Welcome to the GMAF Newsletter! We pray it will encourage you in your Martial Arts and Outreach for Christ.
"I spake openly to the world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing."
Jesus Christ
"Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine."
The Apostle Paul
We are pleased to bring you the first installment of the testimony of Dr. Karl Marx, Grand Master of Keichu-Do Karate of Santa Maria, California. We made contact with Dr. Marx recently with the help of Master Ron Shively. We've had some wonderful e-mail conversations with Dr. Marx and appreciate his fellowship in Christ. If you would like to write Dr. Marx, you may do so at the following address: Keichu-Do Outreach Ministry, 3530 Orcutt Rd., Santa Maria, California 93455. You may also e-mail Soke Marx. I'm sure he would enjoy hearing from other Christian martial artists. You may visit Dr. Marx's web site at http://www.oakknolls.com/keichumain.htm .
Not being a professional writer, or even an amateur correspondent, I have a great lack of ability writing what is in my heart. So dear reader who ever you are, please have patience, and understanding in reading my words. The purpose of this undertaking is first and foremost to give God the glory and to praise His Holy name. Having HOPE is not easy when there appears to be nothing but doom and gloom or dread ahead. Having no goals to look forward to is a terrible position to be in. I would like to share with you, how the power of God pulled me through a life of many unpleasant situations.
All my life, in my own mind at least, there was very little joy or real lasting happiness. My mother divorced my father when I was about three years of age, and remarried when I was five. For some reason I am unable to remember much of my childhood. My Grandmother was terribly tough on my mother when mom was a little girl. Grandma might even have been what we call today abusive. According to my mom, her mother didn't like her very much. The story is that my little old granny might have been something of a wild filly, when she was a young thing. It appears that my mom might not have been a blessed event when she was born subsequently bringing down the wrath of my grandmother, for messing up her plans and life.
Hum! like they say in Louisiana, "when you play you got to pay" Anyway it seems by my mother's account, she feels that she was too tough on me when I was a child. If I was abused, it must have been really well done because I can not remember ever getting a whipping except twice. I do remember hard times back in the 40's because of the war, and meeting my biological father Twain Pierce Marx for the first time. That was a rush for me at eight years old. He had been rated the number three boxer in the World at one time early in his life. He used to teach me all he could about boxing, and take me to what was back then like six flags over Texas in Port Arthur. I remember falling out of my seat on the roller coaster, my legs were not long enough to touch the floor, and somehow the force of the drop caused me to slip out of the safety bar holding us in and almost dropping 100 feet to my possible death. His strong right hand caught me by my pants and belt and pulled me back up. Thank God! for HIS strong right hand.
I remember going back to that same place a year or two later with my step-dad Haywood Williams. I lost my wallet on the bumper car rides, and me and dad were trapped, second from the top on the Ferris wheel, with a terrible rain and wind storm coming in on us, a lot of people on the ground and many like us in the air panicked. But God was with us and no one was injured except for being frightened, cold and wet;" another example of God's Blessed Hope. I never liked going to any fairs after that. The ones I did go to, I became sick on the rides.
Today, December the 7th, 1997, I was married to Kathleen, God's wonderful gift to me, and I write now, only as a witness to Gods great mercy and abundant Grace. I have been faithful to my Lord God by being celibate for the past 7 years. Seven is God's number of completion. Being faithful to God can be very rewarding. In my case keeping myself pure made me feel like a virgin again.
When I met my wife we kept our relationship purely platonic, no sensuous kissing, just a genteel little peck on the cheek or lips. We didn't do any long body hugging, or petting. We seldom allowed ourselves to be really alone but kept ourselves accountable. It can be done, guys! I proved that myself. If I can do it God's Way, anybody can. I was after all one of the World's worst scoundrels before I came to know Christ as my Savior. God really Blessed me for my faithfulness with a wonderful marriage. After the reception my wife Kathleen and I drove to Santa Barbara to eat at the Casaba but my reservations were not on the book so we just walked around the corner and went to a movie, "Flubber," and had hot dogs and popcorn for dinner. HA! We had a great time though. Just my little Munchkin Kathy and I, together.
Talk about a fun time honeymoon, It is something I will cherish in my depleted memory bank forever. God is so good. Never in my wildest dreams did I actually think I would be so Blessed. 1997 has really been a bumper crop for me. In one year from the 1996 United States Karate Alliance World Championship to December 7th 1997, here is how God has Blessed me. Not because I earned it, by being faithful, or doing any good things, but by Grace, His Amazing Grace. I had always wanted certain honors out of my fleshly pride and selfish ego. But I never received them after 36 years of coveting them. Then when I gave up on wanting Things, and just wanted to serve God, as His servant my life changed. The things I had coveted meant nothing to me. God was first in my life. Then HE BLESSED me.
Next Month: How God blessed Soke Karl Marx
Here are some thought-provoking statements from Master Joseph Lumpkin of the Christian Hapkido Federation. If you would like to respond for the July GMAF Newsletter, please send your comments to us.
Dear Mark:
The last month has been hard on class and family as I have traveled on business for the last six weeks. Much of this time was spent in the Denver/Littleton area. As I drove through Littleton it seemed like a normal, if not above average community, with kids playing in its quiet suburban streets, clean neighborhoods and friendly people. Except for the occasional sign remembering the school tragedy there was nothing out of the ordinary. I found myself dwelling on how we came so far toward a society of violence. Where does the evil come from and how did we stand by and let it take our children? Although I stand to receive much mixed response from what I am about to say, I feel compelled to set forth the following viewpoint.
I do not believe in the creation of evil. I truly believe that evil exists, and I believe there is a persona that is evil prima, Satan. I simply do not believe in the creation of evil. (all things good come from God). Nor do I believe in the creation of darkness, nor of cold. (God said let there be light, not dark). All of these things come into being or recognition in the absence of something. Dark is the absence of light. Cold is the condition named for an absence of heat or molecular motion, and evil exists in the absence of the spirit of God. We can live in the presence of the spirit and reject God, thus we do not have the spirit indwelling us, or we can live in a society that rejects God and encourages us to do the same - like the one we are creating, in either case the absence of the indwelling spirit of God in a person means evil, judgement, and sadly, hell. Original sin proves that where God is not there is evil.
Where did the evil come from? It was the condition we created for our children to live in when we removed prayer from our schools, public gatherings, and government functions. How did the evil grow? From our lack of action. We did nothing to put the Spirit of God back into our children's lives and that lack of God is what we call evil. Is it any wonder that we are reaping the death and destruction of our children? It is not enough to stand by and do nothing. If evil is the condition of absence of God then to stop the evil we must put God back into the lives of our children. We must give them encouragement and opportunity to be saved. We are warriors. We are not the type of men to stand idly by and watch the cold, dark, or evil take our children - are we?
Dr. William Durbin has kindly allowed us to reprint his article about Okinawa Te for the GMAF Newsletter. This is a continuation from past newsletters. Please see previous newsletters for the first parts of this article. Dr. Durbin is a dear Christian brother and one of the world's leading experts on Okinawa's ancient martial arts. We pray this is a blessing to you.
In the evolution of the Okinawan martial arts historical tradition, there developed a tendency to name the styles after the city in which they were practiced. Thus there are those who talk about Shuri Te, Tomari Te, and Naha Te, yet in the actual history of the Okinawan martial arts, this was probably never done. Rather the Okinawans probably only said Te. To help people understand the country where Te came from, we have in modern time added Okinawa to the term, thus Okinawa Te. To refer to a city of origin, we have used the above appellations. There are the other names of Bushi Te and Karate, used by the royalty and the common man, warrior skill and Chinese skill. The modern designation for the Okinawan martial art, is called Karate, this time written 'empty hand', yet not referring to a hand empty of a weapon, but rather a heart empty of hate. The use of Kara, meaning, empty; has always been a philosophical designation, rather than a practical one.
There is a world of difference between modern Karate, whether Jutsu or Do, and Okinawa Te. Keep in mind that the first use of Te in reference to a true martial art, would have been the Bushi Te of the Okinawan warriors, this was thus the first Okinawa Te.
This martial art was taught without prearranged Kata, but rather through the medium known today as Odorite, literally the dancing hand, but actually referring to a method of free style Kata. Grappling was an essential aspect of this art, in that the Okinawan warriors not only had to have death dealing skills when dealing with hardened criminals and pirates, but also control techniques for disagreements which happen between people and intoxicated individuals. It must be remembered that the Okinawan warriors were more of a police force than a standing army.
Bunkai is the most important principle of Okinawa Te and the secret of its practioner's ability to go from devastating striking techniques to gentle grappling skills, and back again, if necessary. An Okinawan warrior could literally start with a simple and gentle control technique, immediately blend into a withering strike, then back to a gentle control, in one fluid movement. This was due to the training one received in Bunkai. Keep in mind, however, that the warriors always emphasized the Ikken Hissatsu, one blow certain death skill, for those times when it was needed.
Another aspect of tradional Okinawa Te is weapons training, which involved not only training how to fight with the many different weapons of the time, but also tool weapons which were important when the Okinawan warriors could no longer carry their weapons during the Satsuma occupation, and even advanced weapons training, which is little known today, though still taught in some Ryu.
The most unusual aspect of Te weapon training, is where the defender starts empty handed and must take the weapon away from an attacker and use the weapon effectively. This form of training is considered the most advanced form of Te training and relies strongly on superior grappling skills developed during empty hand practice.
Te training also used a type of Embu, two man form training, that still was free style, though practiced in a soft, fluid manner to avoid injury between the practioners. Most of the Te training was very relaxed, looking also like Tai Chi or the traditioal dances of Okinawa, but with an emphasis on Kime and I, focus and will power.
Ki trainig is also an important part of Okinawa Te training, though even today, those few masters who preserve the original Bushi Te of the past, try to keep that part of the training a secret. Ki training in the Te manner is very similar to that used in Aikido, though with a greater emphasis on focused movement, once again emphasizing Kime.
Finally, as mentioned above, each royal family had their own name for their family martial art. The only one to come down to modern times is Goten Te, the name of the Motobu family martial art. This is kept alive today by the last living student of Choyu Motobu, Seikichi Uehara. While Choyu did share aspects of his art with other Okinawan martial artists, the only person to learn the whole system was Uehara.
Modern Karate is the evolved martial art which is based on Okinawa Te. While many styles of Karate have become only sport systems, there are a few which maintain the tradition of the combat effective, self defense art of ancient Okinawa Te.
About the Author: Dr. William Durbin has been training in the martial arts since 1970. He has earned black belt ranks in most major styles of Japanese and Okinawa martial arts. Master Durbin has researched the history of the ancient martial arts and tries to preserve the most ancient methods of training in his Kiyojute Ryu Kempo Bugei of which he is the internationally recognized Soke.
1) THE GIFT OF LISTENING...
But you must REALLY listen.
No interrupting, no daydreaming,
no planning your response.
Just listening.
2) THE GIFT OF AFFECTION...
Be generous with appropriate hugs,
kisses, pats on the back and handholds.
Let these small actions demonstrate the
love you have for family and friends.
3) THE GIFT OF LAUGHTER...
Clip cartoons.
Share articles and funny stories.
Your gift will say, "I love to laugh with you."
4) THE GIFT OF A WRITTEN NOTE...
It can be a simple
"Thanks for the help" note or a full sonnet.
A brief, handwritten note may be remembered for
a lifetime, and may even change a life.
5) THE GIFT OF A COMPLIMENT...
A simple and sincere,
"You look great in red," "You did a super job"
or "That was a wonderful meal"
can make someone's day.
6) THE GIFT OF A FAVOR...
Every day, go out of your way
to do something kind.
7) THE GIFT OF SOLITUDE...
There are times when we want nothing better
than to be left alone.
Be sensitive to those times and give the gift of
solitude to others.
8) THE GIFT OF A CHEERFUL DISPOSITION...
The easiest way to feel good is
to extend a kind word to someone,
really it's not that hard to say,
Hello or Thank You.
Thanks to Lorne Weber for sending us this wonderful insight.
The following are notes to us about Christian Martial Arts ministries. We appreciate your prayers for every GMAF member and their Gospel outreach.
Here are two notes from Sifu-Guru Adam Spence. We know he would appreciate your prayers. We also hope his story is an encouragement to you in your service to Christ through the martial arts.
"Well, brothers and sisters, it's confirmed. We just signed the deal for the new Dojo. Home of Koinonia Martial Arts Center and Youth Outreach. They are cleaning the place now and will give me a key in a couple of days. The building is ideal, as it used to be a Spa type center, approximately 5000 square feet with boys and girls sides for restrooms, etc. It's located directly across the street from the local high school and next door to a Christian book store. We will be putting together a youth group from 2-3 local churches to paint and polish the place up.
So far we have several teachers (all Christians) who have expressed interest in assisting there with the program and some who have committed to specific nights of the week. We are hoping to run classes Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. We would like to have parent classes going on at the same time their children are training. We will set up a babysitting nursery in the back as well to help out the parents. We will also immediately begin a new believers Bible study program, probably on Wednesdays and Fridays. Lots of other stuff is in the works. I'm just happy the Lord has allowed me to serve him in this way with something I love to do anyway. Boy, if you seek him, he'll show you what you need to be happy in him, won't he?"
"Koinonia Martial Arts Center and Youth Outreach will sponser its "Thank God We're Open House" on Saturday, June 26, 1999 for the local community. We will be getting the Word out to the public about our new program(s) and shaking hands with those interested. We invite all who wish to come to be there.
We are excited to be opening up yet another Koinonia Martial Arts Outreach location. We know that God will bless this ministry so long as we approach him on our knees in all things! Please join us in this wonderful presentaion to the public as we seek the lost for Christ.
The schedule is as follows:
Saturday, June 26, 1999
8:00 to 10:00 am
Morning Prayer Breakfast
Sutter Street Grill (Old Town Folsom)
Sutter Street, Folsom, CA
10:00 to 1:30 pm
Set Up of Open House Event (Voluntary)
Koinonia Martial Arts Center
8510-A Madison Avenue, Suite D
Fair Oaks, CA
(Near S-E Corner of Madison Ave. and Fair Oaks Blvd.)
2:00 to 2:30 p.m.
Lord's Supper and Blessing / Dedication Of Ministry
(open to all who want to participate)
3:00 to 6:00 pm
"Thank God We're Open House"
(same location as above)
7:00 to 9:00 pm
Fellowship Dinner (All are welcome to join - Bring $20.00)
(Olive Garden Restaurant on Sunrise Ave, Citrus Heights)
Sunday, June 26, 1999
10:30 to 12:00 pm
Worship Services
Sunrise Christian Center
Greenback Lane in Citrus Heights, CA
1:00 to 4:00 pm
Koinonia "Martial Arts Show and Tell"
A time for respecting and sharing of our Arts
Koinonia Martial Arts Center (see above)
I hope you all can make it. I know some of you live far away, but the invitation is extended to those who wish to join us in this festivity, which we hope will become one of our traditions (for lack of a better word).
I thank you all for your support and prayers, I really needed it and still desire your continued prayer that I may serve the Lord in humility and with the heart of a servant.
PS - Please call me at 916-996-9790 or email me at kmayo@jps.net to let me know if you're coming for a head count, etc.
Yours in Christ Jesus,
Sifu Guru Adam Spence
Here is a note from Master Joseph Lumpkin of North Alabama.
"We have been able to bring in the Hispanic youth and the class in now about a quarter Hispanic, but the Black community has not been reached. Yesterday, I met with a black pastor from a local church. He has been thinking of starting a Karate outreach for his youth and has no place to do so. He is a first degree black belt. This looks like a match made in heaven ... This is a time of transitions. We will be changing pastors in one month. School will be out and kids will be on the streets with nothing to do, numbers are down due to the activities this last month of school, and in the middle of all of this, God may have dropped a peal in our lap. Please pray that this outreach will grow and will take the path God wants it to take. Please pray for us and the unreached children of this rural, southern county."
Joseph Lumpkin
Here is a note from Erik Akutagawa.
"I am wondering if you have other members in the Los Angeles area, especially on the Westside. I have a small class of 5 students at the moment, and would like opportunities for them to compete in tournaments, participate in seminars and workshops, and just be able to socialize with other martial artists in a friendly, non-threatening environment.
If you could provide me a means to get in contact with some people, I would be most appreciative."
With thanksgiving,
Erik
(Editor's note: Please e-mail Erik if you have information which might help him contact other Christian martial artists in the Los Angeles area.)
We would like to acknowledge contact with Sifu Nelson Chan, founder of the Christian Wushu Fellowship (CWF) in Canada. He is also the Secretary General of CCKSF (Canadian Chinese Kuo Shu) Martial Arts Federation. We appreciate our new fellowship with Sifu Chan and his fine organization. Please join us in praying for the ministry of CWF.
Please remember Master Robert Xavier in your prayers. He will lead several martial arts camps this summer. Master Xavier is also working on new Christian MA curriculum for children and teens (Confident Kid Martial Arts Evangelism) and video tapes for Christian martial artists.
We welcome three new members to GMAF this month! Please share a word of encouragement with them.
Dr. Karl Marx is 10th Dan and Soke of Keichu-Do Karate. Soke Marx has more than 40 years experience in the martial arts. He lives and teaches in Santa Maria, California. Dr. Marx is an ordained minister and is the Martial Arts Ministry Director for AIM (Athletes In Ministry). Please visit his Keichu-Do web site. You will find it a blessing and encouragement!
Nick Kirkes is 22 years of age and works as a manager of a computer technical call center in Colorado. He is also in school studying for his masters in computer information services. Nick has devoted his life to Christ since he was 16. From that point he worked as a director of youth ministries for the Youth for Christ chapter in his hometown (Modesto, California), taught Junior High Sunday school and assisted with other church functions. Nick recently moved to Colorado and is still in the process of finding a home church. His martial arts background includes American Kenpo, Brazilian Jujitsu and Danzan Ryu Jujitsu.
Ryan Lewis is a First Degree Black belt in Taekwondo and a born again believer.
We appreciate your Fellowship in the Gospel. We are praying for you and your opportunities to serve Christ. Please let us know about ways GMAF can help you in your service. If you know of anyone who might be interested in receiving this monthly newsletter, please ask them to e-mail Mark McGee. We'll be glad to put them on our monthly mailing list. If you would like to join Grace Martial Arts Fellowship ©, contact Mark McGee.
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