ways that I am not going to expect, just as I don’t expect a way in the wilderness and a river in a desert. And as He is moving in these unexpected ways, I need to be laying down what he has done yesterday to see what he is doing today.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpUhSt7kJC_DFZZfC3CL0zinugKWH_D4bAo4F5DKFXLyxOkzcep2FCIlFr4qm-h88jHv3vBxWoqYHt1YPo7ZVdqjGX8wp_K6nBDYUbDZfkhAlWNEbfhbpydqtMvhFCecw9KnNA2ce2pmw/s1600/21432916_1243215302450276_571800882623100637_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="537" data-original-width="668" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpUhSt7kJC_DFZZfC3CL0zinugKWH_D4bAo4F5DKFXLyxOkzcep2FCIlFr4qm-h88jHv3vBxWoqYHt1YPo7ZVdqjGX8wp_K6nBDYUbDZfkhAlWNEbfhbpydqtMvhFCecw9KnNA2ce2pmw/s320/21432916_1243215302450276_571800882623100637_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-kerning: none;">As many of you know, two years ago I began leading a bilingual Saturday night service here at Horizon. And this year, we as a fellowship started praying fervently for God to start a new work in the service. Then just over a month ago, the 21st century church, a church we have been working together with for some time now, came to us asking to start a new joint service between our two churches on Saturday nights over at their church in Central Tokyo. Now, because of the history of Japan, there is not honestly a lot of connectivity between different churches. And the idea of two different churches working together, sharing a fellowship is, to my understanding, a historic idea. At first I struggled with it, asking God why our fellowship couldn't just stay as it was. But as he worked in my heart, he kept me bringing me back to the same thought, “You prayed for a new movement, Alex. And this is new. Unexpected for you maybe, but I am moving. Follow me.” And so we as a church started fellowshipping with the 21st century church on Saturdays a month ago. The fellowship time there has been refreshing and it has opened doors to people we would have never talked to before. Also, because of our involvement there, the doors are opening to other areas in Central Tokyo to reach out. They have come to us asking to do a children’s program there once a month as well and I have been asked to head it up. Please pray that God would continue to use this new service to open up new doors in central Tokyo for us to minister and reach new people. And though it is a very specific request, pray that God would open doors for me to be a part of the translation ministry there.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj263KwRJDyVO6S32EJjftMHMsYfc3UXHdF8rw0DKNshrIT07ir0TMLOkAQL__PRW_5n7rHW1RGrM3OgTZoaU4tj-dNRf_dN0pR93ev1Lsvo3P29b-DZTiGgaX0E5haidt0sppfN4IstzE/s1600/1521900398904.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1221" data-original-width="1567" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj263KwRJDyVO6S32EJjftMHMsYfc3UXHdF8rw0DKNshrIT07ir0TMLOkAQL__PRW_5n7rHW1RGrM3OgTZoaU4tj-dNRf_dN0pR93ev1Lsvo3P29b-DZTiGgaX0E5haidt0sppfN4IstzE/s320/1521900398904.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-kerning: none;">Doors also started opening up to our neighbors. We moved into our new house last October in a new area about 20 minutes drive from Machida. Before we moved, I remember we were sad to say goodbye to our old neighbors that we had been sharing with and ministering to. It had taken a long to build these relationships. But interestingly, as soon as we got into the new neighborhood, it felt like God is drawing people to us. The man next door to us loves trying out his English on me and we often get to talk. The neighborhood kids seem drawn to us also. As we played in the yard, some of our next door neighbors kids had been watching us from the windows. So we invited them out to play with us. Then some other kids from across the street that we say “hi” to every morning came right up and rung our doorbell the other day and asked if we could play with them. They ended up hanging out at our house for a quite some time. There are international families that have been walking by and have invited us to their house. Lots of opportunities which are usually so rare in Tokyo. Pray God would continue to use us in our community and show us how to minister to these people. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJsHEZF1iPjxo9Co2rTorA-r1S3ivSRADKoCPinCPYjnUKpzMVTN0_quctvsp-fMGioz5dJk3ZDPPB31CePvdQE4rsfFO2Qu-GRmwsFrd_FauQnbyyeikCQCtByy2A3fT3inM1_m1EK70/s1600/29597380_10156176172944156_8460967948343885752_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJsHEZF1iPjxo9Co2rTorA-r1S3ivSRADKoCPinCPYjnUKpzMVTN0_quctvsp-fMGioz5dJk3ZDPPB31CePvdQE4rsfFO2Qu-GRmwsFrd_FauQnbyyeikCQCtByy2A3fT3inM1_m1EK70/s320/29597380_10156176172944156_8460967948343885752_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-kerning: none;">God also has been doing some new things with the Sunday school here at Horizon. Recently I was invited to help out with the Setagaya Sunday school kids camp at the base of mount Fuji. One of the girls who comes to Sunday School invited 6 of her non christian friends to come. All the kids had a blast. I made the mistake of carrying one of them on my shoulders, and once they saw I could do it, they took turns having me carry them everywhere. Most of them were in upper elementary school, and honestly usually Tokyo kids at that age start to get so serious and kind of hard to bring out of their shell. But they were all playing with us like they were little kids and listened so intently when we shared the bible with them. All of them said they want to come to the next camp. Over here in Machida Sunday school kids continue to bring their non christian friends. Though many of them were very wild kids when they first came to us, I have seen a lot of changes in their hearts. They have started to like singing and worshiping with us. They listen very well to the bible stories and remember so much of what we have taught them and the memory verses as well. They always ask for our prayers for many things. It is beautiful to see. Pray God would continue to use the Sunday school to minister to church kids and their friends as well as continue to work through events like the Sunday School Easter outreach seen here. Also pleas pray for our Sunday School BBQ this Saturday and it looks like 55 people are coming including some from our Shine English Language school. Pray God would use it to minister to the kids and their parents. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">As for the Shine English Language school, God is continuing to bless it and open doors through it. The Language school in Machida has around 36 students and the Setagaya school has around 24 students now. God continues to give sharing opportunities in the class conversation time, but it seems recently to take longer to build relationships and trust in the school. Harder to get people to come to events at church. We will of course keep making opportunities, times, and places for people to come, but pray that God would open up hearts at the school. And pray for leading as we plan out events at the Setagaya English school. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioi-_94rgCf5ga4batsXjSwUTdNIuEhzhhF5x37og4dmmiE24gF2ZjMcmSpdzCP8M4Gli5cqg4PY49y385jbGV2v-CFocrhFybBr4xItwUiNfw08tNVUflXXOnnTru9cyjWL41M_gFe6o/s1600/31947427_10215876520775482_1454153369533808640_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1483" data-original-width="1530" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioi-_94rgCf5ga4batsXjSwUTdNIuEhzhhF5x37og4dmmiE24gF2ZjMcmSpdzCP8M4Gli5cqg4PY49y385jbGV2v-CFocrhFybBr4xItwUiNfw08tNVUflXXOnnTru9cyjWL41M_gFe6o/s320/31947427_10215876520775482_1454153369533808640_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivHhWel8g2isOSi_ZjhfLG4xrqUqzS_1rt_o0eHhLZKT1S3krlE8BEMnPFDbTu8uKw296xggZnyDwbQA2nG4kyUQnCj-4mLhMvlETWVE4YAeajCZF3FgYFCoher94mK7KY2cQHYEjISGE/s1600/30743786_10215782757311454_3569861256045133824_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><span style="font-kerning: none;">And lastly, the newest work that God has done for us is adding to our family. Our daughter, Hazel Annora Robinson was born on April 20, weighing 8.5 pounds and measuring at 21.3 inches. Her big brother and sister are crazy about her, always running to check on her if she cries. Please pray for this new season of our family life as well. </span></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">We thank you all for your prayers and support. We are praying for you all and love you.</span></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Grace and Peace,</span></div>
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 12px;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: "helvetica neue"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none;">Alex, Tomoko, Daisy, Caleb, and Hazel Robinson</span></div>
Alex Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824630632584342796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2608839469166524679.post-42316940818736213472017-03-16T08:00:00.001-07:002017-03-16T15:55:03.320-07:00Here we come!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSAnLO4cagyuonO_P1L7kM-8SsHvigYCz-_8pEgCofS4cgczd63rPg9IKtmceXYeZjsWiB5kVtT5tKelzdche9SdbU2EztOfkyYeBJakz4WCrLhKhahU4Z0N9HHHs62ApDSVJ5p-sTYr0/s1600/14543774_10210806099979519_2838828250855160875_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSAnLO4cagyuonO_P1L7kM-8SsHvigYCz-_8pEgCofS4cgczd63rPg9IKtmceXYeZjsWiB5kVtT5tKelzdche9SdbU2EztOfkyYeBJakz4WCrLhKhahU4Z0N9HHHs62ApDSVJ5p-sTYr0/s320/14543774_10210806099979519_2838828250855160875_o.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
Hello Friends,<br />
Well, the cold of the Tokyo winter is just starting to melt away and we are beginning to feel the first warm breezes of spring. And as we are heading into a new season, it is a blessing to stop and reflect on God's faithfulness this last winter.<br />
<br />
Last time I wrote you all I told you about the new Bilingual fellowship "ALIVE" that we had started up on Saturdays. I want to thank you so much for your prayers. We have now reached the half year mark since we started the service and it has been a very blessed time. Last year we started the service studying in the book of James. By God's grace, we have finished James and and we are about to finish the book of Jonah. We have recently made a blog for this service and have started to post the messages from the service as well. Please give it a look when you have the time.<br />
<br />
<b><u>http://horizonalive.blogspot.jp</u></b><br />
<br />
Also thank you for praying for the fellowship time for this service. It has been a amazing time for us and I look forward to it every week. It has been great to hear some of the conversations that have been going on in the fellowship and to see new friendships made with members of the different services. Pray that God would continue his work of unity in the service. Also please pray for the next<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimAq3qA5sc3xpwljkcXcJ2srUB4IlxC_V0kUTQd-wHoAYSSjb77I7RSC0ffX4Y8rTzDhV3_FIybwOOCGqjDr1V7M5ETVUTSdofWsAt4TYGKINDCJlobTlLvtHf-50GmNDlDtALKmyxyTY/s1600/17103761_1509206465758238_7101305356195981403_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimAq3qA5sc3xpwljkcXcJ2srUB4IlxC_V0kUTQd-wHoAYSSjb77I7RSC0ffX4Y8rTzDhV3_FIybwOOCGqjDr1V7M5ETVUTSdofWsAt4TYGKINDCJlobTlLvtHf-50GmNDlDtALKmyxyTY/s320/17103761_1509206465758238_7101305356195981403_n.jpg" width="226" /></a>steps of this service. Now that we have started the service, we want it to more and more become a welcoming space for Non christians who are wanting to study English as well. And while we have had a couple of my English students attend the service since we started, please pray for wisdom in inviting people and ways to open doors to minister to those we are teaching English too through the ALIVE service. Also please continue to pray for our translators and worship leader as they grow in their service.<br />
<br />
God has also opened a new door for the ministry here at Tokyo Horizon Chapel. A pastor from central Tokyo has recently opened up his church for us to use on Sunday nights in the city of Hiroo. This new service will be the start of a new church campus for us. It will be the fifth service we have on Sunday between our two main campuses. It is also been decided that it will be a bilingual service and I have been given the opportunity to act in a supporting role in the service and give the teaching when Pastor Hirano is not able to. There are many foreigners in the area as well as Japanese interested in international culture. So please pray that God would use this new church plant to minister to the people of central Tokyo and many would come to know Jesus.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDbXHhf_WPGlpx7Z5dkM_J1pNW5IKeeLz_RNUJcrPnmZPmOVEBeklFsCNK0SEKtqdQn62CZU4BDJQ9Tccb3o8m7beZdVUc7bxdfcK74N9FB_IbKGyJP16AV9y7flKLwi2X3ytKdm3nrHg/s1600/IMG_0816.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDbXHhf_WPGlpx7Z5dkM_J1pNW5IKeeLz_RNUJcrPnmZPmOVEBeklFsCNK0SEKtqdQn62CZU4BDJQ9Tccb3o8m7beZdVUc7bxdfcK74N9FB_IbKGyJP16AV9y7flKLwi2X3ytKdm3nrHg/s320/IMG_0816.JPG" width="320" /></a>Thank you for your prayers for Shine Kids and the Shine English program. The Shine Kids in Setagaya is continuing to grow. So much so that we had to start a new class on that day, which brings Thursdays to 3 classes of 12. Our Classes in Machida remain steady and more and more, the children have been coming to the church events that we have been putting on. Another blessing happened recently with the graduating children. For many years, we have had the problem of Children who aged out of Shine Kids. We would then loose contact with them soon after making the window for ministering to them very short. Some in the past entered the Shine English language school, but most didn't. This year as kids are graduating in April, for the first time our whole advanced class that would have been finishing Shine Kids is going to be joining the Shine English Language school. Not one of them will be leaving. We praise God for the continued opportunity to serve them and their families. Please pray that God would continue to use us to speak into their lives and hearts.<br />
<br />
Last but not least, as you all know, we are gearing up for our trip to Sonora at the end of this month. We will be bringing our team of 12 from our church to homestay with CC Sonora Families. All of the team, especially the kids we will be bringing, are all very excited. Being as the church body in Japan is so small, you don't know what an encouragement it is for the Japanese Christians to spend time with their extended family overseas and see that God is at work all over the world. I want to thank you all personally for the opportunity. There has never been a time back in Sonora that I have not come away encouraged and rekindled for the work here in Japan. I pray the same for this team on this trip.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij170DyvcwPAwRmVQFp3BeJRde-nrVbwpiA-zWYi3oia_deY-TT3iGDnYHgdKWeXVnZ5ePJ3M23w_wqZrAKbYlkcNyUWu0zPtM2sg4upjQnwMgCZn_MrbcoiX0zgGG72vMDgUGzyO9Wa4/s1600/15203221_10154851247124156_4001489058627357459_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij170DyvcwPAwRmVQFp3BeJRde-nrVbwpiA-zWYi3oia_deY-TT3iGDnYHgdKWeXVnZ5ePJ3M23w_wqZrAKbYlkcNyUWu0zPtM2sg4upjQnwMgCZn_MrbcoiX0zgGG72vMDgUGzyO9Wa4/s320/15203221_10154851247124156_4001489058627357459_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
I can't wait to see you all soon.<br />
<br />
Much Love,<br />
Alex, Tomoko, Daisy, and Caleb Robinson<br />
<br />
P.S. Daisy and Caleb are doing great. Daisy is going to be entering kindergarten next month and Caleb is running around like crazy and toting around his toy guitar wherever he goes. And as is obvious by the picture, they both love to sing.<br />
<br />Alex Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824630632584342796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2608839469166524679.post-8714934168153335822016-10-27T22:40:00.000-07:002017-02-16T18:10:34.507-08:00ALIVE comes alive!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYbioJwvkU2h4IUszVrn_2YLHNkteugzgJ40Zo9GbRF6id1HU5TiLZo1cXwxPJC-KR66SzKuUjfkCR_MI8GhMdNS7-wlNTt7jQUedM9UGjGHoFUnZBi8g714IfmK72ThP_2Gb0ms3YB3k/s1600/ALIVE_logo_08.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="105" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYbioJwvkU2h4IUszVrn_2YLHNkteugzgJ40Zo9GbRF6id1HU5TiLZo1cXwxPJC-KR66SzKuUjfkCR_MI8GhMdNS7-wlNTt7jQUedM9UGjGHoFUnZBi8g714IfmK72ThP_2Gb0ms3YB3k/s320/ALIVE_logo_08.png" width="320" /></a></div>
Dear friends,<br />
It is good to be writing you all again. A lot has been happening since the last time that I wrote to you after the EPIC team left that I would like to share with you all.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyZpdiFC3wTSGl5BL_m47SwtqcYlAarVfAHZgqZIqD6QRtvM1ITahxTAWJSrri97-vNGP9xqjKeXXyMmU4u5oIfHrRQOQZHELuZQRLNZkU4aw13vQapPzQvlEuLFtGI18R_CX1EJ-hv9s/s1600/14233235_10154626112709156_2700768193240002078_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyZpdiFC3wTSGl5BL_m47SwtqcYlAarVfAHZgqZIqD6QRtvM1ITahxTAWJSrri97-vNGP9xqjKeXXyMmU4u5oIfHrRQOQZHELuZQRLNZkU4aw13vQapPzQvlEuLFtGI18R_CX1EJ-hv9s/s200/14233235_10154626112709156_2700768193240002078_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv5FIhnV1HlrmhJYz43piFY5vYd1qMebvp-ajrfXiEjmlQjBef-yZx9NNvf-cxoAMV5xBtXII7F2FHNzboqipyVG9s6pO27lz2Tr-FQUK4xcYV3U26Lf_PvQKz1pss1yTxLwfTgyw8ViI/s1600/14192572_10154626112639156_5353415901163884457_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv5FIhnV1HlrmhJYz43piFY5vYd1qMebvp-ajrfXiEjmlQjBef-yZx9NNvf-cxoAMV5xBtXII7F2FHNzboqipyVG9s6pO27lz2Tr-FQUK4xcYV3U26Lf_PvQKz1pss1yTxLwfTgyw8ViI/s320/14192572_10154626112639156_5353415901163884457_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>The biggest thing I wanted to share about was ALIVE. Thank you all for praying for the new bilingual service that we were about to start the last time that I wrote to you. By the grace of God, we were able to start this new service from the first saturday of September. At Horizon we have many different services that meet at different times throughout the week. In this way, Horizon is able to minister to many different types of people. We are able to serve English speakers and Internationals, Japanese people, and we even have a Filipino service that during the week. However, because they all meet at separate times and are in separate languages, there is very little crossover between the services. So we started Alive, a completely bilingual service where many different kinds of people can meet in one place and one time, and through exposure and interaction with many kinds of christians, can grow and learn. Also because we are a bilingual service, we are able to reach out to to unsaved Japanese people that are trying to learn English.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWFv1NpycIGOObK_djo7P3_BibVH0STobrdvfUy2QKCAPVnDCnQEZkIwN_5ilLUoMTd2UfcS0qLpTjnsJa0Ah8vzGjNOvQlW9Z9fmaxHxsFepnW4L5_zTbJG1hyphenhyphen4j8DLycYO9ULbYI0hQ/s1600/14191995_10154626112629156_5598850374443998911_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWFv1NpycIGOObK_djo7P3_BibVH0STobrdvfUy2QKCAPVnDCnQEZkIwN_5ilLUoMTd2UfcS0qLpTjnsJa0Ah8vzGjNOvQlW9Z9fmaxHxsFepnW4L5_zTbJG1hyphenhyphen4j8DLycYO9ULbYI0hQ/s320/14191995_10154626112629156_5598850374443998911_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
As this service has been forming, God has blessed us with many different amazing servants who have come alongside me as we have been starting out in this new direction. My friend Fumitaka has blessed us by taking on the role of worship leader for this service. And God has brought together an awesome worship team (seen practicing here) that come from many different services and even different church campuses at Horizon.<br />
<br />
From the beginning, one of the biggest issues we had in starting this new service and our biggest<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKrms_c2CgdxHzlw3VHk9jVktSD1qqsgVm85EmzcvSsqCptfd9Ic-fSbjnxQK3wvBI2Eb5hU67OVgPAQ-L1Trq_Aes-YDc8r5II0FOmkz8QUnz9RaABQ_sGrPQnIEGwmpaBffxTLjSs24/s1600/14265069_10154626112714156_5551726076682165675_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKrms_c2CgdxHzlw3VHk9jVktSD1qqsgVm85EmzcvSsqCptfd9Ic-fSbjnxQK3wvBI2Eb5hU67OVgPAQ-L1Trq_Aes-YDc8r5II0FOmkz8QUnz9RaABQ_sGrPQnIEGwmpaBffxTLjSs24/s200/14265069_10154626112714156_5551726076682165675_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
prayer request was finding translators. Without them, we would not be able to have this kind of service. But God is good. And He brought together a team of translators from some of the most unlikely places. As of now, we are blessed to have 8 translators on weekly rotation for this service. As for me, I have been blessed with being able to share from the Word weekly at the ALIVE service. We have been working our way through the book of James, and are starting chapter 4 this week.<br />
<br />
As for our fellowship time, we have been trying to mix it up a bit. Of course we have coffee time on the first floor of our church two weeks out of the month. But also once a month we all go out to eat together and one Saturday of each month we have been having some sort of activity night. Last Saturday we all went out to Karaoke and are planning out different activities for the future. Please pray for this new fellowship that it would be used as a blessing in the church as well as a tool to reach outside of the church.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitx4dZuyoKcK6clc1B0uI6TdrSiTQ9JJ40fiONHPPD7FTz9wq-I2MYo3qwtnHum679nz1WuwLeDycVnu8b_kL2WpdLI2GCjhE6nI09fBWAe8Ju8CqnFaICLXABCJIQjO6EEVGcNkA1RwI/s1600/14695462_10154752730469156_6304535302097643774_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitx4dZuyoKcK6clc1B0uI6TdrSiTQ9JJ40fiONHPPD7FTz9wq-I2MYo3qwtnHum679nz1WuwLeDycVnu8b_kL2WpdLI2GCjhE6nI09fBWAe8Ju8CqnFaICLXABCJIQjO6EEVGcNkA1RwI/s320/14695462_10154752730469156_6304535302097643774_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizZNFbLmPEl0RjX4fKMRYajnNJ1S8J77u4pMxa1na2lE4RArG3uSHNSHVFEVFryX_kXwWpgZQEi9YLh6OnmZG0X2VOfXERQb_torILWc4PLH6wJm92hRRNxKH3KGNWWOoPsuVaBTyF0jc/s1600/14720614_10154752730494156_1904745640930465723_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizZNFbLmPEl0RjX4fKMRYajnNJ1S8J77u4pMxa1na2lE4RArG3uSHNSHVFEVFryX_kXwWpgZQEi9YLh6OnmZG0X2VOfXERQb_torILWc4PLH6wJm92hRRNxKH3KGNWWOoPsuVaBTyF0jc/s200/14720614_10154752730494156_1904745640930465723_n.jpg" width="200" /></a>Thank you also for praying for the Shine kids program. Machida Shine kids continues to be blessed with more students. We are up to eight students per class for our beginners and advanced classes. Setagaya continues to have around 25 kids a week coming to learn English. Our adult English school continues to be blessed with new students as well as time goes on. Last Saturday we had another pancake breakfast and it was really a blessed time, with people coming not only from our English classes, but outside as well. Even some people from the hair salon my <br />
wife goes to came as well. Please pray that God would continue to expand these ministries and used them to build relationships. Also please pray that those studying English would come to the Alive service and hear the Word of God.<br />
<br />
Coming up in november is our Horizon Cafe, a little fall festival that we put on to reach out to the people that live around the church. Please pray that many would come into the church and for blessed conversations. Also keep us in prayer as we head into the Christmas season and all the outreaches that are to come. Pray for our wisdom and for God to work through Horizon to minister to the people of Machida.<br />
<br />
I think that is it for now. Thank you all for your ongoing prayers and support. You are in our prayers.<br />
<br />
Because He lives,<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7HspmDqAsaS_DVp69eLwDDDBZoZ3NMMSH0d0PvmSFf3yo5w0KYHdKJllJFj5zWi55oEZL8WaKLBq-PkP-OP-KszZPJaLFHx_nFGkgQeQYAU5PqG0JJiVmfOBENaMtEPEhyCY7PPbmmrM/s1600/14731270_10154744167119156_3546228748268375160_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7HspmDqAsaS_DVp69eLwDDDBZoZ3NMMSH0d0PvmSFf3yo5w0KYHdKJllJFj5zWi55oEZL8WaKLBq-PkP-OP-KszZPJaLFHx_nFGkgQeQYAU5PqG0JJiVmfOBENaMtEPEhyCY7PPbmmrM/s320/14731270_10154744167119156_3546228748268375160_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>Alex, Tomoko, Daisy, and Caleb Robinson<br />
<br />
P.S. Daisy and Caleb are doing great. Caleb as always, rarely stops smiling and is starting to speak some Japanese and English words. Daisy never stops talking all day long and will be starting Kindergarten from next year (they start early here). We have a interview coming up for her Kindergarten, so please pray that it goes well.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Alex Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824630632584342796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2608839469166524679.post-33771704918799450802016-08-08T17:49:00.003-07:002016-08-08T18:50:07.968-07:00Epic Team and Something NewHi Everyone,<br />
It is good to be writing you all again.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLLSYzgFLxmzN6WsJFu1ADkC_juG1oKHI2ZaDzWJF3T9eh3pw7ApUdWBJ4GkhN_ZO8zB5a8mRjAhCJ8sD28Z9jrJY-TUbzNikRnKQhZvQIwnp86NfPWG1ckN338f0QgHx4Uf9pdldDYoM/s1600/13770526_10154381198034600_7590687097786480793_n+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLLSYzgFLxmzN6WsJFu1ADkC_juG1oKHI2ZaDzWJF3T9eh3pw7ApUdWBJ4GkhN_ZO8zB5a8mRjAhCJ8sD28Z9jrJY-TUbzNikRnKQhZvQIwnp86NfPWG1ckN338f0QgHx4Uf9pdldDYoM/s320/13770526_10154381198034600_7590687097786480793_n+%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNsLJw74x7df94FFCU7TxHA1p_oeZJlCiZ4BEtg-WkdYl2NeEWwf68iPseWJ5PdYLpKv4RX1CD1IdAJU3zlLZXQMaNnY5bchRudpL4NyBl3nMNLxcZrKfA70OWeFxdTOeSL5Qc94xo170/s1600/13566929_10154481747199156_7364884784263452383_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNsLJw74x7df94FFCU7TxHA1p_oeZJlCiZ4BEtg-WkdYl2NeEWwf68iPseWJ5PdYLpKv4RX1CD1IdAJU3zlLZXQMaNnY5bchRudpL4NyBl3nMNLxcZrKfA70OWeFxdTOeSL5Qc94xo170/s200/13566929_10154481747199156_7364884784263452383_n.jpg" width="200" /></a>I wanted to start out by thanking you all for sending us the EPIC team last month. Their time hear was a huge blessing to us. From start to finish, this was one of the best teams that I have ever had the privilege of working. I remember setting up decorations for the VBS program on their first day here, and even though they should have been jet-lagged and out of it, they were ready to go for everything that I had for them to do. Honestly, they were like that for the whole trip, always ready to go, ready to jump on every opportunity that was given to them.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRu3p_HfY8bJKQhjESsk_yCij__xt-nh8O07ahuXv7TvGdSIoMFP3GgpOUCs3IRmCQJ-mfed7rjSayv5hZ720XRhgoUUn12cx3DwaA-aiWBqSeaphZ7t7uAWn2oIaYg47A2NddFzViEV4/s1600/13620240_10154488144199156_4811859549979843924_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRu3p_HfY8bJKQhjESsk_yCij__xt-nh8O07ahuXv7TvGdSIoMFP3GgpOUCs3IRmCQJ-mfed7rjSayv5hZ720XRhgoUUn12cx3DwaA-aiWBqSeaphZ7t7uAWn2oIaYg47A2NddFzViEV4/s320/13620240_10154488144199156_4811859549979843924_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>The next day was the VBS. It was a great <br />
program. This year we were able to have the VBS in two locations, our Machida and Setagaya branch, simultaneously. It was something that we had never tried before, but by the grace of God it went really well. Last year we had struggled to get kids to come, but this year God blessed the sign ups at both locations. All of the kids involved had a great time and all the staff were blessed to be involved. Please keep praying for the doors that have been opened through the VBS to be used by God to reach to the local kids and their parents.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0FAsNgNuxe-hczC8ScE7iakDDvuA_KUIGuEB9D633byQzS21m6uspwu5-rUfapIRcadkLg3-Y0NR61H9zaKPDZq7Qnx_utow9MDTq6zC3pdMLGnhfNApRwJXqBeHoo-7mmXi9cuerbus/s1600/13645230_10154488144529156_370255998129417069_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0FAsNgNuxe-hczC8ScE7iakDDvuA_KUIGuEB9D633byQzS21m6uspwu5-rUfapIRcadkLg3-Y0NR61H9zaKPDZq7Qnx_utow9MDTq6zC3pdMLGnhfNApRwJXqBeHoo-7mmXi9cuerbus/s320/13645230_10154488144529156_370255998129417069_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
That night (like the day hadn't been long enough already), we had a concert with the members of our church as well as the Epic worship team with a message by Justin. Though the whole team was exhausted by that point, they always were smiling and so enthusiastic. They were a huge encouragement to all involved that night and I was able to see such joy on the faces of the Japanese members. The spirit moved and God spoke powerfully through Justin as well that night. It was honestly one of the most powerful worship concerts I have experienced at Horizon.<br />
<br />
The next day the team split again to help in the church sunday schools at both Setagaya and Machida, helping out at both the Japanese and English Services. That night, they were able to home stay with members of the church in addition to Shine Kids families who are not christian. In the Japanese culture, being invited to someone's house is a very big deal. Honestly it does not happen much. But God made a way and the team was able to go and minister in the homes of people where even I have never been allowed in. It was huge. And I am so grateful to the team for coming and being used by God to minister in ways that I have not been able to. Pray that God would bless the seeds they have planted in these difficult to reach places, in the homes that they stayed in.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghqB1sRyYouXjPDb1f-_XIh3mdl1sg6oLW2dYfUsEdsaOlMSmX1K0Hu-Xc5m2TOSDbkAjHPllH30cEaWwGpHV9ETsohX3zrB4NLPkF2b1LmhmVau6w_WwcZ2fkR8k1mzsgJPDs_I7Onls/s1600/13735036_10209832277265128_6555010448699251782_o+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghqB1sRyYouXjPDb1f-_XIh3mdl1sg6oLW2dYfUsEdsaOlMSmX1K0Hu-Xc5m2TOSDbkAjHPllH30cEaWwGpHV9ETsohX3zrB4NLPkF2b1LmhmVau6w_WwcZ2fkR8k1mzsgJPDs_I7Onls/s320/13735036_10209832277265128_6555010448699251782_o+%25281%2529.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
The next day we were off to the Tohoku region where we volunteered helping out fisherman whose businesses are still struggling after the tsunami. The people who have been working with these men and women have often had difficulty sharing with them. They have been reluctant to hear the gospel and even to be prayed for. But God brought a lot of those walls down, and members of the team were able to share their faith and to pray for the fishermen that were there. Many seeds were planted and we were blessed to see God doing the impossible things through the team.<br />
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<span class="s1">Then a few quick sightseeing days after that it was sunday again. And before I knew it I was seeing them off in front of the security at the airport. It just went by so quick and I really didn't want to let them go, but I am grateful for them and to all that made their trip to Japan possible. I was so blessed to have been able to work with the EPIC team and hope they will return to us soon. </span></div>
<div class="p2">
<span class="s1"></span><br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhea44fsbwxILo9CZ9Knm_Xc7gAnmyBMqaCp3eey2WVDo1FvJIGRnhWdr3CmvPJ_INK1Ebm2K85SoBhoPIWMUGf_C3915Q7UJBVPhHRnaODh7p3i6vmEPEXH9ICISd2FbjEvIadYFLzE24/s1600/13776015_10154516891159156_7392188293292070616_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhea44fsbwxILo9CZ9Knm_Xc7gAnmyBMqaCp3eey2WVDo1FvJIGRnhWdr3CmvPJ_INK1Ebm2K85SoBhoPIWMUGf_C3915Q7UJBVPhHRnaODh7p3i6vmEPEXH9ICISd2FbjEvIadYFLzE24/s320/13776015_10154516891159156_7392188293292070616_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="p1">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmL5Cg-QZ6UNZXwFDNWhoRCZYJh1PufaTyPkoC2JymMcEIuWCuFpZuAApAUe-Gt0ejCEvIMz-8X5LdnnILN8v8KFrKz_3tda-wuLwfybNcJcDhibhSO5IYSvCH37ICxg4HCJ_EUm41zFA/s1600/13776046_10154516891259156_4140622897083956675_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmL5Cg-QZ6UNZXwFDNWhoRCZYJh1PufaTyPkoC2JymMcEIuWCuFpZuAApAUe-Gt0ejCEvIMz-8X5LdnnILN8v8KFrKz_3tda-wuLwfybNcJcDhibhSO5IYSvCH37ICxg4HCJ_EUm41zFA/s200/13776046_10154516891259156_4140622897083956675_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><span class="s1">Soon after they left, we were back into the swing of things </span>and we had our Shine pancake breakfast again for all of our English students. It was a great time of conversation and food. We were also blessed to meet some Dads of our Shine kids that we have not had the opportunity to meet and talk with before. Please pray for these mornings and for other activities to do with our English students.</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Finally, I have one last prayer request. Since I arrived in Japan, I have been attending the Japanese Saturday night worship service. The teaching and fellowship there have always been a blessing to me. Recently, the pastors have decided that they are going to be changing the service to a bilingual format and they have asked me to lead the service. We are going to be starting this new fellowship from next month. Please pray for the planning and blessed preparation for us as we are getting ready for this big change. Pray that this new service would be used to minister to people and that more and more people would come. We will be calling this new fellowship "Alive".</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_2gRlbk9lAxlSLn8cGi694YvNF-WFRFapaoMlbwm2stb1TsehBsrLsW0I5cDDH05REkorARJUwOizn0glPNDLpqwyjVa_OdqPFQPHeg3rsOkJ1_rPDY05iJ8KSK0VWbNQlh2a4OgI9Ic/s1600/13239237_10154373088654156_173870573175166942_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_2gRlbk9lAxlSLn8cGi694YvNF-WFRFapaoMlbwm2stb1TsehBsrLsW0I5cDDH05REkorARJUwOizn0glPNDLpqwyjVa_OdqPFQPHeg3rsOkJ1_rPDY05iJ8KSK0VWbNQlh2a4OgI9Ic/s320/13239237_10154373088654156_173870573175166942_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>Thank you all for you prayers and support. We remember you in our prayers and look forward to when we can see you all again. </div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
Because He lives,</div>
<div class="p1">
Alex, Tomoko, Daisy, and Caleb Robinson</div>
<div class="p1">
<br /></div>
<div class="p1">
P.S. Daisy and Caleb are doing great and growing up fast. Daisy is talking up a storm in English and </div>
Japanese and Caleb is standing up (holding on to things) and is starting to stand up on his own.Alex Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824630632584342796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2608839469166524679.post-9858711599430683042016-01-06T20:42:00.000-08:002016-01-06T21:02:33.597-08:00Fall Fun and Christmas EventsHi Everyone,<br />
I hope you all had a great Christmas season and a very happy new year. The time here has been a lot of fun.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha4F6pXYVO3z02xTwPyUowi5XwMRe4E72XucdRjCJKa3Yo6ezOKS5zjIHOZZjRDBadmhPG2B69cacoEM1QonhVycmaBd2OlH8_mdib28orOp2KdIJUJ-7noz-KXevRvgFlumOEQ6g7X4Y/s1600/IMG_1703+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha4F6pXYVO3z02xTwPyUowi5XwMRe4E72XucdRjCJKa3Yo6ezOKS5zjIHOZZjRDBadmhPG2B69cacoEM1QonhVycmaBd2OlH8_mdib28orOp2KdIJUJ-7noz-KXevRvgFlumOEQ6g7X4Y/s320/IMG_1703+%25281%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
We finished up our Fall semester of Shine Kids on the 8th of December. This semester marked our tenth semester since we restarted Shine Kids after after I returned from Okinawa. And we were blessed to have all our old students with us this semester plus a few new faces. Above we see the kids learning their new song for this semester which they would perform at the Horizon Cafe and Bazaar the week after this picture was taken. All the kids had a great time this Semester and are looking forward to the winter semester of Shine Kids starting on the 19th of this month. Please pray that God would open up hearts more and more through this program and especially that the relationships we build through the program would lead to a deeper and deeper connection to God and his people.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiksQLFX9HpaZcEleVleSEpPA3o46fmV1qotGrESMCmc-7vKtYTgFDYtmAEYqxm9frGTIpL0B_Vo025VCrwT0lPAuvmL2293e4opN6yXOxddl9Q65TUBX7zR9FdYEEuG54ZIBIw-fO6MX4/s1600/12342469_10154031539099156_652038972419007111_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiksQLFX9HpaZcEleVleSEpPA3o46fmV1qotGrESMCmc-7vKtYTgFDYtmAEYqxm9frGTIpL0B_Vo025VCrwT0lPAuvmL2293e4opN6yXOxddl9Q65TUBX7zR9FdYEEuG54ZIBIw-fO6MX4/s320/12342469_10154031539099156_652038972419007111_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5AmmuynyVpumrwVKfGv4KXIJLTP6wrnxLaeVPKegfmripMfW8a80gwOgf9tB6ihmABT0tRaoGyyI7NGacY6zxEfyZNR8HiXA8AJteTTHmrZqK_Q0OO-CWmqnegKeaMkjdev6iaEUAP9E/s1600/12321108_10154031539209156_7817964651192523304_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5AmmuynyVpumrwVKfGv4KXIJLTP6wrnxLaeVPKegfmripMfW8a80gwOgf9tB6ihmABT0tRaoGyyI7NGacY6zxEfyZNR8HiXA8AJteTTHmrZqK_Q0OO-CWmqnegKeaMkjdev6iaEUAP9E/s200/12321108_10154031539209156_7817964651192523304_n.jpg" width="200" /></a>Thank you for praying for the Shine English Language School as well. We have been blessed to have 24 students regularly attending classes on a weekly or bi weekly basis during this fall and winter season. God has been blessing the ministry so much that we thought it would be good make special events and times to get together with all of our students from this ministry and bless them by cooking a meal for them all. We keep it very casual and have the students come whenever they like between our starting and ending time, eat as much as they like, and leave whenever they want. We then started inviting members our church to help out with the cooking and serving as well as having some come just as guests to hang out and talk with our students. All of our students really like the events and we see this as a new opportunity to get people from our community to hang out with people in the church in a casual setting. The conversations I have overheard and taken part in during these event are awesome and God is at work in it. Seen here are pictures from our last Pancake Breakfast we had last month. Please pray for us as we continue this new form of outreach. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb2FZZxbpQieChFzKFFzT-b9yiIBxCMI001_TQBYEJ0BH9X87fE-g1E3hUfXvG5jywRdFcDj4qwIRxE7ilQQ0pL0kvZb-Awl1mVOLAZ0ZzaZC71LseBRDekFIvm4B7jBH7T3x0rEtOZV4/s1600/IMG_5953.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb2FZZxbpQieChFzKFFzT-b9yiIBxCMI001_TQBYEJ0BH9X87fE-g1E3hUfXvG5jywRdFcDj4qwIRxE7ilQQ0pL0kvZb-Awl1mVOLAZ0ZzaZC71LseBRDekFIvm4B7jBH7T3x0rEtOZV4/s200/IMG_5953.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5LscvFy93DRu8gul-qqpDGZLNf2teAC9Ffi8FYJIhoU8GRCSZyITs5KS_c4SFQ_pru90xbUp1YBWrY_9k91qnYjcGUZDte8rPVdb_QuSVX46IVAa_mOhUi4lvXEEFgJzkZdmavxS_2ls/s1600/IMG_5960.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5LscvFy93DRu8gul-qqpDGZLNf2teAC9Ffi8FYJIhoU8GRCSZyITs5KS_c4SFQ_pru90xbUp1YBWrY_9k91qnYjcGUZDte8rPVdb_QuSVX46IVAa_mOhUi4lvXEEFgJzkZdmavxS_2ls/s320/IMG_5960.JPG" width="240" /></a>In addition, we were able to have our Horizon picnic during this fall as well. We invited the Japanese and English services from both Setagaya and Machida as well as the Shine Kids to come and have a picnic with games and even a pinata that I scraped together myself. It was a great time of <br />
fellowship and even though we were unable to get the Shine Kids Members to come out with us this time, we are going to continue to do outdoor events this coming year. Lord willing, the more of these events we do, the more our Shine Kids and Shine ELS students will come out to join us and hang out with members of the church. Please pray for us as we plan for having new sporting events this year and other activities to get everyone together.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVO5lHUqWPgmhg1A6-sdfGzI3SfQyeLAw-os8F0td9BXR3cNph06pNmas8kWbqOS-YQzvyOXdmXYb-IOpsRTqYuk57ha7XaXXc6THljoMg0RIC-wt6z9uqxljhc1K9_H_WB65I4WPXJvk/s1600/12316295_982960785080758_5014593238252313000_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVO5lHUqWPgmhg1A6-sdfGzI3SfQyeLAw-os8F0td9BXR3cNph06pNmas8kWbqOS-YQzvyOXdmXYb-IOpsRTqYuk57ha7XaXXc6THljoMg0RIC-wt6z9uqxljhc1K9_H_WB65I4WPXJvk/s200/12316295_982960785080758_5014593238252313000_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTdJ2nes5YFhWVR8OGLDXinqM0wCJCJPFN7ygkuBwton8sIXnPSfsSsxHYr9U0TwnvzRKy91wTxQh4EBMwZsrxtEeZIxk-DRuE6L_wjyaDra7FY13u1Hbap11X6kcicGB6s5CWHlmWuE4/s1600/12309891_10208196689025876_5875985789850270067_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTdJ2nes5YFhWVR8OGLDXinqM0wCJCJPFN7ygkuBwton8sIXnPSfsSsxHYr9U0TwnvzRKy91wTxQh4EBMwZsrxtEeZIxk-DRuE6L_wjyaDra7FY13u1Hbap11X6kcicGB6s5CWHlmWuE4/s320/12309891_10208196689025876_5875985789850270067_o.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
This Christmas season was also a blast with many opportunities. We started off the month with our Kids Christmas parties in both Machida and Setagaya with games , cake, crafts, and of course the Christmas message. Here you see the kids making their craft. We were blessed to have a lot of helpers from our college group. We also had our annual Christmas program and Candle Light Christmas eve service. Like last year we were able to hit the streets of Machida before the event to hand out flyers. We also went around asking people what they think about Christmas and what Christmas means to them, and sharing about what it really means. It was a blessed time and blessed events, and in everything we got to share the hope to be found in Christmas.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoeUnHuJPT7-kyj_RyhudNS-JpCKPDro6fTwWt7SCWABz6BSIrK0Dg9h1Y3YyTxMc-ITmO5WZ1_RYTlVld_B-eaJzD9ILa-Qr-tooFjaLqLtVEXrFg3GGARIv8OAj65RiegYMOfUEs39g/s1600/1113_10154068922809156_1428501075002846552_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoeUnHuJPT7-kyj_RyhudNS-JpCKPDro6fTwWt7SCWABz6BSIrK0Dg9h1Y3YyTxMc-ITmO5WZ1_RYTlVld_B-eaJzD9ILa-Qr-tooFjaLqLtVEXrFg3GGARIv8OAj65RiegYMOfUEs39g/s320/1113_10154068922809156_1428501075002846552_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
We are looking forward to seeing you all at the end of March of this year when our family comes back to visit Sonora and we look forward to having the Epic Japan Team this Summer. We are praying that you would have a very blessed new year.<br />
<br />
Sincerely,<br />
Alex, Tomoko, Daisy, and Caleb Robinson<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLnj7O7CVtNebZaPD7Ah947362jCsLJdmYlo9gFsir0pQBCKZ0P1FAvz65Ube6HjMsFFVEQ8rwv4vgXE-qt2awtgbpF7qRjbCXuOIDPYDJzYiTetLvSHXJURlrKvCnMmo3cN-yyVankB0/s1600/12108027_10154013968304156_2632279913859797389_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLnj7O7CVtNebZaPD7Ah947362jCsLJdmYlo9gFsir0pQBCKZ0P1FAvz65Ube6HjMsFFVEQ8rwv4vgXE-qt2awtgbpF7qRjbCXuOIDPYDJzYiTetLvSHXJURlrKvCnMmo3cN-yyVankB0/s320/12108027_10154013968304156_2632279913859797389_n.jpg" width="240" /></a>P.S. Our son, Caleb Alexander Robinson was born on September 9, 2015. He is a very happy baby and smiles a lot. Please pray for his blessing and our wisdom as we start out life as a family of four.<br />
<br />
<br />Alex Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824630632584342796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2608839469166524679.post-28019621335535656662015-08-20T22:37:00.001-07:002015-08-20T22:45:07.753-07:00VBS 2015!!!Hello Everyone,<br />
I want to say sorry ahead of time as this blog is going to be a little picture heavy.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirQimdNqWnQSsp5kIRdM3Cg1ge7hbYeymiljQ2E1mJx74frCIyHNk5Gy2GOd-mTg1o_O9Tfr8Mjq3eW5GIgUS9hEDSIVWhRcSp6fyBctBRVY6yGatbKpJyG8UmASWyFcar-TAAvLwXHzQ/s1600/11892152_10203277885067435_2321140924775269513_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirQimdNqWnQSsp5kIRdM3Cg1ge7hbYeymiljQ2E1mJx74frCIyHNk5Gy2GOd-mTg1o_O9Tfr8Mjq3eW5GIgUS9hEDSIVWhRcSp6fyBctBRVY6yGatbKpJyG8UmASWyFcar-TAAvLwXHzQ/s200/11892152_10203277885067435_2321140924775269513_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpdwHLBphYxWq-Mc8rbuv_nnrsAG0j0qzzdbGfUA-cUh9H8ZyVNbzrZvQ-t4QIC4WBDIAliJOTTYde0w29WsvBzIWkyik8j8KtwTFS0kMzRnP6OyN_AzH7CgW6rOYOI8dycZafy75OV00/s1600/11892024_10203277885907456_6479282765517199963_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpdwHLBphYxWq-Mc8rbuv_nnrsAG0j0qzzdbGfUA-cUh9H8ZyVNbzrZvQ-t4QIC4WBDIAliJOTTYde0w29WsvBzIWkyik8j8KtwTFS0kMzRnP6OyN_AzH7CgW6rOYOI8dycZafy75OV00/s320/11892024_10203277885907456_6479282765517199963_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>Soon after my last blog, the team from Anaheim arrived in Tokyo. <br />
The first full day that they were here, they worked alongside Daniel and I and the rest of the Japanese members to finish decorating the church for the VBS the following day.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNIQakpZMOdFg1LsGasld6z8XDeok407x4CjbNZSA-7jE3A6zQ7SeVyHViZBYCJHTnsjY2DH6wKwW2I3z0Md9bjaKyrs_t43RfyrMygcZfKZs7DxSXoMl4KceQUegbuRWx7xp3If3K09U/s1600/11863227_10203277895067685_3108820184121273181_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNIQakpZMOdFg1LsGasld6z8XDeok407x4CjbNZSA-7jE3A6zQ7SeVyHViZBYCJHTnsjY2DH6wKwW2I3z0Md9bjaKyrs_t43RfyrMygcZfKZs7DxSXoMl4KceQUegbuRWx7xp3If3K09U/s320/11863227_10203277895067685_3108820184121273181_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIHLDi5VZtRnCzIMwUZLUUj5tULTkaZFNgRpRcwbtn6-PdCCLp01AnooK8ExtLXgdXQQFUyrwZuK3WKLn7kVO0m8k7NORtRUTY1kdAv5tOc0TrygbXKiGIrbzzqcUpgu9adMYnf9k6pq0/s1600/11902254_10203277888667525_1854916716437623306_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIHLDi5VZtRnCzIMwUZLUUj5tULTkaZFNgRpRcwbtn6-PdCCLp01AnooK8ExtLXgdXQQFUyrwZuK3WKLn7kVO0m8k7NORtRUTY1kdAv5tOc0TrygbXKiGIrbzzqcUpgu9adMYnf9k6pq0/s200/11902254_10203277888667525_1854916716437623306_n.jpg" width="200" /></a>It was a blast to see the Japanese members and the Anaheim team working together to get everything done. Everyone really jumped in and when everything was said and done, the place looked great.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi56mybOaqFUx7O4v5KqyJdPsJOTLF2E363mQDsf5dNkfcl5ZPX9j_m3AgSJO6N9kh-xow7_SpAX02ns5QQ2nfYoVKUo9YqOU3Qx4utp7eBcDy0rWJ2IKgVijKPyLYPRx3x8gMxw0jlfmU/s1600/11141358_10153804379619156_9008103810637249152_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi56mybOaqFUx7O4v5KqyJdPsJOTLF2E363mQDsf5dNkfcl5ZPX9j_m3AgSJO6N9kh-xow7_SpAX02ns5QQ2nfYoVKUo9YqOU3Qx4utp7eBcDy0rWJ2IKgVijKPyLYPRx3x8gMxw0jlfmU/s200/11141358_10153804379619156_9008103810637249152_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi23XbwDCQISPL_dM8HSwOPEeB6j2YiA6-K5jBl-Q94LaPIr82_RxS16uvWf8A7PerO6fO93l6zF4LPYuKbM1NcZX2eVIfPxvyFcansabyreH_qGmj6Cd0Vkgzm9tgfeUgJ8j8c6VGode0/s1600/image11.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi23XbwDCQISPL_dM8HSwOPEeB6j2YiA6-K5jBl-Q94LaPIr82_RxS16uvWf8A7PerO6fO93l6zF4LPYuKbM1NcZX2eVIfPxvyFcansabyreH_qGmj6Cd0Vkgzm9tgfeUgJ8j8c6VGode0/s320/image11.jpeg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMxgb4JsT-V8sbom7_G786GrT2ftaVmD1NydPnTlYb6TE8DbvHtJPpRfPwjjCyaCTVCjWa2_bVaaOS6ZIEj__WnbxEjjyd18QzMwfKBkyOb89yK5EMc3zYVHOdcbS6-Aqtl_jKRI2a8yE/s1600/10986639_10153804379519156_8678447586038026264_n+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMxgb4JsT-V8sbom7_G786GrT2ftaVmD1NydPnTlYb6TE8DbvHtJPpRfPwjjCyaCTVCjWa2_bVaaOS6ZIEj__WnbxEjjyd18QzMwfKBkyOb89yK5EMc3zYVHOdcbS6-Aqtl_jKRI2a8yE/s200/10986639_10153804379519156_8678447586038026264_n+%25281%2529.jpg" width="200" /></a>Then, the next day, the VBS began. Thank you for your prayers as many kids came to the event. We all met together in the beginning of the program, learn some English, sang some song, did a little skit (seen on the top left) and then split up into groups for the different activities.<br />
<br />
<div>
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-DlE5UzIcr9Q6UuKzFFnBC_bMoqpXAob8ixzF5XY3Q4br3wCpoKX4ooy85VXDLu5_4J7EKsq-zxVVHFwpGGM7ihn7YpwRz7VIPwijAp0Q9cu5Cd4xHDmPLwGLDXd-EmhLPuj_EUUJjpE/s1600/image8.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-DlE5UzIcr9Q6UuKzFFnBC_bMoqpXAob8ixzF5XY3Q4br3wCpoKX4ooy85VXDLu5_4J7EKsq-zxVVHFwpGGM7ihn7YpwRz7VIPwijAp0Q9cu5Cd4xHDmPLwGLDXd-EmhLPuj_EUUJjpE/s320/image8.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Klsbc5ymrqJSInUgnc4QZj07yz4M0Ruvjb09x4PkeDqfcu15RASOzVXsjKhUQjNlM0N4sFQeZCmeGt0uRtYVJVdSRa6sh2bY6_63VQYnO0X5_72-mk43280r7ES2ARCdM3F0ATia6P8/s1600/11817116_10153804379759156_357959646715172475_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Klsbc5ymrqJSInUgnc4QZj07yz4M0Ruvjb09x4PkeDqfcu15RASOzVXsjKhUQjNlM0N4sFQeZCmeGt0uRtYVJVdSRa6sh2bY6_63VQYnO0X5_72-mk43280r7ES2ARCdM3F0ATia6P8/s200/11817116_10153804379759156_357959646715172475_n.jpg" width="200" /></a>We had a really amazing message time prepared by our friends Daichi, Hayato and Nobu. As the theme for this year's VBS was science, they used science experiments to help illustrate their messages. The first day they taught about the wind and how powerful it is even though you don't see it. The did a experiment showing the use of fans to balance over a tightrope and told the kids about how powerful God is even though we cannot see Him. The Second day they showed how Jesus makes us clean, using an experiment with liquids that change color. The kids loved it!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVaagT8TnW1zzfV1HMsAngFaC7EwAvHmmcVDhyOTMHD0pCPxasp6XkAbGyX65TlB2JUv1tBk2hAHkZLqwYUVli1xUVWfL6IJ8iX1lb8KeZvCy6AcGauToNgK5oXknARllBWdJ74sG70c4/s1600/11873451_10203277907467995_2200187066045806519_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVaagT8TnW1zzfV1HMsAngFaC7EwAvHmmcVDhyOTMHD0pCPxasp6XkAbGyX65TlB2JUv1tBk2hAHkZLqwYUVli1xUVWfL6IJ8iX1lb8KeZvCy6AcGauToNgK5oXknARllBWdJ74sG70c4/s200/11873451_10203277907467995_2200187066045806519_n.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAkBq8gXRDvXbTzwYtGuGdWjSo56_7morA8C5SBchAxl49gL9qNtPWdiDdIjiQWTD-hOUwmvgVYW6lane3Y1wOWLyPUByUf-7TQOtOcsNNsoHNo0k3dbwFNuF8XinThetali3T502v4h4/s1600/image9.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAkBq8gXRDvXbTzwYtGuGdWjSo56_7morA8C5SBchAxl49gL9qNtPWdiDdIjiQWTD-hOUwmvgVYW6lane3Y1wOWLyPUByUf-7TQOtOcsNNsoHNo0k3dbwFNuF8XinThetali3T502v4h4/s320/image9.jpeg" width="320" /></a>We also had a lot of fun making crafts prepared by Chikami, one of the Sunday school teachers here at the church. On the first day we made ice cream in a bag by shaking it like crazy. The second day we made a kaleidoscope. The kids had a great time writing their names with the stickers.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi03XM4BHr2uX3Ld1YQeSUxvlvnq3xwEfiOpu3Ia7rOUf_5i7H_owlwtBYpYLug9xiuD81cphUszcCOK9odP15B0fLe4OmM-9gwjOI-rMYNBnxwKsq3bX_n5pFKdut24PBY6w5q4Km3FN8/s1600/11800045_10153804379689156_9108465521491080160_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi03XM4BHr2uX3Ld1YQeSUxvlvnq3xwEfiOpu3Ia7rOUf_5i7H_owlwtBYpYLug9xiuD81cphUszcCOK9odP15B0fLe4OmM-9gwjOI-rMYNBnxwKsq3bX_n5pFKdut24PBY6w5q4Km3FN8/s320/11800045_10153804379689156_9108465521491080160_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9SHR5r8H-iQMjDFbp_aPqVroqmsmAyJBfxhHnHBe7WDxYVuh1aT4EdKaczKi-IB-OgF5NIFcGsCFUanQAazZk_rpOh0XgshiqUlyDQZbjStI6PAXTHLLRTe1OcY2nQl849KC_XzWtVGA/s1600/11914242_10203277906587973_8838780470625294260_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9SHR5r8H-iQMjDFbp_aPqVroqmsmAyJBfxhHnHBe7WDxYVuh1aT4EdKaczKi-IB-OgF5NIFcGsCFUanQAazZk_rpOh0XgshiqUlyDQZbjStI6PAXTHLLRTe1OcY2nQl849KC_XzWtVGA/s200/11914242_10203277906587973_8838780470625294260_n.jpg" width="200" /></a>The kids had a great time with the game time and experiment time as well that the Anaheim team lead. The had fun with the wheel momentum experiments, the team explaining again that it was a force that you could not see, but could feel and moved you.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Over all, it was a great VBS. I was blessed to see all the Shine kids there just experiencing God's love through the Japanese and American Christian leaders at the event. I know that there were seeds planted and we will continue to pray that those seeds will grow and blossom in the years to come. It was a very encouraging time for me as well, to see everything that we have been preparing for be blessed by God is such a big way. I look forward to all that God is going to do through this year's VBS. And can't wait to see what God will do through next year's team as well (wink wink EPIC! Lord willing.) Please be praying as we continue to minister to the kids and families in the wake of the VBS.<br />
<br />
The next week, the Anaheim team, along with Daniel and myself, repainted the Sunday school room which was in bad need some repairs and a new coat of paint. We worked all morning on it and got it done in time to do a little sightseeing.<br />
<br />
The next day was the day of our three day Horizon Family Camp. The Anaheim team lead the kids program for the three day, while I translated along side them. I was even given the opportunity to share at one of the devotional times which was a real privilege. It was a great time of fellowship as well, staying up late, hanging out with the Anaheim team and the Japanese college kids.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBW_GgVk0nxI1r3NYiBpDtC0k5OJ8JuwVqeyk4TwX3TJCOPnOpTcGIih0vNrupb96v86lcP0ikafZch5e7nGgUooptlaMPOhu2oRVXa5Vs9g3U8uCp2n_-UwwLTXoLryOU7U94BAp1Fb0/s1600/11866491_10203277901987858_782528849209171146_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBW_GgVk0nxI1r3NYiBpDtC0k5OJ8JuwVqeyk4TwX3TJCOPnOpTcGIih0vNrupb96v86lcP0ikafZch5e7nGgUooptlaMPOhu2oRVXa5Vs9g3U8uCp2n_-UwwLTXoLryOU7U94BAp1Fb0/s320/11866491_10203277901987858_782528849209171146_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>On the day we got back from the camp, I bid farewell to the Anaheim team as they would be flying <br />
out the next day. We will miss them and hope that they come back soon. They were a huge encouragement and a blessing to spend time with<br />
<br />
We spent the weekend with Daniel and even got to introduce him to Tomoko's family as they were all getting together that Saturday. He talked computers with my programmer brother-in-law and spoke English with my other brother-in-law who is studying it in college and they enjoyed their time with him very much.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwoI7SMS0POak2Zp2DWUbJfw2nEsc73FansFJiCukUPRqyJg4SDs69745FjCrwqQTgCAZPfcOgtkYY5ojsH9zhXXDAKZcNgszxoBlirf0BBw4vNXg6ID6ezHz5uo4o3fNcRsEFbXFOzjw/s1600/11855726_10153827457614156_875898143639364153_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwoI7SMS0POak2Zp2DWUbJfw2nEsc73FansFJiCukUPRqyJg4SDs69745FjCrwqQTgCAZPfcOgtkYY5ojsH9zhXXDAKZcNgszxoBlirf0BBw4vNXg6ID6ezHz5uo4o3fNcRsEFbXFOzjw/s320/11855726_10153827457614156_875898143639364153_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Then, this last Monday morning, we said goodbye to our friend Daniel Britt as he caught the 7:00 bus to Narita Airport. He spent four weeks with us and hung in their through a bit of a crazy schedule. We were blessed to have him serve with us in all the different events and are thankful for his willingness to jump into a lot of different roles while he was here. The college students and kids he taught will miss him, not to mention my little girl Daisy who is crazy about her Uncle Daniel.<br />
Thank you for sending him to us.<br />
<br />
Well, I think that is all for now. Please be praying for us as the doctors say that our little boy could be born at any time now. Thank you always for you prayer and support. We love you and are praying for you guys.<br />
<br />
Blessings,<br />
Alex, Tomoko, Daisy, and Baby RobinsonAlex Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824630632584342796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2608839469166524679.post-74409939093228717502015-08-20T18:25:00.001-07:002015-08-20T18:25:25.347-07:00VBS Promotional Video #2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzSSqhxCh5nSa5Z7J0fwltmj-8QtWGsImNuUoFKsGpuYZjdaYLb2lyiubPVYhBCmWRLkoH7OeE1uVBbjJbgpg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
This is the second VBS promotional video that Daniel and I put together. It was a lot of fun!Alex Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824630632584342796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2608839469166524679.post-14800889212347672702015-07-21T23:12:00.002-07:002015-07-21T23:12:55.948-07:00Summer Events and Welcome Guests<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxQV-8JsXo1qa9pefj86sJP_z7V1pRV-EelxCe-r7WZ6Y4d3JixgX70hL06S0nTO8_vuPBM5n-yWXuBuNAOOg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
Dear Friends,<div>
It is good to be writing you all again. Here we are experiencing a very hot and humid Japanese Summer. And it is typhoon season as well. We already had one last week and we hear tell that two more are on the way. But despite the weather, we are still very blessed to be here in the land of the rising sun.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The Shine Kids program has wrapped up for the summer and the Shine English Language school finished just last Friday. Thank you all so much for praying for students for the two English Programs. The Machida Shine Kids semester finished with about 10 students when we started with 5 this semester. And the Shine English Language school now has 20 students that are taking lessons every week or every other week. And now that the two programs are on summer break, we are gearing up for the series of summer events here at Horizon.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Already we have had one Shine Kids summer program in Setagaya that was a great time. We had one student that we have not seen in two years come by with four of her friends. It was a blessing to see her again and to meet her friends. They will be coming to our Setagaya program again next week, so please pray for a blessed time.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOIHhEC86CQp9m6dOzEu1oth0e9cvHGbANt-MzzyIGEZ8_4u4sw4cwCG5foqXL0toUzKYMGh9ktFgRWaGCNymgzilmfzpu1tl_9BExbESgMs3IdzzqsdbwXJcAbFe0W1DmHdWDvORYrAg/s1600/11174789_10153774810404156_4184827199949002141_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOIHhEC86CQp9m6dOzEu1oth0e9cvHGbANt-MzzyIGEZ8_4u4sw4cwCG5foqXL0toUzKYMGh9ktFgRWaGCNymgzilmfzpu1tl_9BExbESgMs3IdzzqsdbwXJcAbFe0W1DmHdWDvORYrAg/s320/11174789_10153774810404156_4184827199949002141_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
Also, we have been blessed to have our friend Daniel Britt finally arrive in Tokyo. He has only been here for a few days but already have put him to work, helping out with our Shine Kids Machida Summer Program which finished up today. And tomorrow, he will be teaching five English lessons at the Shine English language School Summer Event! He has been a big help already and will a blessing to have around in the weeks to come.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Next week, Daniel and I are going to go on the church retreat and helping out for three days with the kids program there. And then the next week a group of 12 will be coming out from Anaheim for the VBS event. The staff here are all working feverishly to get done with everything before their arrival. Please be praying for attendance for the VBS which has been a little slower coming in this year than it has been in the past. Pray for 50 kids to<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnBzUhD616dLoELlF0eHgzp9M6XT2zv0ZbQv0SHthIPHi8FrmqTJwaqeXKUIY0fJcJQYcfT471ITw5wOqLj-YKJ6dakIiFUrxJBQo48iz8qMjmm6s2m6Jsyd9_VtSbsn4o6l9vEHJlJnw/s1600/VBS2015%25E3%2583%259D%25E3%2582%25B9%25E3%2582%25BF%25E3%2583%25BC.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnBzUhD616dLoELlF0eHgzp9M6XT2zv0ZbQv0SHthIPHi8FrmqTJwaqeXKUIY0fJcJQYcfT471ITw5wOqLj-YKJ6dakIiFUrxJBQo48iz8qMjmm6s2m6Jsyd9_VtSbsn4o6l9vEHJlJnw/s320/VBS2015%25E3%2583%259D%25E3%2582%25B9%25E3%2582%25BF%25E3%2583%25BC.gif" width="226" /></a></div>
come each day and for God to bless the event. Also pray that God would give us wisdom in getting the word out to people to come. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Our International Fellowship Pastor, Pastor Rich and his family has headed back to America for a summer vacation. So, we at the International Fellowship are going to be blessed to have some guest speakers come and share at our service. Even I will be able to share a message a couple times next month as well. Please pray for this time, that God would bless this time of guest speakers and that Pastor Rich and his family would have a refreshing time stateside. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I think that is all for now. Thank you so much for your prayers and support. We love you all and are praying for your. And please know that for those who would like to come and visit us like our friend Daniel , our doors are always open to you! We would love to have you!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Blessings,</div>
<div>
Alex, Tomoko, Daisy, and Baby Robinson</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Alex Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824630632584342796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2608839469166524679.post-46345389633960068842015-05-14T16:56:00.001-07:002015-05-14T17:14:05.976-07:00Shine English Language School Opens!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWM16ynns6woLf-iCcgM7_Z_XitZD-3RXVYbYxzS91DnfLe973MvM2TpTTu7I1FZBzS7x9vhs6khqyKRu0N72OdeUa4J7xEUci2rDbfykBUW6hIMNLCGX7sxruc1j6qZ47zgpAnuEDMmA/s1600/unnamed+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWM16ynns6woLf-iCcgM7_Z_XitZD-3RXVYbYxzS91DnfLe973MvM2TpTTu7I1FZBzS7x9vhs6khqyKRu0N72OdeUa4J7xEUci2rDbfykBUW6hIMNLCGX7sxruc1j6qZ47zgpAnuEDMmA/s320/unnamed+(1).jpg" width="240" /></a>Dear Family,<br />
It is good to be writing you.<br />
Firstly, I wanted to thank you all again for the time that we spent in America. It was a difficult time for us when my mom passed away. However, the way that God brought our friends, family and church alongside us during our time there and the countless acts of mercy and grace that we received through the people there were a great comfort to us. There is no way that we can begin to show our gratitude to you all. All we can say is that we love you all very much and we experienced God's love through you.<br />
<br />
As soon as we returned from America, the Shine Kids Semester started. It was great to see all the kids again. While we were gone we received emails from all the parents of the Shine Kids sharing their condolences and their assurance that they would be waiting for us to return. When we got back and started Shine Kids again, all the kids came back and brought friends. We are having a great semester so far, even making some new additions to the program. But I feel that through all that has happened, God has strengthened the relationship between us and the kids and moms we are ministering to. And we are so grateful to God for what He is doing in the Shine Kids Ministry.<br />
<br />
Upon our return, the Shine English Language School also opened for the first time. Immediately, God brought in new students and little by little the week is filling up with classes. Since we got back, we gave 11 trial lessons and all of the students want to continue on a regular basis. We have 7 more people that signed up for trial lessons this week. Please pray for these students to continue. So far the classes have been great and the conversation times have been blessed. Please pray that God would use this new type of class to open doors to deeper relationships and more opportunities to share about Him.<br />
<br />
We have started our preparations for the VBS this summer. The name of our VBS is going to be Discovery Labs. It will be a science theme, sort of discovering God through His creation. We are blessed to be having a team of 12 from the Anaheim Free Methodist Church coming to help us with the VBS. Having Daniel Britt here as well, that makes the number of Americans helping out 13 which is awesome. Please pray for helpers from the Japanese side as well. Last year we had many Japanese volunteers and staff. This year some of our staff have moved away and others started new jobs which makes them unable to commit large amounts of time to prep for the VBS. Please pray that God would provide new Japanese helpers and all the staff we need for this year's VBS.<br />
<br />
I believe that is all the news for now. Thank you all for your prayers and support. We miss you all greatly.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYC_mfdM_En7oZJCc9EaXVMoRvHqvXlqbRSliwYtpQ79LsrUAdAfutoMhPXp1lvwpKygWvh2MLtuR8Zuc_ZMgSIpXL3jN8dInK8mhmcKFDGi-d28IJPB9KBCGQqJg5RJMfNP4bP_xdqcU/s1600/unnamed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYC_mfdM_En7oZJCc9EaXVMoRvHqvXlqbRSliwYtpQ79LsrUAdAfutoMhPXp1lvwpKygWvh2MLtuR8Zuc_ZMgSIpXL3jN8dInK8mhmcKFDGi-d28IJPB9KBCGQqJg5RJMfNP4bP_xdqcU/s320/unnamed.jpg" width="240" /></a>Blessings,<br />
Alex, Tomoko, Daisy, and Baby Boy Robinson<br />
<br />
P.S. At our last trip to the doctor, we found out that we are going to be having a baby boy. Daisy is excited about her little brother. She is practicing with the baby carrier with her baby doll.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Alex Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824630632584342796noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2608839469166524679.post-48272264606491085452015-02-12T18:20:00.001-08:002015-02-12T18:29:47.353-08:00House Cleaning and Shine English Language School<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/FqQJ01XtWnU/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/FqQJ01XtWnU?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hi Everyone,</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Yd6SFlSi-OYWy6DAJkF2HhbWJpiXFa1ZaFVs89vM92OTTv85o6qcHUUh8RwZdvutZNnU3j-y5vt9Se9qtdUl5HdgULejQufjfZOTzbA7IpK3xGISQt64Yejn9SXNosR1eEJABDUWQNs/s1600/IMG_8952.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Yd6SFlSi-OYWy6DAJkF2HhbWJpiXFa1ZaFVs89vM92OTTv85o6qcHUUh8RwZdvutZNnU3j-y5vt9Se9qtdUl5HdgULejQufjfZOTzbA7IpK3xGISQt64Yejn9SXNosR1eEJABDUWQNs/s1600/IMG_8952.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a>Greetings from us all here in Tokyo. I hope you all enjoyed the video above. I know it is a little late for Christmas plays, but I just wanted to show you part of our Christmas VBS from last year that I didn't get a chance to post. It was a great time! All of the Shine Kids and Sunday School kids came as well as members from the English and Japanese Fellowships and the college and junior high groups. We had a lot of old members of shine kids show up as well. The parents too chose to hang out, see the program, and hear the bible stories which was a blessing. Please pray for the seeds planted at the VBS Christmas and for the hearts of kids and parents.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
From January 20, the Shine Kids Winter Semester started. All of our students from last semester in Setagaya are with us again with a new student joining us. In Machida, we are blessed to have two new students this semester as well. But a real blessing lately has been with the mothers that are joining us. My wife has been having a lot of opportunities to talk and share with the mom's and even the new members have been sharing a lot as well. The time that the shine mothers have together is almost becoming a event unto itself. And actually we are now planning together with Pastor Watanabe's wife Yoshie to have a women's craft time next month with the Japanese service mothers at the same time the Shine Kids moms are here. Please pray for this opportunity for the Japanese Christian women to talk and share with the Shine Kids moms. Pray for friendships to be made and seeds planted.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Last time I wrote to you all, I talked about wanting to broaden the Shine Kids program by starting a new program from April teaching one-on-one classes and group classes to kids and adults as well. Well, God has been opening a lot of doors in this area and I am blessed to announce that starting in April we will be opening the Shine English Language School.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAYTNIbxIxIELOhN-90Ch-XpQ76mci3L-Gl65bL4_JS9T0koAIdNyNHcuJMbz5bOpRoZclXcR8e4LRYI8fYE-GKZUPMozQvy2PXZJ_bgjvpF-j_ukKt-JZIYDLYX0wz5rPkPLEC5Erl9U/s1600/shinekids_11+(1).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAYTNIbxIxIELOhN-90Ch-XpQ76mci3L-Gl65bL4_JS9T0koAIdNyNHcuJMbz5bOpRoZclXcR8e4LRYI8fYE-GKZUPMozQvy2PXZJ_bgjvpF-j_ukKt-JZIYDLYX0wz5rPkPLEC5Erl9U/s1600/shinekids_11+(1).png" height="126" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is the new logo for the program. (Thank you Misa Katou for the design!) And though we are starting from April, we already have students signing up for classes. We hope to also get some of the members of the English service involved as well. Please be praying for many students to sign up for the program and for God to use the Shine English Language School to touch the lives of more and more people in Machida and Setagaya.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Thank you for continuing to pray for our Wednesday night English time and Bible study. More and more people are coming to English time and God is leading many of them to come to the bible study afterwards. The conversations there have been great, many lasting long after the bible study is over. I honestly don't often see Japanese people so curious and open to talking about Jesus and I know God is working in a special way, opening hearts during this time. PTL! Pray for those non Christians that are coming to the bible study, that they keep coming back and that they would all believe in Jesus. Please pray for Shane (owner of the cafe) who will be leading the study through the book of Joshua and pray for me when I am translating.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Tomorrow, the English fellowship members and I are going to be helping out at a special event for the Homeless ministry that is being lead by Pastor Okutsu. There will a special guest singer who will be performing and giving a testimony. Please pray for God to use the event to minister to the homeless here in Tokyo.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Also, please be praying for my friend Daniel Britt. God has been leading him to come out and serve here at Tokyo Horizon Chapel for four weeks this summer and he is now preparing to come. We all can't wait to have him serve with us! In the summer we need so much help with our outreach events and it will be a blessing to have him. Please be praying that God would provide him with everything he needs to get here and for his heart's preparation as well.</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDOAKafJuwceatFbKX2OQ8OMmcfxiJshIt_f_GWG8embAlulQVUeALDhA1ta6Op3gkH4uA1VvLWj4UBwz2GH8LxP0Y0kHmeEhYqoDH_fNecZ341HxNXRsbi_E8IFMi-YoU9hir2pa5ekA/s1600/10361385_10153406635729156_7995333473173748018_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDOAKafJuwceatFbKX2OQ8OMmcfxiJshIt_f_GWG8embAlulQVUeALDhA1ta6Op3gkH4uA1VvLWj4UBwz2GH8LxP0Y0kHmeEhYqoDH_fNecZ341HxNXRsbi_E8IFMi-YoU9hir2pa5ekA/s1600/10361385_10153406635729156_7995333473173748018_n.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Last, but certainly not least, our family has a special announcement. This coming September, we will be a family of four! Yes, we are going to be having another baby. The due date is September 3rd! Please pray for us as we get ready for this new blessing that God has given us. Thank you always for your prayers, love, and support.<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Love,</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Alex, Tomoko, Daisy, and Baby</div>
Alex Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824630632584342796noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2608839469166524679.post-47951834463213162352014-12-03T18:03:00.000-08:002014-12-03T20:26:15.997-08:00Merry Christmas!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuVf4cZ0DXCqd75jpgIZt8VfZX5THbwLo70Am8mBnQ7UgJd4SuE_BeMI2NK2n_eZxXxHw60de_cgImMlRzMfhl32wZpnh3GDX29fJnZdczhsMk9DojJ5hMz5VocQ2wMzUc-cTp5kmEQ1s/s1600/IMG_8230.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuVf4cZ0DXCqd75jpgIZt8VfZX5THbwLo70Am8mBnQ7UgJd4SuE_BeMI2NK2n_eZxXxHw60de_cgImMlRzMfhl32wZpnh3GDX29fJnZdczhsMk9DojJ5hMz5VocQ2wMzUc-cTp5kmEQ1s/s1600/IMG_8230.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Hi everyone,<br />
Glad to be able to write you all again after the finish of a blessed Shine Kids Fall Semester. Thank you all for your prayers for new students as we had 8 new students between the Setagaya and Machida campuses. Well, 9 if you include my little girl Daisy dancing with the rest of the Shine Kids. The time we spent together was great and the time my wife spent with the Shine Kids moms was blessed as well.<br />
Two weeks after the Shine Kids Semester ended, we had our annual International Bazaar after the Japanese church service on Sunday. Some of the Shine Kids were able to come by and perform the song and dance that we were practicing this semester and play games with the other Sunday school kids. I also was able to meet some of the dads of the Shine Kids that I had never met before which is always great. Pray for vision for making more community events like this.<br />
<br />
Please be praying for us as we make our preparations for next years Shine Kids. I have been feeling lead to make changes to the program. Starting from next April, Lord willing, we want to begin teaching one-on-one classes in addition to the regular Shine Kids and to be open Tuesday through Friday . Also we want to start opening up the classes to older students. Up to this point, our program has been ministering to kindergarten and early elementary aged kids. But we want to start reaching out to junior high and maybe even high school aged kids. Please pray that God will open the doors to where we are supposed to go, and close the doors to where we shouldn't.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJUrSLhz05kK5qWTKvyOKdt85PlVYrkhhYNu1SMHyUF1iCYVIzXIxxNoM3PHcc1A8txzHOngy5zlElkiu_VCOAEhQh46A_kUUcU5HBynxYcWwe_ZRjyRghGmGS0wgkt2GKGlvUK7qJLyw/s1600/IMG_8367.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJUrSLhz05kK5qWTKvyOKdt85PlVYrkhhYNu1SMHyUF1iCYVIzXIxxNoM3PHcc1A8txzHOngy5zlElkiu_VCOAEhQh46A_kUUcU5HBynxYcWwe_ZRjyRghGmGS0wgkt2GKGlvUK7qJLyw/s1600/IMG_8367.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Thank you for praying for our kids event in October. The VBS Mini (which is what we ended up calling it) was a great time. Many kids from the Shine Kids as well as kids from the from the Japanese and English service came. The helpers also were a very mixed group, some coming from the college fellowship, some from the English and Japanese services, and even some of the junior high group kids helped out with the event. It was a three hour program with the theme of Noah's ark. We sang kids worship songs, had an English lesson and games about animals, had a Bible story time, as well as a craft (We made a huge balloon out of cut up garbage bags that kids could walk around in!) and lunch. It was such a blessed time in fact, that we have decided we are going to be having a VBS Mini event every three months. The next VBS Mini is going to be December 6th, the VBS Christmas, and we already have 19 kids from the Shine Kids Program signed up. Please pray for more kids to sign up and for helpers.<br />
<br />
Also please be praying for the Cafe Salem. As lately the customers have been fewer and fewer and as some volunteers have had to step back from work at the cafe, the church staff has been praying about what direction the cafe should take next and what changes should be made. Currently the cafe has been closed for two weeks and will be opening up later this month only for reservations for a while. Again, please pray for guidance and wisdom for the staff as decisions are made about what to do next.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMMaZ0X4y3ZyyXlgGyKLXRDkeDVc4uFHKyvvkkC7pHWci8wQKrNw5g9NpUgbGqpEgVBgDcRhU1IARKdq4EggvMsRMGHfrEJ6lRIcNUkg11hyphenhyphenp5cEKID6trOeu0gMSG3a9nNwJR0mlbRss/s1600/the-gospel-cafe+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMMaZ0X4y3ZyyXlgGyKLXRDkeDVc4uFHKyvvkkC7pHWci8wQKrNw5g9NpUgbGqpEgVBgDcRhU1IARKdq4EggvMsRMGHfrEJ6lRIcNUkg11hyphenhyphenp5cEKID6trOeu0gMSG3a9nNwJR0mlbRss/s1600/the-gospel-cafe+(1).jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
Thank you for your prayers for the Wednesday night English Cafe time and International Bible study that I have been leading. We have people coming every week for the English time and many opportunities to share the Gospel. Please pray for the seeds that have already been planted through the English Cafe time to grow. As for the Bible study, we finally made it through the book of Deuteronomy. Now, before we head into the book of Joshua, we are taking a break to do some special focused studies. Pastor Rich taught a 5 week study on Biblical prophesy that I was blessed to translate for. And now I am teaching a 7 week course on Apologetics. Recently we have been covering world religions, what they believe, and questions that we can ask them. We have been blessed to have a few new faces at the bible study including catholic and non-christian guests. Please pray for more and more people to come to the bible study and that it will be used by God for whatever he wants to do. Also please pray for Shane and Akari (the couple in the picture above) who run the Gospel Cafe. Pray that God would bless the cafe and provide them with everything they need.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvrK3Zy3GnOmP5cq7dwndejVls1x3yHaAaoDi5PdoBelLirL07h0dGidkOvMu6-NXIesCfxUvuK-HtU_XZPw7mEouvyE-Pi9NFwhX8xljnzQ8r29f0CTcqogjiZ0hPyvK5V1mw41TPffk/s1600/photo+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvrK3Zy3GnOmP5cq7dwndejVls1x3yHaAaoDi5PdoBelLirL07h0dGidkOvMu6-NXIesCfxUvuK-HtU_XZPw7mEouvyE-Pi9NFwhX8xljnzQ8r29f0CTcqogjiZ0hPyvK5V1mw41TPffk/s1600/photo+(1).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a>Thank you for praying for the mother's meeting that my wife has been leading. They have been <br />
meeting together for a time of prayer and sharing once a month and they are all going out together for fellowship often. It has been a great time for the new moms in our church to encourage one another and talk about what it is to be a Godly wife and mom. Please pray for more women to be added to the fellowship as it has had such a visible effect on all the moms in the group. Also God has been putting it on my wife's heart to do a women's event in the near future which is badly needed in the church. Pray for God to reveal the timing to my wife about this.<br />
<br />
Please also be praying for the Christmas season, there are a lot of events in December including<br />
Christmas concerts and programs. Please be praying for those bringing family members and co-workers to these events and that God would bless the time and conversations.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOiPGQCUft-XYpdpWosWKDsqjqItA3pekW33McaCSmAWvEYsfPM4fnG0CsonZtoSnp4fZ2zb617655OCrB4ehRwnxNRN1bq-jzrwyZ_0PXt9JFVCD7rJmnVfHyRHhLWsAEOhVhK_gaItY/s1600/10354734_10205052831270009_6372078416128265830_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOiPGQCUft-XYpdpWosWKDsqjqItA3pekW33McaCSmAWvEYsfPM4fnG0CsonZtoSnp4fZ2zb617655OCrB4ehRwnxNRN1bq-jzrwyZ_0PXt9JFVCD7rJmnVfHyRHhLWsAEOhVhK_gaItY/s1600/10354734_10205052831270009_6372078416128265830_n.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Thank you always for your prayers and support.<br />
<br />
Merry Christmas everyone!<br />
<br />
Sincerely,<br />
Alex, Tomoko, and Daisy Robinson<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
P.S. Daisy will be 1 1/2 years old this month. She is running around like crazy now and is talking all the time. She also loves dancing around and reading books with us. Her favorite word right now is, "No!". So please pray for patience for us ^_~.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj02TW7OoLh4jjLX2vXQ3FbXMdnUWo942bs3DIR5wHWJ9XL9UPjgQ8Ij8fuD1HFcGkK_dUrgUrWN1DR2FE4PecoABRX2drxSDkKfY6j2aB7ae4STztW_BQgzSZs2Ppn1H3ZuY8FSXahuA0/s1600/10296578_10153221020084156_5881858964359007074_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj02TW7OoLh4jjLX2vXQ3FbXMdnUWo942bs3DIR5wHWJ9XL9UPjgQ8Ij8fuD1HFcGkK_dUrgUrWN1DR2FE4PecoABRX2drxSDkKfY6j2aB7ae4STztW_BQgzSZs2Ppn1H3ZuY8FSXahuA0/s1600/10296578_10153221020084156_5881858964359007074_n.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Alex Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824630632584342796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2608839469166524679.post-31430244086913319722014-08-28T19:14:00.002-07:002014-08-28T19:14:48.907-07:00SUMMER EVENTS!!!Dear Friends,<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Xvf7ZpENZ5J9yzX_B096elkYpa-zun08V11KKCamD1ZAvm4quUrCzy807tmFdpl66zz7OWesLxm-9QeLD1xwsxnCW8JOOvCNNFxHBi4woqQ9ead7aptuOBjEchlGqsU7WGQTZPCVyJI/s1600/IMG_2557.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Xvf7ZpENZ5J9yzX_B096elkYpa-zun08V11KKCamD1ZAvm4quUrCzy807tmFdpl66zz7OWesLxm-9QeLD1xwsxnCW8JOOvCNNFxHBi4woqQ9ead7aptuOBjEchlGqsU7WGQTZPCVyJI/s1600/IMG_2557.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a>It is a blessing to be writing you all again. Firstly, I want to thank you all so much for our time spent with you in America. To fellowship with you all again and to hear what God is doing in and through Calvary Chapel Sonora was such an encouragement to my wife and I. Spending time with you all is always just such a grace filled experience. I am <br />
grateful that my family was able to experience the amazing community there and to be reminded of how faithful God is through the fellowship with you all.<br />
<br />
Upon our return to Japan, we really hit the ground running. The week after we arrived, we had a week long Shine Kids Summer School in Machida. It was good to see all of the kids again and a blessing spend time with them on a daily basis instead of the usual once a week. And my wife was able to spend every day talking with the moms which was a great opportunity to talk and share.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQkV3Nll60yjPev1FH0hRHy2WRaPOvaKKT6nt6u9F99eRM1YA9hhtYCyje-9bGp9PGwBt_Zp44v1bTzi1i73zGoCrAradxRURet1yhiII87qqrYhrs4pJc_oCFrS-OhH3DV_XMCb1hFWI/s1600/426005_10153020079204156_1888440137499853008_n+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQkV3Nll60yjPev1FH0hRHy2WRaPOvaKKT6nt6u9F99eRM1YA9hhtYCyje-9bGp9PGwBt_Zp44v1bTzi1i73zGoCrAradxRURet1yhiII87qqrYhrs4pJc_oCFrS-OhH3DV_XMCb1hFWI/s1600/426005_10153020079204156_1888440137499853008_n+(1).jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a>The same week that the Machida summer school started, the Setagaya Shine Kids summer event<br />
started as well. Once a week for three weeks, we had a three hour program for the Shine Kids in Setagaya. Seventeen kids came to the event in all including five new kids. First we had a hour long Shine Kids English program with the kids. Then we all had lunch together and talked and played and hung out. And then for the last hour we did a big craft project with them all, one time even making a big balloon out of plastic garbage bags that the kids could walk around in! The kids had a great time, and on the last day when we painted pictures of the best thing that happened on summer break, five of the kids painted pictures of the Shine Kids Summer School. It was a blessing to spend time with the kids, to eat lunch with them and talk with them and I am grateful to God for the opportunity. Praying that the new kids come back and join in with regular classes.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdt9cTuZ2QmcdCmNOzENnPguV0YoucpZMiPBskEzxlohx9qdr0jgWH6MgdQjN_nVjS1dcjGkMh71TlOHztytYzChJwimLK9AmLx5psXtyBjD7vvCc_UO_cAc68CLO5uV_An9n9LLpr7jY/s1600/DSCF0314.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdt9cTuZ2QmcdCmNOzENnPguV0YoucpZMiPBskEzxlohx9qdr0jgWH6MgdQjN_nVjS1dcjGkMh71TlOHztytYzChJwimLK9AmLx5psXtyBjD7vvCc_UO_cAc68CLO5uV_An9n9LLpr7jY/s1600/DSCF0314.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a>Then, a week after the first Shine Kids Setagaya Event, we had the Horizon VBS. It was really amazing! We held the VBS for two days and each day we had 50 kids come. We were also blessed to have a team of nine people visiting from the Seritos Baptist Church. Amazing to see the ways God worked in the VBS, kids from the Sunday school of the International and Japanese service came, many bringing with them Non Christian friends from school. The Shine Kids from both Machida and Setagaya came as well. They sang worship songs, did crafts played games, listened to bible stories. It was great to see all the kids that I teach in Shine kids being taught bible stories and to see them asking questions and learning. But was also great about this year was that the whole event was lead by Japanese people. In past years when we have done a VBS, the whole thing has been lead by Americans. A team will come in and do the whole VBS and the Japanese Members of the church would come alongside and help out. Which is great. But this year, the Japanese church members and staff took the lead. They planned out the event, they prepared the games, the crafts, they prepared the bible stories. In the past, the bible stories were all taught in English and then translated into Japanese. But this year, the messages were all taught in Japanese by Japanese people and translated into English for the American team who came along side to help. And it was a beautiful thing to see. To see Japanese people reaching out to Japanese people and Christians from other nations coming along side to assist and help them do so... It is a beautiful thing. I look forward to see what God will do through the Japanese believers here at the church in the future and pray that Japanese Christians would become bolder and bolder in outreaching to their people. It is so exciting to see! Praise God!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb24rFomDAShAnJMHjVf04vg7CxtiD4UQXhPMKHP6zj2QdxQYFu9vWV3vRj4JZehAyMyLHGlQ51oI2ApnohzJKc_u2nM97apVIWAb6wX3OqrMB6pBrfW-dE13bISdKQAanyCsmWNjF4-o/s1600/Bobbi+570.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb24rFomDAShAnJMHjVf04vg7CxtiD4UQXhPMKHP6zj2QdxQYFu9vWV3vRj4JZehAyMyLHGlQ51oI2ApnohzJKc_u2nM97apVIWAb6wX3OqrMB6pBrfW-dE13bISdKQAanyCsmWNjF4-o/s1600/Bobbi+570.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a>The week after the VBS was our Horizon Family Camp, a time for all the Horizon churches to come together and fellowship. We were blessed to have some of the kids from the VBS also come to the Family camp. And also to have our neighbor come. My wife has become friends with our neighbor, a single mother. We have invited her to church many times and she has not been very responsive to our invitations, but God did a special work in her heart and she was very interested in attending the Family camp with her little girl. It was a blessed time. Her little girl had a lot of fun running around and playing with the other kids and I. And as the family camp went on, our neighbor was more and more interested in the messages that were being taught. We are praying for our neighbor that the seed planted in her heart will, by the Holy Spirit, continue to grow.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB3C6cqXkE329zHVohal26ej8wBj9T90i7ZbCF29yAvUOXq7AVp1vat0PcfsfbafEZcfo8x4SsUxaCNaRVNgZDJK9GDUtgclRSf6xM59Bsj7fTpZTJcecTkJuuHafTKKinEz1DxfrACFo/s1600/10527307_10152964209619156_6041643820819297688_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB3C6cqXkE329zHVohal26ej8wBj9T90i7ZbCF29yAvUOXq7AVp1vat0PcfsfbafEZcfo8x4SsUxaCNaRVNgZDJK9GDUtgclRSf6xM59Bsj7fTpZTJcecTkJuuHafTKKinEz1DxfrACFo/s1600/10527307_10152964209619156_6041643820819297688_n.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a>The Fall semester of Shine Kids starts next week. Please pray for many kids to come and for the blessing of the time we spend with them. Also please be praying for the planning of other events in the near future. We want to do a three hour program on a Saturday in October connected with the VBS.<br />
<br />
Thank you all for your prayers and support. I am praying for you all.<br />
<br />
May the Lord bless you and keep you,<br />
Alex, Tomoko, and Daisy Robinson<br />
<br />
P.S. My marriage visa extension was approved. 1 more year until I have to apply again.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Alex Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824630632584342796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2608839469166524679.post-53110314929817385132014-05-15T19:29:00.002-07:002014-05-15T19:29:32.551-07:00Upcoming Trip!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI3hhPJEFv8MboocumWtflJ6DQQF_Qmu5y2TKzgNpNnOEcooLObt1KYqsOdIOvreVij1gTN61Sb6-UgS7cV4B-b6w7yHrJ47uJdiIfJxd-FB7FSStwSf8PV7qg8pEjhTtgSdQPWaMcAnU/s1600/10257670_10152162205906843_1753562519670476198_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI3hhPJEFv8MboocumWtflJ6DQQF_Qmu5y2TKzgNpNnOEcooLObt1KYqsOdIOvreVij1gTN61Sb6-UgS7cV4B-b6w7yHrJ47uJdiIfJxd-FB7FSStwSf8PV7qg8pEjhTtgSdQPWaMcAnU/s1600/10257670_10152162205906843_1753562519670476198_n.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a>Dear Friends,<br />
It is good to be writing you all again. God continues His work in this part of the world and we are blessed to see what he has been doing every day.<br />
<br />
Just recently got back from the International Service's spring retreat. It was a great time of fellowship and study. We had a total of 52 people come including kids and we really praise God for the time there.<br />
<br />
We thank you so much for your prayers for Shine Kids. As we have been doing this ministry for over two years now, many of our students have been growing up and graduating to Elementary School. As such, we have started Elementary school classes from this semester and the classes we have been having have been great. Also a new addition is that as the moms have taken to staying on the first floor and talking while the kids are in class, we have started a moms tea time for them. We have been putting out tea and treats and my wife has been able to sit and talk with them. Also, some have shown interest in learning English from my wife as well. There have been many good times of sharing and good conversations and we praise God for the opportunity to take the next step in building relationships with the moms. Also the responses from the kids have been great to. Some of the kids talk about Shine Kids all the time at home. Last week, one of our new children cried because he didn't want to leave. And also God has been leading kids here as well. One our old students who is in Elementary school now and doesn't attend the club anymore came by and visited us. He showed up out of the blue and talked with us for a while. He told us about some problems he had been having at school and how his Mom had to work late. I think he just wanted to talk to someone. I praise God that He lead him to us as someone he could talk to. Please pray for him and also how best we can minister to him and his family as well as the other kids and families that come to Shine Kids.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7X8mMFfhCwp_xAbhIDNSWGg8EgF4Jj1odHXSQmhFz7eplQW7ug6Z5fQz6gbux38E6VxFT6tNM0jwdh1_Q5X5fX3qfJ5SEvh30OF1VD0NxlghXnUUfT1qGLeD4W3k_ozxJ-JZyWKzM7-U/s1600/1549389_10200939248363800_8683317848441616939_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7X8mMFfhCwp_xAbhIDNSWGg8EgF4Jj1odHXSQmhFz7eplQW7ug6Z5fQz6gbux38E6VxFT6tNM0jwdh1_Q5X5fX3qfJ5SEvh30OF1VD0NxlghXnUUfT1qGLeD4W3k_ozxJ-JZyWKzM7-U/s1600/1549389_10200939248363800_8683317848441616939_n.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a>Also the new Shine Kids club in Setagaya has been extremely blessed. We are running three classes now every Thursday and have 25 students coming every week. Kids from Kids Brown have been coming as well as kids from the Shine Kids club that we had before in Setagaya and it has been good to see them all again. As the three classes are back to back, there is not as much time for talking with the kids and the moms. Also my 2nd class of 15 kids is mostly 7 and 8 year old boys and managing the energy levels can be a little difficult at times. Please pray for wisdom as to how best to build relationships at the new Shine Kids. Also pray for patience and love for me for all the situations that come up.<br />
<br />
The Sunday school staff and I are also planning now for the VBS that is going to be happening in August. Through connections from the team that came to help last year, we found that a team from another church will be in Japan around that time and has volunteered to help out at the VBS! Praise the Lord. After seeing how powerfully, God worked through last years VBS, we are excited to see what he has planned this year. We hope to bring together the Japanese and International Sunday schools as well as the two Shine Kids clubs for this event. There is still a lot of preparation to do before August. So please pray for guidance and wisdom for us as we are planning the VBS. Above is a picture we took with the Japanese Sunday school.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCzCMZISnB13eUvVL59VNNk_7TMEIrY_sFImrKA56O4OZxYE79hyFcnWdYvXUcEJt7TjvD-bou5Y-1dP3wU2q06mcvlG2jt8hVi_IodHsJ1tvBPjI7j2X_v6uAET-4RAjO89ZhzC6zEHQ/s1600/10178081_10152825710574156_7453366622926896173_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCzCMZISnB13eUvVL59VNNk_7TMEIrY_sFImrKA56O4OZxYE79hyFcnWdYvXUcEJt7TjvD-bou5Y-1dP3wU2q06mcvlG2jt8hVi_IodHsJ1tvBPjI7j2X_v6uAET-4RAjO89ZhzC6zEHQ/s1600/10178081_10152825710574156_7453366622926896173_n.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a>Lastly, we would like to announce that we are going to be coming back to America after the<br />
Shine Kids semester is over! We will be arriving in the states on June 23 and will be staying in Sonora until July 7. I am very excited to see you all again soon and also to introduce you all to my little girl, Daisy (seen here preparing for her trip in her red, white, and blues).<br />
<br />
We pray for your blessing and that God would continue to reveal His glories daily to you.<br />
<br />
See you in June,<br />
Alex, Tomoko, and Daisy RobinsonAlex Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824630632584342796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2608839469166524679.post-67762760249943359482014-02-26T17:31:00.002-08:002014-02-26T17:31:59.954-08:00Visitors!Dear friends,<br />
Very good to be writing you all again.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTdRNfP1tQhTGj32eSN612MRD4vYdJdKclIqwmDO5bjTySbMDI4zJEDWMQbgxS606I_MLuUdSSZ_re5jJo_B_s6H-JiLEf_CQBBsJaIeYAo48gggCLYZLmXNh7LqKO31oGjwgTe_AYb0w/s1600/1965043_10152694866739156_2039779972_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTdRNfP1tQhTGj32eSN612MRD4vYdJdKclIqwmDO5bjTySbMDI4zJEDWMQbgxS606I_MLuUdSSZ_re5jJo_B_s6H-JiLEf_CQBBsJaIeYAo48gggCLYZLmXNh7LqKO31oGjwgTe_AYb0w/s1600/1965043_10152694866739156_2039779972_n.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
We were blessed recently to have Lane and Cindy Wettengel come and visit us. Though they came just in time to experience the two worst blizzards to hit Toyko in the last twenty years consecutively, they rolled with it and despite all that, it turned out all right ^_^. It was a great time of fellowship and encouragement, especially the time when we were able to welcome them into our home. I think the one that enjoyed it the most was our little girl Daisy, From the first day they came, Daisy couldn't stop smiling and squealing. And when they eventually moved on to stay in Yokohama, Daisy kept looking around for them for the next three days. Haha. But what meant the most to us was the message that they carried with them. The message that we are not alone and not forgotten. That we are thought about and prayed for in the church. And in seeing the cards and gifts they brought with them, some from people that we have not even met yet, I was just so overwhelmed by how amazing the family of God is. Even though I am here, separated by an ocean, my family stands with me. Also hearing about the growth of the church there and the explosion of home fellowships at Calvary Chapel Sonora was so encouraging and gave us something that we can stand with you in prayer about. We are so grateful to Lane and Cindy for coming and spending time with us, and we are so grateful for you all. It is such a amazing grace that we have been experiencing. And remember, our doors are always open to those who want come and serve. Just ask Lane and Cindy, we take good care of our guests ^_~. Haha.<br />
<br />
Thank you for your prayers for Shine Kids. This semester has been a little hectic. As I <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqA8v9qHpv97Op7c0Y-u_eMEracUgN3yWyon6hOcTvAiZsaig-28Kb1w-H2T4umoc66aavePjlzx9A9bsAzmN-twqrR1pn0vijoFL7s3U4G23lCjHOEa3ED3leRfAn5Fhypps8pZCTcGQ/s1600/IMG_2112.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqA8v9qHpv97Op7c0Y-u_eMEracUgN3yWyon6hOcTvAiZsaig-28Kb1w-H2T4umoc66aavePjlzx9A9bsAzmN-twqrR1pn0vijoFL7s3U4G23lCjHOEa3ED3leRfAn5Fhypps8pZCTcGQ/s1600/IMG_2112.JPG" height="238" width="320" /></a>mentioned previously, we have experienced the two worst blizzards to hit Tokyo in twenty years. And as Tokyo is not a city that is used to snow, everything shut down including trains and buses. Between that and the flu season, we have had a very mixed semester, with as many as twenty coming some weeks and others with very few. But God has been gracious and all the classes we have had have been a blessing. Also it is good to see the work that God has been doing among the staff of Shine Kids. I have seen a lot of stretching and growth this semester because of the circumstances. People taking more and more responsibility in the ministry, making it their own. And there has been growth in other ways has well. One of our staff, who often has trouble communicating, has been able to speak more and more. Sometimes it shocks me how much someone can grow by the grace of God in a short time. So continue to pray for the staff of Shine Kids and for kids to be able to come more and more.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPZO8g-MNcCt-4bLe1x0vLT3LArKoeeUzWARg1voyl01VamaGmdwJM-Zo5uuO8WXfxX6c1yT8m0hayEClMXWLfpBCPahcmK0M7M0SgnEu94oBuuW5KhFcy3vmevQ2bv6SwG80aZtIpNnA/s1600/IMG_1048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPZO8g-MNcCt-4bLe1x0vLT3LArKoeeUzWARg1voyl01VamaGmdwJM-Zo5uuO8WXfxX6c1yT8m0hayEClMXWLfpBCPahcmK0M7M0SgnEu94oBuuW5KhFcy3vmevQ2bv6SwG80aZtIpNnA/s1600/IMG_1048.JPG" height="238" width="320" /></a></div>
There has been a new development in the Kids Brown program in Setagaya as well. The staff has decided to stop using the current curriculum, and now wants to start another Shine Kids club there in Setagaya. Up to this point I have only been assisting in the classes in Setagaya, but they have asked me to take leadership of the classes there. We will be starting the new club from April, so please be praying for preparations in this next month. We are hoping that with the start of this new Shine Kids, we can begin to do more events together with both of the English clubs from the two locations, even praying about doing a home-stay in America with some of the kids. All in the planning stages right now, so please pray for leading and wisdom in the time that is to come.<br />
<br />
Thank you for praying for the Wednesday night bible study. We are still working our way <br />
through the book of Deuteronomy, and God has been faithful to speak to the group through the book. One blessing we have had is that recently the Filipino members of the international service have been coming regularly to the bible study, bringing their family members. We have some people that have been saved recently and some just coming back into church fellowship, So please pray for God's anointing on these times and that everyone would be blessed through these times. <br />
<br />
Also, if you would please pray for teachers for the Sunday School of the International Fellowship, that would be appreciated. Two of our teachers are going to be moving away soon, leaving some gaps in the teaching rotations. I am trying to fill in with most of the classes, but I would also like to continue to be involved in the translation ministry at the English service. So please pray for wisdom and for workers in this area of the ministry.<br />
<br />
We are praying for you all and thank you for your continued prayers and support.<br />
<br />
Thank you,<br />
Alex, Tomoko, and Daisy Robinson<br />
<br />
P.S.<br />
Daisy really likes clapping her hands now and does it all the time when she is happy.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD2jAGKJain9vjHjjaZ2s-7NtK3kpghUfzpzz22hyX9KXonieLutL0aGylNA6S9jshJeNfgNFDuvE3E0AZ12VwQqxZVGwaS_qgwV0bKKTsXjdwtzDttu6do2Cw7UoDW2wW3yTGQ8HF6HE/s1600/1962680_10152707297294156_1591679423_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD2jAGKJain9vjHjjaZ2s-7NtK3kpghUfzpzz22hyX9KXonieLutL0aGylNA6S9jshJeNfgNFDuvE3E0AZ12VwQqxZVGwaS_qgwV0bKKTsXjdwtzDttu6do2Cw7UoDW2wW3yTGQ8HF6HE/s1600/1962680_10152707297294156_1591679423_n.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Alex Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824630632584342796noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2608839469166524679.post-17074775107218015022013-12-18T20:54:00.000-08:002013-12-18T20:54:05.387-08:00'Tis the Season<br />
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Hello everyone,</span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
Merry Christmas! Things here have been a little crazy here with the Christmas season in full swing, but the blessings have been many and I look forward to the events yet to come this month. </div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguboJQcrJpniwgXuFbFNbF-5RuoYUosL-9xRBMa2P38DGSOR6K3nKG_0-A-vBN3QUUov0yYNr1p_Ccn9zWBMI0UypL6e5AnQ44g4mG96s_iLQhcTD6kS9om0r2eB1JdRwaoDmRbqi7CDM/s1600/image.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguboJQcrJpniwgXuFbFNbF-5RuoYUosL-9xRBMa2P38DGSOR6K3nKG_0-A-vBN3QUUov0yYNr1p_Ccn9zWBMI0UypL6e5AnQ44g4mG96s_iLQhcTD6kS9om0r2eB1JdRwaoDmRbqi7CDM/s320/image.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">I thank you all very much for praying for the Shine Kids Christmas party. 20 Kids were able to come to the event this year. At first, I had been a little worried, because the day of the event came and two of my helpers called in sick. But God blessed the time and even with only three people to run the event, everything went very well. We played games, did crafts, sang carols, decorated cupcakes, and read the christmas story. The kids had a really good time. Even with the reading of the christmas story, they were very curious and interactive when the story was told. So praise God for the natural curiosity of children. But even though kids had a good time, I could still tell some of the moms were uncomfortable with the christmas story being read. So please continue to pray for softening of hearts in the ministry and also for wisdom in how best to minister and share with the families that come to shine kids in the future. We are praying about offering one on one classes next year and also English classes for the mothers. We are still praying about the timing of all this. My hope and prayer is that we will be able to continue, through the grace of God, to expand this ministry and build the reputation of Shine Kids in the community, that more and more people can come in contact with the church and with God's people and that many seeds could be planted in the city of Machida. The more I talk with the staff here, the more I understand how much time and patience this ministry is going to take, but I am learning to trust God more and more about the timing of everything.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCA3x6TLlWis7EQvlmweNIeb9VdVqO5kCsM0hkA_qx82PSaNYbLl-GOeXc7Dm7Mmcg-qcMED6uFsHfC558eYjgYJL4N6UHJeIVFK9mLf9mdAs9Tyq5kPDJZf-tSUAZxdqhbejOQcOlZXA/s1600/1511677_10202609580425275_1658009973_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCA3x6TLlWis7EQvlmweNIeb9VdVqO5kCsM0hkA_qx82PSaNYbLl-GOeXc7Dm7Mmcg-qcMED6uFsHfC558eYjgYJL4N6UHJeIVFK9mLf9mdAs9Tyq5kPDJZf-tSUAZxdqhbejOQcOlZXA/s320/1511677_10202609580425275_1658009973_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; min-height: 14.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span><br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Thank you for praying for the Sunday School here at Horizon. We have been having a lot of fun here preparing skits and songs for the kids to preform at the various events. Last sunday we had the International service's christmas event. And the kids were able to perform a small skit before the service started. Next week is going to be a combined service and christmas program. We have been teaching both the Japanese and English service kids the song "Silent Night" with hand motions, and they are going to be performing it together on stage. I am greatly looking forward to these events as it will be a chance for the Japanese and International services to fellowship together and celebrate christmas as one body. Please pray for blessed conversations and fellowship. And please pray for those who will be bringing their friends and coworkers, that seeds would be planted in hearts through these events as well. </span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Thank you also for praying for the Cafe Salem. Many customers have been coming and I am learning more and more about how to serve in the cafe. And honestly, God has been using the cafe a lot to help me grow as well. Working at the cafe was something for me that was very difficult to get used to. In addition to the having to learn the basics needed to work in the cafe, there were also cultural issues of etiquette, procedure, and formality of language when it came to serving tables here in Japan that I had to be learned as well. Unfortunately, often the way that I learned these cultural rules was by breaking them in one way or another and then being told about it afterwards. These mistakes in addition to the mistakes I was naturally making just learning how to work there was a little discouraging for me. Truthfully, for a while working in the cafe became a bit of a struggle. But God is good. And when I was struggling, He brought me back to the understanding of how much I needed Him in my work in the cafe. He convicted me about trying to do things at the cafe by my own effort and not by the power of His Spirit ( </span>1 Corinthians 2:10-15 ). And he also convicted me about this cafe being a worship to Him. And through His work in my heart, the nature of the work in the cafe has changed a lot. Of course I am still making mistakes here and there, but I have a lot more peace and joy working there, praises be to God. Please continue to pray for the ministry in the cafe, that God would continue to make his appointments there and that He would work through the cafe to minister to the community in Setagaya.</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
Recently, we were able to move out of our old apartment in Yokohama that was close to my wife previous work place and move to Machida to be closer to the church here and to make ourselves more accessible to the people we have been ministering to. Since we have moved in, God has been giving a lot of ministry opportunities to my wife as well. Soon after we moved in, my wife got to meet one of our neighbors who is a single mom and strike up a friendship with her. They have able to talk with each other quite a bit lately and Tomoko has started inviting her to our house and to church. Please pray for this new relationship with our neighbor and that God would use it for his glory. Also, because we live so close tot he church now, my wife has been able to start up a small prayer group with the other new moms from the church which has been meeting once a week (we have had six babies born in the last year in the Machida fellowship alone). This time of fellowship and prayer seems to be a real blessing to all those involved and all the moms including my wife have been very encouraged by it. Please pray for this ministry and other ministries to moms that we are praying about starting soon.</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2FaH38LC1AMTwzDKg0Bg0tRHJhYQCyQnzQPLkMuf28_wpypI-fXYW-650CBLhltiG79p8QcCvsTRm14g8k-l1FThTAhEzYg0R4r1lWGhqPjZigeiXmgGLx8i5_ZAdqq4RIFdtzLHX0ww/s1600/1497788_10152582414349156_1580007766_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2FaH38LC1AMTwzDKg0Bg0tRHJhYQCyQnzQPLkMuf28_wpypI-fXYW-650CBLhltiG79p8QcCvsTRm14g8k-l1FThTAhEzYg0R4r1lWGhqPjZigeiXmgGLx8i5_ZAdqq4RIFdtzLHX0ww/s320/1497788_10152582414349156_1580007766_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>Please be praying for the New Year's service here at Horizon and the church retreat coming up at the beginning of January</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
May God bless you and keep you all during this season of celebration of our Lord Jesus. We are praying for you all.</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
Because He lives,</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
Alex, Tomoko, and Daisy Robinson.</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
P.S. Daisy is growing big and strong, weighing in at almost 17 pounds. She will be 6 months next week and has started eating solid foods. Praise God</div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font: 12.0px Helvetica; margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px;">
<br /></div>
Alex Robinsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04824630632584342796noreply@blogger.com0