TESTIMONY OF MAYUMI USUI
I was born in a small town in Gunma Prefecture. My family
consists of four members, my dad who is the breadwinner, my
mom who is a homemaker, my elder sister and I. Although my
parents are ‘free-thinkers’, idols are present in the house
as well as in the garden and every morning, they would
ensure that flowers and incense are placed on the altar in
my home.
I first came into contact with Christianity during my
kindergarten days when I joined an English learning centre
for kids in my neighbourhood. Surrounding the teacher who
was strumming the guitar, all of us children would be
singing songs praising God. I always looked forward to the
snacks given out at the end of class. The teacher was
always smiley, cheery and kind, and thus Christianity was
never seen as negative. But I lost contact with
Christianity when I stopped attending English class.
During my middle school years, I came into contact with
books written by Muira Ayako who is a Christian. I was very
impressed by her books and started reading many of them. It
was then that I started thinking about life and death as
well as sin. But there were also many areas that I was
unable to understand fully.
It was during this time in the midst of relationship and
study problems and worries that I experienced the hand of
God in my life and sometimes I would pray to God. The most
moving experience was when I was selected to represent my
school in an English Speech Contest held by the city during
my 3rd
year at Middle school. There were altogether 3 participants
and only the top 2 will qualify and proceed as
representatives to the Prefectural Speech Contest. I felt
that my chances were very low as the other 2 participants
were much better than me. But I was determined to do my
best and I practiced very hard everyday. During the
contest, the girl who was much better than me got
3rd
place while I won 2nd
place and thus was able to proceed on to the Prefectural
contest. At that time, I felt that God had given me a
chance and my heart was filled with thanksgiving to God.
When I entered College, I started to think about many
things in my life. I realized that I have been blessed with
a good family and success in my studies. However, I began
to feel that something is missing in my life. I was bright
and cheery on the outside but felt empty inside. All of a
sudden, I remembered the books written by Muira Ayako and I
thought I should try going to church. Last summer, I
started going to the Catholic church in my neighborhood and
joined a Bible study group there for a while.
It was also then that one of my college friends invited me
to the Youth Church at Louis’ home. From the very first
day, I could feel the warmth present, was able to relax and
talk about issues in my life that I was not able to
vocalize before. Erina started Bible study with me and I
continued to attend the Youth church weekly. Gradually I
began to understand more and started to believe in Jesus. I
realized that this is what I have been seeking for.
I realized that throughout my life, I have been aiming and
hoping for praises of men and even after achieving that I
still feel insecure and empty. What am I living for? Where
can I find rest for my soul?
After meeting Jesus, I am able to find rest and peace, like
a baby bird wrapped up and well protected in the wings of
the mother bird. This has changed my world view. I no
longer live for the praises of men. I have learnt to be
myself, and I am learning to serve others with my life.
I am a Christian with a simple faith. I realized that
sometimes I could be shaken by opposition or persecution,
but I am thankful for the support of Erina, Chris, Hitomi,
Shion and all my Christian friends. I am most thankful to
God for His deep mercy and kindness in accepting me. Thank
you wonderful God. Amen.
Mayumi (L) with friends like Emiko and Chris