Saturday, June 30
What a month it has been. On the first of June, we boarded a plane in Lubbock and began our trip to Brazil. We returned on the 26th (last Tuesday) and is some ways we feel like we are still there. Our minds are filled with many wonderful thoughts of enjoyable times in Brazil. We are so thankful to God for another opportunity to go, and so thankful for the many people who supported us financially and who prayed for us. We are truly blessed people.
After my last entry we spent a very enjoyable afternoon with Nilton (one of the evangelists in Salvador) and Rose and their lovely daughter Priscilla. They are lovely, God-fearing people. How we wish we could spend more time with them and learn from them.
On Saturday, we went to the beach, just a block from our B & B, and enjoyed about an hour of swimming on a nice, warm winter’s day. The waters were very clear; a little cool, but easy to get used to. We walked around the area in the afternoon, ate some lunch, then left for a study with about ten couples that are part of one of the congregations. Jose and Nilza, Christians in Salvador since before our original arrival in 1984, lead this group. I was asked to lead a discussion of “Dating in Marriage.”
Somewhere along the way, Bev ate something that didn’t agree with her. She was sick most of Saturday evening and stayed in bed while I left for the morning assembly. The attendance was down (maybe 150 present), partly because so many leave the city during the weekend’s Saint John’s Day. I taught the class and preached; I am always so encouraged with the excitement and reverence that is manifested by the Christians there.
Bev was feeling better Sunday evening and just about “normal” on Monday. We packed our bags and got ready to leave the wonderful little Bed and Breakfast that had been our home for the past 10 days. A few met us to say goodbye at the airport and we boarded our plane with mixed feelings of sadness (leaving so many good people) and happiness (returning to family in USA). Every flight was comfortable (although I didn’t sleep much on the 10-hour Sao Paulo to DFW flight) and on time (ok, we did get to Lubbock about 30 minutes late after plane changes in DFW). It was good to see Jonathan and Lori in Lubbock, but only 2 of our 4 bags arrived. A third arrived the next day and we are still waiting for the fourth (Bev’s clothes and a few gifts).
There are many things I will not soon forget about our trip to Brazil in 2007. (I should never forget these, but then the way my mind fails me as I get older, who knows?) Here are some of my most treasured memories: the children’s hospital in Recife, building pews for the camp site with the wonderful members of the TORCH group, the VBS children, the food distributions in Recife, meeting with over 300 at the combined assembly in Salvador, talking and studying with many interested people in Salvador, seeing our dear friends in Salvador: Piedade, Jose and Nilza, Nilton and Rose, Celia, Marinalva, Josenias, Carlinhos and family, and many other good, life-long friends. Other good memories include Jorge and his golden fan, the camp animals (roosters, a donkey, huge bullfrogs, monkeys, opossums, and a tarantula), the Igreja Batista Portas Abertas (transl.: Open Doors Baptist Church) with the doors closed, the bus rides, the rain, the food, and the ocean.
God has been so good to us. May He bless your day.
Saturday, June 30, 2007
Thursday, June 21, 2007
More Great Days in Brazil
Thursday, June 21
It’s hard to believe that tomorrow will be three weeks since we left the States, and we’ll be here for only four more days. All the days have been very good, and the past few have been filled with more wonderful things to see, people to visit, and food to eat. Especially today has been great, even though we are very tired. This will probably be my last blog until we get back to the States. So, here’s what’s happened lately . . .
Today we experienced several types of public transportation. We got a bus near our B & B and rode to the docks where we got on a very crowded ferry boat. After an hour, we were on an island, looking for a VW bus that would take us to our day’s destination. After several stops and many bumps in the road, we got off at the right place, but took the wrong turn. We walked up a very steep hill, only to realize we had gone the wrong way. Down the hill we went and about noon we finally found our afternoon hostess, Piedade (there’s a picture of her and Bev on the blog). We met her soon after our arrival in Salvador 23 years ago. She helped us raise our kids, caring for them with such compassion. We could count on her to do anything for us and it was always done correctly and quickly. We were delighted to see her children and grandchildren Sunday. She had prepared lunch for us. We spent the afternoon sharing stories, looking at pictures, and encouraging each other. Bev and I are amazed at all the difficulties this world has thrown at her and how she has handled them with deep faith and patience. She has a lot of plants, trees, and flowers around her house. I was amazed to see that she had cotton growing; some of the bolls weren’t opened yet but others were ready to be picked. The interesting thing was that this cotton plant was more than 10 high (I doubt any of my friends in west Texas have ever seen anything like this), and it was growing right alongside a banana tree and a coconut tree. We got back from the island about 7:30, jumped on a bus, and before long we were eating pizza back near the place where we are staying.
Yesterday we said goodbye to Tim, Evan, and Tina who left for Aracaju. I spent most of the afternoon preparing my final lesson on the Minor Prophets, and taught the class that evening. Many had never studied or even read these books before. Most expressed appreciation for the classes. I learned so much and was so impressed again as I saw the practicality of these books for modern living. The Word of God is amazing, because the God of the Word is amazing. I am so thankful that I get to teach so many who are thirsty to learn. What a blessing and a privilege!
Tuesday we took Evan and Tina to a big market area and bought some souvenirs. It’s always fun going there and working the price down. The venders see what they think is a rich, naive tourist. I play with them for a little while, then let them know I know what’s going on. I’ll offer a lower price, act disinterested, and the price keeps going down. Sometimes the venders will follow you around, offering an even lower price.
Monday was a day of rest for me after all we did in Recife, the travel, and the teaching and preaching from Thursday through Sunday. I was worn out, to say the least. We did eat dinner at the home of a young couple and their baby. He is the son of some wonderful Christians whom we have known for about 15 years and have stayed with in the past. We left their apartment about 11 and waited about an hour for a bus and finally hailed a taxi. With 4 of us paying one fare it wasn’t much more than regular bus fare for four people. We got to bed after midnight and I started feeling sick about 2:30 in the morning. So much for a night or rest; that didn’t happen. I was better when we were shopping on Tuesday, but felt very weak. I don’t know what I ate but something didn’t agree with me.
It’s about time to check on the Yankees, my e-mail, and a few other sites before getting some sleep. I’ll close my eyes and thank God for our many friends and supporters. We are so grateful to be in Brazil.
It’s hard to believe that tomorrow will be three weeks since we left the States, and we’ll be here for only four more days. All the days have been very good, and the past few have been filled with more wonderful things to see, people to visit, and food to eat. Especially today has been great, even though we are very tired. This will probably be my last blog until we get back to the States. So, here’s what’s happened lately . . .
Today we experienced several types of public transportation. We got a bus near our B & B and rode to the docks where we got on a very crowded ferry boat. After an hour, we were on an island, looking for a VW bus that would take us to our day’s destination. After several stops and many bumps in the road, we got off at the right place, but took the wrong turn. We walked up a very steep hill, only to realize we had gone the wrong way. Down the hill we went and about noon we finally found our afternoon hostess, Piedade (there’s a picture of her and Bev on the blog). We met her soon after our arrival in Salvador 23 years ago. She helped us raise our kids, caring for them with such compassion. We could count on her to do anything for us and it was always done correctly and quickly. We were delighted to see her children and grandchildren Sunday. She had prepared lunch for us. We spent the afternoon sharing stories, looking at pictures, and encouraging each other. Bev and I are amazed at all the difficulties this world has thrown at her and how she has handled them with deep faith and patience. She has a lot of plants, trees, and flowers around her house. I was amazed to see that she had cotton growing; some of the bolls weren’t opened yet but others were ready to be picked. The interesting thing was that this cotton plant was more than 10 high (I doubt any of my friends in west Texas have ever seen anything like this), and it was growing right alongside a banana tree and a coconut tree. We got back from the island about 7:30, jumped on a bus, and before long we were eating pizza back near the place where we are staying.
Yesterday we said goodbye to Tim, Evan, and Tina who left for Aracaju. I spent most of the afternoon preparing my final lesson on the Minor Prophets, and taught the class that evening. Many had never studied or even read these books before. Most expressed appreciation for the classes. I learned so much and was so impressed again as I saw the practicality of these books for modern living. The Word of God is amazing, because the God of the Word is amazing. I am so thankful that I get to teach so many who are thirsty to learn. What a blessing and a privilege!
Tuesday we took Evan and Tina to a big market area and bought some souvenirs. It’s always fun going there and working the price down. The venders see what they think is a rich, naive tourist. I play with them for a little while, then let them know I know what’s going on. I’ll offer a lower price, act disinterested, and the price keeps going down. Sometimes the venders will follow you around, offering an even lower price.
Monday was a day of rest for me after all we did in Recife, the travel, and the teaching and preaching from Thursday through Sunday. I was worn out, to say the least. We did eat dinner at the home of a young couple and their baby. He is the son of some wonderful Christians whom we have known for about 15 years and have stayed with in the past. We left their apartment about 11 and waited about an hour for a bus and finally hailed a taxi. With 4 of us paying one fare it wasn’t much more than regular bus fare for four people. We got to bed after midnight and I started feeling sick about 2:30 in the morning. So much for a night or rest; that didn’t happen. I was better when we were shopping on Tuesday, but felt very weak. I don’t know what I ate but something didn’t agree with me.
It’s about time to check on the Yankees, my e-mail, and a few other sites before getting some sleep. I’ll close my eyes and thank God for our many friends and supporters. We are so grateful to be in Brazil.
Sunday, June 17, 2007
Wonderful days in Salvador
We have had some wonderful days in Salvador. We got here Wednesday evening and every day has been filled with wonderful people, places, and things to do. Of all the good, today has been the best. I am so thankful for what we experienced today; I wish all of our friends, family, and supporters could have been with us today. It has been (what I believe is) a foretaste of heaven.
The day began early, leaving our B & B about 7:40 to go to the bus stop. The bus took us to the church building, where we waited for another bus (chartered) to take us to a school where all the churches in Salvador were to meet. (Actually, some didn't come because plans had been made before the time of the area-wide meeting was announced.) There were about 300 present to worship our God; many of them we hadn't seen in 3 years or more. Among our favorites were Andreia and Albert, children of Piedade, a very special friend. We knew these "kids" when they were very young, and now they are married and both have a child. There is a picture of them with Bev on this page; I think it's at the end (I'm having trouble figuring out how to arrange things on the blog page).
It was such a joy to hug so many necks and share Christian fellowship. After worship, most stayed and ate and just hung around for about 4-5 hours, talking. For Bev and me it was so wonderful. Tim and I both preached. We spoke of how the faith of these Christians, like those in Colossae and Thessalonica, has been spoken of throughout Brazil and even the US. And we encouraged them to continue in the Word, loving one another, and reaching out to others with the Gospel. I was really touched -- humbled and somewhat disbelieving would be better descriptions -- when a brother got up afterwards and thanked us; he said "all of us are the fruit of these families coming from America with the word of God." It's amazing what God can and will do with His people.
Before today, I taught for about 8 hours (the previous 3 days) from the Minor Prophets. I will teach 2 more hours on Wednesday. The study has drawn a lot of interest. Of course, the best part of it for me was before, after, and during the breaks when I got to see and talk with Christians. The love we have for them and they have for us is so amazing. I thank God for every opportunity that I have had to be here. There have been so many good people, memories, and spiritual growth.
Go is so good. I hope you are enjoying His blessings today.
rb
The day began early, leaving our B & B about 7:40 to go to the bus stop. The bus took us to the church building, where we waited for another bus (chartered) to take us to a school where all the churches in Salvador were to meet. (Actually, some didn't come because plans had been made before the time of the area-wide meeting was announced.) There were about 300 present to worship our God; many of them we hadn't seen in 3 years or more. Among our favorites were Andreia and Albert, children of Piedade, a very special friend. We knew these "kids" when they were very young, and now they are married and both have a child. There is a picture of them with Bev on this page; I think it's at the end (I'm having trouble figuring out how to arrange things on the blog page).
It was such a joy to hug so many necks and share Christian fellowship. After worship, most stayed and ate and just hung around for about 4-5 hours, talking. For Bev and me it was so wonderful. Tim and I both preached. We spoke of how the faith of these Christians, like those in Colossae and Thessalonica, has been spoken of throughout Brazil and even the US. And we encouraged them to continue in the Word, loving one another, and reaching out to others with the Gospel. I was really touched -- humbled and somewhat disbelieving would be better descriptions -- when a brother got up afterwards and thanked us; he said "all of us are the fruit of these families coming from America with the word of God." It's amazing what God can and will do with His people.
Before today, I taught for about 8 hours (the previous 3 days) from the Minor Prophets. I will teach 2 more hours on Wednesday. The study has drawn a lot of interest. Of course, the best part of it for me was before, after, and during the breaks when I got to see and talk with Christians. The love we have for them and they have for us is so amazing. I thank God for every opportunity that I have had to be here. There have been so many good people, memories, and spiritual growth.
Go is so good. I hope you are enjoying His blessings today.
rb
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Just Arrived in Salvador
We arrived in Salvador this afternoon. Nilton (one of the local evangelists) met us at the airport. It is always good to see this young man (no longer young; he's nearly 40 now; I still remember when I got the call that an 18-year old was baptized; that was in 1986 while we were at a missionary conference). It is good to be here but we are so tired and it was hard leaving the Torch group in Recife, so it doesn't seem as good as I think it will be later on.
So many good things have happened since I wrote Sunday. I'll write about a few of them.
After Sunday supper at a Churrascaria (where they keep bringing all kinds of meat to your table; the picanha and file mignon were great) we went to the beach and sang songs (some in English, some in Portuguese) for about 15-20 minutes. With the noise of the waves and the sound of praise it was a very special time.
I spoke at Monday morning devo, trying to encourage all of us to remember that we are "too good for this world," and thus we need to live by faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. Shortly after noon, the "pew crew" finished the 10th (and final) pew for the auditorium at the camp. It was a very enjoyable work. In the evening, we sorted food and put about 25 pounds of dry goods in 150 sacks to be distributed Tuesday.
We swept the auditorium and got ready for the morning food distribution. 50 families who live near the camp were given invitations to come. We first got all the people together (seated in our new pews) and I explained who we were, what we were doing and why, and then I spoke about man living not by bread alone, but by every word that comes from God. We left the camp and went to 4 churches in Recife and delivered 25 sacks of food in each place. I was asked to speak at each of these locations, also. The people were poor, very poor, and this was enough food for a family of 5-6 people for one week. I told them how glad we were to be able to do it and they were so appreciative. It was so encouraging. We stayed up really late, since it was the last night we'd all be together. Plus there was packing to do and finishing a few projects. Bev, the real fighter that she is, stayed up until 4:30 in the morning trying to finish a painting of David and Goliath (it's about 5 feet by 8 feet). She finished it up just as we left the camp this morning.
Leaving the group today was very emotional. I said goodbye to several godly men, both young and old, with whom I shared a room (there were 7 in our room) and worked on the pews; to Jim and Irene, a deaf couple who contributed greatly; to Jorge and Danny, 2 recent SIBI graduates who are just beginning to work in Brazil; to Rod Myers, preacher from Sarasota, Florida, a man deep in spiritual thought; to Lee and Mara, two Brazilian Christian women who helped with cooking and cleaning at the camp; to Teofilo and his wife Jo, the camp caretakers, a young couple full of energy and faith; to 4 young Christian men (Bible students who can work hard and know how to have fun) who are studying at the school of preaching in Recife; and to Randy Short, missionary in Recife, who let us stay in his house, fed us, took us places, and, in general, continued to prove himself to be a good friend to us and a tireless worker for the Lord.
Tim, Evan, and Tina are still in Recife but are scheduled to arrive in Salvador early tomorrow morning.
I begin teaching The Minor Prophets tomorrow night in an instesive weekend study. Sunday should be a great day with all the churches in Salvador (I think there are 11 now) meeting together.
As I write this, the Yankees (having won 7 straight) are leading Arizona, 3-1. I just thought you would want to know I am happy this evening.
Thanks for the prayers. And remember, that God loves the whole world.
So many good things have happened since I wrote Sunday. I'll write about a few of them.
After Sunday supper at a Churrascaria (where they keep bringing all kinds of meat to your table; the picanha and file mignon were great) we went to the beach and sang songs (some in English, some in Portuguese) for about 15-20 minutes. With the noise of the waves and the sound of praise it was a very special time.
I spoke at Monday morning devo, trying to encourage all of us to remember that we are "too good for this world," and thus we need to live by faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. Shortly after noon, the "pew crew" finished the 10th (and final) pew for the auditorium at the camp. It was a very enjoyable work. In the evening, we sorted food and put about 25 pounds of dry goods in 150 sacks to be distributed Tuesday.
We swept the auditorium and got ready for the morning food distribution. 50 families who live near the camp were given invitations to come. We first got all the people together (seated in our new pews) and I explained who we were, what we were doing and why, and then I spoke about man living not by bread alone, but by every word that comes from God. We left the camp and went to 4 churches in Recife and delivered 25 sacks of food in each place. I was asked to speak at each of these locations, also. The people were poor, very poor, and this was enough food for a family of 5-6 people for one week. I told them how glad we were to be able to do it and they were so appreciative. It was so encouraging. We stayed up really late, since it was the last night we'd all be together. Plus there was packing to do and finishing a few projects. Bev, the real fighter that she is, stayed up until 4:30 in the morning trying to finish a painting of David and Goliath (it's about 5 feet by 8 feet). She finished it up just as we left the camp this morning.
Leaving the group today was very emotional. I said goodbye to several godly men, both young and old, with whom I shared a room (there were 7 in our room) and worked on the pews; to Jim and Irene, a deaf couple who contributed greatly; to Jorge and Danny, 2 recent SIBI graduates who are just beginning to work in Brazil; to Rod Myers, preacher from Sarasota, Florida, a man deep in spiritual thought; to Lee and Mara, two Brazilian Christian women who helped with cooking and cleaning at the camp; to Teofilo and his wife Jo, the camp caretakers, a young couple full of energy and faith; to 4 young Christian men (Bible students who can work hard and know how to have fun) who are studying at the school of preaching in Recife; and to Randy Short, missionary in Recife, who let us stay in his house, fed us, took us places, and, in general, continued to prove himself to be a good friend to us and a tireless worker for the Lord.
Tim, Evan, and Tina are still in Recife but are scheduled to arrive in Salvador early tomorrow morning.
I begin teaching The Minor Prophets tomorrow night in an instesive weekend study. Sunday should be a great day with all the churches in Salvador (I think there are 11 now) meeting together.
As I write this, the Yankees (having won 7 straight) are leading Arizona, 3-1. I just thought you would want to know I am happy this evening.
Thanks for the prayers. And remember, that God loves the whole world.
Sunday, June 10, 2007
Sunday, June 10
I haven´t been online since last Tuesday. When I got to Randy and Kathy Short´s apartment after this morning´s assembly, I enjoyed reading many e-mails, checking this blog, and seeing that the Yankees have won five straight. Look out baseball world. Here come the big spenders.
Well, so much to mention, I´ll try to be brief. Most of the TORCH group arrived in Recife on Tuesday and a few more since then. We are staying way out, far from the city, at the church´s camp site. There are several houses in the area so we see people (especially children) every day. The TORCH team includes 5 from Florida, 4 from Pennsylvania, 3 from Nashville, 2 from other places, and 5 from Lubbock (plus 2 recent Sunset grads, Danny Bratcher and Jorge del Bosque). Also, 4-6 preaching students got the week off from classes to work with us. Overall, I think I can say that we are getting along well, working very well, and really grateful for the opportunity to be here.
On Wednesday afternoon, we went to a children´s hospital. What an experience. These kids were amazing. Some were very sick but their faces lit up when we gave each one a present (mostly, stuffed animals and other toys) and told them that Jesus loves them. We got to talk to several mothers too. Really, it was a tough visit. Bev and I and our group probably saw about 25-30 kids with various sicknesses and some with cancer. Why our families have been so blessed with good health I´ll never know and always be thankful. Here, I keep hearing my mom say, ``Be thankful for what you´ve got; others have it a lot worse.´´
For 3 mornings we had VBS out at the camp. Each day we had 50-60 kids; we taught Bible lessons, helped them color, played games with them, and fed them a snack. All these kids were special. Most came in their best clothes with hair fixed, and having just had a bath. They loved the activities, especially the dramatized stories of the Good Samaritan and David and Goliath. I got to be Goliath´s armor bearer. Goliath were about 9-feet tall (one guy on another´s shoulders). There was a lot of rain Friday morning but still they came. Some arrived a little late on Saturday and I went out to welcome them. About 4 or 5 kids, about as tall as my waist, just grabbed me and gave me a big hug. Others wanted to play catch with an American football or baseball. I was just so impressed how these kids were glad to see us and share things with us.
On those afternoons we had 3 work groups at the camp. Some work on the outside (cutting grass, etc.), others were painting (Bev was great at this), and I got to help put together church pews. A lot of very tedious, time-consuming work; very enjoyable, too.
Tomorrow (and maybe Tuesday) we will be distributing food to 5 different groups. Wednesday, we fly to Salvador and will be there for about 11 days. I should have internet use every day there.
Thanks so much to those who have written comments on the blog, and for the prayers. Please continue praying for us, especially our health and evangelistic activities.
Well, so much to mention, I´ll try to be brief. Most of the TORCH group arrived in Recife on Tuesday and a few more since then. We are staying way out, far from the city, at the church´s camp site. There are several houses in the area so we see people (especially children) every day. The TORCH team includes 5 from Florida, 4 from Pennsylvania, 3 from Nashville, 2 from other places, and 5 from Lubbock (plus 2 recent Sunset grads, Danny Bratcher and Jorge del Bosque). Also, 4-6 preaching students got the week off from classes to work with us. Overall, I think I can say that we are getting along well, working very well, and really grateful for the opportunity to be here.
On Wednesday afternoon, we went to a children´s hospital. What an experience. These kids were amazing. Some were very sick but their faces lit up when we gave each one a present (mostly, stuffed animals and other toys) and told them that Jesus loves them. We got to talk to several mothers too. Really, it was a tough visit. Bev and I and our group probably saw about 25-30 kids with various sicknesses and some with cancer. Why our families have been so blessed with good health I´ll never know and always be thankful. Here, I keep hearing my mom say, ``Be thankful for what you´ve got; others have it a lot worse.´´
For 3 mornings we had VBS out at the camp. Each day we had 50-60 kids; we taught Bible lessons, helped them color, played games with them, and fed them a snack. All these kids were special. Most came in their best clothes with hair fixed, and having just had a bath. They loved the activities, especially the dramatized stories of the Good Samaritan and David and Goliath. I got to be Goliath´s armor bearer. Goliath were about 9-feet tall (one guy on another´s shoulders). There was a lot of rain Friday morning but still they came. Some arrived a little late on Saturday and I went out to welcome them. About 4 or 5 kids, about as tall as my waist, just grabbed me and gave me a big hug. Others wanted to play catch with an American football or baseball. I was just so impressed how these kids were glad to see us and share things with us.
On those afternoons we had 3 work groups at the camp. Some work on the outside (cutting grass, etc.), others were painting (Bev was great at this), and I got to help put together church pews. A lot of very tedious, time-consuming work; very enjoyable, too.
Tomorrow (and maybe Tuesday) we will be distributing food to 5 different groups. Wednesday, we fly to Salvador and will be there for about 11 days. I should have internet use every day there.
Thanks so much to those who have written comments on the blog, and for the prayers. Please continue praying for us, especially our health and evangelistic activities.
Monday, June 4, 2007
Brazil, Day 3
It´s Monday morning in Recife. Sun comes up early here and I have trouble going back to sleep after sunrise. One good thing about having to wake up early is going to the computer and checking the previous night´s baseball games. I was glad to see that the Yankees came back to beat the Red Sox with a ninth inning home run. I also enjoyed reading e-mails this morning. It´s amazing that we can be so close, eventhough we are so far apart.
Yesterday was a really good day. I preached at the Boa Viagem congregation. There were probably about 70 meeting; we had a good Bible class, taught by a man who was converted in Salvador (he was taught by Tim after we moved back to the States; I had met him several times before). He came here a few years ago to study at the school of preaching and is now the full-time evangelist at this congregation. We ate lunch at a nice, nearby restaurant with the Shorts, Danny, and Jorge. Both Bev and I had long afternoon naps and felt much better.
I spoke at this morning´s devotional at the School, then talked with a man for a long time. He loves to preach and wanted my ideas about a few things. Right now I´m back at the Shorts´ apartment, waiting for Randy, Jorge, and Danny to return; I´ll probably help them this afternoon with getting ready for the group coming tomorrow.
The Torch group gets here tomorrow, then we´ll be going out to the camp. Our work will include a VBS, cleaning up the camp, distributing food, teaching Bible studies, and other things there. Then on the 13th, Bev and I will go to Salvador for about 11 days.
This morning I told the story of the 3 trees, all having big plans for themselves: the first tree wanted to be made into a baby bed where a prince would sleep; instead the tree was made into a feeding trough, where the newborn Jesus was placed. The second tree wanted to be a huge ship that would carry precious cargo; instead, it became a fishing boat that Jesus used to preach from. The third tree just wanted to grow and lift its branches up in praise to God; instead, it was cut down and its wood was used as a cross, on which Jesus was crucified. None got what they wanted, but then, all got what they wanted. Our plans must be to please God; the specifics may change, but if we´re willing to submit to God, His will can be done through us. In that, we can rejoice.
I hope you´re having a great day. Give yourself to God and it will be.
Thanks for praying for us.
Yesterday was a really good day. I preached at the Boa Viagem congregation. There were probably about 70 meeting; we had a good Bible class, taught by a man who was converted in Salvador (he was taught by Tim after we moved back to the States; I had met him several times before). He came here a few years ago to study at the school of preaching and is now the full-time evangelist at this congregation. We ate lunch at a nice, nearby restaurant with the Shorts, Danny, and Jorge. Both Bev and I had long afternoon naps and felt much better.
I spoke at this morning´s devotional at the School, then talked with a man for a long time. He loves to preach and wanted my ideas about a few things. Right now I´m back at the Shorts´ apartment, waiting for Randy, Jorge, and Danny to return; I´ll probably help them this afternoon with getting ready for the group coming tomorrow.
The Torch group gets here tomorrow, then we´ll be going out to the camp. Our work will include a VBS, cleaning up the camp, distributing food, teaching Bible studies, and other things there. Then on the 13th, Bev and I will go to Salvador for about 11 days.
This morning I told the story of the 3 trees, all having big plans for themselves: the first tree wanted to be made into a baby bed where a prince would sleep; instead the tree was made into a feeding trough, where the newborn Jesus was placed. The second tree wanted to be a huge ship that would carry precious cargo; instead, it became a fishing boat that Jesus used to preach from. The third tree just wanted to grow and lift its branches up in praise to God; instead, it was cut down and its wood was used as a cross, on which Jesus was crucified. None got what they wanted, but then, all got what they wanted. Our plans must be to please God; the specifics may change, but if we´re willing to submit to God, His will can be done through us. In that, we can rejoice.
I hope you´re having a great day. Give yourself to God and it will be.
Thanks for praying for us.
Sunday, June 3, 2007
Chegamos
We have arrived!
We (Tina Carter, an SIBI student, Bev, and I) had good flights from Lubbock to DFW and DFW to São Paulo. The latter flight was long (10 hours) and a little late, and we missed our connecting flight to Recife. ABout 4 hours later than planned we got to Recife (about 5 p.m.), very tired. It was cold in São Paulo and hot and very humid in Recife.
We were met at the airport by Randy and Kathy Short, and Danny Bratcher. Jorge del Bosque came by the apartment later. We had some good conversations. They all wanted to know about the funeral service and Cline´s family, and many other things about Lubbock and SIBI.
A flood of emotions and memories come back to me when I am in Brazil again. I am grateful for the opportunities to preach, teach, and serve here again. I enjoy speaking Portuguese but each trip seems to be a little harder, thinking in Portuguese and trying to recall the right words. I look forward to preaching in Recife this morning. The others working with TORCH Missions will be arriving Tuesday so we´ll have some rest before things really get going here.
Thanks for your prayers and news. May God bless all of you.
We (Tina Carter, an SIBI student, Bev, and I) had good flights from Lubbock to DFW and DFW to São Paulo. The latter flight was long (10 hours) and a little late, and we missed our connecting flight to Recife. ABout 4 hours later than planned we got to Recife (about 5 p.m.), very tired. It was cold in São Paulo and hot and very humid in Recife.
We were met at the airport by Randy and Kathy Short, and Danny Bratcher. Jorge del Bosque came by the apartment later. We had some good conversations. They all wanted to know about the funeral service and Cline´s family, and many other things about Lubbock and SIBI.
A flood of emotions and memories come back to me when I am in Brazil again. I am grateful for the opportunities to preach, teach, and serve here again. I enjoy speaking Portuguese but each trip seems to be a little harder, thinking in Portuguese and trying to recall the right words. I look forward to preaching in Recife this morning. The others working with TORCH Missions will be arriving Tuesday so we´ll have some rest before things really get going here.
Thanks for your prayers and news. May God bless all of you.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
2 days 'til June 1
It's Wednesday night (actually Thursday, early AM), just 2 days until we depart for Brazil. There are many things yet to do, but I have packed a suitcase full of things that were requested for the time we are in Recife. I've also paid a few bills, done some yard work, made some calls, and a few other things that I have checked off my TTD list.
Today was a long, tiring, and wonderful day. The funeral service for Cline Paden was this afternoon. It was a wonderful time to celebrate the life of this great man. Why have I been so blessed that I have known such a man, I'll never know. There must have been well over 1,000 people at the service. Many Sunset alumni (including Gabriel Yankee, from our class, who I haven't seen since we graduated in 1981), friends, Sunset church members, and others who loved this man and his family, and were influenced by Cline is many ways. I doubt many had more of an impact on world evangelism during the second half of the 20th century than did this man. What a joy to be around him. We had many special times eating peanuts in the parking lot together. He treated Bev, me, and our children so special. All of us loved him very much. Our prayers continue for Jo, Terry, Tim, and Tanja, and Gerald, and all who knew him.
Please pray for Bev; she's experiencing some numbness in her hand and pain in her neck. She had an MRI done today. Similar things happened two and one-half years ago; she then got a n injection of really strong medicine. Probably she'll have to wait for another shot (if it's necessary) until we get back.
My nephew Lucas graduated from the USAFA today. That was my dream for many years. I'm so proud of him.
A statement was made at the funeral today that has really profound meaning: "the 2 most important days in your life are the day you were born and the day you realized why you were born."
I hope you know your purpose for being here. May God bless you richly.
Today was a long, tiring, and wonderful day. The funeral service for Cline Paden was this afternoon. It was a wonderful time to celebrate the life of this great man. Why have I been so blessed that I have known such a man, I'll never know. There must have been well over 1,000 people at the service. Many Sunset alumni (including Gabriel Yankee, from our class, who I haven't seen since we graduated in 1981), friends, Sunset church members, and others who loved this man and his family, and were influenced by Cline is many ways. I doubt many had more of an impact on world evangelism during the second half of the 20th century than did this man. What a joy to be around him. We had many special times eating peanuts in the parking lot together. He treated Bev, me, and our children so special. All of us loved him very much. Our prayers continue for Jo, Terry, Tim, and Tanja, and Gerald, and all who knew him.
Please pray for Bev; she's experiencing some numbness in her hand and pain in her neck. She had an MRI done today. Similar things happened two and one-half years ago; she then got a n injection of really strong medicine. Probably she'll have to wait for another shot (if it's necessary) until we get back.
My nephew Lucas graduated from the USAFA today. That was my dream for many years. I'm so proud of him.
A statement was made at the funeral today that has really profound meaning: "the 2 most important days in your life are the day you were born and the day you realized why you were born."
I hope you know your purpose for being here. May God bless you richly.
Monday, May 28, 2007
Just a few days before we leave
I'm new at blogging. First time for me. I thought I would give it a try; maybe it'll be easier to communicate with family/friends while Bev and I are in Brazil.
Plans are to leave Lubbock on Friday, June 1, going first to Recife, then to Salvador on the 13th, then leaving Brazil on June 25th and arriving back in Lubbock the next day. While in Recife we'll do various evangelistic and benevolent works with TORCH Missions (sponsored by the Western Hills Church of Christ in Nashville; Terry Reeves is the director). Dannhy Bratcher, a recent Sunset grad., along with missionary Randy Short, are doing a lot to help get things ready. In Salvador I'll be doing a weekend study on the Minor Prophets (8th Century); on Sunday, the 17th, there will be one assembly for all the churches in the area. That should be another wonderful experience (maybe 400+ Christians for that). I'll be doing some additional teaching there, but not sure of all the details. Besides Bev and me, Tim Brumfield and a couple of current Sunset students will be in Brazil, but not all of us (other than Bev and me) in the same place at the same time.
It's been 3 years since I was in Brazil and I'm always amazed and thankful at the good works that are being done in Salvador and the state of Bahia. God has truly blessed the work there.
We are so thankful for the many people who gave sacrificially to help us make this trip. There are so many wonderful people who love us and continue to encourage us.
For those I haven't talked to or written lately, here are a few things going on in recent days (past and future):
1. Sunset graduation (55 graduates) was May 19
2. Bev and I had our 29th wedding anniversary on May 20
3. Daniel is getting married in Arkansas, Aug. 11
4. Josh and Kyleen both teach at Westbury Christian School in Houston
5. Lori and Jonathan are in Lubbock, both working at Sunset
6. Cline Paden, a very special person (friend, missionary, elder, preacher, Sunset founder) died last weekend; his funeral will be Wednesday (May 30).
Please pray for us.
Plans are to leave Lubbock on Friday, June 1, going first to Recife, then to Salvador on the 13th, then leaving Brazil on June 25th and arriving back in Lubbock the next day. While in Recife we'll do various evangelistic and benevolent works with TORCH Missions (sponsored by the Western Hills Church of Christ in Nashville; Terry Reeves is the director). Dannhy Bratcher, a recent Sunset grad., along with missionary Randy Short, are doing a lot to help get things ready. In Salvador I'll be doing a weekend study on the Minor Prophets (8th Century); on Sunday, the 17th, there will be one assembly for all the churches in the area. That should be another wonderful experience (maybe 400+ Christians for that). I'll be doing some additional teaching there, but not sure of all the details. Besides Bev and me, Tim Brumfield and a couple of current Sunset students will be in Brazil, but not all of us (other than Bev and me) in the same place at the same time.
It's been 3 years since I was in Brazil and I'm always amazed and thankful at the good works that are being done in Salvador and the state of Bahia. God has truly blessed the work there.
We are so thankful for the many people who gave sacrificially to help us make this trip. There are so many wonderful people who love us and continue to encourage us.
For those I haven't talked to or written lately, here are a few things going on in recent days (past and future):
1. Sunset graduation (55 graduates) was May 19
2. Bev and I had our 29th wedding anniversary on May 20
3. Daniel is getting married in Arkansas, Aug. 11
4. Josh and Kyleen both teach at Westbury Christian School in Houston
5. Lori and Jonathan are in Lubbock, both working at Sunset
6. Cline Paden, a very special person (friend, missionary, elder, preacher, Sunset founder) died last weekend; his funeral will be Wednesday (May 30).
Please pray for us.
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