In one of my favorite movies, “The Shawshank Redemption” there is an interesting and memorable phrase. One of the old classic actors, James Whitmore (who advertised MiracleGro), plays a librarian. He introduces the duties in the library to the main character and says, “Easy, Peasy, Japanesey.” That phrase rhymes well and it sings. Maybe his prison library was easy, peasy (not likely) but I wonder about Japan. I don’t think it is “Easy, Peasy, Japanesey.”
Elaine and I sat around thinking about Japan and whether or not things are really easier here. Yes we have some of the latest cutting-edge technology and conveniences. Yet Japan does not seem easier. We thought of a lot of random things like driving, garbage disposal, shopping, banking, even baseball. Especially relationships with others are a complicated web of protocol and expectations. Red tape is not too bad but it is very thick red tape. I don’t think it is just harder for us foreigners, actually we get away with a lot that Japanese are not allowed to.
Japan is not easy, especially for the Japanese. In fact, every year over 30,000 commit suicide in this country. Depression, anxiety disorders, alcoholism and other social problems plague Japan. Most of this is hidden below the surface as it is too shameful to admit. It is really hard being Japanese. I doubt that many of them think it is “easy, peasy.”
When it comes to spiritual matters Japan one of the hardest mission fields to crack. Over 150 years thousands of missionaries with greater devotion, intelligence and gifts that I can imagine were baffled how to bring the gospel in a way that communicates with this culture. Today Christians number 0.45%. Pray that God may make gospel proclamation, discipling, nurturing leaders and multiplying churches Easy, Peasy through the work of the Holy Spirit.