Sakata,
Tohoku,
Japan
Monday, March 5, 2007
I had a wonderful and refreshing time in Sakata reconnecting with friends that I met when I came here during the summer of 2003. I especially enjoyed the time I spent with the pastor and his family. I actually stayed in a room downstairs in the church, and the pastor's family lives upstairs. They invited me to eat with them at every meal, and I got to experience a
kotatsu for the first time. A
kotatsu is a low, wooden table frame covered by a futon or heavy blanket, upon which a table top sits. Underneath is a heat source which is often built into the table itself. Since winter in Japan is so cold and most houses do not have very good insulation, this is one of the few warm places that can be found in the winter other than the toilet seat which is usually heated 24 hours a day. Since I live in a dormitory, I do not have a
kotatsu, and the only source of heat I have is the air conditioner wall unit which is very expensive. Anyway, it was such a blessing to spend time with the pastor's family. They are such faithful servants of the Lord, and I have been so blessed by them.
While in Sakata, I also attended a Gospel Choir practice; the Gospel Choir is new at Sakata Christ Church. I also watched the movie about Mother Theresa and her life during some down time. And best of all, I went to the service on Sunday as well as the lunch following and reconnected with many of my friends! They even had me share my testimony in front of the congregation during the service.
