From the Helm – Sunday, July 04, 2010
4:00 PM – It’s been a smooth day today. All teams completed their work and were shut down a bit after Noon.
- Filipino grilled outdoors for lunch. We all enjoyed beef and sausages till we were satisfied we’d eaten too much.
- At the service this morning, we observed the Lord’s Supper. Brent officiated. Silas, Pedro and Marciano help with the translation and serving. It was a unique time together. The house was full.
- I’ve had some quality time with Marciano today. We sat under trees and on rocks by the river together for most of the morning. He’s a wise young man. This is made evident by his eagerness to seek council. He’s had difficulties with a faction that has broken away from his clan. There has been much gossip and plotting against his person and position of leadership. I listened to him intently for a good long while. He is not bitter. He has chosen to spend much time alone in the jungle and on the river, seeking what God would have him to do. The answer was made clear to him over these past days. He is simply to love those who appose him; be available to help them if they have need; welcome them back as they repent and resolve to rejoin the clan.
It comes as no surprise that God would reveal such things to Marciano. These are the same things that have been revealed to me over the years. When we seek what God would have us to do and He provides such direction, a heartfelt attitude of firmness cradled in true humility will always produce the power and respect necessary to achieve what is right. No amount of anger and self-righteous indignation can affect change in those we are called to lead. People who follow out of fear will always strike deeply whenever possible. The humble that follow God’s leadership will always be exalted according to His timing, for the good of all involved.
- There will be the “grand farewell” service this evening. The entire community will come out dancing, giving hugs and presenting us with gifts. It is one of the highlights for our teams. I love to watch it all happen.
We are scheduled to depart in the morning, early. This will probably be our last communication until we arrive in Parintins on the afternoon of the 6th. All are well. All are tired. I look forward to the long canoe ride back to the Beatriz. Much time to sit and contemplate these past days as we rush past the rapids, falls and granite. There is much to consider. Much to be grateful for…