June 21, 2009
GPS Coordinates,
Look us up on Googe Earth or Google Maps!
S 02.47.703'
W 057.10.218'
Dear Friends,
This morning, seven of us woke with the sun to prepare for our day by doing physical training on the third deck of our boat. Those of us who joined in felt like it was a great start for a wonderful day of ministry.
After breakfasting, prayer and worship, we split up into our ministry teams and started into our first village. Most of us were surprised at the size of the village (200 families) and the relatively good living conditions. This village has a well in the back and running water supplied to most of the households in town. Moreover, western toilets and septic systems occupy the backyards of most homes. And electricity powers televisions that allowed villagers to watch Brazil stomp Italy in a World Cup Soccer qualifying match today.
Although the quality of life has improved as compared to neighboring villages, the problem of sin and the need for Jesus Christ's salvation are just as weighty here as they are anywhere else in the world. During women's ministry, the wives complained that their husbands were drunks and that they cheated on them often. Some of the kids in Vacation Bible School were rambunctious. And this afternoon a man was stabbed with a pool stick and a broken bottle during a bar fight.
Despite this evidence that all people are sinners and in need of a Savior, it is encouraging to know that Christ has the power to save and change lives, even those wrought with sin. During the evening worship service, the Vacation Bible School kids performed a song that they had learned, one of our team members shared her testimony to an attentive crowd, and an indigenous missionary shared the gospel of Jesus Christ. It was encouraging to see how many responded and indicated that they wanted to give their lives to Jesus.
Our boat is just leaving the village now (7:30 PM) and we head off to the next one. We will share what God has done tonight, worship, pray, and prepare for tomorrow. It is funny to think that we will be in a completely new place tomorrow hoping for continued impact through the power of the Holy Spirit, God will glorify the name of Christ. And we are thankful to know that there is a long-term church presence to follow-up on our new brothers and sisters in Christ.
Please keep us in your prayers.
In Christ.
The Amazon Outreach Team
Good morning from Texas. Thank you, Linda, for keeping those of us praying for the team posted. It has been incredible to watch what God did in the lives of the ladies (Joy, Melissa, Cristie, Tina, Alisha and Liz) I know on this trip. I'm sure the rest of the team have beautiful stories as well. Clearly, God hand-picked this team and tested their faith as they stepped out in faith.
ReplyDeleteI am off work today, so I stayed in bed for a little while this morning and prayed. I am convinced many lives will be changed by this mission. It was fun to talk about each of you with our Heavenly Father. He loves you deeply, and as His friends He's chosen you for this time.
Please pass my love to the group.
Blessings,
Tammi
I understand from Jed that this team has a bunch of rookies. Praise God! You all are in my prayers throughout each day and I know He will bless you with many incredible experiences and opportunities this week. Please let Brenda Bailey know that I am praying especially for her as well.
ReplyDeleteBe sure to post specific prayer needs.
God bless you all. John Key