Isaiah 55:5
Behold, you shall call a nation that you do not know, and a nation that did not know you shall run to you, because of the LORD your God, and of the Holy One of Israel, for he has glorified you. (ESV) *
Often we are left feeling empty or helpful as people. We search for greater meaning in what we do, or who we spend time with. It's not a Unique situation to be in. Every person goes through pain from lack of purpose, especially in the modern world. Self-reflection can show our insecurities and shortcoming . We think: what can I do better? How can I be a better person?
This shadow over all of our hearts extends to the nations. Though often unseen, this shadow manifests as societal ills that plague many. Many people in Japan struggle to find a purpose in their lives . Many others struggle to find meaning amid the emptiness in their lives. This sickness is not unique to Japan, but it permeates throughout society.
The bedrock of Japanese society is tradition. Embedded in that tradition is a spirituality. Yet the heart years for something more — Something deeper!
In the book of Isaiah, God called for his people to listen. He had made a covenant to give them all they could ever need to prosper. He had sent David to protect His people in Israel. For us, God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to unite His people. This decree extends people of all nations and not just Christians. Jesus came into the world to hoist all people out of sin, and this extends to Japan as much as anywhere else.
The hearts of the Japanese are open to spirituality, b ut the shadow over our people stems from the lack of truth. All else is emptiness. I pray that every Japanese can hear Christ's call and answer. If you feel a stirring inside you, know that you are not alone. Please listen to Saki-san tell her journey to Christianity.
聖霊を受けなさい。
* Scripture quotes are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. ESV Text Edition: 2025. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language. Used by permission. All rights reserved.