When I first arrived in Japan, I was told that Japanese people have three hearts: one heart that they show to the world, one heart they reveal to their loved ones, and one heart they keep hidden from everyone. Over the years I’ve heard different variations of this proverb; it likely originates from the writings of a 16th-century Jesuit missionary, João Rodrigues.
When someone visits a church for the first time, it’s often driven by a superficial interest—this is when they show their first heart. As they build relationships within the church community, a change occurs. I believe this is where the Holy Spirit begins to work upon them, and they open their second heart to the church.
As they encounter the gospel, they learn that God desires not just their first or second heart, but also their innermost heart, where His love can fully dwell.
However, this is where presenting the gospel in Japan becomes most challenging. Religious beliefs are deeply personal and not changed lightly. Some may attend church for years, enjoying and participating in the community, but when faced with the truth of the gospel, many retreat in fear.
Bible Reading
“And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore you are of more value than many sparrows. So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven, but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven.”
Matthew 10:28-33
Prayer Prompts
Please pray that as we share the gospel in Japan, people will not let fear keep them from God’s saving grace.
The ESV Bible. Crossway, 2001, www.esv.org/.