From the Helm

2008-04-24T14:09:36.579-07:00

From the Helm – Thursday, April 24, 2008

12:50 PM

Well, the RBBI ends tomorrow and my system seems to finally be coming around to normal. Got up rested at 3:30 this morning and felt great about it! Thing is, come Saturday, I’ll need to adjust back to the USA. I guess by the end of next week, I’ll be “reprogrammed” for stateside… Very small price to pay for the blessings God’s allowed me to see and be part of.

Today, Brent taught the 5^th chapter of James. Lots of questions and comments on the subject of “riches”. Our people of Brasil live in the constant shadow of the few having the most. After much discussion, our guys began to realize that the measure of a man is his character and integrity not what he does or doesn’t have of this world.

Riches can come and go in a moment’s change of economic factors or individual foolishness. Character and integrity, on the other hand, are built over a lifetime of living one day at a time. If I choose to live each day as God leads, with a mindset leveled by His wisdom and in recognition of His grace, I will surely lay my head down in the evenings with all intact. My personal experiences have taught me that I lose only when I consciously, premeditatedly determine to act upon foolish thinking - it’s impossible to “accidently” take a dive. The harder I may try to make it out to be an accident, the exponentially more ugly the whole deal becomes.

I appreciate Brent’s manner with the men. He has taught the Book of James with great care and simplicity. We’ve been acquainted for a number of years but I’ve come to know something of his heart over the past week. He is a good man, indeed.

5:45 PM

This afternoon’s session concluded the final chapter of James. What a good time we had together. Eyes and hearts were opened to the simple truth of the scriptures. It was a joy to watch as seemingly difficult topics were understood for what they were. We tend to try to read in to some things in scripture, manipulating fragments out of context. Today was good for me personally. It was reaffirmed in my soul that I should stick to reading only the black of the printed page – all else leads me to lofty places I need not visit. I’ll just leave the brainstorm and the grouch to those better suited to handle it…

From the Helm – Friday, April 25, 2008

11:35 PM

Well, we are in Manaus for the night. I’ll catch everything up over the next days with a report on the RBBI. Headed home for now. Going to rest for the night and head for Miami in the morning. It’s been a good trip indeed…

Boyd Walker

From the Helm

2008-04-22T14:07:43.078-07:00

From the Helm – Tuesday, April 22, 2008

12:35 PM

Another good service last night. Two of the students were selected to preach a brief sermon on the material from the day’s studies. We selected Ronaldo and Geziel. The funny thing is that all 60 guys had to study and prepare a sermon because we didn’t select who would preach until the very last minute! It was fun watching them sweat it out – good for them though. Keeps them focused on task at hand.

After the service, a couple of guys came up to me and told me they were so and so from Curumucuri Lake below Juruti. The were D. Juanas’ boys! I had not heard of her or the lake in some 20 years! She has a daughter named Katia who won my heart years ago. She is autistic. I remember she loved to sit by me and rub the hair on my arm. What a precious child she was. I guess she’d be about 30 years old today. I’ll try to find a special gift to send home to her with her brothers. It never ceases to amaze me how people show up out of the past in the most unlikely places to share experiences and memories that have long been tucked away. What a deal…

This mornings’ study went well. It was on the last part of the Book of James, dealing with “showing partiality”. The students were active in the discussions. Many questions and comments. When things became confused, we simply referred back to yesterday’s study on “asking for wisdom” when a direction and motives aren’t clear. Pretty neat.

Got hold of the boys this morning. They had a tough soccer match against Harrison last night. Didn’t count as a conference game. Nonetheless, these guys just don’t seem to enjoy anything less than a victory. A good reality check going in to the State, 6A Championships this weekend though.

Boyd Walker

From the Helm

2008-04-21T14:04:21.873-07:00

The service last night was a blessing. The house was packed. The music was good. The message was timely.

I had the opportunity to visit one-on-one with several of the pastors yesterday. Jaso, from Batata on the Trombetas, seemed discouraged. The work there and in Castanha, Carimu and various other areas, is weak. Geziel has moved on and doesn’t visit those areas any more with any frequency. Jaso asked if we could come in and encourage the region once again – I will contact Dwain Bell about this need as soon as I get back home.

I had a good visit with Dorenilson as well. He’s from the Mamuru/Castanhaduba/Flexal area, below Obidos, currently pastoring Emmanuel Church in Obidos. This guy was the Catechist in Castanhaduba when a group from Prestonwood visited years ago. He accepted Christ and the rest is history. He came asking for help back in that area, saying that encouragement was needed. I was under the impression that a sister organization of ours had taken over that responsibility along with supporting Pastor Aluizio several years ago. Unfortunately, it seems they have not continued in ministry to that region. Granted, it’s not a convenient place to work but it should be nurtured just the same.

You know, if AMOR is to do all that God is showing us these days, He will send us more teams and resources. He knows what He wants. He will provide if we are to have a part in it. The lesson for me in all this is to take care of what He shows me to do and not depend on others to do what I am called to do. I preach this simple message – just forget to live it sometimes. It’s easier to point a finger than to take a step. This is also the easiest means by which to miss a blessing, as He unfolds each passing day...

1:00 PM

Brent and I are having lunch back at the boat. This morning’s session went beautifully. Brent is meticulous and well studied. The men were attentive to and hungry for every word. The presence of the Holy Spirit is almost tangible. He is watching and opening the hearts and minds of the students. Good to see it all happening.

There are +/- 65 of us here. The last of the pastors showed up at 4 this morning from the Wai-Wai tribe on the upper Trombetas, led by Braginha. All is well. All are present and alert. All of us are blessed to be here today.

On the way back to the boat, we stopped at the travel agency and reserved our seats for Friday evening to Manaus. All looks good to go when the time comes.

Boyd Walker

Saturday February 09 2008 F

2008-02-09T06:41:03.6610489-07:00

Saturday, February 09, 2008 – From the Helm

Well, my heart is full. We’ve just pulled away from Foz do Canuma, headed for home. After last night’s service in Sauru where 3 adults accepted Christ, we were forced away from shore by a dry storm to a safe harbor in a nearby cove where we slept comfortably and safely.

This morning, Abraham and his family came to our second deck for a share time. There were many tears as we enjoyed each others stories and testimonies. What a beautiful family. I count it a privilege and an honor to be part of there existence.

Before they left the AMOR/ Beatriz, Terry had committed Spring Hill to meet the needs of this ministry, and move forward with them as God leads – wow, what a phenomena to watch unfold as only God could have orchestrated it…

It is now 9 in the morning. We are cruising on the Araria River , headed to the Madeira then on to the Amazon and Negro to Manaus .

Our team are all health and happy. Those who were a little down physically are back in full swing. God has done this whole deal His way. All has gone better than I could have planned or even imagined. Medical, dental and optometry were able to help countless in need. VBS touched every child they came in contact with. In the services, 31 came to know our experience, strength and hope in accepting Christ as their only hope and savior – what a deal…

Our ETA for Manaus is set for this time tomorrow. I look forward to a period of reflection and rest. I somehow lost my voice last night – a blessing to all onboard. God does indeed answer the prayers of the faithful!

As comments come to mind, I will share them From the Helm – then again, maybe not… It has all been so awesomely, humblingly beautiful to my soul. Thank you my Lord, thank You for including me in it all.

Friday February 08 2008 Fro

2008-02-08T11:26:49.166204-07:00

Friday, February 08, 2008 – From the Helm

We arrived in Kwata late yesterday afternoon. Terry and I had an opportunity so sit and visit with Grand Chief Manuel and his precious mother, Ester. These are the responsible parties God used for us to gain access to the Mundurucu Nation back in 2003. We were docked outside the nation, ministering in the village of Vila Canuma with a group from Hardin Baptist Church , Kentucky . Chief Manuel came to our vessel with a sick child to see if our docs could help. In visiting with the chief, he shared that he knew my name through the Satere Maue Tribe on the upper Urupadi River , two days travel from here. He asked if we would spend a day helping his people. We did and the relationship of love and trust I cherish today was born.

We held services last night. The building was filled to capacity. Many, many children here – mostly little girls. A truly beautiful people. At the end of the service, Mama Ester asked us to hold a VBS for the children. Our answer was yes, of course.

- This morning, we had the work with the children while Mark, Larry and Steve made a number of house calls accompanied by Chief Manuel. By 11:00 AM, we had done all we had come to do and not do. As we were leaving, the leadership called me over and asked that we include Kwata for two days of work the next time we came. They also invited me to come to their historical festival in April. Just have to wait and see.

- It’s 2:00 PM and the team is out on a nature walk here in Paraua. We arrived a little bit ago and most of the villagers are either out in the fields or elsewhere. We had not scheduled to stop here this trip. It’s good to see those who are here anyway. Our plan is to depart in an hour or so for our final stop in the Nation – Sauru.

Several of our team have picked up a head and chest cold of some kind. They all seem to be on the mend now – were just uncomfortable for a day or so. Just part of the deal sometimes… The “work” part of our time together has come to a close. We start the trek homeward in the morning. A good time for reflection and debriefing. We all look forward to the cruise.

Thursday February 7 2008 Fr

2008-02-07T12:28:16.0654602-07:00

Thursday, February 7, 2008 – From the Helm (cont.)

Last night, we had a great service onshore after dinner. We decided to halt the well digging operation until this morning. The men were tired and, quite frankly, the idea of having a crew working all night was not appealing – a lot like busy work to me…

This morning, all teams were on location by eight o’clock. The well digging team began setting the drill pipes once again. When we tuned on the water pumps to begin the drill, it blew a seal. After a couple of hours of attempted repair, we abandoned the effort. Without water pressure to keep debris out of the whole, it is futile. We will attempt this well again another day. For now, we’ve done all we can do.

Judy and I addressed the ladies of the community this morning. They get a kick out of me translating all this intimate info as if I were one of them. For me, it’s just a good day when I immerge from the gathering in one piece, not having been the venting object of their frustrations and vengeance upon the male creation in general. I love it.

Abraham, Pedro and I were asked to an audience with the Chief, his Captain and the Health agent for the village. I never know the subject of these meetings until I arrive. It was all good. The Captain asked us to help them build a building in which to worship. The Health agent asked if we could leave some medications behind. The Chief just nodded a lot, even when it wasn’t quite appropriate. We said “yes” to all the requests and even said “yes” to whatever the Chief seemed to nodding about. Whatever that part was, will come out in the wash sooner or later…

We all had a great time here in Aru. These are people are especially loving and kind. Humble and unassuming. An easy people to love and share with. We were able to treat the entire community before departure.

- It’s now 2:30 PM and we are underway to the Capital of the Mundurucu Nation, Kwata, to visit with Grand Chief Manuel and his precious mother, Mama Ester. I am looking forward to introducing our team to these dear friends. ETA is set for “dark” or maybe a little before of after – we will get there when we arrive.

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2008-02-07T03:28:20.8036153-07:00

Thursday, February 07, 2008 – From the Helm

Well, this is a GRATEFUL CORRECTION statement! Yesterday, I received an email that stated Gassville , AR had lost 37 lives to tornadoes. I have received several emails since yesterday’s posting informing me that there has been but one (1) fatality. Thank you all for sending me right info!

I should be posting a summary of today, later in the day. We are all well. Day 4 on location begins…

Wednesday February 06 2008

2008-02-06T11:12:44.9214677-07:00

Wednesday, February 06, 2008 – From the Helm

It’s 2 in the afternoon and we are tucked away in a cove waiting out a heck of a storm that began blowing through a couple of hours ago. Our team is just relaxing for a bit before returning to shore.

We arrived in Aru last night in time to have a service. The homecoming was beautiful for me. I have developed many friendships in this place over the past several years. A couple of men from here have even taken part in the River Bank Bible Institute – such a good thing. Three people accepted Christ at the close of the service.

- We came ashore this morning early and set up all stations, including the well equipment. The Arkadelphia team drilled here this past summer but the well was a bit too shallow to hold through the dry season. So, here we are again, going deeper. Once again, the “water” ministry is becoming a regular part of what AMOR teams do on location. We had stopped for several years due to equipment failures. In May of last year, Dwain Bell brought a newly manufactured clutch unit to us – we have been digging ever since. Thanks Dwain and Murray , Kentucky !

- I call back home each morning to check in with the parents and boys. Today, I found that a small town near home was completely destroyed by tornadoes last night. The death toll in Gassville , Arkansas is up to 37. My heart goes out to them. I know many who live there. May they feel God’s presence and comfort at this time.

- Back on shore, the villagers caught a 6’ anaconda this morning. Pretty cool for the group to see, hold and take a few pictures. Those of the team that went gator hunting last night will have this to add to the tales that will spine when they get home!

The trip is progressing just as God intended. Our plans have changed at almost every bend in the river. By the results of the work though, it is obvious that we are always in the right place at the right time. God is good to do that when we but follow His lead and live the day He has given us, His way. Humbling to watch it all unfold effortlessly…

If all goes according to “plan”, we will be holding services again this evening. If something else takes place, it will be better that the current “plan”, for sure.

Tuesday February 05 2008 Fr

2008-02-05T13:30:59.2088941-07:00

Tuesday, February 05, 2008 - From the Helm

4:00 PM – We are anchored in a cove waiting out a storm that came up as we were cruising to Aru. We finished our day in Cobras at Noon. The crowds were small enough that we were able to attend to everyone’s needs in half a day. We had a brief service before setting sail where 3 young people came forward accepting Christ – good indeed…

The Cobras community is a bit more primitive and reserved than Niteroi . Here again there was a very young Chief in charge (26 years old). There seems to be a trend of the older generation turning over power to the younger of the Nation. These young men are still conservative in their approach. This is needed to preserve the culture of the Tribe.

Yesterday, a clan member killed two jaguars across the river. They had already distributed the meat amongst the villagers by the time we got here this morning. I asked for the heads to take the teeth. My request was politely but promptly refused. Then I remembered that this people only kills for food and otherwise respects the dignity of the animals of the jungle – tradition.

Jaguars are only dangerous to man from around August thru December when the females are in heat. The males simply don’t try to avoid confrontation. Evidently the season ran late this year. Both animals killed last night were thin males – they tend not to eat much during the mating season.

Our team is healthy and in good spirits. We are scheduled to arrive in Aru some time after dark tonight. If we make it in time, we will hold services. If not, we will enjoy fellowship aboard.

We have many friends in Aru from past trips. Our plan is to spend 2 days there. We will be drilling a new well for this people. The one we drilled earlier in the year was not quite deep enough. I look forward to seeing familiar faces when we arrive onshore.

Oh, we are trying to get our blog working correctly so that you may post comments for the team. For now, please do so by email to boyd@amor-brazil.org. I will print them and pass them on to the team members! Sorry for the inconvenience…

Monday February 04 2008 Fro

2008-02-04T14:57:33.8434267-07:00

Monday, February 04, 2008 – From the Helm

9:30 AM - Arrived in Niteroi at 5 PM yesterday. We were welcomed in beautiful fashion. The Chief, Anizio, and his entire community were on the shores to receive us. Many, many children…

This community is hosting another community for medical and dental services. The patient load will be large because we only scheduled one day at this location.

We were asked to have services last night and we did. The community center was packed. Terry spoke on Jesus’ parables of the coins, sheep and the Prodigal Son. The house was attentive. When the invitation was given, dozens came to the front making various decisions and requests for prayer – what a night.

Chief Anizio has been newly appointed here. The old Chief had no male heirs and no sons-in-law that he felt were trustworthy to lead his clan. So, Anizio was given the position. Rather odd situation due to the fact that Anizio is of the Tucano Tribe, transplanted by marriage to the Mundurucu Nation. For sure, this is something God devised. He is a strong, humble leader. I look forward to the relationship that is developing between us.

All teams were on location by 8 this morning. All began smoothly – our crew aboard the Beatriz needs no instruction. It’s all automatic. I thank God for them. Most have been with me for at least 8 years. Some, as many as 17 years – good team…

5:45 PM – We just pulled away from Niteroi . A beautiful day indeed. The medical and dental teams treated all who came with a need – no one left in line. Our construction crew built a “mobile home”, of sorts, to be used for housing and concessions. VBS had ninety children and adults in attendance. The women’s ministry was packed with ladies, young and old alike. All in all, a good first day on location. At the closing service a few minutes ago, the folks who came forward last night joined six more in accepting Christ – 26 in all. That’s what it’s all about

We are underway to our next destination, Cobras (Snakes). We plan to seek out a safe harbor in which to anchor in an hour or two.

The day has been good – better than I would have dared to plan it. It was just how God meant it to be. For that, I am grateful.

No Title

2008-02-03T07:40:28.5197353-07:00

Sunday, February 03, 2008 – From the Helm

Stopped at Wellington ’s house on the Parana da Eva at dusk yesterday. Picked up some buffalo cheese, squash and collard greens – mainly, just stopped to have a cup of coffee and some conversation though. He is family to us all.

It’s 3:30 AM . The rain is gentle and steady. The tarps are down upstairs. The chef has served up my coffee. We’ve just gotten underway after spending an hour fueling a passenger boat that called us in distress. It’s tough to be in the middle of the Madeira River with a load of passengers and cargo and no fuel. Glad to help.

I slept soundly. Feel fit. The Beatriz is running beautifully. The glow of Nova Olinda is getting brighter to the south. The day is unfolding.

I’m glad to be on the River. Carnival starts today and runs through Wednesday here in Brasil. The entire Country will shut down for the duration – no schools, banking, government, etc. Quite a phenomenon.

Been thinking about all those who are thinking of us back home as we travel. Old George, Norman and friends; the families and friends in Alabama ; Robbie, Mike and the Walker’s – my prayers are with them all.

The dawn is approaching – we are well…

10:50 AM – Abraham tied up alongside at 7:30 this morning and we got underway to parts unknown. It was good to see him and his family again – great reunion, as always. We were able to bypass Kwata (the Capital city of the Nation) so that we could cruise directly to our furthermost destination. The ETA is set for 4:00 PM. However, we will arrive when we arrive. For now, the day is overcast and comfortable. We are at 9 knots with the pastor’s boat in toe. The day is good.