Kanji of the Year

“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” John 1:14a

The year 2024 was a relatively good year for Japan. Athletically, its Olympic athletes placed third in the overall medal count. In addition, superstar Japanese baseball player, Shohei Ohtani, was the overwhelming choice for MVP in the Major League Baseball after a record-breaking season. But there was also a downside element to the year as the country’s ruling political party was caught up in a major financial scandal. On top of this bad news, skyrocketing inflation negatively impacted many household budgets. Taken together, these events explain why the general populace collectively chose the Chinese character kin (金), meaning “gold” or “money,” to represent the year. Every year a single kanji, or Chinese character, is identified through a national ballot sponsored by the Japanese Kanji Proficiency Society to symbolize the major events that transpired that year. The results of this survey are annually announced on December 12 at the Kiyomizu Temple in Kyōto.

According to historical records, kanji (漢字) were introduced to Japan around the fifth century AD from China and quickly became the mainstay of the country’s writing system. Over time, Japan also incorporated two other phonetic systems, or alphabets, known as hiragana and katakana. Over 2,000 kanji are now commonly used and they are best described as ideograms that represent specific concepts. Many of these kanji are rather complex to write. However, hiragana and katakana are much simpler and fewer in number. There are only 46 hiragana which are normally written in combination with kanji for Japanese words and an equal number of katakana are used for foreign loanwords and names.

One of the most memorable “kanji of the year” selections was kizuna (絆), meaning “bonds” or “relationships,” which was chosen in 2011 following the devastating East Japan earthquake, tsunami and nuclear disaster. During that time period, people from across Japan and around the world united on many levels to help one another in the midst of great loss. In that same year, the women’s national football team won its first FIFA World Cup through selfless teamwork, so kizuna was a very appropriate choice in light of those developments. In a different vein, the kanji for war, translated as “sen” (戦), has actually been chosen twice. Once in 2001 when the terrorist attack on the US Trade Towers on 9/11 dominated current affairs and again in 2022, following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Most appropriately, matsu (末), meaning “end,” was the kanji of the year in 1999 as one century came to an end and a new one began.

Sometimes it takes just a single word to powerfully capture one’s thoughts, feelings or experiences during a critical juncture in our lives. On rare occasions, one word can convey such a depth of meaning that it resonates within our souls and expresses multiple profound nuances all at once. In writing his account of Jesus’ life, the Apostle John employed this concept when he introduced Jesus as the “Word” at the beginning of his Gospel. The very God who is depicted in Genesis as the One who spoke the entire universe into being is now interacting intimately with all mankind through the incarnation of His Only Son. As John so eloquently expressed it: “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” In taking up residence among men, Jesus changed history forever. God has spoken and acted. Forgiveness and salvation are now freely available. This “Word” or “Kotoba” (言葉) should be on everyone’s lips as the appropriate kanji for the ages and exalted forevermore.

Obon

“Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, descended from David. This is my gospel.” II Timothy 2:8

The festive atmosphere associated with the local bon odori beckoned our young family to join in, but we held back, wondering if we should participate in this unfamiliar cultural activity. However, the sound of laughter and merry music were like a magnet pulling us in as we watched neighbors of all ages dancing in rhythm while wearing colorful, traditional attire. From previous research, we understood that the celebration historically centered on acknowledging the return of one’s dead ancestors. However, the majority of the participants were probably unaware of the festival’s origins. Over the years, obon had steadily evolved into a quasi-family reunion where people return to their ancestral homes to pay homage to their deceased ancestors and reconnect with family.

The exact etymology of the term bon (盆) remains unclear and the “o” is an honorific prefix that was added at some point. This annual celebration primarily traces its roots outside of Japan, as it includes elements of Buddhism and Daoism. Many scholars believe “bon” is actually a transliteration of an ancient Sanskrit word. Similar festivals in other cultures are commonly called “lantern festivals” and that same terminology is sometimes used in association with obon practices in Japan. The Japan version usually spans a three-day period in the middle of August, but the exact starting date differs slightly from region to region. Obon is generally regarded as a time when ancestral spirits visit their respective household altars and graves, which prompts relatives to make preparations to welcome them back. Such preparations will include the gathering of family members, cleaning family graves and stocking them with food and flowers. In addition, communities throughout Japan host obon dances, called bon odori to invite the spirits home. The participants in the dance typically wear a yukata, which is a light cotton kimono, and in addition to dancing, they enjoy simple carnival games and local foods served for the crowd.

At the outset of obon, small fires are often lit to guide the spirits home and at the conclusion of the three days another fire is used to send the spirits back. Some localities may sponsor a much larger communal fire for the same purpose while others customarily place floating lanterns in bodies of water to help the spirits return to their world. People who have lost a family member within the past year may give special attention to the annual obon preparations and take extra measures to attend.

Although few Japanese believe in the religious overtones of obon, many continue to dutifully follow the traditions handed down to them by their family and everyone enjoys the rare three-day break from work routines. Technically, obon is not a public holiday, but most businesses give their employees the time off, which in turn results in massive transportation issues with large numbers of people seeking to travel home at the same time.

While it is a good thing to acknowledge and express thankfulness for the lives of ancestors who contributed to our present existence, we must be careful in where we draw the lines in such activities. Well-intended celebrations and ceremonies centered on deceased loved ones can easily spill over into alternative forms of idolatry that the Scriptures clearly forbid. For example, attending a graveside ceremony can be an acceptable sign of respect and love, but the offering of food or incense to the dead crosses a line that morphs into an act of worship and betrays our devotion to the One True God. But there is one exception to this practice who we much clearly remember and honor. (II Timothy 2:8) Jesus Christ was truly raised from the dead. This is our gospel. His life and death are worth celebrating and sharing.

Honorifics

“So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith.” Galatians 3:26

Every society utilizes standardized language patterns and cultural behaviors to help identify an individual’s place within society and Japan is no exception to this rule. Visible in children’s playgrounds, educational institutions, corporate structures and family interactions, these social and language cues serve to govern life. More importantly, they help to facilitate community. In Japan, this common practice can be clearly seen in the use of honorifics embedded in daily communication. Generally known as keishō (敬称), certain suffixes or prefixes are routinely utilized when referring to or addressing others in conversation.

The suffix of “san” (さん), attached to a person’s name, is by far the most common honorific employed in every day speech. San is typically translated as “Mr., Mrs., Ms. or Miss” and is generally used as a title of respect between adult equals in both formal and informal contexts. It is also applied to senior family members such as fathers, mothers, aunts, uncles and grandparents as a sign of respect. A higher level of esteem is indicated through the suffix “sama” (様), which is applied to people of greater status within society, a group or an organization. This particular honorific is also customarily utilized in formal correspondence and standardly attached to the addressee’s name on an envelope.

In contrast to san and sama, the suffixes kun (君) and chan (ちゃん) are informally used for a generally younger demographic and tend to be more gender specific. For example, kun is often attached to the name of younger men or boys by an older speaker or someone within the same age group. Kun can also indicate a junior status within the workplace or an academic circle. Both males and females may refer to someone using the kun suffix if they feel an emotional or other attachment to the individual. Unlike the designation kun which is commonly applied to boys, chan is most frequently used for girls, small children, babies, female friends or for women who seem young in the eyes of the speaker. Among young people, chan can connotate a close relationship or a feeling of affinity. In addition, “o” and “go” are often used as honorific prefixes to nouns that indicate certain positions such as a customer or a doctor.

Titles such as senpai, kōhai and sensei are neither suffixes nor prefixes, but rather, honorific terms which are frequently used to indicate relationship. A senpai (先輩) is a senior colleague or classmate because of their age or experience and literally means “former born.” Opposite of a senpai is a kōhai (後輩), who is a junior in the relationship within an informal hierarchy commonly found in schools, clubs and businesses. Probably the most common honorific term is sensei (先生) which is not an age indicator but rather, highlights an individual’s level of expertise within their respective field, such as a doctor, an artist or a scholar. Sensei is usually translated as “teacher,” as some kind of teaching role is often involved.

The world in which we live sometimes seems to be overly preoccupied with separating people into categories that can often produce negative results such as prejudice, discrimination, injustice and intolerance. But the New Testament clearly teaches that all such prejudicial constructs and categories that typically divide us are abolished at the foot of the cross. It is not our skin color, gender, economic status or occupation that earns us any favor with God, but solely our faith in what He has done through His Son Jesus. Manmade efforts to create and foster community are no longer needed when we become children of God. (Galatians 3:26) Through the grace and work of God, everyone has a seat at the table.

Tunnels

“In his hand are the depths of the earth, and the mountain peaks belong to him.” Psalm 95:4

Soon after we arrived in Japan in 1984, we noticed several flashy billboards dotting the countryside of Hokkaido featuring a sleek bullet train racing through a tunnel under the ocean. The signs heralded a coming new age in transportation with the construction of the Seikan Tunnel. When completed, this remarkable tunnel would dramatically improve access to Japan’s northernmost island by traversing the large body of water known as the Tsugaru Strait located between Japan’s two largest islands, Honshῡ and Hokkaidō. In a country crisscrossed by tunnels because of its widespread mountainous terrain, the Seikan Tunnel was championed as the ultimate in engineering achievement, incorporating the latest in Japanese technology and financed by a booming economy.

According to historical records, Japan’s first man-made tunnel was built almost 400 years ago. By March 2024, the number of tunnels in Japan had skyrocketed to 10,922, second only to China. Although difficult and expensive to build, tunnels provide shortcuts that can significantly reduce travel time. Throughout the country, cars and trains now routinely pass through vast stretches of roads and rails embedded in an ever-expanding underground network. Japan has become one of the world’s leaders in tunnel construction technology and can boast of several achievements in this area. For example, the Gotthard Base Tunnel bored through the Alps in Switzerland is officially the longest tunnel in the world, but the Seikan Tunnel is recognized as the longest undersea tunnel at 33.5 miles (54 km).* Japan also set the standard for underwater tunnels by digging the first undersea railroad tunnel in 1942 and more recently, the world’s longest undersea road tunnel spanning the Tokyo Bay.

It actually took a natural disaster in 1954 to stimulate a plan for building a previously inconceivable tunnel that would link up Japan’s main island of Honshῡ with Hokkaidō. At that time, a powerful typhoon swept through these same two islands and sank five ferry boats resulting in the tragic loss of 1,430 lives. Amidst national grief, the Japanese public clamored for a safer means of transportation between these two population centers. Due to unstable weather patterns and geographic conditions, a bridge seemed too risky so the novel concept of constructing a tunnel was eventually proposed and adopted. Construction started for the ambitious project in 1971 and the first train passengers made the historic journey 17 years later through this man-made wonder. The tunnel now accommodates approximately fifty trains per day and from 2016 special tracks were installed for high-speed bullet trains. Ironically, since the innovative idea of building the Seikan Tunnel was first proposed, flights to Hokkaido have become much more common, faster and notably cheaper, prompting most people to fly rather than take a train. However, preliminary plans are now being considered for constructing another tunnel specifically designed for cars and trucks.

The increasing advancement of civilization and accompanying technology have led to even more ambitious projects as mankind continues to extend its dominion over the earth. While some such exploits extend to the heavens, they also take us to the depths of the earth reflecting the ingenuity and industriousness of man. But these efforts pale in comparison to the works of God as the Psalmist notes in wonder: “My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.” (Psalm 139:15) We may applaud the achievements of men who build tunnels in the depths of the earth, but only God can build people.

* The Seikan Tunnel is officially longer than the Chunnel, connecting England and France, but the Chunnel has a longer underwater segment.

Tōkyō

“Come, let us build ourselves a city… otherwise we will be scattered.” Genesis 11:4

We were somewhat daunted by our initial challenge of driving across Tōkyō after living many years in the more sparsely populated areas of the country. Despite our apprehensions, we pressed forward through the endless maze of skyscrapers and high-rises crammed against one another, blindly trusting our car navigation system to take us safely across a vast sea of humanity. With a population over 37 million people, Greater Tōkyō is recognized as the largest metropolitan center on earth today and also in history. It boasts the busiest intersection in the world at Shibuya, where up to 3,000 pedestrians cross at a time and the busiest train station at Shinjuku that accommodates an average of 3.6 million passengers per day. As Japan’s capital, economic, educational and cultural center, Tōkyō also serves as the nation’s international gateway for millions more visiting the country on an annual basis. The city is a unique blend of the ultramodern with its bright lights, fast pace and creative architecture, while preserving its traditional heritage evidenced by the many historical temples scattered throughout the city and the ancient imperial palace located at its center.

Tōkyō traces its history to a small fishing village called Edo that in 1603 became the seat of the newly formed Tokugawa shogunate when power was centralized throughout Japan. As a result, this once sleepy town began to prosper and rapidly expanded its influence. With the eventual collapse of the shogunate two centuries later and the empowerment of the emperor under the Meiji Restoration, the name Edo was changed to Tōkyō (東京), meaning “Eastern Capital.” Presently, Greater Tōkyō consists of 62 municipalities that includes 23 wards, 26 cities, 5 towns and 8 villages that were absorbed by the ever-increasing sprawl of the original city. Some of Tōkyō’s more famous districts include Ginza, Shibuya, Asakusa, Roppongi, Akihabara, Harajuku and Odaiba, with each one featuring certain attractions that appeal to both international and local visitors.

Despite its immensity, Tōkyō is surprisingly recognized as one of the world’s most livable cities and is regularly listed among the safest places to visit or live. Foreign influences are also conspicuous with many tourists flocking to visit Disney Land, Disney Sea or to dine at one of the many five-star restaurants boasting cuisine from around the world. International customers also enjoy the privilege of tax-free shopping in the many name brand luxury stores. The Tōkyō Tower, another popular tourist attraction, was inspired by the Eiffel Tower but is now dwarfed by the Tōkyō Sky Tree, the second tallest structure in the world. All of these activities are made possible by an incredible transportation system that efficiently moves up to 40 million passengers per day to every corner of this modern urban miracle.

From the lofty perch afforded by the Sky Tree, one cannot help but marvel at the sheer vastness of Tōkyō, the masses of people that call it home and the incredible infrastructure needed to sustain it all. Everywhere you look there are people. It serves as a reminder that God loves people and that one of His initial commands to mankind was to “be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it.” (Genesis 1:28) The record of Genesis traces the partial fulfillment of this decree but also humanity’s intentional refusal to disperse when they said to themselves “Come, let us build ourselves a city… otherwise we will be scattered.” (Genesis 11:4) Their stated objective was to “make a name” for themselves (Genesis 11:4) signifying their self-reliance and deliberate independence from God. Therefore, God intervened and forcibly dispersed them by confusing their language. (Genesis 11:7) This does not mean that God opposes the establishment of cities but rather, He desires nothing to come between Him and people who are created in His image. Tōkyō and all its inhabitants are His.

Expensive Edibles

“The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.” Matthew 13:45-46

Expensive tuna

The clamor slowly subsided at the Toyosu fish market auction on New Year’s Day in 2019 after a new record had just been set: 3.1 million US dollars for a gigantic bluefin tuna weighing 612 pounds. Businessman Kiyoshi Kimura, sometimes referred to as the “Tuna King,” was the dubious winner who paid more than five times the going rate for top grade tuna because of his desire to create more publicity for his chain of sushi restaurants.

In that same year, another record was set for the purchase of two Yubari King melons sold at the season’s initial auction in the city of Sapporo. The top tier of this particular melon commonly sells for $200 US, but a pair of them were bought for the exorbitant sum of $45,000. Yoshihiro Iwate, the president of Pocca Sapporo Food and Beverage, declared that the purchase was an expression of his company’s gratefulness to the agricultural industry and to the local melon farmers.

While these expenditures for such items seems wildly excessive, similar outrageous sums of money are often spent for other unique food products in Japan. For example, a single bunch of Ruby Roman grapes was recently auctioned off for $12,000 which meant that each individual grape was valued at $400. A single 12-ounce Kobe Beef steak that is served at a wagyu restaurant in Akasaka set a new world record with a $2,500 price tag. Japan now produces some of the world’s finest whisky, but a single bottle of Suntory’s Yamazaki 55, prized for its rarity and quality, sold in 2020 for over $800,000.

These astronomical prices for perishable, consumable commodities are, admittedly, difficult to understand. The factors of publicity, scarcity, labor intensity and appreciation tend to play significant roles in inflating product values. For example, purchasing the so-called top-of-the-line of a particular item brings with it widespread publicity which can easily be used to promote sales. Other items, like the special whisky and, increasingly, the overfished bluefin tuna, are scarce goods so the economics of the free market naturally drives those prices up. Cultivated products like the grapes, Kobe beef and melons only achieve their superior quality through intensive, costly labor that is considered a source of pride in a land that stereotypically strives for perfection. Then finally, Japan is a country where gift giving and expressing formal appreciation is a huge value, so such expensive gifts can serve to fill this influential social obligation.

The pursuit and discovery of an object of value is actually a biblical concept that Jesus employed in two parallel parables to teach a significant truth. In them Jesus communicated that the importance of the kingdom of heaven can be compared to a man selling all he had to acquire a treasure in a field or to obtain a pearl of great value. (Matthew 13:44-46) These two simple, but profound parables, served to shine a spotlight on what we should value in this present world as we reflect on the world to come. When put in these terms, it does seem unwise to invest the best of our time, money and efforts in things that have only temporal value. While it may be tempting to dine upon prize winning tuna, melons, steak and grapes, we should never forget that as the redeemed people of God, we will one day feast at His banquet table. There, we will never hunger or thirst again. The only food that will truly satisfy our souls is to be found in the presence of God, because of the mercy of God. When in eternity we dine at the feast of the Lamb, we will celebrate that we, too, “were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” (I Corinthians 6:20)

Car Names

“and whatever the man called each living creature, that was its name.” Genesis 2:19b

Car Names

A few years ago, we bought a used two cylinder, 660cc Honda mini car to match our new Tokyo lifestyle. (Imagine a classic VW Beetle and think smaller.) The name of our car, N-One, initially puzzled us, but we soon learned that the “N” stood for “New,” “Next,” “Nippon” (“Japan”) and “Norimono” (“vehicle”). Apparently, we were driving a car with an identity crisis! We didn’t mind the intriguing name as it was a great car that served us well for several years. We soon nicknamed it “Panda” as the color scheme reminded us of a giant panda. A few years later, I discovered that there are actually websites to help owners come up with nicknames for their cars as they become like members of our families.

Car names in Japan have actually been a continuous source of humor among foreign residents. We couldn’t help but chuckle sometimes when we pulled up behind a Dunk (Honda), a Scat (Daihatsu) a Lettuce (Mitsubishi), a Homy (Nissan), a Bongo (Mazda), a Joypop (Suzuki), a Noah (Toyota) a That’s (Honda), a Scrum Wagon (Mazda), a Charade (Daihatsu) and the prize-winning, Naked (Daihatsu). I’m sure there were many good reasons for selecting these particular names and the attributes they supposedly represented, but not all such choices successfully stand the test of time.

For a few years we owned a Subaru (スバル) and wondered about the symbolism of its logo on the back of the car. Someone eventually informed us that “Subaru” is the Japanese name for the constellation Pleiades, which is cleverly represented by the six stars in the Subaru logo. A little further investigation into the name origin of various Japanese car companies reveals the following:

The Toyota (トヨタ) Company was founded by Kiichiro Toyoda, whose slightly modified surname was used for his new car company founded in 1937. Toyoda means literally “fertile farm field.”
The Nissan (日産) name comes from the combination of two Japanese kanji. The first one, 日 (ni), meaning “sun,” is also the first character for Nihon (日本), which means “” The second kanji, 産 (san), means “production.” Taken together, Nissan translates to “made in Japan,” a very appropriate name.
Honda (ホンダ) is less interesting as its name is derived from its founder, Soichiro Honda.
Mitsubishi (三菱) Motors is actually a collection of companies, which explains why the word “mitsu,” meaning “three,” is incorporated in the name and stylistically represented by the three red diamond Mitsubishi logo.

The power of name giving was one of the first responsibilities God entrusted to Adam when all the animals were brought to him in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 2:19). This ritual symbolized the authority that mankind was granted over all of God’s creation and man’s supreme position, as he alone was created in the image of God. The pattern of name giving is particularly highlighted in the Book of Genesis as each generation gave way to the next one with many of the names steeped in symbolism or prophetic significance. But the unparalleled name of God, “I AM,” first revealed to Moses (Exodus 3:14), stands out among them all. This name is described as “holy,” “majestic,” “powerful,” “glorious,” “praiseworthy,” “awesome,” “fearsome,” “merciful” and “good.” It is a Name we would do well to remember, and to revere.

Personal Seal

“A good name is more desirable than great riches;” Proverbs 22:1a

hanko

Shortly after our initial arrival in Japan many years ago, we visited a local shop to have our personal seal or “hanko” (判子) made. We had been informed that a simple signature would no longer suffice to open bank accounts or enter into any contractual relationship, but instead, a personal seal was required for all such transactions in Japan. Once it was decided how our name would be written in Japanese, a hanko was ordered and we were soon ready for business. We used that same seal for 34 years to sign for deliveries, purchase cars, register for health insurance, enter into cell phone contracts, withdraw cash from the bank and sign rental agreements.

Each hanko, like a signature, is unique and they can be made of wood, plastic, ivory or stone. The cheaper ones cost $10-20 USD, but more expensive versions sell for a few hundred dollars. The word inkan (印鑑) is often used interchangeably with hanko, but technically an inkan is the actual stamp on the paper whereas a hanko is the physical object used to make the stamp. Only red ink is used with the hanko and businesses or local government offices generally provide the stamp pad when you are requested to affix your seal to a document. These personal seals are usually protected in specially designed cases and it is important to register your hanko with the local municipal office. The government officials will in turn provide a document called an “inkanshomeisho” (印鑑証明書) required for important transactions, as it serves to verify that is your legal seal.

All businesses, organizations and even churches have their own official seals which are carefully protected due to legal liabilities if they are misused. As the representative of our mission organization, I was required to use a specially designed square hanko to authorize certain official documents. However, our religious registration as a mission changed, which called for the creation of a new hanko that was supposed to be round in shape. This anomaly confirmed what I had long suspected… I was a square peg placed in a round hole!

The author of Proverbs highlights the importance of maintaining a good name (Proverbs 22:1) in reference to our character or reputation. A hanko is designed to represent its owner, but how do our actions, words and attitudes represent us? This is a critical question we must periodically ask ourselves since the possession of a good name is far more valuable than great riches, power or influence. A good name can last well beyond our short existence here on earth and it potentially puts us in a position to in turn, have a meaningful impact on the lives of others. In contrast to this, a person with a bad name, who manifests an ignoble character, is not only judged by men, but by God Himself who alone can accurately evaluate such matters. A hanko serves to represent us legally, but a good heart is the best indicator that we are healthy spiritually. “Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.” (Proverbs 3:3,4)

Lucky Bags

“He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” Romans 8:32

Japan has a popular New Year’s custom where stores offer sealed bags filled with random contents and sell them for a substantial discount. These special bags, known as “fukubukuro” (福袋) or “lucky bags,” are eagerly snatched up by customers who flock to the stores on New Year’s Day looking for a bargain. This established promotion is actually a clever means by which merchants unload excess or unwanted merchandise from the previous year. Obviously, this practice serves the dual purpose of attracting customers into the store to hopefully make additional purchases. The fukubukuro tradition also loosely ties into the Japanese superstition of starting the year with a clean slate as it clears the store of a number of unwanted items.

These goodie bags can contain a variety of items, but in major department stores, the contents are usually restricted to things sold in the specific department in which the bags are located. Prices for fukubukuro vary widely, depending on the store and the quality of the items they contain. The contents may include anything ranging from food, clothing, cosmetics, electronics, jewelry and miscellaneous household goods. It is essentially a form of gambling as some bags may prove to be duds while others may be an excellent bargain. Hence, they are called “lucky bags” and are widely used as gifts to family members and friends.

As one would expect, the contents of a fukubukuro can be hit or miss, and even Santa’s legendary bag can leave many recipients dissatisfied come Christmas morning. However, there is nothing insufficient or inadequate in what God provided for us on that first Christmas. From His infinite storehouse of treasures, God spared nothing and gave us, not His leftovers, but the greatest gift of all—His Son. This is why the Japanese character for “lucky” (福) is also used as part of the very important biblical word “fukuin” (福音) which means “good news” or the “gospel.” It is, however, critical to understand that the good news of eternal salvation has nothing to do with our traditional concept of luck, but rather, is rooted entirely in the grace and goodness of God. The gift of eternal life and forgiveness of sins is a “lucky bag” that God alone can provide and its value far exceeds anything else this world has to offer. Best of all, the purchase price has already been paid by God at the cross. This is indeed fukuin, or good news.

Shiokari Pass

“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” John 15:13

Shiokari Pass

Located at the apex of Shiokari Pass in Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido, sits a solitary marker in a desolate spot, commemorating the story of Masao Nagano, a man who sacrificed his life to save others. This newsworthy event took place over one hundred years ago on February 28, 1909. At the time, Nagano san was employed as a railway official in the major city of Asahikawa, where he was highly respected by his superiors and colleagues for his integrity, work ethic and generous spirit. There was one other important fact about this young civil servant that made him stand out to others: he was a Christian. Masao was quite zealous in his faith, even using his own personal funds to help found the Young Railway Men’s Christian Association and was a popular speaker within local Christian circles.

On that particular snowy evening, Nagano san was making his way home from a church meeting on a train that regularly traversed the steep Shiokari Pass. As the train neared the summit, the last carriage in which he and other passengers were riding suddenly became uncoupled from the rest of the train and started to roll backwards downhill towards their certain destruction. Everyone knew the train car would soon pick up speed and likely hurtle off the tracks at the first bend. As an experienced railway worker, Masao Nagano immediately leapt into action and raced to the hand brake at the rear of the carriage. In desperation, he repeatedly turned the brake wheel to stop the descent of the trapped passengers. His efforts succeeded in slowing down the carriage, but not sufficiently to stop their downward movement. However, just when it seemed all was lost, the train car surprisingly came to a stop. All the occupants were saved, but their deliverance had come at a great cost. It was soon discovered that Nagano san had thrown himself under the wheels of the train car and managed to halt its doomed descent.

On Nagano’s body, in the inner pocket of his jacket, authorities discovered a recent copy of his will where, among other things, he had written: “I am equally grateful for all the hardships, happiness, life and death. With gratitude I offer all I have to God.” He was only 30 years of age, but in his short time on earth, Masao Nagano managed to impact many for the kingdom of God. Thanks to the efforts of famed Christian novelist, Ayako Miura, Nagano san’s story continues to touch countless lives through her famous novel “Shiokari Pass.” This widely acclaimed book published in 1968 is a fictional story largely based on what is known of Masao Nagano’s life and was later made into a movie. A candlelight vigil now takes place at Shiokari Pass every year on February 28 to honor the man who selflessly laid down his life for others.

It is generally understood that love of self often impedes empathy of other people’s needs and, consequently, our willingness to take sacrificial action on their behalf. Nowhere is this more evident than our natural penchant to preserve our own life even when other lives are at stake. This tendency is likely why Jesus used the example of sacrificing one’s life for someone else as the supreme demonstration of the meaning of love. Of course, Jesus later modeled such love on the cross, inspiring one of His disciples to offer up the following challenge: Bottom of Form“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.” (I John 3:16) We would do well to follow the example of Nagano san, who offered all he had to God at Shiokari Pass.