It was a hot day on OMS Japan ’ s campus basketball court , where energetic kids from the neighborhood gathered most afternoons to enjoy the open court , chat with missionaries , and spend time with friends . One little boy turned to Tiana , an OMS missionary , and boldly asked , “ Can I have money for ice cream ?” “ You ’ ll need to work for it ,” Tiana answered with a smile . “ First , you can memorize this Bible verse that we have posted on the sports court .” The little boy nodded and recruited his friends . For the next 45 minutes , 3 eager little faces coached each other as they memorized John 3:16 , reciting it over and over until they got it right and scampered off to get their treat .
Several days later , another young man appeared at the basketball court . “ I heard I can get ice cream ,” he said . To Tiana ’ s surprise , he proceeded to perfectly recite John 3:16 . It turned out that the first little boy had taught the verse to his friend at school during lunch ! Even weeks later , during an outreach event , they could all still recite John 3:16 perfectly . God ’ s Word is now hidden in their hearts .
God ’ s love and transformation radiate through the life of CH *, a young man from southeast Asia who led his friend PC * to Christ . PC , in turn , led his entire family to the Lord , along with his close friend KO *. KO , formerly an alcoholic , drug addict , and generally lazy person , experienced a complete renewal through the Gospel . He then led his friend CK *, another previously alcoholic and drug-addicted young man , to Christ .
This community ’ s revival is a testament to the grace and power of God , as many individuals who were trapped in destructive habits and lifestyles found freedom and new life through their faith in Christ .
* Names omitted for security .
7