From the Helm – Saturday, July 17, 2010

This is our second day on location here in Terra Preta.  Edno has been here only once before, to announce our pending arrival.  I’ve never been here at all.

The friendliness with which we were received was uncharacteristic of most “first time” stops.  The people were very helpful as we off-loaded our equipment and supplies.  They’d already triaged those who would be seen first by medical and dental.  There was also a request that we help a precious, cripple lady (Maria) who soon won our hearts as the construction team proceeded to make her little hut more accessible and comfortable in meeting her needs.

Medical was rather overwhelmed by the sheer numbers of families that awaited treatment.  Dental was just me.  Needless to say, only a fraction of the pain was relieved that would have been possible with a true dentist on hand.  I pray more of these professionals will be led to come serve with us in the future.

VBS had a substantial crowd of little ones to play with and tell Bible stories to.  The children here are well behaved and attentive.  There is no evangelical presence in Terra Preta – never has been.  The evening service was a blessing.  Edno spoke clearly regarding our motives for being here.  He expressed our collective desire but to speak the simple truth of God’s grace, mercy and plan for each life He created.  How refreshing to leave all the dogma and rhetoric behind.  It’s how we do it.  It’s what’s important to me.  It’s how we will continue to do things as long as God continues to privilege me with the opportunity as the days unfold…

The service ended with 13 adults coming forward accepting Christ in to their lives.  It was all beautiful for me to see.  Hope rising out of hopelessness; strength attained through surrender; new life emerging from a mere existence.  How I love to watch as God’s Holy Spirit moves so beautifully, bringing about change and purpose in the lives of so many.

From the Helm – Sunday, July 18, 2010

A cold front moved in overnight.  The temperatures today have been in the high 60’s and low 70’s.  It’s been cloudy and comfortable all day long.  No A/C needed for sleep.

I’m impressed with the character of this community.  There is a special calm about them.  An uncommon patience and passivity.  I’ve found myself desiring to return here in the near future. The teacher and his wife have been most helpful these days we’ve been here.  They have gone to great lengths to make sure we were comfortable.  Utilizing their own diesel fuel, we’ve had electrical power throughout clinic hours each day.  These people have asked us for nothing at all.  They are truly grateful for our presence here.  It’s been a joy to get to know them.

We cut off our work and held a good-bye service at 6 this afternoon.  The community brought gifts of fruit, manioc, tapioca, squash and coconuts.  I was deeply touched and humbled.  I trust Edno will be permitted to continue visiting here after our departure.  This is one of the communities that have been difficult to reach in the past.  I pray God allows our continued presence here in the days to come.

From the Helm – Monday, July 19, 2010

Slept well last night.  Slept in this morning.  We were underway to Lago Grande a 4 o’clock.  The sound and feel of the engine as the Beatriz cruises, makes it easy to just turn over and sleep a bit more.  I’ve not been waking quite so early this season.  It’s been more restful for some reason.  I guess I’m beginning to show my age…

2:20 PM - We’ve been cruising all day.  It’s been a relaxing break from the times ashore.  The team is tired.  A couple have jammed a toe or twisted an ankle.  Several have cycled out of a 24 hour virus of some kind.  All are well today.  Our time on location is within it’s last 48 hours.  We’ve just come through the tight canal leading to Lago Grande.          I look forward to revisiting Sao Paulo in a bit.  ETA is set for 5 PM.