Many of you probably remember the science fiction film, E. T. about an extra-terrestial being that gets stranded on Earth and needs to find his way home. Made in 1982, it is one of the most popular movies of all time. This morning i was talking with one of the daughters of my current host family, a college student majoring in English. She and her family spent six months in the US recently. We discussed cultural differences, language learning, and even US history, which she is also studying.Some of the topics that Brazilians like to discuss are soccer (futebol), cafe (coffee), TV, beer, and BBQ. Some of the cultural differences she mentioned was that of complimenting and greeting, and also referring to obvious physical traits.
For example when some one enters a room they greet everyone individually even if there are twenty people there. Brazilians are very quick to offer to help or suggest things. There is a famous painter who had only one arm who was referred to publicly as the cripple. This is not considered offensive as it would be in the US. I have very thick silvery white hair and everyone is always commenting on it, and how much they like it.
I asked about racism and she said it is very subtle but that almost everyone has at least one African or indigenous ancestor in their family tree. (I,ve read 96% of Brazilians). I mentioned that everyone seemed to know about me, even personal details. She said, "You're like E.T. You're pale, tall, a foreigner, and everyone is curious about you." I got a big chuckle about this comparison.
Enjoying my relative rest period this week before resuming traveling next week. My hostess, a very hard working woman, is singing worship songs in Portuguese while she prepares almoco, the main, midday meal.
Last night i finally had the opportunity to read and listen to the Bible in Portuguese at the same time. I need to concentrate but have no problem following along. If i do this enough i think it will help my pronunciation and comprehension.
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Milagre de Deus/ Miracle of God
For many years I have carried a burden from the Lord to encourage, model, and teach people to read the Word of God, and to seek and receive revelation from the Holy Spirit in order to truly know God and fulfill the purpose for which we were created- to glorify Him. While i am not intending to give up on this the fruit of my labors has not been large. Last night He gave me great encouragement. The day had been restful as i waited for the next change. I often compare myself to the tail of a dog, as in the dog wags the tail, a comparison my Brazilian friends find humorous, because i usually don't know what is happening next. I had passed up an opportunity to accompany some young friends because i thought that i was moving to another house. Later i learned that this may happen today.
So I accepted an invite to go to the beach at night. This turned out to be a birthday party for a young man turning twenty. I had met his dad previously and talked with his sister as well but had not connected them together as a family. Eventually about thirty young people gathered. Thiago and Bruna from Brasilia had accompanied me. They played games in the sand while i spoke to the dad whose name i don't know how to spell or pronounce.
Later Andre and his namorada came. She lived in the US during several years of high school and speaks good English. We spoke and eventually were joined by Thais, and another young woman who said she has learned English from movies and TV rather than school. In Portuguese words that begin with the letter R have a H sound instead. At one point Thais was talking about hock and holl. It took me a minute to figure this out.
Later a young man named Paulinho and a young woman named Graziela who has lived in the UK for over four years and I spoke. Was extremely impressed by their serious fervor for God, deep knowledge of the Word including references, and their understanding of the relationship between the Spirit and the Word. They are true disciples. I would like to have more time with them. I now believe that this work of God in a person' life is miraculous because so few "Christians" seem to experience it.
So I accepted an invite to go to the beach at night. This turned out to be a birthday party for a young man turning twenty. I had met his dad previously and talked with his sister as well but had not connected them together as a family. Eventually about thirty young people gathered. Thiago and Bruna from Brasilia had accompanied me. They played games in the sand while i spoke to the dad whose name i don't know how to spell or pronounce.
Later Andre and his namorada came. She lived in the US during several years of high school and speaks good English. We spoke and eventually were joined by Thais, and another young woman who said she has learned English from movies and TV rather than school. In Portuguese words that begin with the letter R have a H sound instead. At one point Thais was talking about hock and holl. It took me a minute to figure this out.
Later a young man named Paulinho and a young woman named Graziela who has lived in the UK for over four years and I spoke. Was extremely impressed by their serious fervor for God, deep knowledge of the Word including references, and their understanding of the relationship between the Spirit and the Word. They are true disciples. I would like to have more time with them. I now believe that this work of God in a person' life is miraculous because so few "Christians" seem to experience it.
Sunday, July 28, 2013
Conferencia (2)
The missionary conference is held every two years in Vitoria. Each year is a little bigger with more speakers and more attenders. Last night blurs into today. Many speakers from different countries, loud worship, many prayers, old friends, new friends- amazing love, concern and fellowship- sometimes overwhelming. This morning my good friend MA prayed for me as did another man whom i had never seen before. Many people comment upon my abundant silver hair.
This morning Thiago led worship. Another brother whose name i just can't retain played the sax. I have been waiting for this for many years. Another brother named Willie from Rio plays everything. Marcelo shared first, had a technical issue, about three people shared during the interim. All of the missionaries seem to have vídeos of what God is doing although the screens these are being shown on are problematic. I was next, the second of many. My allotment was twenty minutes and i had a shopping list of topics including giving thanks, hospitality (opening up houses) fasting, sending missionaries in teams, and forming English clubs.
the meeting started at 9 and was still going Strong at 3:30 when i finally bowed out. The midday meal was just beginning to be served and i spoke with two different groups of Young people. Am Always amazed at how easy this is.
Was taken back to the house, took a long nap, a shower, and about 8:30 went to Vinci's house where about thirty people had assembled to eat pumpkin soup, with or without shrimp, and fellowship. Several hours later was driven to my host home where they are now eating a different kind of soup. People appear and disappear from houses like characters in a play. Last night as were leaving for the meeting three middle-aged ladies appeared who may or may not have been related to my host. When I woke up this morning a pastor and his adult son from Brasilia were present.
A number of Young people were impacted by the Holy Spirit and came up for prayer to be sent out to other countries. Unfortunately by the time this finally happened i was burned out from trying to concentrate on Portuguese.
This morning Thiago led worship. Another brother whose name i just can't retain played the sax. I have been waiting for this for many years. Another brother named Willie from Rio plays everything. Marcelo shared first, had a technical issue, about three people shared during the interim. All of the missionaries seem to have vídeos of what God is doing although the screens these are being shown on are problematic. I was next, the second of many. My allotment was twenty minutes and i had a shopping list of topics including giving thanks, hospitality (opening up houses) fasting, sending missionaries in teams, and forming English clubs.
the meeting started at 9 and was still going Strong at 3:30 when i finally bowed out. The midday meal was just beginning to be served and i spoke with two different groups of Young people. Am Always amazed at how easy this is.
Was taken back to the house, took a long nap, a shower, and about 8:30 went to Vinci's house where about thirty people had assembled to eat pumpkin soup, with or without shrimp, and fellowship. Several hours later was driven to my host home where they are now eating a different kind of soup. People appear and disappear from houses like characters in a play. Last night as were leaving for the meeting three middle-aged ladies appeared who may or may not have been related to my host. When I woke up this morning a pastor and his adult son from Brasilia were present.
A number of Young people were impacted by the Holy Spirit and came up for prayer to be sent out to other countries. Unfortunately by the time this finally happened i was burned out from trying to concentrate on Portuguese.
Saturday, July 27, 2013
Eu Vou
Am in a challenging phase of language learning now. Am picking up many words and phrases and sometimes can follow a line of thinking. Very difficult to sustain. Constant translation is actually distracting and very difficult even for the best English speakers here. What is evolving is the translator occasionally summarizing and answering questions.
Finally decided to write names down in a notebook because i am meeting so many people. Maybe this will work. Last night was the second of the conference. At least a thousand and perhaps more in attendance. Many speakers, testimonies and prayers. Eventually this begins to blur as my brain gets tired. I have also told the story about how my foot got injured to at least a hundred different people. As one brother said, this gives me practice in Portuguese.
Am beginning to adjust to the four meals a day by eating less in each meal. I hope that i don't wake up at midnight to eat when i get home. Culture shock in general is wearing off.
The most powerful portion of the gathering last night was the worship, and in particular, the powerful worship gift of a young brother named Bruno, a new friend of mine. He and his wife Rafaela and i have gotten close. We were together on the trip to Bahia. He is a songwriter and has written a powerful song that i call Eu vou. (I will) This is repeated about six times as in I will go, i will sacrifice, i will preach the gospel.
This morning had a light breakfast, and then off to the gathering. Last night the brothers from Canada, the Amazon and Nepal shared. This morning William, a brother who works with indigenous people in Brazil, and one of his disciples spoke.
Went to two workshops. The first was Junio from Nepal, and the second was Marcelo, a Brazilian friend living in Virginia. We must have closer to two thousand people today. A young lady named Rebecca helped with translation. She and her friend Susanna, last night's translator are English majors at the university.
Met a brother from Chile who will visit the US in the fall. Juan Paulo speaks English and Spanish but no Portuguese. My mind is beginning to think a little in Portuguese and i found myself using Portuguese words and phrases before remembering that he doesn't speak it.
Finally decided to write names down in a notebook because i am meeting so many people. Maybe this will work. Last night was the second of the conference. At least a thousand and perhaps more in attendance. Many speakers, testimonies and prayers. Eventually this begins to blur as my brain gets tired. I have also told the story about how my foot got injured to at least a hundred different people. As one brother said, this gives me practice in Portuguese.
Am beginning to adjust to the four meals a day by eating less in each meal. I hope that i don't wake up at midnight to eat when i get home. Culture shock in general is wearing off.
The most powerful portion of the gathering last night was the worship, and in particular, the powerful worship gift of a young brother named Bruno, a new friend of mine. He and his wife Rafaela and i have gotten close. We were together on the trip to Bahia. He is a songwriter and has written a powerful song that i call Eu vou. (I will) This is repeated about six times as in I will go, i will sacrifice, i will preach the gospel.
This morning had a light breakfast, and then off to the gathering. Last night the brothers from Canada, the Amazon and Nepal shared. This morning William, a brother who works with indigenous people in Brazil, and one of his disciples spoke.
Went to two workshops. The first was Junio from Nepal, and the second was Marcelo, a Brazilian friend living in Virginia. We must have closer to two thousand people today. A young lady named Rebecca helped with translation. She and her friend Susanna, last night's translator are English majors at the university.
Met a brother from Chile who will visit the US in the fall. Juan Paulo speaks English and Spanish but no Portuguese. My mind is beginning to think a little in Portuguese and i found myself using Portuguese words and phrases before remembering that he doesn't speak it.
Friday, July 26, 2013
Missionary Conference #1
Yesterday was the last in Aracruz. My very friendly "doctor" checked my wound for the third time and found no infection. Discovered that he had worked in a hospital for many years, performed surgeries, finally purchased his own pharmacy but retains his passion for surgery, which may explain why he was so happy to see me.
Am seeing encouraging signs of organization. Missionaries requiring a ride for the two plus hour trip to VV had their luggage tagged with their name, assignment to van 1 or 2, reception at the conference site by friendly people directing us to a room where we found our first evening meal, with a strong young man to carry my luggage. The ride was a little challenging as i need to elevate my foot when possible, and i sat next to a very nice child who is at the age of constant movement with a body consisting mostly of elbows and knees.
In the evening the three brothers from Portugal shared. Translators have been assigned to me for every meeting in rotating shifts. A young man named Diego had the honors. As i have heard previously he learned much of his English from watching American videos, TV programs and movies growing up. He has never visited an English speaking country. Anderson, a Brazilian serving in Portugal coordinated the sharing. Pedro was first followed by Samuel. As i am trying to learn, I do not desire constant translation but just if i have a question or a problem. Samuel shared a beautiful testimony of the Lord showing him to adopt (spiritually) a young woman whose father had died recently. This is the heart of God.
This morning there were workshops. I believe about ten choices in all from seasoned brothers from the mission field. My choice for the first one was done by Sandro about establishing little businesses for self- supporting missionaries, particularly in countries which are hostile to the gospel but are open to investment.
The second workshop i attended was by Laerte who discussed preparation for missionary work. The barriers he cited were linguistic, cultural, geographical and spiritual. This was well organized. Along the way I am meeting new people and seeing old friends. I am staying at the home of Alex, my 12th different one in Brazil. Had previously met him but had not had the opportunity to stay.
Am continually amazed as i find the churches here living out the New Testament. I have read, absorbed and tried to live this. Am rejoicing at doing this with others.
Am seeing encouraging signs of organization. Missionaries requiring a ride for the two plus hour trip to VV had their luggage tagged with their name, assignment to van 1 or 2, reception at the conference site by friendly people directing us to a room where we found our first evening meal, with a strong young man to carry my luggage. The ride was a little challenging as i need to elevate my foot when possible, and i sat next to a very nice child who is at the age of constant movement with a body consisting mostly of elbows and knees.
In the evening the three brothers from Portugal shared. Translators have been assigned to me for every meeting in rotating shifts. A young man named Diego had the honors. As i have heard previously he learned much of his English from watching American videos, TV programs and movies growing up. He has never visited an English speaking country. Anderson, a Brazilian serving in Portugal coordinated the sharing. Pedro was first followed by Samuel. As i am trying to learn, I do not desire constant translation but just if i have a question or a problem. Samuel shared a beautiful testimony of the Lord showing him to adopt (spiritually) a young woman whose father had died recently. This is the heart of God.
This morning there were workshops. I believe about ten choices in all from seasoned brothers from the mission field. My choice for the first one was done by Sandro about establishing little businesses for self- supporting missionaries, particularly in countries which are hostile to the gospel but are open to investment.
The second workshop i attended was by Laerte who discussed preparation for missionary work. The barriers he cited were linguistic, cultural, geographical and spiritual. This was well organized. Along the way I am meeting new people and seeing old friends. I am staying at the home of Alex, my 12th different one in Brazil. Had previously met him but had not had the opportunity to stay.
Am continually amazed as i find the churches here living out the New Testament. I have read, absorbed and tried to live this. Am rejoicing at doing this with others.
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
Festa
Last night Gilberto, an older prophetic brother, came to the gathering of about one hundred in an open roofed area of Marcos' house. We had a time of worship and then an extended time of fervent prayer. A number of people gave testimonies and i prayed for several people. Due to my injury i am on crutches now. The last time was twenty-six years ago from playing basketball. Only a week then. Hopefully no longer now. I went to bed at eleven although the meeting went on several hours longer.
This morning i was unable to join Gilmar for a morning walk but did have an encouraging conversation with Sandro. He is a fervent brother who served seven years in a very dangerous country and is now involved in training missionaries and providing respite for others. With the help of Gilmar organized a return visit to the fazenda where I had visited a month before. About twenty-five men are being ministered too there. Instead of just Gilmar and me, we were about sixteen in number. We worshiped, gave testimonies and exhortations and brought a lot of rice, fruits and vegetables. I believe a number of the brothers and the people there were impacted. There is more that God wants me to do in that situation and I desire His wisdom to know what.
No actual meeting tonight but much "barulho" noise, continual laughter, fellowship and no one is drinking. Eating and fellowship has been going on for days on end. I was assured that this is actually unusual. The Brazilian Christian appetite for this seems insatiable.
I had a checkup this morning and there is no infection in my wound, which was the concern. I think the stitches come out in about a week.
This morning i was unable to join Gilmar for a morning walk but did have an encouraging conversation with Sandro. He is a fervent brother who served seven years in a very dangerous country and is now involved in training missionaries and providing respite for others. With the help of Gilmar organized a return visit to the fazenda where I had visited a month before. About twenty-five men are being ministered too there. Instead of just Gilmar and me, we were about sixteen in number. We worshiped, gave testimonies and exhortations and brought a lot of rice, fruits and vegetables. I believe a number of the brothers and the people there were impacted. There is more that God wants me to do in that situation and I desire His wisdom to know what.
No actual meeting tonight but much "barulho" noise, continual laughter, fellowship and no one is drinking. Eating and fellowship has been going on for days on end. I was assured that this is actually unusual. The Brazilian Christian appetite for this seems insatiable.
I had a checkup this morning and there is no infection in my wound, which was the concern. I think the stitches come out in about a week.
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
You can't take me anywhere
In the US we have a slang (jiria) expression, "Can't take you anywhere." The probable origin is with taking a young child toa nice restaurant. The child makes a mess. This evolved into anyone (an adult) who drops something or makes an accidental mess of some kind. Other people express mock horror and see "We can't take you anywhere. This probably doesn't translate well.
Monday morning I woke up in the neighborhood of Coqueiral and took an early walk with Gilmar & Junio. Gilmar is one of the few Brazilians i know that likes to walk for exercise. It is not a cultural concept. Afterwards we went to the bakery (padaria) where he picked up about fifty French rolls, a staple of breakfast cuisine. Later we had almoco- the large midday meal. I knew Vinci was coming in the evening so I rested and read in the afternoon. We finally gathered about nine. My host Marcos led us in worship, our numbers augmented by families from Virginia, Scotland, Canada, and the Amazon. Vinci rolled in later and introduced all of the missionaries. Then he taught about common problems that trouble the work of God such as egotism. I understood about eighty percent. Having one person speaking instead of fifty at once facilitates understanding.
This morning we went to a rented schooner on the river nearby. This was an aged wooden craft that can hold about forty people. With the few cars available our group was ferried to this vessel. Eventually it was standing room only and we went up the river for perhaps half an hour. We had wooded areas on both banks but i did not see any animals. At length we came to a wooden platform anchored in the river that we could use to swim from. I had not brought my swim trunks and did not plan to swim. Eventually i was persuaded. I enjoy swimming and a number of the younger people had swum to the nearer bank. When i got there i discovered that a muddy growth had made this so slippery that ascent was nearly impossible. Unfortunately I made the attempt. I slipped, fell, and cut the side of my foot on the rock. This began to bleed so i swam back to the ship. The skipper had some old iodine, guaze to doctor my foot.
When i returned to the house i was persuaded to go to a clinic. The doctor was out for lunch so my friend took me to the pharmacist. I thought we were buying medecine. Instead the pharmacist took me to an inner chamber where he gave me shots for anesthetic, dug out the foreign material, gave me eight stitches and throughly cleaned the wound. Finally he bandaged the wound. At the end he declined payment for at least half an hour of skilled work. He just took enough to cover materials because i was "a man of God." Brazil is amazing on many levels.
Monday morning I woke up in the neighborhood of Coqueiral and took an early walk with Gilmar & Junio. Gilmar is one of the few Brazilians i know that likes to walk for exercise. It is not a cultural concept. Afterwards we went to the bakery (padaria) where he picked up about fifty French rolls, a staple of breakfast cuisine. Later we had almoco- the large midday meal. I knew Vinci was coming in the evening so I rested and read in the afternoon. We finally gathered about nine. My host Marcos led us in worship, our numbers augmented by families from Virginia, Scotland, Canada, and the Amazon. Vinci rolled in later and introduced all of the missionaries. Then he taught about common problems that trouble the work of God such as egotism. I understood about eighty percent. Having one person speaking instead of fifty at once facilitates understanding.
This morning we went to a rented schooner on the river nearby. This was an aged wooden craft that can hold about forty people. With the few cars available our group was ferried to this vessel. Eventually it was standing room only and we went up the river for perhaps half an hour. We had wooded areas on both banks but i did not see any animals. At length we came to a wooden platform anchored in the river that we could use to swim from. I had not brought my swim trunks and did not plan to swim. Eventually i was persuaded. I enjoy swimming and a number of the younger people had swum to the nearer bank. When i got there i discovered that a muddy growth had made this so slippery that ascent was nearly impossible. Unfortunately I made the attempt. I slipped, fell, and cut the side of my foot on the rock. This began to bleed so i swam back to the ship. The skipper had some old iodine, guaze to doctor my foot.
When i returned to the house i was persuaded to go to a clinic. The doctor was out for lunch so my friend took me to the pharmacist. I thought we were buying medecine. Instead the pharmacist took me to an inner chamber where he gave me shots for anesthetic, dug out the foreign material, gave me eight stitches and throughly cleaned the wound. Finally he bandaged the wound. At the end he declined payment for at least half an hour of skilled work. He just took enough to cover materials because i was "a man of God." Brazil is amazing on many levels.
Monday, July 22, 2013
Guiapari
As is usual my sense of how things are spelled is sketchy unless i see it enough times. In the city of Guiapari, a coastal town enjoyed by Brazilian tourists, my new friend Junio, a Brazilian missionary serving in a smaller Asian country, and I are hosted by Vincente & Ana, parents of Laura, a three year old. The next morning they serve the classic Brazilian breakfast- coffee, yougurt, bread with thin sandwich meat and cheese accompanied by coffee cake. They live close to the beach. Junio & I walk the boardwalk, six kilometers in all (3.5 miles). We are the first ones to assemble. Very gradually over the next several hours other A team members arrive. Mateus (2 and a half), our youngest member, enjoys playing in the sand and surf. We are surrounded by vendors hawking food items, beach wraps (like a thin sari) sunglasses and other things. Eventually about fifteen A teamers are huddled talking to each other. They can do this all day.
Lunch calls and Junio & i return to Vincente's home. Ana has prepared the classic almoco- meat, beans, rice and salad. Later we go to the gathering. The church is only about 30 people but they have rented a nice, carpeted hall in which four or five hundred believers gather. They come from all over the region, and i see many friends ( Marco A & Cida, Hid & family, Vanessa, Asaph & Karen, Gilmar & Ana and others.) We have powerful worship, four different elders speak, other people give testimonies, we see a video of church members, the A team is introduced, and I am asked to speak a sentence in Portuguese to show that I can. Liliani, an English teacher, has taught me a Portuguese tongue twister which translates to "Three plates of wheat for three sad tigers. In Portuguese most of these words begin with the same sound, and they have trouble saying it. I don't have the same difficulty because we have this sound in English.
Finally my friend Vinci speaks and i am encouraged that whereas I only got about 20/30 % of what the other speakers said, I understand about 90% of his message. Everyone has a different rthymn to their speech and i have heard him many times. He also pauses for emphasis so I can catch up. At length we lay hands on and pray for the two new elders.
The next day we go to a large home with a swimming pool. Eventually about one hundred people gather. The classic Brazilian barbecue goes on literally for many hours. The church serves us. People continually circulate with food, beverages, and the slightest need is attended to cheerfully and immediately. No king received better service. I have a good conversation with Asaph's namorada- she does not speak English- and another with two sisters who do. One lived in the US for 3.5 years. I am introduced to many people whose names i wish i could remember. Mateus gives me a present.
Eventually i am told that the A team is about to leave. This is difficult to believe because it is not yet dark and we don't seem to be able to travel until then. However by the time we are finally assembled it is in fact dark, and we proceed with eighteen people in a 15 passenger van. The A team changes with our younger Vitoria based members dropped off, and a missionary family from Africa added. Even our faithful driver changes. Wender is from a different church but we have integrated him into our family, and God has impacted his life.
We go to Coqueiral where i was a month before and have another meal with the church there. Four homes have been opened to our expanding group. I am in the home of my good friend Marcos. The hospitality is amazing. My room has a couple of chocolates. One is white and star shaped. I enjoy white chocolate and almost bite into it before i realize it is soap.
Lunch calls and Junio & i return to Vincente's home. Ana has prepared the classic almoco- meat, beans, rice and salad. Later we go to the gathering. The church is only about 30 people but they have rented a nice, carpeted hall in which four or five hundred believers gather. They come from all over the region, and i see many friends ( Marco A & Cida, Hid & family, Vanessa, Asaph & Karen, Gilmar & Ana and others.) We have powerful worship, four different elders speak, other people give testimonies, we see a video of church members, the A team is introduced, and I am asked to speak a sentence in Portuguese to show that I can. Liliani, an English teacher, has taught me a Portuguese tongue twister which translates to "Three plates of wheat for three sad tigers. In Portuguese most of these words begin with the same sound, and they have trouble saying it. I don't have the same difficulty because we have this sound in English.
Finally my friend Vinci speaks and i am encouraged that whereas I only got about 20/30 % of what the other speakers said, I understand about 90% of his message. Everyone has a different rthymn to their speech and i have heard him many times. He also pauses for emphasis so I can catch up. At length we lay hands on and pray for the two new elders.
The next day we go to a large home with a swimming pool. Eventually about one hundred people gather. The classic Brazilian barbecue goes on literally for many hours. The church serves us. People continually circulate with food, beverages, and the slightest need is attended to cheerfully and immediately. No king received better service. I have a good conversation with Asaph's namorada- she does not speak English- and another with two sisters who do. One lived in the US for 3.5 years. I am introduced to many people whose names i wish i could remember. Mateus gives me a present.
Eventually i am told that the A team is about to leave. This is difficult to believe because it is not yet dark and we don't seem to be able to travel until then. However by the time we are finally assembled it is in fact dark, and we proceed with eighteen people in a 15 passenger van. The A team changes with our younger Vitoria based members dropped off, and a missionary family from Africa added. Even our faithful driver changes. Wender is from a different church but we have integrated him into our family, and God has impacted his life.
We go to Coqueiral where i was a month before and have another meal with the church there. Four homes have been opened to our expanding group. I am in the home of my good friend Marcos. The hospitality is amazing. My room has a couple of chocolates. One is white and star shaped. I enjoy white chocolate and almost bite into it before i realize it is soap.
Saturday, July 20, 2013
TF (2)
Early the next morning i was able to take a walk around the neighborhood. Am thankful to God for every opportunity. Sometime in early evening a couple appeared with food prep. materials, donned plastic gowns and caps and began to cook, which they did for several hours. At some point in the proceedings a younger man arrived who turned out to speak excellent English. Although born in Brazil he had moved to the US at six and spent most of the next twenty years there before returning to Brazil three years ago. We had some good conversations. Instead of staying for the home gathering there i was whisked off to a different house where i found Katerini and Valeska, two other members of the A team. Chris had accompanied me. They shared some testimonies after some strong prayer. Eventually i was asked to teach. Beginning with the reality that most people who have ever lived have not been able to read, was able to progress to the role of the Holy Spirit in revealing the Word of God to us. Apparently this impacted some people. Afterwards we celebrated someone's birthday.
The next day took a walk with Dan, Chris and Juan. They wore flip flops. The idea of walking for exercise is really not part of Brazilian culture. Had a good talk with Chris who is in some kind of Bible college or seminary. Am thankful to God to live long enough to see the next generation rising up to take its place in the kingdom of God.
We had the big mid-day meal and eventually gathered at another home where we sat around for about na hour. Finally the farewells began. This is not a simple process. Each person hugs every other person and gives their farewells, in the house, outside the house, prayers, outside the van, and as we finally begin to pull away continue leaning out the doors and windows of the van.
We had a 433 kilometer (about 250 mile journey). Unfortunately with stops, multitudes of trucks, going through every town and city em route, and no multi- lane highways this is na interminable process. Our first stop is at a gás station with adjoining hotel, liquor store etc. and one unissex bathroom. There are twenty of us.
The next stop is at a famous eatery which specializes in something that i don't know the name of. A thin pita like thing is fried with a small bit of filling to order accompanied by some kind of sugar cane juice. I see a big fish tank with eight large fish. we have left Bahia's barefoot boys playing soccer on dirt fields behind.
Eventually we arrive at our destination, Guayapari, South of Vitioria serenaded by the church there from a roof top balcony. They serve a thick soup like mixture and we sit down for more food and fellowship. Brazilian appetites for these are insatiable. We are to acknowledge elders tomorrow and everyone is introduced to everyone else. I get to bed somewhere around 2 AM. This does not work for me.
The next day took a walk with Dan, Chris and Juan. They wore flip flops. The idea of walking for exercise is really not part of Brazilian culture. Had a good talk with Chris who is in some kind of Bible college or seminary. Am thankful to God to live long enough to see the next generation rising up to take its place in the kingdom of God.
We had the big mid-day meal and eventually gathered at another home where we sat around for about na hour. Finally the farewells began. This is not a simple process. Each person hugs every other person and gives their farewells, in the house, outside the house, prayers, outside the van, and as we finally begin to pull away continue leaning out the doors and windows of the van.
We had a 433 kilometer (about 250 mile journey). Unfortunately with stops, multitudes of trucks, going through every town and city em route, and no multi- lane highways this is na interminable process. Our first stop is at a gás station with adjoining hotel, liquor store etc. and one unissex bathroom. There are twenty of us.
The next stop is at a famous eatery which specializes in something that i don't know the name of. A thin pita like thing is fried with a small bit of filling to order accompanied by some kind of sugar cane juice. I see a big fish tank with eight large fish. we have left Bahia's barefoot boys playing soccer on dirt fields behind.
Eventually we arrive at our destination, Guayapari, South of Vitioria serenaded by the church there from a roof top balcony. They serve a thick soup like mixture and we sit down for more food and fellowship. Brazilian appetites for these are insatiable. We are to acknowledge elders tomorrow and everyone is introduced to everyone else. I get to bed somewhere around 2 AM. This does not work for me.
Thursday, July 18, 2013
A- Team (2)
Wednesday the A team (apostolic) went to another city to a group of brothers numbering eleven. We were the A team of 20 and about 20 more from TF. These believers labored to feed our group. We were using what appeared to be an abandoned school. We had times of sharing, prayer, worship in varying informal groups. Among the A team is a couple, Bruno and Rafaela who minister somewhere near Belo Horizonte, MS. In her own words Rafaela is a clown. They are in their mid 20's. She is one of the most outgoing people i have ever met. At one point she asked me to teach her English grammar. "How much time do i have?" "One day," she replied. She knows virtually no English. I quickly realized that although I have a good sense of English usage I don't remember the rules and don't know why things are so. By the grace of God my friend Gilberto who has just returned from a year in the UK to improve his English, has a good sense of why. He has helped me a lot already.
At some point in the afternoon we wandered to the town center, a tiny park. We began to worship, and pray, and, as curious people came to see what forty people were doing in their town, some of our number spoke with them. I suspect this wasn't too far apart from what people in NT times experienced when Paul & his companions arrived. As i don't have a command of the language i prayed. At least two people received Jesus and i saw contact info exchanged so follow-up could occur. A brother who lives in Canada said how wonderful if we could replicate this in North America. At one point a brother named Clovis, a superb dancer, was leading about twenty people in a conga line through the park.
Eventually we went to a restaurant on a side street owned by one of the people. When i say restaurant think little plastic tables and chairs, a dirty white color, room for perhaps ten people to dine, and nothing fancy of any kind. How did our larger group eat? No problem. The brethren set up the tables and chairs in the street along the sidewalk leaving a narrow lane for cars to pass. After awhile people bearing serving trays with tiny pieces of fried chicken, polenta, and French Fries came out. The first and second trays were quickly devoured. I didn't know if these were appetizers or the main course. Usually i don't know what is happening. They kept bringing out tray after tray. Finally i pushed my chair away from the table so as not to consume more.
At some point in the afternoon we wandered to the town center, a tiny park. We began to worship, and pray, and, as curious people came to see what forty people were doing in their town, some of our number spoke with them. I suspect this wasn't too far apart from what people in NT times experienced when Paul & his companions arrived. As i don't have a command of the language i prayed. At least two people received Jesus and i saw contact info exchanged so follow-up could occur. A brother who lives in Canada said how wonderful if we could replicate this in North America. At one point a brother named Clovis, a superb dancer, was leading about twenty people in a conga line through the park.
Eventually we went to a restaurant on a side street owned by one of the people. When i say restaurant think little plastic tables and chairs, a dirty white color, room for perhaps ten people to dine, and nothing fancy of any kind. How did our larger group eat? No problem. The brethren set up the tables and chairs in the street along the sidewalk leaving a narrow lane for cars to pass. After awhile people bearing serving trays with tiny pieces of fried chicken, polenta, and French Fries came out. The first and second trays were quickly devoured. I didn't know if these were appetizers or the main course. Usually i don't know what is happening. They kept bringing out tray after tray. Finally i pushed my chair away from the table so as not to consume more.
Texeira Freitas
The church in TF began at 7 in the evening and we finally wound up about one in the morning.
This group had about 300 people who didn't sit down for an hour and a half. Definitely expressives not cerebrals. Intense worship experience followed by so many speakers i lost count. Thiago & Liliana, who minister in an Asian country, gave striking testimonies. Thiago is a modern day David, pouring out his heart for God in song at every opportunity. i was next up and spoke about persevering with Christ. Never knowing the people or situation in which i may be called to minister causes me to have total dependence on the Holy Spirit. My dear "adopted son" and brother in Christ, Reuel, translated for me. Read James 1:2-4 in Portuguese as one of my texts, and also used 1 John 2:12-14. There were many young people in attendance, several of whom came up to me saying, "Do you remember me?" This is a difficult situation because i have already met hundreds of people in a number of places, many of whose names i have only heard once, and which i can't pronounce.
Pedro spoke next, and then Junior, a brother who ministers in a smaller Asian nation. He is beaming and energetic. He made an appeal for those whom God was calling to go forth to the nations. I am trying to learn by forgoing translation which means that i don't grasp much. At least a hundred people responded. Samuel from Portugal prayed for them generally, and then with loud musical accompaniment the team prayed for them. Neither the person whom i am praying nor i can really hear what is being said so i use a mixture of languages.
At some point Bruno, whom i had met the day before for the first time, ministered a song he had composed. He had attempted to explain to me in Portuguese that it was inspired by a prayer the Lord had given me at the disciplemakers' retreat several weeks earlier. i was overwhelmed.
As the prayer time was winding down Vinci summoned me to pray with him for a young woman borh blind. Healing from God is something i believe in but have never seen personally. We and others prayed for this girl. I felt something happen but with the language barrier and the noise didn't know. I learned later that she had always seen only darkness but as we prayed she could see light for the first time. This reminds me of the time in Mark 10:22ff where Jesus prays for a man once. The man reports he sees men like trees walking. Jesus prays a second time and the man's eyes are fully restored. I still don't understand this but i believe.
This group had about 300 people who didn't sit down for an hour and a half. Definitely expressives not cerebrals. Intense worship experience followed by so many speakers i lost count. Thiago & Liliana, who minister in an Asian country, gave striking testimonies. Thiago is a modern day David, pouring out his heart for God in song at every opportunity. i was next up and spoke about persevering with Christ. Never knowing the people or situation in which i may be called to minister causes me to have total dependence on the Holy Spirit. My dear "adopted son" and brother in Christ, Reuel, translated for me. Read James 1:2-4 in Portuguese as one of my texts, and also used 1 John 2:12-14. There were many young people in attendance, several of whom came up to me saying, "Do you remember me?" This is a difficult situation because i have already met hundreds of people in a number of places, many of whose names i have only heard once, and which i can't pronounce.
Pedro spoke next, and then Junior, a brother who ministers in a smaller Asian nation. He is beaming and energetic. He made an appeal for those whom God was calling to go forth to the nations. I am trying to learn by forgoing translation which means that i don't grasp much. At least a hundred people responded. Samuel from Portugal prayed for them generally, and then with loud musical accompaniment the team prayed for them. Neither the person whom i am praying nor i can really hear what is being said so i use a mixture of languages.
At some point Bruno, whom i had met the day before for the first time, ministered a song he had composed. He had attempted to explain to me in Portuguese that it was inspired by a prayer the Lord had given me at the disciplemakers' retreat several weeks earlier. i was overwhelmed.
As the prayer time was winding down Vinci summoned me to pray with him for a young woman borh blind. Healing from God is something i believe in but have never seen personally. We and others prayed for this girl. I felt something happen but with the language barrier and the noise didn't know. I learned later that she had always seen only darkness but as we prayed she could see light for the first time. This reminds me of the time in Mark 10:22ff where Jesus prays for a man once. The man reports he sees men like trees walking. Jesus prays a second time and the man's eyes are fully restored. I still don't understand this but i believe.
Apostolic team
Previous arrangements led to my being picked up at the Vitoria airport by by a 15 passenger van (Thanks, Edinha) full of brothers and sisters with whom i will spend the next week or two. Vinci had assembled an apostolic team of Brazilians and Portuguese believers, some serving overseas, a fascinating blend of gifts and personalities. Some I knew from previous encounters while others were new. The theme of apostolic teams is something i have studied Biblically, hoped, prayed and waited for, and never seen in the US despite every effort. Now i am participating in a dream come true.
Tjhat evening we traveled to the northern end of the state of Espirito Santu, to a group of perhaps fifty adults. Our group is twenty in all including a two year old. I have not heard such ear splitting sound since the '60s. After the worship vinci generously introduced the entire team and about brothers shared. About midnight (not unusual) we had a meal, and eventually were seperated into groups of varying sizes to go to private homes for the night. I had a room with two brothers, Pedro and Anderson, from Portugal.
The next morning, Pedro, who shares my desire for some regular exercise, and i took a walk Porto Alegre has a number of people of northern European descent whiles ES has more of southern European descent. I suspect this may account for some of the cultural differences. Bahia, where i am as i write, has many more of African descent.
Eventually we gathered ourselves together and drove to Texeira de Freitas, a city of about two hundred thousand in Bahia, which translates roughly to Texas Brothers. Here i was joined with two young brothers, Juan, whose wedding i had attended two years ago, and Chris, a cousin of my friend Gilberto from Sao Paulo.
Tjhat evening we traveled to the northern end of the state of Espirito Santu, to a group of perhaps fifty adults. Our group is twenty in all including a two year old. I have not heard such ear splitting sound since the '60s. After the worship vinci generously introduced the entire team and about brothers shared. About midnight (not unusual) we had a meal, and eventually were seperated into groups of varying sizes to go to private homes for the night. I had a room with two brothers, Pedro and Anderson, from Portugal.
The next morning, Pedro, who shares my desire for some regular exercise, and i took a walk Porto Alegre has a number of people of northern European descent whiles ES has more of southern European descent. I suspect this may account for some of the cultural differences. Bahia, where i am as i write, has many more of African descent.
Eventually we gathered ourselves together and drove to Texeira de Freitas, a city of about two hundred thousand in Bahia, which translates roughly to Texas Brothers. Here i was joined with two young brothers, Juan, whose wedding i had attended two years ago, and Chris, a cousin of my friend Gilberto from Sao Paulo.
Jairi
Last Sunday had the opportunity to return to Jairi, a poor neighborhood. About a hundred people jammed into a room belonging to an old school. Samir had arranged for me to minister. i spoke about spiritual warfare, part of the reality of the Christian life. Afterwards he asked me to give my testimony. Saw a number of my new friends again. Jesus is so faithful even though life is hard. Some of the verses used were Psalm 56:3,4 and 10,11, Hebrews 13:5, 1 Samuel 21:10-12, 13-15. Ephesians 6:10-18, 1 John 4:4, and Psalm 4:8. Bruno and another brother who had lived in Australia for a year and a half helped with translation.
Monday morning was up early to go to breakfast (cafe da manha) with brothers Jan and Fernando. Jan is a Brazilian of Swedish descent who gave up eldership in a large, thriving church for itinerant ministry. He has a strong heart for the nations ministering both in southern Brazil and northern Europe. I was also impressed by the dedication of Fernando, a younger man with a family who gave up a good job to serve with Jan in ministry. He now tries to live on a quarter of his former salary. By the grace of God we will work together in the future.
Then Samir and Nilson saw me off at the airport. Thank you God for precious friends and brothers.To my surprise i ran into V, a young sister whom i had met briefly a few days before. As she lives in the city that i was going to we had the same flights to and from Sao Paulo with the corresponding wait at that city's airport. I continue to be amazed by the ease with which the generations interact in Brazil, so unlike the separation typical of American culture.
Along the way i am learning travel tips for car or plane. Whenever possible stretch or walk, use the facilities, have water available.
Monday morning was up early to go to breakfast (cafe da manha) with brothers Jan and Fernando. Jan is a Brazilian of Swedish descent who gave up eldership in a large, thriving church for itinerant ministry. He has a strong heart for the nations ministering both in southern Brazil and northern Europe. I was also impressed by the dedication of Fernando, a younger man with a family who gave up a good job to serve with Jan in ministry. He now tries to live on a quarter of his former salary. By the grace of God we will work together in the future.
Then Samir and Nilson saw me off at the airport. Thank you God for precious friends and brothers.To my surprise i ran into V, a young sister whom i had met briefly a few days before. As she lives in the city that i was going to we had the same flights to and from Sao Paulo with the corresponding wait at that city's airport. I continue to be amazed by the ease with which the generations interact in Brazil, so unlike the separation typical of American culture.
Along the way i am learning travel tips for car or plane. Whenever possible stretch or walk, use the facilities, have water available.
Sunday, July 14, 2013
Preaching
For many years i worked full time in a little business that God gave me, came home, made dinner, and read and studied the Bible. I asked the Holy Spirit to teach and reveal it to me. But there was hardly any outlet for what He was planting in my heart. During part of this time He had me organize small scale men's retreats, eventually over forty, and then would have a chance to share. When I entered the house church movement thirteen years ago the opportunities came more frequently. In Brazil they are continuous.
Last night the leaders of the church in Porto Alegre invited me to preach to about a thousand people. With the skilled and anointed help of my translator Calebe was able to give full treatment to a theme that God had planted in my heart during the Jesus People days, and refined since called the Purpose and the Vision of God. In summary the supreme purpose of God is that He be glorified forever through Jesus Christ. The three part vision, or ways to do this are reflected in our three primary areas of relationship as Christians- the personal one with God, those with our brothers and sisters in Christ, and with those who do not know Christ. In other words becoming conformed to the image of Christ (like Him through sanctification), the unity of the Body of Christ through our surrender to His Lordship, and preaching His gospel in the whole world. With the help of the Holy Spirit and using many verses this truth impacted many people.
At the end was led to make an appeal for people to pray about either going as missionaries, or to fund those who do go by living a simpler lifestyle. At least twenty people came up to me afterwords saying that God was confirming that call in their lives. I also suggested a different model based on 2 Corinthians 2: 2:12-13, and Acts 20:4 of sending teams of people rather than an individual or one family.
This morning was asked to preach at a Lord's Supper service at one of the many satellite churches in other neighboring towns with whom the church in PA has practical relationship. We looked at two often neglected aspects of this celebration. First that the celebration of the Lord's Supper is part of a pattern of celebrating before the Lord by eating together that is seen in both old and new Testaments. Second that the weekly celebration as practiced by the early church is a rehearsal for the ultimate celebration, the wedding supper of the Lamb in Revelation 19. Again i am told that this had great impact.
I also suggested for those who understood English but did not feel confident in speaking it that they organize a weekly English club to practice. It could also be used as an outreach.
Trivia: the largest supermarket chain in Brazil is called "Big." It is owned by Walmart.
Last night the leaders of the church in Porto Alegre invited me to preach to about a thousand people. With the skilled and anointed help of my translator Calebe was able to give full treatment to a theme that God had planted in my heart during the Jesus People days, and refined since called the Purpose and the Vision of God. In summary the supreme purpose of God is that He be glorified forever through Jesus Christ. The three part vision, or ways to do this are reflected in our three primary areas of relationship as Christians- the personal one with God, those with our brothers and sisters in Christ, and with those who do not know Christ. In other words becoming conformed to the image of Christ (like Him through sanctification), the unity of the Body of Christ through our surrender to His Lordship, and preaching His gospel in the whole world. With the help of the Holy Spirit and using many verses this truth impacted many people.
At the end was led to make an appeal for people to pray about either going as missionaries, or to fund those who do go by living a simpler lifestyle. At least twenty people came up to me afterwords saying that God was confirming that call in their lives. I also suggested a different model based on 2 Corinthians 2: 2:12-13, and Acts 20:4 of sending teams of people rather than an individual or one family.
This morning was asked to preach at a Lord's Supper service at one of the many satellite churches in other neighboring towns with whom the church in PA has practical relationship. We looked at two often neglected aspects of this celebration. First that the celebration of the Lord's Supper is part of a pattern of celebrating before the Lord by eating together that is seen in both old and new Testaments. Second that the weekly celebration as practiced by the early church is a rehearsal for the ultimate celebration, the wedding supper of the Lamb in Revelation 19. Again i am told that this had great impact.
I also suggested for those who understood English but did not feel confident in speaking it that they organize a weekly English club to practice. It could also be used as an outreach.
Trivia: the largest supermarket chain in Brazil is called "Big." It is owned by Walmart.
Saturday, July 13, 2013
Horses
One thing that i see in the Porto Alegre area is horses. Apparently a number of people have horses that pull little carts. Most of them scavenge for metal. It is strange to see horses pulling old door panels. I heard that soon they will be outlawed from the city itself because of traffic congestion.
Yesterday the caveman (technologically speaking) used Skype for the first time with a friend in the UK. It was a little weird because they looked like they had white face paint on. Maybe i did too.
Yesterday morning had a long conversation with an American ex-pat who owns a little bakery (padaria) here. He told me about his life and extensive travels in a different business, and about his vision to start homes that would combine aged people and young orphans on every continent.
Last night was invited to a little party at the home of a man who is an agent for professional soccer players. He actually has a small soccer field inside his property that the neighborhood children play on. He served the famous Rio Grande do Sul barbeque. There were about thirty people there including children and enough food for sixty. Afterwards one of the church deacons ministered the gospel after his wife sang. (There were those that did not know Christ in attendance.)
You have heard the phrase, "You can't take it with you." As with so many others this has a Biblical origin. "Do not be overawed when a man grows rich, when the splendor of his house increases; for he will take nothing with him when he dies, his splendor will not descend with him." (Psalm 49:16-17 NIV)
The other night Samir & Lu hosted about a dozen people. He asked me to share, and so i spoke about the practical nature of the inspiration of the Bible. Sadly this is a little understood topic. Most Christians will agree in theory but have never truly thought about what this means and how it should affect their decisions, values, and convictions. Some verses i used were 2 Timothy 3:16-17, 2 Peter 1:16-21 with Matthew 17:1-7, Hebrews 4:12, John 14:26, 16:13, 17:17. For visual learners I used the "hand" illustration that i learned from the Navigators, and another one the Lord gave me the first time i was in Brazil.
Thursday, July 11, 2013
Prayer and Fasting
Have just finished today my first book in Portuguese other than the Bible. It is entitled Oracao e do Jejum, "Prayer and Fasting." Originally it was written in English by Mahesh Chavda, born a Hindu in E. Africa who converted to Christ, moved to the US, and now leads a church in N. Carolina. The subtitle is liberating the power of the church that prays. It contains powerful testimonies, and exhortation to pray and fast. Some of the purposes for this are to draw closer to God, ( James 4:8) humble ourselves, unleash spiritual power, especially against the power of the enemy, and to provide for the needy. I found it challenging, convicting, and encouraging. While i have fasted in the past, this writing provides fresh impetus to seek God and to see His kingdom advance in the earth.
Have had a very good time of study and prayer with Samir this afternoon. He is a faithful brother, a true Timothy, who is serving his wife and family, the youth, and many others in different churches with whom he has relationship. Through him I have received not only hospitality but also many opportunities to minister to various people in many ways.
Am continuing to be impressed with what i see of the church here. There is much mutual respect among the elders and deacons in the leadership. I learned that the elders rotate responsibilities with a different one providing administrative leadership each month. They meet at least weekly to read the Bible together, pray, and seek the Lord about necessary decisions. God is faithful.
Have had a very good time of study and prayer with Samir this afternoon. He is a faithful brother, a true Timothy, who is serving his wife and family, the youth, and many others in different churches with whom he has relationship. Through him I have received not only hospitality but also many opportunities to minister to various people in many ways.
Am continuing to be impressed with what i see of the church here. There is much mutual respect among the elders and deacons in the leadership. I learned that the elders rotate responsibilities with a different one providing administrative leadership each month. They meet at least weekly to read the Bible together, pray, and seek the Lord about necessary decisions. God is faithful.
Gramado
Two nights ago i was given the opportunity to minister to two different groups- one of married couples, and the other of singles- discipled by Joao Nelson and his wife. I taught about culture- the beliefs and behavior of a group of people- and where they come from Biblically. Among the verses used were 2 Corinthians 4:4, 2 Thessalonians 2:9-10, 1 John 5:19-21, Galatians 1:4, John 8:44, & 31-32, Romans 12:2 & 2 Corinthians 7:1. The basic idea is that the devil controls the beliefs and behaviors of the world, and because we are surrounded by ungodly people we also are influenced. In order to be set free we must respond to the Holy Spirit through the Word of God. I gave John 14:26, 16:13, and 17:17. This was well received by the Brazilian disciples.
Yesterday we went to Gramado, a tourist town modeled after a German village, very famous in Brazil. Except for people speaking Portuguese you would not think you are in Brazil. Near this place is a spectacular waterfall several hundred yards (meters) high, which divides in two. There is a observation area at the top but you can also walk down a steep set of stairs, 751 in all, to a closer observation area at the bottom. I was told by a Brazilian architect that one story equals 17 steps so this trek was the equivalent of walking down and then back up a 44 story building. Challenging but i was comforted to see people in their twenties resting on the way back up.
Afterwards we went to a chocolate shop where you can actually view the chocolate making process. Unfortunantely they were not doing this when we were there; just one man wrapping individual pieces.
Later that evening we were invited to Calebe's home, a young man whom i had met in the state of NH the previous year. He has been hosting a young Canadian man whose last night was celebrated by a Mexican food meal made by Calebe's sister Priscilla. Mexican food happens to be one of my favorites and she did a great job. There were a number of their young friends there as well, most of whom spoke English readily. So many people do that i am not learning more Portuguese because they want to practice their English and i really can't carry on a regular conversation in Portuguese.
This morning we returned to the chakira, or small farm, to pray with the elders and deacons. Enjoyed the tranquillity of this place and felt the presence of God as we prayed individually, in pairs, and as a group.
Yesterday we went to Gramado, a tourist town modeled after a German village, very famous in Brazil. Except for people speaking Portuguese you would not think you are in Brazil. Near this place is a spectacular waterfall several hundred yards (meters) high, which divides in two. There is a observation area at the top but you can also walk down a steep set of stairs, 751 in all, to a closer observation area at the bottom. I was told by a Brazilian architect that one story equals 17 steps so this trek was the equivalent of walking down and then back up a 44 story building. Challenging but i was comforted to see people in their twenties resting on the way back up.
Afterwards we went to a chocolate shop where you can actually view the chocolate making process. Unfortunantely they were not doing this when we were there; just one man wrapping individual pieces.
Later that evening we were invited to Calebe's home, a young man whom i had met in the state of NH the previous year. He has been hosting a young Canadian man whose last night was celebrated by a Mexican food meal made by Calebe's sister Priscilla. Mexican food happens to be one of my favorites and she did a great job. There were a number of their young friends there as well, most of whom spoke English readily. So many people do that i am not learning more Portuguese because they want to practice their English and i really can't carry on a regular conversation in Portuguese.
This morning we returned to the chakira, or small farm, to pray with the elders and deacons. Enjoyed the tranquillity of this place and felt the presence of God as we prayed individually, in pairs, and as a group.
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
Bug
Jimmy gave me a ride in his twenty-seven year old VW "Bug." What a trip! It brought back memories of the old hippie days. We visited a widow in the church. This is yet another example of the Brazilian Christians actually following the teachings of the NT ( 1 Timothy 5). She is a nice lady whose son is in medical school. When he graduates he will relieve the church of the burden of support. Until then God is caring for them through the believers.
Later Samir & I went to visit a family in a suburb. This was the first house i have ever seen that did not have a security fence and other apparatus installed because their entire development is surrounded by fences and guards who control access to the main road. Security is a big concern in Brazil. Every business, apartment, house or store has security fences, some electrified, with security guards everywhere. Whenever a person drives in or out of their home they can contact security services that they have hired to watch over them during the vulnerable period when the gate is open. A few days ago i went to an ATM with about eight machines in a building. There were four security guards with night sticks, and you had to put all electronics and metal through something resembling an airport screener. The police wear flak vests and are heavily armed. But I feel safe because of the angels protecting me.
The family we visited has three young adult children. Christian young adults live at home until they marry. They don't seem to have the same spirit of independence as in the US. They ate and fellowship together albeit at 10 PM. I don't know if i will ever adjust to Brazilian eating times- a small meal in the morning, a big lunch around 2, a small meal about 6 and another larger one at 10 or 11 or midnight or even the next morning. The husband of this family has been blind for almost twenty years yet he says that he is closer to Christ now and more active in His kingdom than ever before.
This morning S & i walked to JN's home. He is one of the pastors here, and has written a book about the Ephesians 4:11 gifts, a theme deep in my own heart. He gave me a copy as a present and we had a good discussion on this subject. I am amazed to discover that his understanding of the nature of these gifts, how they work together with one another, and how they should function in the Body is identical to mine.
Later Samir & I went to visit a family in a suburb. This was the first house i have ever seen that did not have a security fence and other apparatus installed because their entire development is surrounded by fences and guards who control access to the main road. Security is a big concern in Brazil. Every business, apartment, house or store has security fences, some electrified, with security guards everywhere. Whenever a person drives in or out of their home they can contact security services that they have hired to watch over them during the vulnerable period when the gate is open. A few days ago i went to an ATM with about eight machines in a building. There were four security guards with night sticks, and you had to put all electronics and metal through something resembling an airport screener. The police wear flak vests and are heavily armed. But I feel safe because of the angels protecting me.
The family we visited has three young adult children. Christian young adults live at home until they marry. They don't seem to have the same spirit of independence as in the US. They ate and fellowship together albeit at 10 PM. I don't know if i will ever adjust to Brazilian eating times- a small meal in the morning, a big lunch around 2, a small meal about 6 and another larger one at 10 or 11 or midnight or even the next morning. The husband of this family has been blind for almost twenty years yet he says that he is closer to Christ now and more active in His kingdom than ever before.
This morning S & i walked to JN's home. He is one of the pastors here, and has written a book about the Ephesians 4:11 gifts, a theme deep in my own heart. He gave me a copy as a present and we had a good discussion on this subject. I am amazed to discover that his understanding of the nature of these gifts, how they work together with one another, and how they should function in the Body is identical to mine.
Monday, July 8, 2013
Moyses (2)
Saturday I was taken to a baptism at the chakira, or little farm that the church here purchased some years ago. They use it for monthly baptisms, retreats, and other activities. About ten people were baptized. The first was the wife of the man who had given us the tour of the stadium. She radiated the joy of Christ. The last man went into the pool but did not give evidence of faith, and to their credit the two brothers chose not to baptize him.
Then i went with several families to a shopping mall. The children wanted McDonalds. There are a few here along with some Subways. I have seen no other franchise stores.
Then we went to the evening worship service with many people. I was seperated from my Portuguese Bible, and felt nude. Two young women from Detroit and I were introduced. I made a joke about being born a Gaucho. Then brother Moyses preached, the eighty-six year old man referenced in a prior post. What a treasure for the believers here. He spoke with power, passion, conviction and humor. Afterwards I showed 1 Corinthians 4:15 where Paul writes that even though you have ten thousand teachers in Christ that you do not have many fathers to one of the elders, a man about my age. Rogerio said that Moyses had led him to Christ thirty-nine years before. His wife said the same. I was in tears from the power of the Holy Spirit. We then had communion. Each person has his own piece of bread and cup. One eats a little and saves the rest to share with others. People go up to each other all over the building and eat together along with hugs, kisses and blessings.
Then I was taken to the home of Alexandre and Clarissa, a couple, who with their three children had visited Florida the month before. They are extremely hospitable. The nine year old girl will sometimes speak very slowly, with deliberate pauses and hand motions so I can understand.
Monday evening Samir took me to a suburb called Guyapiri (?). We had dinner at the house of one of the elders- pancakes- the first time I have seen them in almost two months in Brazil. They were served with jelly not syrup. It seems common to have breakfast type food at dinner time. The main meal is in the middle of the day. Then we went to the worship service with about two hundred people, most of whom know Samir. He had suggested that I teach on the Lord's Supper which I did, with his help and a young brother named Calebe for translation. It was an extensive effort, but the reality is that there is nothing that I can teach these people that they are not already walking in. I continue to be overwhelmed by the maturity of the believers here. As one elder told me- fancy words are nice but actual fruit is what the Lord is looking for.
Today I was able to walk- it rained yesterday- I need the exercise. A brother named Jimmy has brought me to his home for the mid-day meal. He has an old VW "bug" from about 1970 that i want to look at.
Then i went with several families to a shopping mall. The children wanted McDonalds. There are a few here along with some Subways. I have seen no other franchise stores.
Then we went to the evening worship service with many people. I was seperated from my Portuguese Bible, and felt nude. Two young women from Detroit and I were introduced. I made a joke about being born a Gaucho. Then brother Moyses preached, the eighty-six year old man referenced in a prior post. What a treasure for the believers here. He spoke with power, passion, conviction and humor. Afterwards I showed 1 Corinthians 4:15 where Paul writes that even though you have ten thousand teachers in Christ that you do not have many fathers to one of the elders, a man about my age. Rogerio said that Moyses had led him to Christ thirty-nine years before. His wife said the same. I was in tears from the power of the Holy Spirit. We then had communion. Each person has his own piece of bread and cup. One eats a little and saves the rest to share with others. People go up to each other all over the building and eat together along with hugs, kisses and blessings.
Then I was taken to the home of Alexandre and Clarissa, a couple, who with their three children had visited Florida the month before. They are extremely hospitable. The nine year old girl will sometimes speak very slowly, with deliberate pauses and hand motions so I can understand.
Monday evening Samir took me to a suburb called Guyapiri (?). We had dinner at the house of one of the elders- pancakes- the first time I have seen them in almost two months in Brazil. They were served with jelly not syrup. It seems common to have breakfast type food at dinner time. The main meal is in the middle of the day. Then we went to the worship service with about two hundred people, most of whom know Samir. He had suggested that I teach on the Lord's Supper which I did, with his help and a young brother named Calebe for translation. It was an extensive effort, but the reality is that there is nothing that I can teach these people that they are not already walking in. I continue to be overwhelmed by the maturity of the believers here. As one elder told me- fancy words are nice but actual fruit is what the Lord is looking for.
Today I was able to walk- it rained yesterday- I need the exercise. A brother named Jimmy has brought me to his home for the mid-day meal. He has an old VW "bug" from about 1970 that i want to look at.
Saturday, July 6, 2013
Job
Have finished reading Job in Portuguese for the second time. This is difficult because both Job and Jeremiah have a lot of different vocabulary that the other books of the Bible don't seem to have. Most of this book consists of speeches spoken by Job, his three "friends" and a younger man named Elihu. Beginning in chapter 38 God begins to ask Job a long series of questions- over one hundred by one person's count. These boil down to, "Who do you think you are, Job?" At the end Job repents and is restored.
Last night Samir and I went to a meeting in a suburb of Porto Alegre that begins with the letter V. These believers have grown in numbers out of a home meeting. A young man named Rafael is their shepherd. His wife is just about to give birth. I spoke on the theme of the strong love of God. Weak love would not have suffered and died for His enemies, for those who have rebelled against Him. Weak love would not have borne the betrayal and desertion by his closest friends, false accusations, mock trials, torture, the agonizing physical death on the cross, bearing the sin and rebellion of all humanity, the righteous wrath of God upon all of that sin, and most painful of all- the turning away and separation by an infinitely holy God who cannot look upon sin. (Habakkuk 1:13) This last suffering gave rise to the cry of Jesus on the cross. "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46 cf. Psalm 22:1) Only strong, dependable, fierce love could endure this.
Translation is difficult work for a person must think in two languages. So far i have broken in five people who had not previously translated. I do my best to speak slowly and clearly without jokes or slang, and am trying to think of visual ways to express things. Last night i was reminded of one of my favorite images of the Holy Spirit, that of a sculptor, and acted that out to show how God is working to change us to become more like Jesus. He uses the sledge hammer on me.
Last night Samir and I went to a meeting in a suburb of Porto Alegre that begins with the letter V. These believers have grown in numbers out of a home meeting. A young man named Rafael is their shepherd. His wife is just about to give birth. I spoke on the theme of the strong love of God. Weak love would not have suffered and died for His enemies, for those who have rebelled against Him. Weak love would not have borne the betrayal and desertion by his closest friends, false accusations, mock trials, torture, the agonizing physical death on the cross, bearing the sin and rebellion of all humanity, the righteous wrath of God upon all of that sin, and most painful of all- the turning away and separation by an infinitely holy God who cannot look upon sin. (Habakkuk 1:13) This last suffering gave rise to the cry of Jesus on the cross. "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46 cf. Psalm 22:1) Only strong, dependable, fierce love could endure this.
Translation is difficult work for a person must think in two languages. So far i have broken in five people who had not previously translated. I do my best to speak slowly and clearly without jokes or slang, and am trying to think of visual ways to express things. Last night i was reminded of one of my favorite images of the Holy Spirit, that of a sculptor, and acted that out to show how God is working to change us to become more like Jesus. He uses the sledge hammer on me.
Friday, July 5, 2013
Escola
Last night Samir and his family came and took me to the apartment of a young professional named Jeremias. He and two of his friends- average age about 30- listened with rapt attention for over an hour as i shared about the kingdom of God and discipleship. All understand English. I used the passage at the end of Matthew 28, Luke 14:25-33, Ephesians 2:1-3, Luke 6:46 among others. Again I rejoice at the receptivity of these people who were baptized last year. Sadly, so unlike my experience in the US.
This morning i took a walk for an hour with my host Telmo. He prefers to practice English. Around noon my new friend Nilson came and took me to a buffet restaurant which is very popular in Brazil. For R15, about $7, you can eat as much as you want of anything. Beverages are additional. These places are dangerous for someone who enjoys Brazilian cuisine as i do so i limit myself to one plate now. Many people have two or three.
During the meal I spoke to Nilson about what outreach the church has to the poor. He took me to a school (escola) that they support in a poor neighborhood called Indio Jari. We got off the paved road onto a dirt one to get there. While the building belongs to the government, and is old and dilapidated, everything else has been done by believers. They have about sixty children here. The public school is next door and has double sessions. Children go to the Christian school at the alternate time while their parents work. The place is run by a brother named Pipino (?) He has ministered there for five years on a shoestring budget. While i appreciate the opportunities to share with other people this is the kind of outreach that i hope to aid. When we arrived younger children were sleeping on mats on the floor. The age range is about 2 to 10. "And the king will answer them, "Truly I say to you, as you did to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me." (Matthew 25:40 ESV)
This morning i took a walk for an hour with my host Telmo. He prefers to practice English. Around noon my new friend Nilson came and took me to a buffet restaurant which is very popular in Brazil. For R15, about $7, you can eat as much as you want of anything. Beverages are additional. These places are dangerous for someone who enjoys Brazilian cuisine as i do so i limit myself to one plate now. Many people have two or three.
During the meal I spoke to Nilson about what outreach the church has to the poor. He took me to a school (escola) that they support in a poor neighborhood called Indio Jari. We got off the paved road onto a dirt one to get there. While the building belongs to the government, and is old and dilapidated, everything else has been done by believers. They have about sixty children here. The public school is next door and has double sessions. Children go to the Christian school at the alternate time while their parents work. The place is run by a brother named Pipino (?) He has ministered there for five years on a shoestring budget. While i appreciate the opportunities to share with other people this is the kind of outreach that i hope to aid. When we arrived younger children were sleeping on mats on the floor. The age range is about 2 to 10. "And the king will answer them, "Truly I say to you, as you did to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me." (Matthew 25:40 ESV)
Thursday, July 4, 2013
Moyses
Last night i was given the opportunity to share one of my most cherished revelations from the Lord, on the subject of marriage, with a small group of young single adults, and Samir and his wife. It was a rarity for me to give what i believe God has given me on this subject. Some years ago i asked God why He had created marriage as the Bible shows that this is not a human idea. He gave me four reasons. The first was companionship- Adam was lonely despite his perfect situation pre sin. The second was God's desire to have more people to love, i.e. godly children. The third was as a legitimate channel for the powerful sexual drive that He gave us for purpose number 2. The fourth, the most important and thus most controversial, is to provide, in the relationship between a godly man and a godly woman, a divinely ordained illustration of the relationship between Christ and the Church. It took well over an hour with translation but was well received. Thank you, Jesus, for the ongoing ministry opportunities.
This morning i was invited to meet with the elders and deacons in their weekly gathering. We prayed, worshiped, read the book of Colossians out loud one by one, commented on it, and did some administrative work. They asked me to share a little about myself. I gave a little of my testimony, and asked for prayer for the church in the US.
Afterwards i was introduced to a number of people who were working inside the church building including two young ladies from Michigan. It was pleasant to hear American accents again after a month here. Then Samir took me to the center of the city. We went inside the gas museum, looked at the river, and walked through a famous market with many stalls selling many different local items. We were walking outside in a throng of people when I almost stumbled over a indigenous woman with two little children sitting on the sidewalk selling little beadworks. After we passed her i asked Samir if she was into the local witchcraft. He said no so i returned through the crowd and took out a one real coin worth less than fifty cents, and about the size of a quarter. As I leaned down to give it to her the little daughter's tiny hand opened up naturally. The coin covered her palm. This image is engraved in my memory.
Moyses (spelling?) is a eighty-six year old Christian brother with astonishing energy and fervency. I have interacted with him several times. He speaks some English. It is heart warming to see the respect with which he is treated, and to hear the contributions that he makes. Today he was exhorting the other leaders to insure that Christ is at the center of the house group meetings. Family values are much stronger here and there is a tendency that several brothers have mentioned to make that the highest priority. I look forward to more time with him.
Earlier this afternoon God blessed me to have a time of prayer with Samir and Nilsson about raising up the gifts of Ephesians 4:11
As Samir and i walked around the Centro i saw a store name that translates to Green Belly. They sell children's clothes.
This morning i was invited to meet with the elders and deacons in their weekly gathering. We prayed, worshiped, read the book of Colossians out loud one by one, commented on it, and did some administrative work. They asked me to share a little about myself. I gave a little of my testimony, and asked for prayer for the church in the US.
Afterwards i was introduced to a number of people who were working inside the church building including two young ladies from Michigan. It was pleasant to hear American accents again after a month here. Then Samir took me to the center of the city. We went inside the gas museum, looked at the river, and walked through a famous market with many stalls selling many different local items. We were walking outside in a throng of people when I almost stumbled over a indigenous woman with two little children sitting on the sidewalk selling little beadworks. After we passed her i asked Samir if she was into the local witchcraft. He said no so i returned through the crowd and took out a one real coin worth less than fifty cents, and about the size of a quarter. As I leaned down to give it to her the little daughter's tiny hand opened up naturally. The coin covered her palm. This image is engraved in my memory.
Moyses (spelling?) is a eighty-six year old Christian brother with astonishing energy and fervency. I have interacted with him several times. He speaks some English. It is heart warming to see the respect with which he is treated, and to hear the contributions that he makes. Today he was exhorting the other leaders to insure that Christ is at the center of the house group meetings. Family values are much stronger here and there is a tendency that several brothers have mentioned to make that the highest priority. I look forward to more time with him.
Earlier this afternoon God blessed me to have a time of prayer with Samir and Nilsson about raising up the gifts of Ephesians 4:11
As Samir and i walked around the Centro i saw a store name that translates to Green Belly. They sell children's clothes.
Wednesday, July 3, 2013
Generosity
Last night Samir took me to a home group meeting at his friend Alexandre's home. About fifteen adults were in attendance- some marriede and some not- with a few small children. I would guess the average age around thirty. Samir shared on the grace of God with passion. Then they invited me to share as well. As happens so often I don't know the people or what they need so I depend on the leading of the Holy Spirit. He gave me Matt. 24:14 about preaching the gospel to all nations and then the end will come followed by what I believe is one of the biggest obstacles. Materialism has crippled the church in the US as Jesus predicted in the parable of the sower in Luke 8 (Matthew 13 & Mark 4). He speaks of a man who scattered seed that landed in different types of soil, using this as an analogy of someone giving the gospel message to different people. The third type of soil has many thorns and weeds which choke out the plant. Jesus refers to the riches and pleasures of this life as the thorns that choke the Word. Finally i gave them Luke 12:15 which says that a person's life does not consist in the abundance of their possessions- the exact opposite of what the world believes especially in the US. Then I appealed to them not to go the wrong way as we have done.
One of those in attendance was a former professional soccer player who now has some business interest in the local team. He is to be baptized on Saturday. Today when Samir picked me up we were given a personalized tour of the new soccer stadium through this man's intervention. A woman from marketing showed us all around in a way that Samir assured me was not usual. Then we met this man at a local restaurant. Unfortunately I can't follow rapid, colloquial Portuguese so i missed much of this but am amazed at the generosity of a man whom I met briefly the night before and with whom i do not share a language.
Odds & ends: A former mayor of this city was named Thompson Flores (Flowers).
Apparently poorer homes do have shower curtains.
Tonight i am to meet with a group of young single adults and share the Word.
One of those in attendance was a former professional soccer player who now has some business interest in the local team. He is to be baptized on Saturday. Today when Samir picked me up we were given a personalized tour of the new soccer stadium through this man's intervention. A woman from marketing showed us all around in a way that Samir assured me was not usual. Then we met this man at a local restaurant. Unfortunately I can't follow rapid, colloquial Portuguese so i missed much of this but am amazed at the generosity of a man whom I met briefly the night before and with whom i do not share a language.
Odds & ends: A former mayor of this city was named Thompson Flores (Flowers).
Apparently poorer homes do have shower curtains.
Tonight i am to meet with a group of young single adults and share the Word.
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
Porto Alegre
Just arrived in Porto Alegre last night, a name which translates to Happy Port. My friend Samir met me at the airport. We met at a retreat in New Hampshire last year. He is learning English, and I am trying to learn Portuguese, so we had a rambling conversation. He took me to a compound where all the pastors of the church he is with in P. A. live with their families. I think there are seven. An older gentleman and his wife have taken me in for this week. Samir returned about nine with a friend named Alessandro (i think) and took me to a Brazilian barbeque place. PA is in the Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul (big river of the south), the closest to Uruguay and Argentina. It is the home of the gauchos, Brazilian cowboys, and a lot of beef cattle are raised there.
The BBQ was rustic with wooden everything. Except for the meat the rest of the food is buffet style where you fill your own plate. The meat is served on long skewers by men who relentlessly return to your table to offer you more of whatever type of meat (many kinds) that you want. Even after you are satiated they keep returning. The highlight was a floor show on a raised wooden platform as follows: 1st phase- 4 women in flowing skirts resembling what you see in Western movies when they go to Mexico, and 4 men dressed in Cossack style clothing with spurred boots. The dance combines the foot work with a sort of polka style music dance.
2nd phase is the 4 men laying down wooden spears on the platform and doing intricate footwork without disturbing the spears. 3rd phase is a dance with swords. 4th phase is the leader whirling bolas - a cord with round wooden ends. These are meant to hit the floor. He twirled them very quickly, one in each hand, with light, then without light. Finally he got a female volunteer from the audience to stand motionless in the middle of the stage. She had fairly straight hair parted in the middle just touching the place where her neck touched her shoulders. He twirled the bolas around her head very rapidly and finally brushed her hair, once on each side, without touching her head. If one of the ends had struck her it would have injured her severely. Then he had a man stand with something like those thin wooden sticks that go into the end of ice cream bars in his mouth and eventually knocked it out without touching the man's face. Incredible skill.
Odds and ends: A Brazilian dentist used ultrasound to cleanse my gums.
First time for me: Not truly painful but not pleasant either.
So far I have not been served any free food or snacks on internal Brazilian flights. You must pay and exact change is preferred. I gave six reals for something that cost five and it took a few minutes to receive change.
Brazilian bathrooms: So far I have not seen a shower curtain in any home. They all have see through glass for the showers. It also took awhile to find the temperature adjustment, which is not on the wall but above your head on the shower unit itself. Nor do any of them have fans.
The BBQ was rustic with wooden everything. Except for the meat the rest of the food is buffet style where you fill your own plate. The meat is served on long skewers by men who relentlessly return to your table to offer you more of whatever type of meat (many kinds) that you want. Even after you are satiated they keep returning. The highlight was a floor show on a raised wooden platform as follows: 1st phase- 4 women in flowing skirts resembling what you see in Western movies when they go to Mexico, and 4 men dressed in Cossack style clothing with spurred boots. The dance combines the foot work with a sort of polka style music dance.
2nd phase is the 4 men laying down wooden spears on the platform and doing intricate footwork without disturbing the spears. 3rd phase is a dance with swords. 4th phase is the leader whirling bolas - a cord with round wooden ends. These are meant to hit the floor. He twirled them very quickly, one in each hand, with light, then without light. Finally he got a female volunteer from the audience to stand motionless in the middle of the stage. She had fairly straight hair parted in the middle just touching the place where her neck touched her shoulders. He twirled the bolas around her head very rapidly and finally brushed her hair, once on each side, without touching her head. If one of the ends had struck her it would have injured her severely. Then he had a man stand with something like those thin wooden sticks that go into the end of ice cream bars in his mouth and eventually knocked it out without touching the man's face. Incredible skill.
Odds and ends: A Brazilian dentist used ultrasound to cleanse my gums.
First time for me: Not truly painful but not pleasant either.
So far I have not been served any free food or snacks on internal Brazilian flights. You must pay and exact change is preferred. I gave six reals for something that cost five and it took a few minutes to receive change.
Brazilian bathrooms: So far I have not seen a shower curtain in any home. They all have see through glass for the showers. It also took awhile to find the temperature adjustment, which is not on the wall but above your head on the shower unit itself. Nor do any of them have fans.
Monday, July 1, 2013
Retreat (Retiro)
For many years God has given, and by His grace, I have received a hunger for the Word of God. I have read the entire Bible many times, and the New Testament alone many more, in three languages. He has given me some revelation, and I have tried to teach what He has given to me. I can tell you where the relevant verses and passages are on a number of themes and subjects. The difficulty has been in seeing the truth of the Bible play out in the church at large in the US. Granted that i have isues and problems; nonetheless over four decades of labor has seen too little fruit. But in Brazil I am seeing the pages of the New Testament come alive.
On Friday night i was invited to the inaugural meeting of the Hebreus Moto Clube, a Brazilian Christian motorcycle club established to reach out to that portion of the community. There was joy, worship music with a blues beat, and quite a few attendees. But things got better.
Saturday morning we went to a disciplemakers' retreat. Note that I wrote disciplemakers, not disciples. If a disciple of Jesus Christ is a whole hearted follower of His, teachable and humble as the underlying Greek word "mathetes" implies, and one who is by grace learning and obeying the commands of Jesus then i know very few disciples in the US. I know even fewer disciplemakers- those who are actively pouring their lives into someone else in a committed, relational, purposeful way- usually one on one.
Here were about two hundred people, young, middle aged and older, men and women, who have ben doing this for decades in some cases. They have been or are being discipled, and they in turn are discipling others. Perhaps the highlight of this time was sitting in on a group of about twenty (we had a number of groups of this size) and listening to their practical experience of discipleship. These were not pastors or elders but every day Christians who had received the vision of discipleship and were doing it in the midst of jobs, families and the usual stress of living. By the end of seession one i realized that I really had nothing to teach them. Their love for one another was strong. Now i lived through the "Shepherding Movement" of the 1980's, and all the resultant spiritual wounds. Because we did things wrong does not mean that we can throw away the principles and teaching of Jesus. He still commands His followers to make disciples.
My new Portuguese phrase is, in English, every day, a little better (learning the language). I am hearing more words and phrases, and, depending on the speaker and how quickly they speak, catching more. After the retreat we came back to Vinci's house and about fifteen people descended to watch the Confederation Cup finals between Brazil and Spain. If one desires to swim in Brazilian culture, then one needs to accept "futebol." Brazil won 3-0 with players whose last names were Fred and Hulk and Julius Caesar (Julio Cesar). Rather humorous, and i found the audience more interesting than the game, which I really don't understand.
On Friday night i was invited to the inaugural meeting of the Hebreus Moto Clube, a Brazilian Christian motorcycle club established to reach out to that portion of the community. There was joy, worship music with a blues beat, and quite a few attendees. But things got better.
Saturday morning we went to a disciplemakers' retreat. Note that I wrote disciplemakers, not disciples. If a disciple of Jesus Christ is a whole hearted follower of His, teachable and humble as the underlying Greek word "mathetes" implies, and one who is by grace learning and obeying the commands of Jesus then i know very few disciples in the US. I know even fewer disciplemakers- those who are actively pouring their lives into someone else in a committed, relational, purposeful way- usually one on one.
Here were about two hundred people, young, middle aged and older, men and women, who have ben doing this for decades in some cases. They have been or are being discipled, and they in turn are discipling others. Perhaps the highlight of this time was sitting in on a group of about twenty (we had a number of groups of this size) and listening to their practical experience of discipleship. These were not pastors or elders but every day Christians who had received the vision of discipleship and were doing it in the midst of jobs, families and the usual stress of living. By the end of seession one i realized that I really had nothing to teach them. Their love for one another was strong. Now i lived through the "Shepherding Movement" of the 1980's, and all the resultant spiritual wounds. Because we did things wrong does not mean that we can throw away the principles and teaching of Jesus. He still commands His followers to make disciples.
My new Portuguese phrase is, in English, every day, a little better (learning the language). I am hearing more words and phrases, and, depending on the speaker and how quickly they speak, catching more. After the retreat we came back to Vinci's house and about fifteen people descended to watch the Confederation Cup finals between Brazil and Spain. If one desires to swim in Brazilian culture, then one needs to accept "futebol." Brazil won 3-0 with players whose last names were Fred and Hulk and Julius Caesar (Julio Cesar). Rather humorous, and i found the audience more interesting than the game, which I really don't understand.
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