We love the Japanese culture
Once a week Kat and I go to Mitsuwa Marketplace to enjoy a bento lunch. We love Japanese cuisine. Recently, I have been reading a lot about the perception of “Western Christianity” going into Japan and trying to “convert” the Japanese people into their way of thinking. Personally, I would never imagine wanting to do this. I love the Japanese culture! From their tea ceremonies (See video of a ceremony) to their entertaining game shows (See Matrix Ping Pong). In fact, I try to incorporate many aspects of the Japanese culture in to my life.
What I believe we are attempting to do is quite simple - share how Jesus has made a difference in our life with the Japanese people. It is through this introduction, we hope they will build a relationship with Jesus. I found this article that tries to explain this thought process more. A small insert from this article is below.
“Japanese cultural ideals are full of Godly principles: honor, humility, service, self sacrifice, respect for elders and leaders, loyalty, unity, etc. We should honor these Biblical truths within Japanese culture because they show that God was already working within the hearts of the Japanese people. (Romans 2:14-15).
In Japanese culture, as in all cultures, there are many things that may not be of God and there are many things that could be of God. The things that are from God should be treasured. They are a legacy of God’s love for the Japanese people, tokens of his affection for them. It is not a cultural issue, it is a love issue! The culture is just an outward expression of the beautiful and unique way God created the Japanese people….” (Read the whole article)
Burton
