Hello family, friends and readers!
My first night in Japan has come and gone. My body is definitely still adjusting to the time difference, as I woke up at 3 am. I used this quiet time for devotions and to do some work until the sun rose.
Today was a day of rest from my traveling, which is such a blessing. I did a bit of research and out of curiosity, I looked up a Vietnamese restaurant in the next area from Ichikawa. I decided to walk to the location, which took about 30-45 minutes. It led me across a bridge. The wind was very strong (since there were warnings of a typhoon coming to Japan this week). I felt like I was going to be blown away.
I had lunch at the Vietnamese restaurant and got to speak with the shop owner. She was originally from Vietnam but has been living in Japan for over 20 years! Entering that place, I felt right at home since I got to order in Vietnamese.
The shop owner or ママ(mama) as the Japanese called her, showed me her wall of celebrities that she has served. So wonderful to have a taste of home nearby.
After lunch, I traveled further and found an onsen. Which is one of my favourite things in Japan. No pictures allowed :o. But I left the bath feeling so clean, rested and refreshed.
The ride home on the trains worried me a bit, as the strong winds continued to get stronger as the night went on. The train I was on stopped while on the bridge I had crossed earlier in the day. The winds shook the cart back and forth. Once it had calmed down the train proceeded slowly to the next station where I was to get off.
My last meal for the day was my favourite: Udon.
“In peace, I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety”
Psalm 4:8
Thus ends my day of rest in Japan. Thank you, God, for this day, it was one of the most restful days I’ve had in a long time. I am encouraged by his words and will find peace and rest in him.
Please continue to pray for God’s protection for myself and the Japanese as the Typhoon makes its way through the country.