From the Helm – Monday, July 26, 2010

6:30 AM – the team arrive on time last night.  The bus was loaded and on it’s way to the Beatriz before 1 o’clock this morning.  One of the team members (Ellen) had missed her connection in Atlanta, causing her to miss the group’s flight.  As the night progressed, she called me several times with updates on the dilemma. She was finally re-routed through Sao Paulo and will arrive at 11 tonight.  It’s all worked out well.  We should be underway toward Maues by midnight.

8:00 PM - We’ve had a fast turnaround this time.  We are taking on final fuel right now.  Our time was well spent today.  Several last minute things we’d not known about were accomplished in town.  The team shopped at the floating mall.   All is set to sail. We are all a bit tired but ready to get on with what God has for us down the river.  Much to see.  Much to experience. Much to learn and share…

From the Helm – Tuesday, July 27, 2010

5:00 PM - Set sail at 1:30 this morning.  Ellen arrived without incident. Good to have her aboard.  I was able to sleep in this morning.  No urgency to get up and about.  The Beatriz is operating beautifully.  Thank You, Lord, for providing all the work she’d been desperately in need of.  She’s a joy to be aboard…

The cruise has been smooth and comfortable.  We’re on the Araria River right now, within 4 hours of Maues.  ETA for rendezvous with the Lori and Tereza is set for about 9 tonight.  It’s been good visiting with some of the team.  I had a good conversation with Ray, Todd and Charles. Fine men, indeed.  I look forward to the days with them and all the rest.  Much ahead to experience together.

I have a peace within my soul that has been building over the past several days.  It’s come from a specific surrender after a time of scattered contemplation. As clarity draws in the fragments of it all, I will seek to expound upon it all.  I’ve seen a glimpse of things to come.  I’m soothed and comforted.  I’m grateful for God’s faithfulness.  I’m humbled by His dealings with me.  Things are just as they should be today.