On February 3, the Japanese celebrate a festival called Setsubun. They throw soybeans at other people dressed like Japanese oni (ogres or demons) to force them out of the home. The beans are believed to hold the power to cast out the evil spirits that homes and other places have attracted during the year. During this same time, many Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples hold rituals to fend off evil. These rituals are believed to fend off demons who bring many bad experiences. At the same time, the Japanese also pray for good health for the year, success at work, help in passing school exams, and many other good fortunes. The goal of this festival and many others throughout the year is to be “out with the bad and in with the good” and to invite happiness and prosperity into one’s life and family.

However, while all people desire prosperity, happiness and good health in their lives, how we attain these things is important. The Bible shines a light on the darkness and meaninglessness of pagan and superstitious practices for prosperity. Only Jesus and following His way can bring true blessing, prosperity and joy.

Ephesians 1:3 says that God has “blessed us with every spiritual blessing . . . in Christ.” And Matthew 4:23-25 tells us that Jesus brings healing and casts out evil spirits. Yet, how will unreached people groups like the Japanese know this unless missionaries go to them? Most Japanese have never heard this good news even once. This is why our family is answering the call to missions. Please pray for the Japanese and our family. And please prayerfully consider joining us in taking the gospel to the ends of the earth.

• Twitter