First Sunday of the year

Because of Japanese tradition of going/visiting relatives during the New Year, many of the church members were away today... The turnout was much smaller than usual but nonetheless, it was a wonderful service. I am so thankful for this home-y church and am excited to see how God will use us to further His kingdom.

For Sunday School, I had asked if anyone has praises to share. S raised her hand excitedly and she wanted to thank God for the good dream she saw. When asked about what the dream was about, she shared that she had gone shopping with God at Itoyokado. How sweet! It's exactly what I had wrote in my journal this morning after reading Genesis that I wanted to walk and talk with God just like how Adam and Eve were able to hang out with God in the garden. Her simple love for God is exactly what Jesus says for us to be like....to have childlike faith. Even though I'm the one teaching them, I am always encouraged and are taught by the precious kids at this church.

this was what I saw on my way to church. 

looooong lines of people... it even looped around the corner....they are all lining up to go into a department store for New Year fukubukuro/sale.

Wouldn't it be wonderful if that line was to go enter into a church service?

aaaaand lastly, here's my version of osechi ryouri. hehehee.