The Samurai
Excitedly we explored the culture and history of the Samurai with a visit to the Samurai Museum followed by a Samurai training class. After much study we learned that the last Samurai existed during the late 1800’s around our Civil War era. There was a war between the Samurai and the Emperor. Also at this point in history Commodore Perry came from America with his “black fleet” of ships to urge American trade with Japan. Japan opened its borders for trade at this time. Our adventurous day concluded with the opportunity to purchase a valuable piece of Japanese antiquity, a Samurai sword from the late Edo period, the same period of time we had learned about that day. Knowing the significance of swords on scripture (the sword of the Spirit is the Word of Truth) and the power of that symbolism we appreciated the opportunity to own this beautiful piece of history.
Celebrating the Japanese culture we appreciated the expediency with which they move and travel. They are highly organized and both move and speak rapidly.
It is considered rude to eat or drink while walking even if you have purchased “street food”. Always hold onto it until you find a public space in which to sit before consuming.
Experiencing this beautiful foreign culture caused me to consider the points in scripture when God performed a “re design” on His creation. The first was during the flood. Landscapes shifted, and mountains were raised. Another point in time was the Tower of Babel. At this point the Lord separated people groups. New languages developed and distinguishing cultures emerged. Today as we travel we marvel at the Lord’s glorious designs.
Immersing in cultures, learning languages and customs reaching across those boundaries is a powerful way to communicate the love of Christ which binds us all into one family.