Light of the World

Every year in Hokkaido at this time of year, in various venues around the island, there is an event called the Yo no Hikari rally.  Yo no Hikari means Light of the World.  There is a Christian broadcasting group in Japan which uses the name Yo no Hikari and puts out short programmes on both televison and radio early Sunday mornings.  They contain a simple Bible message and people have the opportunity to write in or call with questions, comments or to request literature, including a Bible.  Although in recent times struggling with finances, this means of sharing the gospel has over many years been used and blessed to reach people in communities where there is no church, or simply to reach people who may be seeking something but would never thought of going to a church in a country where so few do go.  The rallies are held each June and have a simple format - some music, a testimony and a Bible message.  When we lived in Otaru, the church ladies often attended the morning rally and the hope was always to be able to invite others along.  This time in Sapporo David attended the evening rally along with Richard and two of our young believers.  It is good to see pastors and members of different churches in the city working together to make this kind of thing happen.  The radio and television broadcasting still has a part to play, even in this Internet/iPhone age - many elderly people would still happily tune in (and are up early enough to do so) and be able to hear a gospel message.  May this means continue to be used to reach many for the gospel in Hokkaido.