Christmas is for everybody

Philippians 2:6-11
December 23rd 2018, 4th Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Most people in Japan think that they have nothing to do with the religious aspect of Christmas. However, everybody has things to do with it.

Firstly, God loves you. He made us one by one, and also He loves us.

Secondly, our sin is an obstacle between God and humans. Because of the sin, we are in the position to be judged.

Thirdly, Jesus gave up His precious things. One is the equality with God. Jesus, the Son of God, considered the equality with God as nothing and came to this world as a flesh. That is Christmas. The other one is the life as God. Instead that we are judged, Jesus himself was judged and gave his life.

Fourthly as the result of it, one is that whoever believes in Jesus shall be given eternal life, and the other is that whoever trusts in the Lord shall be given help and encouragement.

Christmas, to celebrate the nativity of Christ, has a lot to do with everybody. Let us accept Him in our mind and walk our lives!

<The Verse of the Bible>

Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;
rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant,
being made in human likeness.
And being found in appearance as a man,
he humbled himself
by becoming obedient to death -- even death on a cross!

Philippians 2:6-8 (NIV)

Noah, who made mistakes and his sons

Genesis 9:18-29
December 16th 2018, 3rd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Let us see how Noah and his sons live their lives after the flood.

Firstly, Noah became drunk with wine and disgraced himself. Noah became a vineyard farmer and probably worked hard but he became drunk and exposed his nakedness. In spite of his righteous steps before the LORD, he did that. There is some risk also for us to fail and make mistakes if we are careless.

Secondly, Ham mocked his father and had a word of curse to his son from his father. It seems that Ham had a mocking feeling toward his father and told that to his brothers. As the result, a word of curse was given unto his son Canaan.

Thirdly, Shem and Japheth covered the sin of their father and had a word of blessing from him. Unlike Ham, they didn't try to see his father naked and covered him with a garment. Thus, they were able to have a word of blessing from God.

There should be no carelessness in our Christian lives of faith. Our steps in our lives decide whether we will have blessing from the LORD or miss it. Let us direct our mind to the LORD until the very end and finish our lives within the will of the LORD!

<The Verse of the Bible>

When he drank some of its wine, he became drunk and lay uncovered inside his tent.

Genesis 9:21 (NIV)

The steps of Enoch, which was pleased by the LORD

Genesis 5:1-32
October 14th 2018, 2nd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Adam's descendants are described. Let us learn about Enoch, who is specially mentioned among them. Let us see about his life.

Firstly, God lead Enoch to meet God.
Secondly, he walked with God. He completed his life, which was walking with God.

Next, let us see the reasons why Enoch was able to make such steps.

Firstly because he believed that there would be the judgement of God.
Secondly because he was trusting God while walking his life. That was why he was pleased by the LORD, which is described in Hebrew.

With whom do we walk our lives? Is that partner a trustable one?
The LORD is indeed a reliable partner!

<The Verse of the Bible>

After he became the father of Methuselah, Enoch walked faithfully with God 300 years and had other sons and daughters.

Genesis 5:22 (NIV)

Godless culture & God-centered culture

Genesis 4:17-26
October 7th 2018, 1st Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

We have already learned about Cain and Abel. When we see Cain who killed Abel, and the descendants of Seth, and how they walked their lives, we find there are two cultures. Let us learn the characteristics of each.

First one is Godless culture.
Firstly, it tries to satisfy the desires of flesh.
Secondly, it depends on the things without God.
Thirdly, it is arrogant and ruthless.
The culture nowadays is surely ruled by Godless culture, and we can see these characteristics, can't we?

The other culture is God-centered culture.
Its characteristic is to trust God and to pray. That is the step to fear God, to be humble before God, and to trust God.

We can say that we also form our lives by either of these two cultures. Let us walk our lives by God-centered culture!

<The Verse of the Bible>

Seth also had a son, and he named him Enosh.
At that time people began to call on the name of the Lord.

Genesis 4:4 (NIV)

Living Water to you

John 4:3-14
September 30th 2018, 5th Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Jesus went to the district of Samaria, met a woman and said to her, "Will you give me a drink?" And he taught her about living water. Let us learn what is necessary to have living water.

Firstly, it is to be aware that our mind is thirsty. Though she was aware of her thirst, she didn't seem to be aware of her thirst in mind. It is necessary for us to be aware that our mind is thirsty.

Secondly, it is to know the water which fulfills our thirst in mind, and to know the one who gives it. She asked several men to fulfill her thirst. However, it is only living water given by Christ that fulfills our thirst in mind.

Thirdly, it is to trust in the LORD always while walking our lives. Even though we have faith, if we walk without trusting Him, our mind will get thirsty soon. It is indeed to trust in the LORD and his promise always, so that the Holy Spirit helps us and gives us peace and fills us with it.

I sincerely hope that every one will receive this living water.

<The Verse of the Bible>

but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.

John 4:14 (NIV)

God, who will carry us

Isaiah 4:1-13
September 16th 2018, 3rd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Prophet Isaiah prophesied about the destruction of Babylon. He described it by comparing idol gods and true God.

First of all, as for idol gods, they cannot rescue us. They are unreliable things which were made by humans and have to be carried by them.

Then, about the true God. Firstly, He loves us no matter how we get changed. That is not conditional. No matter how we get weak, He loves us unchangably.

Secondly, He will carry our burdens. He promises that He will invite all who are weary and carry their burdens.

Even in any situation in the future, the LORD will carry our burdens, carry us and walk together with us. Let us trust in Him indeed while walking our lives!

<The Verse of the Bible>

Even to your old age and gray hairs
I am he, I am he who will sustain you.
I have made you and I will carry you;
I will sustain you and I will rescue you.

Isaiah 46:4 (NIV)

The struggles in prayers

Luke 5:15-16
September 9th 2018, 2nd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

There may be no Christian but knows the importance to pray. We can have blessings and guidance from the LORD through prayers. Nevertheless, how many are the cases we pray less!

Let us make sure that there are the things that hinder our prayers. One is our sinful mind. Though we are saved, the sinful mind works against the spiritual mind. The other is the temptation from Satan. When we try to pray, he whispers various matters and feelings. We need to keep struggling with them. What are the things necessary to do it?

Firstly, it is to consecrate the time to pray. Jesus was doing it.
Secondly, it is to pray with the help of the Holy Spirit.
Thirdly, it is to pray every time we feel we are in need. God doesn't want us only to pray longer calmly sitting in a room.

We can have plentiful blessings from the LORD through prayers. Nevertheless, how many are the times we lose in these struggles! Let us be conscious about the struggles in prayers and be winners!

<The Verse of the Bible>

But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.

Luke 5:16 (NIV)

The blessing that being known to God

Jeremiah 1:5
September 2nd 2018, 1st Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

We wish to know God more, but we should remember that the LORD knows us. Let us confirm 3 things:

Firstly, we are known to God. The LORD has known our existence even before we were formed in our mother's womb. Not only that, God knows everything, about our minds and our futures as well.

Secondly, we are known to Him as His friends. Just like intimate friends, the LORD tries to tell us important truths and lead us.

Thirdly, He loves us while knowing everything about us. When we look at ourselves, we see our foolishness and insufficiency. However, the LORD loves us, knowing our weakness and foolishness.

A lot of information is overflowing. There may be quite a few things that we should know. Nevertheless, let us walk in peace while knowing the truth that the LORD knows us!

<The Verse of the Bible>

"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you,
        before you were born I set you apart;
        I appointed you as a prophet to the nations."

Jeremiah 1:5 (NIV)

Cain and Abel

Genesis 4:1-16
August 26th 2018, 4th Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Two children were given to Adam and Eve. Cain and Abel came to the LORD with their offerings to Him. Though Abel's offering was accepted, Cain's one was not looked on with favor. This became the cause for Cain to kill Abel. Let us learn three things:

Firstly, the LORD pays attention to the mind of those who offer. Their mind is important before God.

Secondly, the LORD sees one's response toward the blessing of others. We can say that Cain was jealous for the blessing of Abel. Jealousy is born out of the sin of pride and could develop to the intention to kill someone.

Thirdly, the LORD seeks the mind which responds to the guidance to repent. In spite that Cain committed sin, he was defiant. Nevertheless, God was merciful to him and tried to guide him to repent. He should have repented immediately but didn't do it.

If we keep our sins as they are, they will develop something terrible. Let us repent when we are convinced not to commit Cain's sins!

<The Verse of the Bible>

And Abel also brought an offering -- fat portions from some of the firstborn of his flock. The LORD looked with favor on Abel and his offering,

Genesis 4:4 (NIV)

The consequence of sin and the salvation plan

Genesis 3:14-24
August 19th 2018, 3rd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Adam and Eve were deceived through the temptation by the serpent, and they ate from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, from which they had been commanded not to eat. As the consequence, sin came into mankind.

The serpent became a cursed one which would crawl on his belly all the days of his life. Eve became the one who would bear the labor pains of child birth and be ruled by the husband. Adam became the one who would bear the pain of labor. And mankind became the ones who would die and return to the ground. The ground was cursed, too. They were driven out from the Garden of Eden. Let us learn two things from here:

Firstly, sin brings its result. Eternal sufferings are waiting for sinners. Evil influence will remain even in Christians if they commit sins.

Secondly, God made a plan for mankind. It is called "protoevangelium", the first gospel. He revealed the plan that the Savior will be born from the offspring of the woman in due time, and he will crush Satan's head.

Let us go preach the wonderful gospel to the people around us!

<The Verse of the Bible>

And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.

Genesis 3:15 (NIV)

Where are you?

Genesis 3:8-13
August 12th 2018, 2nd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

When the man and his wife were tempted by the serpent, they chose what would not be pleased by God with their own free will, and sinned. Then they hid from the LORD. Still, the LORD came out to seek them. He called to the man, "Where are you?" They didn't spontaneously confess their sin or apologize. They blamed each other and tried to shift their sin to the other. Let us learn two things from here:

Firstly, it is to stand at the proper spiritual point before God. Although they had been in the rich fellowship with the LORD, then they came to avoid Him. We are also asked if we are standing at the proper spiritual point.

Secondly, it is to repent humbly in response to the voice of God. God lead them so that they would be able to repent humbly, but they didn't respond to Him and blamed the other. We are also apt to do the same kind of mistakes. It is important for us, when we hear His vice, to respond immediately and repent humbly.

Let us be such ones who properly respond to the voice of God!

<The Verse of the Bible>

But the LORD God called to the man, "Where are you?"

Genesis 3:9 (NIV)

The corruption of mankind

Genesis 3:1-7
August 5th 2018, 1st Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

The serpent was more crafty than any of the wild animals the Lord God had made. We find that it was Satan when we read other parts of the Bible. The woman had a talk with the serpent and she was getting drawn to him.

The serpent must have known what God had said. And he intentionally played innocent to distort the word, and asked her. As if he were on the side of her, he tried to let her doubt the love of God. He stirred her mind and rushed to deny the word of God. As the result, she took the fruit and ate it, and also gave it to Adam. This was how mankind became corrupt and sin entered them.

What should we learn from this?

Firstly, we should not be based on our sense, but be based on the word of God when we judge and choose something.

Secondly, we should not doubt the love of God, but consider the love and the grace of God while we walk our lives. Do not be troubled by the problems or what we don’t have.

We are also given our own free will. Let us be based on the word and choose the right choice!

<The Verse of the Bible>

When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.

Genesis 3:6 (NIV)

A suitable helper

Genesis 2:18-25
July 29th 2018, 5th Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

The LORD God created a woman as a helper for the man.

First of all, let us learn the mystery of marriage. In order to get married, one needs to be independent from the parent. Also, the two need to accept and give each other as one while they walk their lives.

As the instruction from today's part, firstly, the LORD gives help. God is the one who gives us help. We were once sinful ones who had no way but to perish, but God gave us help through Christ. Secondly, the LORD tells us to love each other. Thirdly, the LORD lets us learn. The LORD dared to let the man see other animals so that he would confirm if there was a helper among them. And He made the man realize he needed a special helper.

God prepares a lot of help for us, too. Let us also remember that He is trying to lead us to proper directions!

<The Verse of the Bible>

The LORD God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him."

Genesis 2:18 (NIV)

Being as the ones made by God

Genesis 2:4-15
July 22nd 2018, 4th Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

From today's part onward, the theme is shifting to the created world. What should mankind be as the ones made by God?

Firstly, we, mankind should be self-controlled before God. Only mankind are the precious and spiritual being, into which the breath of life was breathed from God. On the other hand, we have to be conscious that we are ephemeral beings that were formed from the dust, and need to walk our lives self-controlled before God.

Secondly, we, mankind should be thankful how God is treating us. God prepared for mankind well-watered land, things that are pleasing to the eye and good for food, and work as well. Even now, how richly good things are prepared and given for us from God! We should be thankful for it.

Thirdly, we, mankind should remember what the LORD is like while walking our lives. The LORD God is a mighty one, as well as full of mercy. That is why the LORD saved us from perishing.

Being the ones made by God, let us walk our lives uprightly before the LORD!

<The Verse of the Bible>

Now the LORD God had planted a garden in the east, in Eden; and there he put the man he had formed.

Genesis 2:8 (NIV)

The rest of God

Genesis 2:1-3
July 15th 2018, 3rd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

God created all the vast array and took a rest on the 7th day. He stopped Ｈis work. Let us learn from this part.

Firstly, we should sanctify the Holy Day and observe it to the maximum. God blessed this day and made it holy. Based on it, the law of Sabbath was established later. Although Sabbath and Holy Day are different, we should also keep the Day the Lord was raised holy, observe it, and gather to worship the LORD.

Secondly, we should remember that God prepares rest for us. When we read Hebrew chapter 4, it tells us about the rest in the Kingdom of heaven and in the LORD. If one believes in Christ as his/her savior, anyone can take a rest in the kingdom of heaven. And, if one goes to Christ and walk his/her life while trusting the promise, anyone can rest in the LORD.

How much do we value the Holy Day? Let us believe and accept that God prepares rest for us and walk our lives!

<The Verse of the Bible>

Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done.

Genesis 2:3 (NIV)

The Creation of Mankind

Genesis 1:26-31
July 8th 2018, 2nd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Today we will learn about the creation of mankind on the sixth day.

God made mankind as a special being. He created heaven and earth, and all things for Christ, and gave mankind the power and the right to rule the natural world. Also, mankind was created in the likeness of God. Specially created as a spiritual being just like God, so that man can have fellowship with God. Then, how should man respond to it?

First is to face the LORD, and believe in Christ. Because the LORD made us special, and wants to have fellowship with us, it is most important for us to believe in Christ and accept him.

Second is to love ourselves in the LORD and to love others.

Third is not to be anxious in the LORD.

Man cannot walk their lives happily without God. Only by facing God, we can walk our lives happily in the true sense of the word!

<The Verse of the Bible>

So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.

Genesis 1:27 (NIV)

The Power of the Creation

Genesis 1:14-25
July 1st 2018, 1st Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

We have been learning about the creation of heaven and earth. Today, let us learn from the fourth day through the middle of the sixth day.

First is that God shows His power in the natural world. We tend to take it for granted but when we see the natural world, we know that the power of wonderful God is being revealed in it. We are led to praise the LORD.

Second is that God increased the living creatures by His power. By the word, He made the living creatures increase. God has the power to increase anything.

Third is that God changed the world into good by His power. Although the earth was formless and empty, it was changed into wonderfully good. God has the power to change anything into good from any situation.

He, who created the heaven and earth by His word, is walking with us now. Let us trust Him and walk in peace!

<The Verse of the Bible>

God made the wild animals according to their kinds, the livestock according to their kinds, and all the creatures that move along the ground according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good.

Genesis 1:25 (NIV)

In the Rule of God

Genesis 1:3-13
June 24th 2018, 4th Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Today we will learn from the passage on the creation from the day one through the day three.

Firstly, time began in the rule of God. Time was marked as the first day and the second day. It can be said that time is also created by God. It is not a matter of course that time is given to us.

Secondly, the expanse (sky) was made in the rule of God. The sky is not just a space with nothing in it. It is the space which was created by God in order that humans and living creatures can exist in it.

Thirdly, the water was gathered and the land was made in the rule of God. Water is necessary for us to live, but we are too powerless before floodwaters. However, God gathered the water. With His power, He even rules and changes the situation where we are in.

We are under the absolute rule of God. He is always walking with us. Therefore, we don't have to be afraid!

<The Verse of the Bible>

And God said, "Let the water under the sky be gathered to one place, and let dry ground appear." And it was so.

Genesis 1:9 (NIV)

Matured Churches

Ephesians 4:32
June 17th 2018, 3rd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Today, Pastor is preaching at the Tsukuba Mission Church. Whether a church is matured or not is revealed when its pastor is out or something unexpected happens. How do matured churches walk their steps?

Firstly, they have worship service as usual. Since they know it is the utmost blessing, privilege, and duty to worship the LORD, they worship the LORD in spirit and in truth as usual.

Secondly, they keep order as usual. The LORD tells us to walk our steps in orderly way. Since they fear the LORD, they don't do something like disturbing order. They behave so that they will keep order.

Thirdly, they understand the LORD's will and behave as usual. Even if they don't have enough, they don't do like blaming others. They are kind one another and help one another. They think what the LORD's will is, understand it and behave spontaneously.

Is Yokohama Church a matured one? Also, is each one of us a matured Christian? No matter what situation we are placed, let us seek the LORD’s will and understand it and behave as a matured church and Christians!

<The Verse of the Bible>

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Ephesians 4:32 (NIV)

From Darkness to Light

Genesis 1:2-3
June 10th 2018, 2nd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

We can understand that, at the time of verse two, there was a state of chaos, which was formless and empty. Although there are various theories as for the reason, we cannot be sure. Then from that state, God let light be there by His word. Let us learn what are taught from this portion.

Firstly, there comes a state of chaos if being away from God.

Secondly, God is hovering to secure us. The Spirit of God was hovering in a state of hopeless. Here we can find hope. Even now, God is working in the hopeless places, and trying to give us hope.

Thirdly, God can change darkness into light. He has done the same thing to us who were going to perish.

There might be a case that we have to pass through the difficult places where we cannot find hope. Still, the LORD leads us to the way of hope even now!

<The Verse of the Bible>

Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.
And God said, "Let there be light," and there was light.

Genesis 1:2-3 (NIV)

In the Beginning, God

Genesis 1:1
June 3rd 2018, 1st Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

When we know the teachings of Genesis and accept them, our view of life will be changed. We will be able to walk our lives with proper self-awareness of ourselves.

Before all things began to exist, God exists. And God created all things out of nothing. Here, we are taught that absolute God exists. Humans tend to have human-centered ideas like God doesn't exist, or we don't know about God. But Genesis tells us that absolute God does exist.

Next, when we accept this God, our way of life will be changed.
Firstly, we will come to fear God and live for Him. Secondly, we will be able to accept ourselves. This is because we will know that our existence was made not by coincidence but by God, and we will be loved everlastingly.

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Let us also confirm this fact at the beginning of a day, and be such ones who fear God and live for Him!

<The Verse of the Bible>

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.

Genesis 1:1 (NIV)

The Blessing to Have Fellowship with Christ

1 John 1:3-4
May 27th 2018, 4th Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Let us learn about the blessing to have fellowship with Christ.

The first question is "who is Christ?" He is God that became flesh and appeared to us. Though it was not revealed in the era of the Old Testament, Jesus clearly revealed himself with his own steps.

Then, "what shall we do to have fellowship with Christ?" Firstly, it is to believe in Christ as our own Savior. Secondly, it is to value the two relationships: One is the relationship with the LORD, which means to receive the Word, and to walk our lives with prayers to the LORD. The other is the relationship with the church. It is important to firmly belong to the church which is the body of Christ, and to have relationships with the brothers and sisters.

"What will happen when we have fellowship with Christ?" Complete joy will be given. It does not mean that sufferings will be gone. Even in sufferings, peace and joy, which this world cannot give us, will be given.

The secret to live our faith in blessings depends on how much we have fellowship with Christ. Let us be such ones who have good fellowship with the Lord and have blessed steps in our lives!

<The Verse of the Bible>

We proclaim to you what we have seen and heard, so that you also may have fellowship with us. And our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son, Jesus Christ.

1 John 1:3 (NIV)

The blessing of those whose hope is in the LORD

Psalm 146:1-10
May 20th 2018, 3rd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Our lives will change depending on where we put our hope. First thing to remember is that we should not put our hope in man. Because man is so fleeting. Also, man is so changing.

We should trust in God. Let me tell you two reasons.
Firstly because the LORD is almighty. We can trust in Him because He is the almighty one who created everything in heavens and earth.
Secondly because the LORD is faithful forever. We can trust in Him because He commits no deceit or makes no mistake, and keeps the promise He has made.

Then, what will happen when we put our hope in the LORD? Firstly, He will be our personal Counselor. Secondly, He will set us free from anxiety. Thirdly, He will strengthen the weak and raise him/her up.

We tend to stick to, and put our hope in, things like what we will be and what we have. However, they are not reliable in the true sense of the word. What we should truly trust in is only God alone. Let us trust in Him and have an established life!

<The Verse of the Bible>

Blessed are those whose help is the God of Jacob,
            whose hope is in the LORD their God.

Psalm 146:5 (NIV)

The faith of the mother Eunice

2 Timothy 1:3-5
May 13th 2018, 2nd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Let us learn form the faith of the mother Eunice who influenced her son, evangelist Timothy.

Firstly, Eunice had a sincere faith. Timothy's faith was not the one started from him, but the one lived in his grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice, who fully believed in the Lord and walked their lives.

Secondly, Eunice passed her faith on to her son. Timothy must have been taught the word from infancy by Eunice and others. They must have taught him what the faith was like, not only by their words, but also by showing their attitude or the way of lives. Nothing is as influential to children as the faith of their parents.

It is the age of many temptations. Satan is working strongly and he comes to separate Christians from God. Therefore, we seriously have to give this faith on to the next generation. That is way our faith is being asked. Let us also keep passing faith on, like Eunice!

<The Verse of the Bible>

I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.

2 Timothy 1:5 (NIV)

The grace of Christ be with you

Philippians 4:23
May 6th 2018, 1st Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Paul prayed at the end of the epistle, "The grace of Christ be with your spirit." Let us learn two things from here.

Firstly, let us always remember the grace of Christ while walking our lives. This prayer was to pray that the grace of the Lord be on the church in Philippi, and at the same time, it was also to pray that they always be able to remember the grace of the Lord while living their lives. It is when we can be united to one another and have joy and peace.

Secondly, let us also pray this prayer at the place we are sent. It is important for ourselves to live our lives while remembering the grace of the Lord, rather, at the place we are sent, we need to pray that the people around us may know the grace of the Lord and be saved.

We rather tend to look at only the things just in front of us. As the result, we tend to utter the words of grumble or complaint, don't we? Let us look at the grace of Christ anew. And like Paul, let us live our lives while being filled with joy and share it, even in troubles!

<The Verse of the Bible>

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

Philippians 4:23 (NIV)

Greet

Philippians 4:21-22
April 29th 2018, 5th Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

We will learn from the ending part of the epistle. What was the messages he wanted say through the greetings?

First was that they were remembered by everyone. He told them that so many people - such as the brothers and sisters with him, all the saints, those who belonged to Caesar's household - remembered the brothers and sisters in the church at Philippi and he tried to encourage them.

Second was that every one of them was remembered. Not as a whole. Every one of them was remembered. The LORD remembers us just like that.

Third was that he kept them in mind and was concerned about them. "Greet" means to care for. The LORD always keeps us in mind and cares for us.

We tend to think that we are walking our lives alone, but it is not correct. The LORD always keeps us in mind and is concerned about us. Let us remember the facts and try to talk to one another!

<The Verse of the Bible>

Greet all God's people in Christ Jesus. The brothers and sisters who are with me send greetings.

Philippians 4:21 (NIV)

Be glory to God for ever and ever

Philippians 4:20
April 22nd 2018, 4th Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Upon ending the epistle, Paul prayed that be glory to God. Let us learn three points from here.

First is to recognize that the source of all blessings is in God. Paul rejoiced and thanked for the support from the church in Philippi, and he recognized all of them were given and lead by the LORD. We also need to recognize that all things are given from the LORD.

Second is to glorify God and Father. God wants us humans not to glorify ourselves, but glorify God. And all of us should live for the glory of God.

Third is to say Amen together in one spirit. Amen means "Yes, it surely is." "It's true." It is truly blessed that all the saved ones can say Amen in one spirit.

Let us lead our lives to glorify the wonderful Savior we believe!

<The Verse of the Bible>

To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Philippians 4:20 (NIV)

The LORD, who will meet all our needs

Philippians 4:19
April 15th 2018, 3rd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Paul thanked for the support from the church in Philippi, and after talking about spiritual blessings, he told them that God would meet all their needs. Let us learn three important things from today’s passage.

First is to seek the riches of His own glory. The riches of this world can be the seeds of strife, and above all, they are easily gone. However, the riches of God's glory lead us to the blessed walk and we can have them eternally.

Second is to fix our eyes to our personal God. He is the God of all human beings, and at the same time, He is our personal God as well. He allows us to call Himself "My God".

Third is to remember that God will meet all our needs. It is obvious if we see the cross. We can say that the LORD, who gave us even the life of His Son, will surely meet all our needs.

God personally looks at us and feeds us. He leads us. He encourages and strengthens us. Also in the new fiscal year, let us walk our lives while trusting in Him!

<The Verse of the Bible>

And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:19 (NIV)

When we face a new land

Deuteronomy 6:1-13
April 8th 2018, 2nd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Now we have come into a new fiscal year, and I guess some of you have come into a new environment. What do we need when we face a new land?

First is not to forget the LORD. The Israelites were supposed to live in the well-watered land, and there was a danger for them to forget the LORD because they may devote themselves to their matters for living such as gaining crops. There is the same kind of danger for us as well. We always need to acknowledge the LORD while walking our lives.

Second is to serve the LORD. It is to know the mind of the LORD and follow Him by humbling ourselves. Otherwise, we will serve worldly things.

Third is to fear the LORD. We tend to fear people, but the important thing is to walk our lives while fearing the LORD. And then, one can walk the right, blessed way.

The environment surrounding us will change. Nevertheless, whatever environment we are in, let us always look up the LORD and walk our lives while remembering these three things!

<The Verse of the Bible>

Fear the LORD your God, serve him only and take your oaths in his name.

Deuteronomy 6:3 (NIV)

Peace in Easter

John 20:19-20
April 1st 2018, 1st Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Jesus was crucified on a cross and died. The Lord who is resurrected had appeared to the disciples and said, "Peace be with you!" When we remember the resurrected Lord, peace will be given to us. Let us learn the reasons.

Firstly, because the resurrected Lord gives us rest. Whatever the burdens, we can go to the Lord and unload onto Him. The living Lord carries our burdens.

Secondly, because the resurrected Lord guides us properly. The Lord is omniscient and he guides us properly even when we are lost.

Thirdly, because the resurrected Lord gives us the solution towards death. No matter how a person is strong, death will come to him/her. There is God’s judgment waiting after death. However, those who believed the resurrected Lord can pass through death with the Lord and go to the kingdom of heaven.

When we remember the resurrected Lord, the peace of the Lord will be given. Let us firmly remember the resurrected Lord, and walk in peace!

<The Verse of the Bible>

On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!"

John 20:19 (NIV)

Gethsemane

Matthew 26:36-46
March 25th 2018, 4th Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Before arrested, Jesus prayed to God the Father in Gethsemane. Let us learn 3 things from this passage.

First is that the Lord was tempted and suffered. Jesus, who was filled with wisdom and strength, was there in anguish. And after this, he was crucified and died. The Lord went through such sufferings so that he can understand our sufferings as well. We should also suffer for the Lord.

Second is that the Lord poured out his soul to God the Father and prayed. He offered up his petitions just as he was, without putting on airs.

Third is that the Lord sought to please God the Father, and followed Him. He wanted to do the will of God the Father rather than his own.

Whose petitions do our prayers ask for? The Lord was victorious at the prayer in Gethsemane, and after this, he proceeded straight to the cross. The type of prayer made in Gethsemane is necessary also for our steps.

<The Verse of the Bible>

Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will."

Matthew 26:39 (NIV)

With the visions

Proverbs 29:18
March 18th 2018, 3rd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

If we walk our lives without the words of God, we will come into confusion. Then, what if we walk toward God’s word and the visions based on the word?

Firstly, the strength to withstand difficulties will be given. When our difficulties are lasting, we are so weak that we cannot have strength to withstand them. However, if we have visions, the strength to withstand them will be given from the LORD.

Secondly, courage will be given. If we see only the situations, we lose courage and our faith tends to go backward. However, if we have visions, courage will be given from the LORD and we will be able to go forward.

Thirdly, the blessing of fulfillment will be given. Faith is needed in order to keep visions. God works for such faith and gives us the blessing of fulfillment. Then we will praise the LORD and be able to go forward.

It is very important to walk with visions. Let us be such ones who walk with visions about our new church building and other things as well.

<The Verse of the Bible>

Where there is no revelation, people cast off restraint;
but blessed is the one who keeps the law.

Proverbs 29:18 (NIV)

The secret of being content in any and every situation

Philippians 4:11-13
March 4th 2018, 1st Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Paul was able to say that he had learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether living in plenty or in want. What was that secret like?

Firstly, it is to remember that God provides our needs. He was freed from anxiety because he believed God fulfills his needs.

Secondly, it is to remember that God always walks with us. He walked his life in confidence that God always walked with him and the love of God would never leave him.

Thirdly, it is to remember that God works in our weakness and makes us strong. He also had weakness, but he believed that God would work in that weakness. Thus, he was able to walk his life while overcoming many persecutions, though he was under them.

True fullness depends not on wealth. It depends on the trust we put in God. Let us walk our lives while firmly having this secret as our own!

<The Verse of the Bible>

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.

Philippians 4:12 (NIV)

Not giving up

Galatians 6:8-9
February 25th 2018, 4th Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

However hard we testify or preach the gospel, there are cases that our fellows are not saved. In such cases, we tend to be disappointed and give up easily, don't we? What should we do in order not to be disappointed?

Firstly, we should look at God almighty. He is almighty, and there is nothing impossible for Him. We should look at His promises and what He has done for us so far.

Secondly, we should never stop praying. Although God has His own times and ways, He still wants to hear our prayers and respond to them. What we need then is to keep praying in faith.

Thirdly, we should make the most of every opportunity and keep doing what is right. No matter how the fellows are doing, it is important for us to keep doing what is right, keep testifying and interceding with God for the fellows.

Let us not be disappointed while seeing the situation just happening. Let us look at God almighty and His promises, and be such ones who believe and keep praying!

<The Verse of the Bible>

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

Galatians 6:9 (NIV)

Whoever is for the Lord

Exodus 32:19-26
February 18th 2018, 3rd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Moses said to the people of Israel who were worshipping a calf made of gold. "Whoever is for the Lord, come to me."

Firstly, it is to decide our standpoint clearly. It is to decide which side we are for: God’s side or the side of this world which is ruled by Satan. Otherwise, we shall be tossed by this world.

Secondly, it is to come over to God's side. The Levites followed the voice of Moses and came before him. We also need to step forward if we decide something in our mind. Otherwise, nothing will change.

Thirdly, it is to walk our lives while devoting ourselves to the Lord. Even if we make up our mind and come over to the side of the Lord, but have no mind of devotion, our steps will end in half way after all.

The Lord is still giving challenge to each one of us now. Who are the ones with the side of the Lord? And He is asking us to come over to His side and devote ourselves to Him. Let us not remain in the comfortable place for ourselves, but go forward and walk up higher!

<The Verse of the Bible>

So he stood at the entrance to the camp and said, "Whoever is for the LORD, come to me." And all the Levites rallied to him.

Exodus 32:26 (NIV)

The blessing to send someone off

Acts 13:2-3
February 11th 2018, 2nd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

We can see that Barnabas and Saul were sent off by the church so that they would go to preach the gospel. Let us learn two things from here.

Firstly, each one of us is also sent off from the church. The places are: work place or school, local community and family. We need to remember that not only missionaries, pastors or evangelists work for the missions, but also each one of us has the assigned mission field and is sent off from the church.

Secondly, churches are given the blessing to send someone off. Barnabas and Saul were sent off, and that was why the gospel was getting spread. As it is written, "How can they preach unless they are sent?" Churches need to pray and ask earnestly so that they will be able to send off missionaries.

Today is the Missions Conference. Many souls in the world are going to perish. That is why, let us keep praying and asking so that we will be able to send ourselves and missionaries off from Yokohama Church!

<The Verse of the Bible>

While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, "Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them." So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.

Acts 13:2-3 (NIV)

The blessings to give

Philippians 4:10
January 28th 2018, 4th Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Paul here reviews the gift, probably monetary collection of the church in Philippi. Let us also have the teaching about the gift to the Lord.

First is that the collection expresses how much we dedicate to God. It is to thank and keep giving to the Lord who gave his everything to us. One of such dedications is the collection.

Second is that the Lord blesses those who give willingly. We give, not because we want benefits, but the Lord remembers those who give, and rewards them.

Thirdly is to make good use of opportunities to keep giving. The church in Philippi started supporting Paul again when he was in chains. It is important also for us to give by making good use of the given opportunities.

Next month is the month to support the missions. This is a wonderful opportunity. The Lord gave us Christians and the churches the mission to preach the gospel. Let us keep giving willingly and voluntarily for the souls who are perishing!

<The Verse of the Bible>

I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it.

Philippians 4:10 (NIV)

Things to think about and put into practice

Philippians 4:8-9
January 21st 2018, 3rd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

Then Paul said 2 things to do, to the brothers and sisters of the church in Philippi.

Firstly, it is to think about whatever is good. This doesn't mean whatever is good in this world. The rules are in the word of the Bible. Then, it is to walk our lives while thinking about what is right.

Secondly, it is to put what you have heard from the Lord into practice. Things we have learned, received, listened and seen must not be ended just as they are. Just by listening doesn't change anything. We can be transformed by putting them into practice.

When putting these things into practice, the God of peace will be with us. The peace of God is in us and we will be able to testify the God of peace. People around us are watching us.

There will be no spiritual growth just by listening, without doing anything. We cannot testify anything either. This year, let us put what has been revealed to each of us into practice. And let it be a year of our great growth!

<The Verse of the Bible>

Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me — put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

Philippians 4:9 (NIV)

To get free from anxiety

Philippians 4:4-5
January 14th 2018, 2nd Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

I think we get anxious easily. How can we get free from anxiety?

Firstly, it is by believing the truth of the promises of God. God promises the blessing to us. It is to believe that His promises are true.

Secondly, it is by praying to God. Three important things in prayers are described. The first is to pray in everything. We tend to limit the time of prayer. The second is to pray with thanksgiving. Prayers without thanksgiving shall be prayers without strength. The third is by presenting our requests to God.

God wants to hear the requests out of our mouths. As the result of these, God gives us peace. God secures our minds from anxiety and fear.

Aren't we being captives of anxiety? Pay careful attention to this word, and let us walk our lives while we pour out our souls and pray to God anytime!

<The Verse of the Bible>

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

Philippians 4:6 (NIV)

Our steps before God

Psalm 95:1-11
January 7th 2018, 1st Holy Day of the month
Rev. Tadashi Nagae, pastor

A new year has begun. In this year, what kind of steps should we make before God, in order to receive the blessing from Him?

Firstly, it is to make our steps while praising God. This is because we receive salvation, which is such a wonderful grace. Let us walk our lives while praising God, so that the people around us will notice it.

Secondly, it is to walk by having the worship to God centered. It is to place the worship to the heart of our lives. Then, there comes the blessing of God. Do not center other things.

Thirdly, it is to follow the word of God today. The more humbly sheep follow the voice of the shepherd, the safer they are and the better things they can receive. It is important also for us to hear the voice of the Lord our shepherd, and follow it humbly today.

How are we walking our lives before God? If we rely on our thoughts or the experiences we had last year, we will fail. Instead, let us bear what we learned today in mind. When we hear the voice of God, let us follow it humbly today and go forward!

<The Verse of the Bible>

Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song.

Psalm 95:2 (NIV)