In the wake of the March 11th tsunami, one tree - of a 70,000-tree forest in Iwate prefecture - survived and stood as a beacon of hope for the people of Japan. Six months later, that same tree is rotting from exposure to sea water. It seems the "Tree of Hope" may soon join the fate of those washed away. Many of the Japanese are trying to move on with their new lives, but the corrosive sea water of despair continues to eat away at their hearts.

Reflecting on the current state of Japan, CRASH Japan Director Jonathan Wilson commented, "Even though they survived, even though they lived; everything is gone... We have a problem of hope." In an all-staff meeting at CRASH Japan HQ in Tokyo, Wilson reminded volunteers that Christians look to another tree.

"We look to the cross and have an eternal message of hope. This is the message Japan so desperately needs." Wilson shared that the strategy to bring hope in this new "Recovery Phase" will continue to be through volunteers who have eternal hope in the cross.

Volunteers have been loving on Japan through community clean-up, rebuilding, and most importantly through the emotional care of survivors. "How your contributions are impacting lives: The first six months of CRASH Japan's Love on Japan Campaign" features stories that show that God is at work in Japan today. Also included is a timeline showing important events from the past 6-months as well as financial details. As CRASH Japan continues to help Japan recover from March 11th, supporters around the world are asked to pray for one minute everyday at 1:00 PM for Japan.

CRASH Japan will increase its focus on mobilizing volunteers to partner with local churches and communities to bring hope - eternal hope - to those in need.

"How your contributions are impacting lives: The first six months of CRASH Japan's Love on Japan Campaign" is now available online. (click for PDF)