July 29th, as I was watching NHK news, Banri Kaieda, Japan's MInister of Economy, Trade and Industry, broke down crying. "I doesn't make any difference what happens to me." A member of the Liberal Democratic Party had been attacking him, calling him to step down. (Youtube in Japanese)
Some would criticize Kaieda, but I see this as merely the 'tip of the iceberg.' After the March 11 devastating earthquake, tsunami and then the prolonged dealing with the Fukushima nuclear plant, the stress continues to mount. And it is not only affecting the people of Fukushima, Miyagi and Iwate, but the nation as a whole.
Some may be indifferent, but those who are concerned are starting to break down. Kaieda did it on camera. I know that many Christians serving up there are starting to burn out. We know it is true with the people of the devastated area who have lost family, house and work. There is the the uncertainty of not knowing the future. It is affecting the whole nation.
I am reminded of Christ's word. 'Blessed are those who weep. For they will be comforted.' Matthew 5:4. Because of weakness, sin and trouble, there are those who weep. They are broken and humbled. So they can not look to themselves for help, but they look to the Creator and Savior Jesus Christ. And they find in Him true comfort.
Please continue to pray for Japan as a whole, for the needy of northeastern Japan and and for Japan's leaders. Do also remember my wife as she seeks to serve up there from in August. May Japan experience Christ's 'shalom.'
