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.