Faith in Our Footsteps
A mission is what you make of it. There can be bumps along the way and there can be wonderful blessings. Sometimes we need to choose the best path to follow. As we make those choices that are part of God's plan, our faith increases.
It is nice that the person for Atsugi Public Affairs Office gives us several opportunities to join in on street cleaning events. That person, Ms Ikumi Tanaka, has the important job of building a good rapport with the community around the base. Clean up in Ayase allows us to associate with the military persons who are also doing volunteer hours. Sometimes the local Japanese High school students join on occasion. They pair up with the Americans so they can practice their English. One time we brought cookies to share with the volunteers. The Japanese students appreciated the kind gesture.
of the Japan-U.S. Goodwill Society. (photo from facebook page: Naval Air Facility Atsugi)
On Fast Sunday, we completed the temple prep course for the graduating high school seniors in our branch, which allows us time to do more visits. The two young men from our temple prep class plan to serve missions. With the dynamics of several of the families moving from the branch this summer we will likely not be able to complete the last lesson of following up after they have gone to their first temple experience. We believe these young men are ready to take the steps of faith on their covenant path.
Also on Fast Sunday, we were able to attend two church meetings. Sister Melton felt strongly to give her testimony at the second meeting. Sometimes the spirit pushes you enough to allow you to follow its promptings. She expressed her sincere love and gratitude for Jesus Christ. In addition, recognizing the sufferings Jesus went through as we remember Him during this Easter Season. After the meeting, we handed out cookies to the members at the Spanish/Portuguese meeting. We also gave banana bread to the missionaries there.
The following Sunday, we were able to visit with Chaplain Shaffer at Camp Fuji after attending his weekly Sunday service. His teaching style is informal with the five Marines that attended. Similar to a Sunday School lesson he shared a clip from The Chosen. Engaging with the small congregation, Chaps Shaffer had a lengthy dialogue about reactions to Christ raising Lazarus. One point he made was the belief that Martha, the sister of Lazarus, had in Jesus. Likewise, when we have difficulties in life, we can rely on our faith in Jesus.
Chaplain Shaffer at Camp Fuji during a sermon
The mission has been emphasizing several mission rules. For example, if there is a phone call, both of the missionaries need to be present. If one is bearing testimony during sacrament meeting, the other needs to go to the stand with their companion and may or may not give testimony. There are rules about safety as well. We were able to help the Sisters with safety at their apartment. They needed an extra person present while a worker was coming to fix a door. It was a short visit but made us realize that there are actually smaller apartments in the mission than the one we have.
Zone Conference was thought provoking and spiritually moving. The Zone Leaders and Sister Trainer Leaders put together an inspirational presentation discussing why they chose to go on a mission before and why they are on a mission now. Sister Tueller asked what the difference between a thermometer and thermostat was. She related it to how a thermometer missionary will act the way the environment dictates and a thermostat missionary determines what they will do or make of situations. President Tueller reminded us of this special time of year and the weeks leading up to the atonement, crucifixion and resurrection of our Savior, Jesus Christ. His invitations to us were to prepare for Easter by deepening our faith in and testimony of the Savior Jesus Christ. Also, give our best effort to share His message with all we meet.
March is designated as Red Cross Month. This was first proclaimed in March 1943 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt for the humanitarian work that the Red Cross gives. In celebration, Sarah did something extra during the Fleet and Family Coffee Cart. Sarah brought in a "Plinko" game board and asked questions recognizing international humanitarian laws. We had about 40 participants who had a good time answering questions and getting treats.
Sister Melton has been attending a group called Loops and Lounge at the library on Wednesday nights at 5 pm. It is a convenient way to work on a needle project and socialize. Both Elder and Sister Melton attend the corresponding Men's Bible Study and Women's Bible Study groups on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. It has been interesting getting the different perspectives from interactions with the protestant "in depth" learning of the Bible. The Men's group has been studying in the Old Testament and the Women's group has been covering Acts in the New Testament.
Usually in the mornings, our companion scripture study has been mostly going to old conference talks and listening to them. It has been a good way to start our day. Sometimes we get a message from the district members about a talk that they have been inspired by and we will choose that one. A particular talk that stands out is one posted by a newer missionary. It is called "Where Will This Lead?" by Dallin H Oaks from the April 2019 General Conference. In case you are interested, here is a link:
https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/general-conference/2019/04/35oaks?lang=eng
We found out that the Singletons really like the sushi-go-round in our neighborhood. Since it had been a while since going there ourselves, we wanted to join them for dinner one night and introduce them to our favorite bakery, Chateraise. The french bakery is just two doors down from the Hama-sushi. It had also been a while since we had dinner together and it was nice to catch up with them. They were thoughtful to loan us a foam mattress for our upcoming visitors. We have also acquired booster seats in anticipation of our grandchildren and their parents arrival in a couple of weeks to visit us here.
Elder and Sister Melton at Zama Golf Club Lounge 
A tasty (oishi) salmon and pasta dish
A snow covered Mt. Fuji view from Camp Fuji
Brian's cousin Brent who visited Japan and looked us up
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