While we were in Japan for our vision trip, we took a short train ride from the train station near our hotel to Shinjuku Station in Tokyo. We had a simple task: purchase a PASMO card from the PASMO vending machine. This rechargeable smart card would allow us to use the subway system without having to purchase a ticket for every train ride during our eleven-day stay. However, this proved challenging as Shinjuku Station is the largest train station in Tokyo and the world’s busiest.

When we got off the train, we found ourselves among a sea of people, headed in various directions. Thankfully, with the help of Google, we knew we needed to go to the second level. However, once we arrived, we could not find the vending machine anywhere. “Sumimasen.” (Excuse me.) “Do you know where to find the PASMO machine?” we asked multiple people. Each would send us in a different direction or reply, “Sumimasen, Eigo-ga wakarimasen.” (Sorry, I don’t understand.)

At the brink of frustration, we offered a quick prayer. Moments later, we noticed a woman standing nearby, talking on her phone. Upon hearing her conversation, we realized she spoke English. As soon as she hung up, we approached her and asked if she knew where we could find the PASMO machines. She graciously led us right to them. Within minutes, she helped us switch the machine settings from Japanese to English and assisted us in purchasing two PASMO cards. When we asked for her name, she replied, “Mercy.” We thanked her for her help, and she disappeared back into the crowd. We took a moment to thank God for sending Mercy to help us.

God has also extended His mercy to us through your support. Thank you on behalf of our family and the people of Japan, who we look forward to serving once we return. If you have not already become a member of our support team, we look forward to having you join us.

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