Changed by CMP

By Renay Rayos

Prior to going to Japan through IM’s College Missions Program (CMP), I had limited knowledge about its people, language, and culture. Though I’ve always been curious about missionary work, I didn’t see it as an attainable desire and career. However, as a student at Randall University, I realized missionaries are flawed people just like me who long to reach lost individuals in dark places.

During my junior year at Randall, I applied and was accepted for a CMP trip. I remember having many questions. “Will I be able to raise funds?” “Is language going to be a barrier?” “What am I going to do while I’m there?” “What do I pack?” “Will I get homesick?”

These questions and others flooded my mind for months before my departure. I was as excited as I was nervous about the opportunity to share the love of Jesus with people who had no context for it. I never could have imagined just how humbling and transformative the six weeks in Japan would be.

Along with three other students, I worked with the Hubbard family at Hope Alive Church in Tokyo. The Hubbards established a culture of communication, respect, and unity within their ministry and our team. Our days together were almost always filled to the max. Expected to be at the church by 10 a.m., we usually returned home after 6 p.m. My teammates and I were responsible for events and tasks such as English party, Let’s Speak English, block party, etc.

We hosted an English party one or two evenings a week. Held at Hope Alive, the event consisted of games that allowed the Japanese to practice English. I developed and cultivated meaningful relationships with those who attended. English parties lasted about two hours.

Let’s Speak English was held every weekday from 3-5 p.m. During these hours, my team and I stood on a busy city street with colorful signs reading “Let’s Speak English!” Often, curiosity prompted Japanese people to approach us. We discussed a variety of topics. Like an English party, this practice allowed us to connect with Japanese people and invite them to church.

Finally, block party, also held at Hope Alive, provided fun and fellowship. While I was there, the block party included a bouncy house, snacks, and hotdogs. Each event required much preparation and intentionality, but the fruits of our labors were always worth it.

Though I miss everything from my time in Japan, my most memorable moment took place at a breakfast restaurant. One day, during Let’s Speak English, I met a 16-year-old girl who asked to be friends. She explained she didn’t have many friends and wished to improve her English. Eager to know more about her, I invited her to grab breakfast with me the next morning. During our breakfast, I learned more about her personality, upbringing, and worldview. From all she shared, I knew she had no idea who Jesus was. She didn’t even know the difference between Shinto gods and the God of the Bible.

Though her family raised her to believe in Shinto gods, she showed immense interest in the God and Christ I described. She was hungry for more. After our initial conversation, she continued to ask questions. I’m amazed God allowed me to be the one who planted seeds within her heart and mind. To my knowledge, she continues to attend Hope Alive Church!

It may sound dramatic, but my life was quite literally changed due to my time in Japan. Prior to the CMP trip, I was ignorant of the need for more Christians to be sent into unreached places. Since returning to the States, my burden for the nations has only deepened. I am more passionate about mobilizing, supporting, sending, and going.

Being a CMP student was worth all the work and discomfort. To any student who is even slightly curious about missions: apply for ETEAM or CMP! I encourage students not to wait until they feel they “have all the answers” to apply. I also encourage students to remember the Lord’s faithfulness and provision. We have nothing to lose but so much to gain.

About the Writer: Renay Rayos graduated from Randall University in May. She credits her time in Japan with strengthening her awareness of the importance of personal involvement in the Great Commission.