From the Helm

Boyd Walker — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 20:14:44 GMT

From the Helm – Wednesday, July 28, 2010

4 PM – After picking up Tereza and an additional interpreter in Maues, we moved on to anchor in a safe harbor above the village of Apara for the remainder of the night. This entire region has been difficult for Tereza since we left her last year. The church in Maues has disciplined these people heavily for their acceptance of our presence. It’s truly sad to see such a thing.

Much prayer and supplication has gone up on behalf of these people. They are hungry for the Word yet are restricted from receiving and studying it. I know there is a reason for all the resistance being encountered. I also know that for us to continue on, sharing as we do, is the right thing for us to be about doing. So, regardless of the circumstances, we will continue to share as long as the doors remain open for us to do so.

- Medical has been steady all day. I feel we are in a fishbowl here with no idea of who is observing us. We will be prudent in our treatment of all who come. I feel the need for special vigilance during these days. We will do no elective surgeries or dental work. Just seems to be the responsible approach this time around…

- Bible studies have been held this morning and afternoon. It’s been good to be able to sit in on such things. I feel a special freedom in not being chained to a dental chair or a medical consultation table. I feel a fleeting guilt about it. Only fleeting though…

- Our satellite system continues to be “go” - ”don’t go”. It is time to change her out for something more substantial and dependable. I know God has already provided for this. I just need to find those He has touched to provide it through…

We are about to shut down our activities for the day. We will gather all who will listen in an hour or so to share as we say our good-byes. We have six communities to see in just 6 days here on location. I think I’d like to see us slow down a bit next year – build relationships slowly in fewer places. For now, I’m just grateful to be part of this whole deal. Grateful, indeed…

From the Helm

Boyd Walker — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 13:09:06 GMT

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.

From the Helm

Boyd Walker — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 20:42:13 GMT

From the Helm – Wednesday, July 21, 2010

After a long, eventful day and evening in Sao Paulo , we are now pulling away from Sao Pedro after a brief visit this morning.

Yesterday was a day spent revisiting those we met last year in Sao Paulo . They are an exited people, awaiting the construction of their new meeting place. Money for most of the materials was given last year by team members. Unfortunately, the land that had been provided by the community fell through due to a bit of local politics. The materials are all together. The land will be purchased as soon as a piece becomes available. Edno is patient. He knows the right parcel will be available when God makes it so.

This has been a good trip for us all. We’ve been blessed to come to know two new communities and a new river. I’ve seen that much is yet to be done in reaching the Valley with the Word of Hope we know so well. I’ve revisited the awareness of my own limitations and the need for the limitless wisdom and resources only God may provide. The magnitude of the need is great. I understand I’m only to do what God allows me to do. I know my desire is to somehow do more. My joy comes from knowing it’s not up to me to determine neither quantity nor results. Mine is but to do as I’m led to do and all else will care for itself.

Midnight – Parintins is an hour away. We are nearing home. The team is set to travel Friday morning for Manaus and home. The Beatriz and Lori will be turned for our venture to the Maues region by the end of the day, tomorrow. Much to do…

From the Helm

Boyd Walker — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 22:07:17 GMT

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.

From the Helm

Boyd Walker — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 14:04:54 GMT

From the Helm – Friday, July 16, 2010

10:00 AM – We pulled to the community of Antonio da Correira where we will minister today.

Sleep was restful last night. The closing service in Sagrado was an emotional occasion. The community read poems, sang and made presentations that moved us all. It took a good while to say our good-byes. These are a loving and compassionate people. They’ve brought to my heart the reality that the relationships God’s allowed to develop as the result of our obedient goings, are very real and profound. The seeds of His love that have been planted over the years, have sprouted and grown in a beautiful way. A beautiful way, indeed…

The construction team continues to lend a hand in Cucui. We all look forward to the events ahead as the day unfolds here among a new people in a new place. Our team is well. The work God is doing among our members is evident. All are open to His leading. It’s the way it must be to see what He would have us to see. I love you, My Lord. I thank You for the opportunities You’ve allowed for us to grow in our trust and dependence upon You; You alone…

Our sat system has not been functioning properly the past 24 hours. I’m glad it’s up and running now. The prayers of all back home are cherished by us all here in the Valley…

From the helm

Boyd Walker — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 18:43:57 GMT

From the Helm – Wednesday, July 14, 2010

2:30 PM – The team arrived on schedule yesterday. There was a delay in their connecting flight out of Manaus . We set sail at 10 last night.

Smooth sailing through the night. The Ramos is tranquil. Good to be off the main Amazon for awhile. After breakfast, we all got together for the briefing regarding what we think we might be doing and where that might take place. It’s always good to feel we have a plan…

Edno rendezvoused with us just before noon. So good to see him once again. We’ve been cruising for a couple hours; the Beatriz’s engine just went to an idle. Sagrado is just off our starboard side. Our time on location is about to begin. Thank You Lord for the safety you’ve provided us thus far. Thank you for all that is to come over the remaining hours of this day…

8:00 PM – Beautiful afternoon in Sagrado. The people welcomed us warmly with rockets as firecrackers. The American flag was flying high and the children they flowers and confetti as we climbed the stairs. It humbled me deeply. These are a precious and beautiful people. They are precious to me, indeed.

Cilene was filled with questions regarding Rusty, Pam, Pat, Chris, Steve, David and all the rest. I filled them in as best I could. Pat has been constantly in their prayers over the past months. I’m sure she’s aware of this…

- The remainder of the afternoon was spent setting up our clinics for tomorrow. We will do all we can over the next day and a half. VBS went ahead and got the children cranked while the rest of us looked on.

No services tonight. Edno felt it best we all rest up for tomorrow instead. The team just finished with a service of its own aboard the Beatriz. I missed it. Sleep should be sweet tonight…

From the Helm – Thursday, July 15, 2010

Well, I officially miss David this trip! My first patient took a full hour and a half to “more or less” be completed. One of those simple extractions…

Medical treated the predictable variety of infirmities along with the well-babies of the community. There was, however, a particular case that stood out from the rest. One that dealt with the seeming hopelessness we come across so often. The desperation we’ve brought the solution for, if the heart is willing and open. This young mother sat through the consultation, blankly hearing the diagnosis of her three children. She was in such a depressed state she probably heard little of it at all. I remember such a state in my own life long ago. Today, I am a breathing example that God is good and merciful. By His grace, such an existence in but a memory to me. I pray He provides such relief for this one. I pray she has reached the point only He may be visible to her. I pray that our team’s tenderness will have provided some form of direction to the One who holds all peace…

The construction team went up to Cucui to lend a hand to the church there. They are beginning to erect their meeting place. All the materials have been painstakingly acquired over the past years. Our guys will do what they can over the nest day and a half to put it together for them. What a dream come true for our brothers in Cucui...

From the Helm

Boyd Walker — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 14:08:26 GMT

From the Helm – Monday, July 12, 2010

10:00 AM - I’ve been in Manaus awaiting the Orlando Team’s arrival. There were a couple of questions regarding their travel that made things a bit uncertain as to whether the Beatriz would be summonsed to Manaus or the team would fly on in to Parintins. Fortunately, all has been worked out. The team arrives in a few hours and will connect out at 5 this afternoon.

I’ve was briefed this by Luiza this morning, early. All is prepared. Staff and crew are ready to set sail upon our arrival. Edno called this morning as well. He is on location in Sagrado and will meet us in the wee hours of Thursday. His plan is for us to minister to 3 different regions. We will go and do as God leads.

The days ahead will be good. I’ve been prayerfully considering a number of things I feel God will make clear to me during the course of this trip. Their all good contemplations. I simply need His permission to move forward. I’ve approached Him after reviewing and confessing my motivation regarding all. I look forward to the answers that will clearly come.

I’ve spoken with home. All are well. All is good…

From the Helm

Boyd Walker — Sun, 04 Jul 2010 20:53:32 GMT

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 6^th. 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…

From the Helm

Boyd Walker — Sat, 03 Jul 2010 19:33:50 GMT

From the Helm – Saturday, July 03, 2010

11:00 AM – We all slept early last night. The service was cancelled. It was an evening of good rest.

The morning has been quite busy. Canoes arrived last night and early this morning, filled with neighboring clansmen in search of treatment. Dental has been busy with both extractions and fillings. I’m grateful to have the restorative equipment to help in this way. Medical was steady with the same clansmen seen by the dental. Ramona fitted several more with glasses. VBS and the teaching sessions were well attended. The surgeries that were scheduled for me, simply faded away…

My house is taking on a new look and added comfort. Windows have been installed all around. The groves that allow dirt to fall through to the bottom floor have now been sealed. It has become even more attractive and comfortable than the day it was given us. I love it.

Our team members are well. All are enjoying the unfolding of the days. Many stories have been lived out by each to share with those back home.

4:00 PM - I woke at 3 this morning with beautiful thoughts flowing through my mind in to the very debts of my soul. Thoughts of new beginnings amidst familiar surroundings. I experienced the assurance of knowing our work here in the Valley is embarking on new ventures, in new stability. Nothing prophetic about it. Just the calm, soothing sense that all is well; that regardless of the degree of any particular person’s involvement, AMOR will continue to venture deeper and deeper, reaching those unattractive to the rest of the world; those my God refers to as the “meek and humble” He’s determined to make rich and wise in the Spirit – the peoples He has allowed me to fall in love with so deeply and indisputably...

- Yesterdays meeting with Foroxa and Marciano is still fresh. God continues to reassure me of wisdom He’s given in the past. Wisdom regarding dealings with the world around me. I’m reassured that the primary duty of the few responsible for the many is that of seeking God’s wisdom. Then, surrendering to what is found. Silence is crucial when confusion arises. Action becomes critical when clarity is revealed. Any sustainable peace is achieved only through appropriate adherence to these simple truths.

God makes no mystery of His will in a given situation or as to a given path I should take. All such mystery is fabricated by the introduction of my own will to the equation. The best exercise of my will is always to surrender completely to His. Time and again, I’ve lived in the shadows of what should or could have been. I’ve clung to “security” so tightly that I’ve let slip away all that would have been necessary to attain the true security I’d sought.

- The element of “pride” has been at the forefront of my thoughts over the past weeks. I’ve become aware of it’s presence in my life in a most unfamiliar form. A form that has limited my growth in, and enjoyment of, what God has set before me.

In the past, I’ve more often than not sought to bury and seclude myself in His care instead of exposing others to its beauty. I’ve chosen to hold to myself the needs of the Valley as God has revealed them to me. I’ve been selfish by not allowing all who desire to, to participate in the vision God has so graciously allowed me to see and live in. I’ve handled the knowledge God has revealed in a possessive, exclusive manner. This has been wrong... Very wrong, indeed…

There are so many creeks, lakes and cutoffs in this great Valley. Each, home to peoples abandoned by all governments, help organizations and religion. Peoples so isolated that no one dares go to the expense and supposed discomfort required to touch them with the hope and love God so freely offers. It is these God has entrusted to the care of AMOR. It is the joy of our calling to grip and cuddle them wherever and whenever He may lead us to do so. They are these who my heart is broken for. These are the peoples God has chosen to be my own.

- Lord, over the next days, I ask that You show me the way You would have us reach more of these precious people with your love, power and way of life. Show me how to better provide that others participate in what You’ve allow for us here. Divorce me from all selfishness and self-seeking as I look to Your guidance through it all.

Thank You for waking me to new beauty each day. Thank you for the eyes you’ve joined with mine that I may see things long obscured and dimmed by my own limitations. Thank You Lord for it all, indeed…

From the Helm

Boyd Walker — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 18:52:27 GMT

From the Helm – Friday, July 02, 2010

NOON – The remainder of the day, yesterday, went well. All teams were busy throughout the afternoon. Much was accomplished as the hours passed.

The service last night was filled with singing and dancing by the young ladies of the village. It seems they played 10 different songs, all to the same tune; each lasting about 10 minutes. Fun to watch. These are a beautiful people. They are genuine, carrying and loving. Their joy over our being here is transparent and real. Once again, I realized one of the many reasons why I am drawn to be among them.

I visited with Marciano and Foroxa down the river this morning. We spoke of nothing special. But, it was all truly special. I’m considered a family member here. With all the defects we each present from time to time, the underlying love is true and consistent. They’ve asked for a meeting after lunch with the leadership of our team. I look forward to it.

- Brasil is playing Holland right now. All has pretty much stopped for the duration of the game. We aren’t doing very well. We’ll have to see how it turns out to see how moral will be shaped for the remainder of the afternoon…

I called Mom and Dad this morning, as I try to do each and every day I’m away. Dad has not been well. I struggle with being away as I am. It seems their health takes a turn each time I travel for extended periods. Nothing much I can do about it from here. I’ve asked William to lay eyes on them this afternoon. I’ll call him later to see if Dad’s tired voice actually matches the way he looks and feels. It would help if our trip season was spread out a bit more during the year. Two to three weeks at a time away would be more tolerable than 2 to 3 months. It’s never worked out that way over the years. Who knows though, it might be a possibility in the future. Both they and I are grateful for the opportunity to serve here in the Valley, regardless of the timing and schedules involved.

- All are well. All are healthy and enjoying the days here in Inaja. We found out earlier this morning that air travel schedules will cause us to have to head down to Parintins from here on the morning of the 5^th.

I believe I have a couple eye surgeries to do this afternoon. If the patients show up, I guess my afternoon is set. Right now, I believe a dip in the “pool” is in order. Seems about half the team has already beaten me there...

3:00 PM – The afternoon is but a couple of hours from settling down. The meeting with Marciano and Foroxa ended up being a time of them sharing from their hearts in search of council. Some elements of dissention and division have erupted here in Inaja over the past several months. These two men have acted wisely in their response.

Power, greed and jealousy always yield chaos. Chaos which can either be intensified or quieted by our response to it. They chose to allow God to care for such things and all has been either reconciled or the elements have removed themselves to other locations. It was an honor for me to sit in such meeting. I was grateful for the opportunity to share my experience with them. It’s about all I have to offer anyone at all – my experience and hope…

From the Helm

Boyd Walker — Tue, 29 Jun 2010 15:01:20 GMT

From the Helm – Monday, June 28, 2010

4:30 AM – The Group arrived on schedule yesterday afternoon. All are well. All is good.

We have several last minute things to take care of this morning. Phillip and Sidne are scheduled to arrive shortly after Noon. We will set sail towards the Wai-Wai Nation as soon as all are boarded.

It’s been a good 24 hours. I’ve been able to visit with everyone aboard. Good to see them all. The days ahead hold beautiful ventures yet to be revealed. My spirit is ready to receive whatever may come. I’m eager to live it all out as the days unfold.

Departure is set for around 4 this afternoon. Just a few hours till we pull anchor and cruise. What a privilege it all is for me. I’m grateful, indeed…

10:00 PM – We were underway on schedule. Good to have Phillip and Sidne aboard. They’ve brought a bit of home to me. I love having the Boys here. This is the first year in many that they’ve all not made it for the season. Just the way it’s worked out this time.

- The moon is full and high tonight. It rose directly in front of us a couple hours ago. The evening is bright. No need for spots at all to safely navigate. It is so very beautiful out tonight…

11:30 PM - River traffic returning from the Bull Festival in Parintins is heavy. The Beatriz has been dealing with the waves since about the time we departed Manaus . I’m glad we’ve avoided the whole party deal. By the time we see Parintins in the morning, it will just be licking its wounds from the week of chaos. It’s a lovely town to live, work and play in except for this one period each year that some half-million people descend upon her, rape her and then steal away as quickly as they came. The money is good for a little town like her but, I feel the cost to her character and dignity far outweigh any benefit derived. For me, it’s a sad thing to see…

ETA in Parintins is set for mid-day, tomorrow. We plan a brief stop for fueling. Then, on to Cashoeira Porteira and beyond…

My heart is a bit heavy tonight. Nothing to do directly with the work that lies ahead. Just heavy and lonely. God will nurture me as sleep slowly takes over the meanderings of the heart and mind…

From the Helm – Tuesday, June 29, 2010

7:30 AM – Rough night aboard the Beatriz. So much traffic, hardly anyone was able to rest from the wash of the passing vessels. All is calm now. Our passengers will be able to catch up on rest during the day. Energy will be needed for our ascent to Inaja tomorrow and the next day.

Parintins isn’t far away. We will take on gasoline and diesel. Then, cruise onward.

- I was eventually able to rest last night. Even amidst the bouncing against the walls in my hammock. My God ministered to me in a gentle, soothing way. I knew He would do so. The matters that are on my heart, are of Him – of His design. Therefore, they are of a nature known fully only to Him. Thank you, Lord, for what you are showing me. Thank You for Your consideration of me in this way. It is all part of your provision and caring with regard to my life. Thank You for the glimpses of clarity You’ve provided in the night…

11:00 AM – Just about to depart from Parintins. The stop has gone smoothly. Luiza has stayed ashore to care for the return tickets of for the group and Pedro has come aboard for the remainder of the trip. Cachoeira Porteira is about 23 hours away. Time to settle in for the remainder of the cruise taking in the Trombetas River and the Mapueira. All are well. All baggage has been sorted for the climb through the falls and rapids. All is good.

My next probably wont communication won’t be till arrival in Inaja on Thursday evening. Lots of water and adventure between here and there. I look forward to every step along the way. From the Helm will pick up again as time and circumstance permits…