Written by Yu Kobayashi, Coordinator for World Mission & Lead Staff for International Student Ministry
I was born and raised in a Christian family and baptized when I was twelve years old. But when I was a high school student I experienced struggles in my faith, even though I had believed in Christ when I was younger. Through that experience however, God showed me how big His grace is and deepened my personal relationship with Him.
After I entered university I started to go to KGK and found that there are many Christians who were in the same generation. It was a good time of fellowship, sharing the joys and struggles we experienced as Christians.
Through KGK, God had made me understand that we are one Body of Christ through faith despite the differences of backgrounds and denominations. The Holy Spirit who connects us with the love of Christ always transforms us and our relationships.
I experienced the same thing oversees as well. I went to Belarus for a year because I majored in Russian language at university. And in Belarus there is also IFES (called ССХ). Spending time with Christians and joining the ministry together, I learned He is one God who rules this world, leading the lives of all nations and making us One for the sake of His Kingdom .
Through the experience of IFES(KGK and ССХ) during my time as a student, I learned the breadth and powerfulness of God's work.
Although there are many problems and struggles in this world, we know that this fight is not “our” fight but rather His fight against Satan. God has already won the fight and led us and will continue to lead us till the end.
So what we are to do now is live out the gospel wherever we are sent. Even though you might find living in Japan difficult, this is where God sent you. You may have experienced many struggles or difficulties. But it’s ok.
Because Jesus Christ who is the real king and conqueror always walks with you bearing your burden. And KGK is one of the movements where we can experience the work of God together and enjoy the fellowship of Christ together.