Meeting Family for the First Time

Emi with Alyssa - 2012

Mother, Emi, Aunt Sako - 1955

We were blessed to have my cousin, Emi, visit us this past week.  She is from a suburb of Tokyo, Japan, where she lives with her husband Akira and her daughter, Mireko.  Emi is the daughter of my mother's brother, Miyuki.  I have never met any of my 13 Japanese cousins so this was a special time for all of us.
Emi has been calling my mother for the past two years and has been planning to visit America for a long while. Plans were delayed due to the earthquakes, tsunami, and nuclear power problems that hit Japan.  For several weeks she and her family experienced daily tremors and lack of power.  We have been looking forward to her visit, praying for her safety,  and have been preparing the house for the past few months.
Because of my Texas upbringing I sometimes forget that I am half Japanese.   I do not give that side of me its due attention.  This week I have learned so many things about our family and have learned more of the Japanese language.
First of all, I didn't realize how difficult it was on my mother's family to have her move to the United States after she married my father.  My cousin brought a copy of a 56-year-old letter written by my aunt to my uncle letting him know of the move my mother was about to make.  My uncle kept that letter all of this time.  One purpose of my cousins' visit was to assure that my mother is well-taken care of and happy.  She told us that she would report to the family that all is beyond well for my mother here in America.  She lives in a loving home, has many friends, and is very happy.
Secondly, I see that the hand of the Lord has been on my mother's life.  Moving here to America was a great step in her knowing Jesus Christ and trusting Him for her salvation.  This has made all of the difference in her childrens' lives and eternity. I am grateful beyond measure that God brought my mother here to America and Texas!
Emi loved the atmosphere of America.  She loved the peace and quiet of East Texas.  She felt that the people were very loving, warm, and peaceful.  She bonded with several church ladies one afternoon and spoke of them on the way to the airport as if they were dear friends, and they are!
My heart has been made more aware of the need of salvation for my family in Japan and for all of the Japanese people.  My world has grown larger and my burden greater.  It is difficult to know that half of your family and your ancestors have not accepted the Lord Jesus Christ.  I hope you will pray along with me for the missionaries in Japan and for the Holy Spirit to work on their hearts.