Striving for an abundant harvest now
JOB Kita-Matsudo Outreach celebrated its 11th Anniversary last April 26, 2009 at Misato Danchi Chuo Kaijo
with the theme “Abundant harvest – now” taken from John 4:35. The celebration was well participated in
by brethren in Christ from Kita-Matsudo and from most of the outreaches of Jesus Our Banner in Japan.
Praise and worship was led by the Music Ministry managed by Sis. Tess Vitall and was immediately followed
by the warm welcome of Kita Matsudo Outreach’s head, Pastor Elmer Fujiwara. Bro. Christopher Belmonte
gave a testimony which he ended with a song called, “Tupang Ligaw.” The youth then gave a heart
warming dance in the tune of “Sambahin ang Ngalan Niya.”
The message for the Anniversary was delivered by Pastor Dario Umali. Ptr. Umali expounded on tending
the fields and striving to reap an abundant harvest. In Pastor Umali’s words, he said that everyone must see
to it that we are looking for good seeds. He reminded us of a biblical saying that pearls are not to be given
to pigs, and that we are to plant seeds into those whose hearts and minds are open. He also talked about
using the times and seasons effectively by preaching in season and out of season as well. We are to strive to
become good and faithful servants of the Lord and that leaders should be good examples of God’s servants.
Jesus’ second coming is near and we have to finish our race smoothly and one means of doing that is by
building up people whom the leaders can entrust with the ministries. Moreover, he added that the glory of
God is sought and should be seen in the church leaders and that judgement comes from the house of the
Lord. For this, brethren were encouraged to pray for our leaders and reminded about the command of not
touching God’s anointed. An important point re-emphasised by Pastor Umali is the search for a fertile soil
where weeding is necessary. We are also to rejoice and prepare for the showers of blessings that will pour
out for as it is mentioned in Galatians 6:9 “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time
we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (New International Version). Lastly, Pastor Umali gave the
story about the tools how they were not getting along initially and how the Master stated that each and
any one is not sufficient for the task at hand and that He needs all of them.
The service was capped off by a dance presentation led by Pastor Fujiwara and his wife, Sis. Amy, in the
beat of “Tsuper ng Buhay.” It was a pleasant surprise to everyone as this was the first time that the head
couple ever danced in front of the congregation. We believe that this will be followed by other Outreaches
as this number was one which brethrens in Kita-Matsudo were looking forward to and was actually
instrumental in making Kita-Matsudo more tightly knit. The celebration will not be complete without the
picture taking and the partaking of God’s abundance. The anniversary celebration was emceed by Bro. EJ
Orencio and Sis. Vina Fujiwara.
Kita-Matsudo Outreach thanks everyone who attended its 11th Anniversary celebration. May God bless us all.
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