Missionaries Japan Rusty and Brenda Carney Valentine's Day in Japan
Did you know the Japanese celebrate Valentine's Day here in Japan? However, as with most things, they've put their own twist on it! On Feb. 14th the ladies in Japan will buy or make chocolates, cookies, etc. and give them to the men in their life. And the men do nothing except receive the gift on this day! However, they're not off the hook. Exactly one month later (March 14th) is "White Day" here in Japan. This is the day when men will reciprocate and give a gift to the ladies who gave them chocolates on Valentine's Day. The gift is to be 2-3 times more expensive than what they received from the ladies--more chocolates, jewelry, etc... Not a bad deal for the ladies, huh!
We were thrilled to be able to spend another holiday here in Japan. We spent this one with our church family. Although we're still struggling with the language, we enjoy the fellowship we have each week with our Christian Brothers and Sisters at the Koinonia FWB Church. While it seems they have been under attack lately, (with one husband and father of three being in the hospital for nearly a month with an eye infection nearly loosing his sight, and another member fighting cancer) the Lord has proven to be their steady rock! Today the pastor, Mr. Hirabuki, introduced us to a man he was able to baptize in the hospital this past week! Praise God for how He is working!
"For the love of Christ controls us," I Corinthians 5:14a
That's our prayer! May God bless you on this Valentine's Day!
Rusty, Brenda and Grace