Cherry blossom viewing in Japan has a special name, ohanami, and most Japanese can hardly wait to see the sakura blossoms. Not only are the blossoms beautiful, but they are a sign that spring has arrived! Yozakura is the special term for viewing illuminated cherry blossoms at night. Meguro river is famous for viewing the spectacular blossoms on trees reaching over the river. They form a pale pink arch that appears to be absorbed into the river. I made a new friend, W, at church. He loves photography. He invited me to a night shoot of the cherry blossoms. There was only one night we had available the week the blossoms were in full bloom. And it turned out to be the perfect day! The day before and the day after we had heavy rain and wind.

After we squeezed out of the train onto the platform, I knew we were in for a treat! I could barely shuffle forward due to the crowd while making sure I did not lose sight of W. He trail-blazed the way to the first bridge, about ten minutes of following the crowds along the river. After waiting a few minutes to get a spot, we setup our tripods and began our shoot.  He gave me some good advice. I managed to get a few shots in focus! We packed up for two more locations about another ten minutes away amid the crowds. We passed lots of stylish cafes and shops and stands selling drinks and snacks. It was a festive atmosphere.

Afterward, we stopped for some burgers. W had noticed that his Japanese co-workers do not like to go out for lunch unless there is a special reason. He wants to reach out to his co-workers and share the good news of Jesus.  So, now he brings a sack-lunch and joins them for lunch at the office. Please pray for W and his co-workers as he builds bridges to share his faith.

Last night, Mrs. C visited us. She was in Lee Ann’s small group at church. Her daughter started college in April and they are having some difficulty with the adjustment. Mrs. C is a single mom. Because of Lee Ann’s relational “bridge” and our kids’ apparent good behavior, Mrs. C was seeking some advice.  Lee Ann was able to spend time listening and sharing some of the wisdom she has received from God. After a short prayer time, we enjoyed Gordon's cooking and a variety of desserts, some from a friend studying culinary arts. Please pray for Mrs. C and her non-Christian daughter.

It is an honor to serve in Japan and pray with our friends like W and Mrs. C. You allow us to build bridges to encourage these dear Christians. We could not be here without your support and partnership. Thank you to those who are praying and giving toward our ministry. We are still below our 100% goal for pledged financial support. Would you prayerfully consider making a monthly gift to help sustain our ministry?

 You can give online and set up a recurring payment through your credit card or bank account,

http://www.internationalministries.org/teams/103-hwang

or you may go through your bank with an electronic/paper check. 

Our thanks go to several supporters that had their gifts matched! The Matching Gift Opportunity is ongoing between April 15 and June 15, 2015. Gifts to IM from new individual donors (or existing donors that give above their regular pledge) will be matched and doubled until June 15, 2015 or when the Challenge Fund (currently $170,000) is depleted – whichever comes first. Note: churches and church related groups are not included in this opportunity. Click here for details:

http://www.internationalministries.org/drives/27

With Love and Thanks,

Gordon (and Lee Ann) Hwang