I am deeply saddened to have learned
that my friend Emi Ishikawa died earlier today. She was diagnosed
with a particularly aggressive cancer a couple years ago and fought
it as hard as she could for as long as she could. She was only 24.
Emi was one of the first friends I made
in Japan and was one of the last people I saw before leaving the
country. She was a devout Christian, had a heart for service to
others, and was one of the kindest, friendliest people I have ever met.
During the week I spent in Tokyo, just
before leaving Japan, the most important thing I did, by far, was
spending an evening at Emi's house. Sweet and wonderful Cindy
Holloway arranged for a pastor friend of her's and Emi's to come to
Emi's house. A small group of us had a short service and then all
took communion with Emi and her family. It was a profoundly moving
experience and a memory that I will treasure for the rest of my life.
Emi never lost hope that she would get
better. She had plans for her future that were just as bright as the
smile that was always on her face. Rest in peace, Emi. The world is
a little darker without you.
"Oh, Lord, live inside me / Lead me on my way / Oh,
Lord, live inside me / Lead me on my way / Lead me home / Lead me
home / Oh, Lord, in the darkness / Lead me on my way / Oh, Lord, in
the darkness / Lead me on my way / Lead me home / Lead me home / Oh,
Lord, heaven's waiting / Open up your door / Oh, Lord, heaven's
waiting / Open up your door / Lead me home / Lead me hom.
