*If you prefer, you can see a .pdf version here (17.28 Mb).

Issue 56- January 2010

Dear Praying Friends,

"Great is Thy faithfulness, Oh God my Father"

As we reflect back on 2009, we can see a consistent theme of God’s faithfulness to us and to the ministry throughout the year. Like many of you, the year has been full of challenges and struggles. The global recession has affected everyone around the world, and missionaries are not immune to the struggle. Yet, in the midst of the recession, God continues to be faithful to us in so many ways. As we near the end of 2009, our hearts echo the praises of this wonderful hymn.

Great is Thy faithfulness to . . . Sakai International Bible Church
Although the year started out with a decrease in church attendance, we have also seen God add new life to our church and leadership team. God has blessed SIBC with 3 new babies in 2009 and one new leadership team member (Hiro Kanayama). We also received a short-term team from Cerritos Baptist Church in August, which was a real encouragement to the church, and since the Fall, a number of new faces to the family have added a real boost to the church.

Perhaps the most encouraging news has come in the last few weeks as we have heard stories of deep personal growth in the lives of he people. This year we have been talking A LOT about walking in intimate friendship with Jesus and it seems that people are actually "getting it." This just goes to show that even when we can't see what God is doing, that doesn't mean He is not doing something. We are thankful for his goodness and faithfulness to us.

Great is Thy faithfulness to . . . Japanese Evangelical Missionary Society
After 38 years of faithful service, Rev. Sam Tonomura retired as Executive Director of JEMS. The Lord has lead Rev. Rick Chuman to serve as the new director, and Rick came to Japan in November to visit the missionaries and pastors. It was a great encouragement to us to meet with our new "boss" and introduce him to our life and ministry on the mission field.

Great is Thy faithfulness to . . .Kansai Christian School
Our son, Luke, is now in the 3rd grade at KCS. He is a thriving, active boy who loves the Lord. We know that being able to attend this small school has played an integral role in his spiritual growth. In September, KCS relocated to the town of Heguri where they moved into their very own school facility. After 39 years of renting school space, they finally own their own land! This was a huge accomplishment for the school and a wonderful testimony to God’s faithful provision. Michael also continues to serve as the chaplain at the school, and we trust that God is using his efforts to produce fruit in the lives of the students and staff.

Great is Thy faithfulness to . . . Our life in Japan
Despite the global recession, God continues to provide for our family in every way.. The declining exchange rate has made it a bit of a challenge this year, but God's provision of generous supporters like you allow us to continue serving in Japan. Thank you for your support.

We are thankful to God for His faithfulness in 2009, and we look forward to all that God has planned for us in the New Year. We would appreciate your continued prayers for us, SIBC, JEMS and KCS.

May God abundantly bless you and your family in 2010.

Happy New Year!



Michael & Chris Mason

Do you want a quick visual intro to KCS?
Then check out the video Michael made about the school's move into their new facility here.