Whoever is of God hears the words of God.
— John 8:47

A2/Japan Retreat... in-person!

A few weeks ago, A2/Japan held an encouraging retreat in Okutama. It was the first time in three years that our entire missionary team met together and Silk and I were barely able to squeeze in with the covid restrictions.

Most inspirational to me was that this place has historic significance in the life of our mission.

In 1986, God revealed what we call the 2020 Vision to my predecessor, Doug Birdsall in Okutama. (Doug is pictured above left with Mutsuko & Toshio Maehara and Dr. Paul Ariga.)

And in 1990, not far up the mountain, God set a path forward for our board chairman, Phil Foxwell, who has built a small tower of Ebenezer-like stones for significant moments in his life and career.

Hearing from God

The teaching by A2 Faculty member and good friend Jim Millard (pictured below with his wife Masako) was excellent. His messages were directed toward us hearing from God.

As we listened to Jim share passage after passage of being ready to listen to God and walking us through his Cross Bible Study approach to hearing God, I was inspired by what God has done in this location over the decades. It led me to encourage our team to listen to God and see what he shares.

You see, God still speaks today. If you pay attention to his Word or in times of prayer like the time Doug had back in 1986, we can hear his voice. And, he’ll reveal himself to us setting things in motion that will direct your steps and re-set your priorities. Countless times this has happened to me.

It can happen to you too.

I pray that our team hears from God clearly from our retreat together, and I’m eager to see what they are hearing. And, I’d love to hear from you. How is God speaking to you today?    

Rev. Joseph W. Handley, Jr., Ph.D.
President, Asian Access

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More Information

• Doug Birdsall shares the 2020 Vision he received at Okutama in 1986
• More about Cross Bible Study