Sunday, November 30, 2014

Adventures in Brazil Part 3

God is working here in Brazil in a wonderful way. The other day I had an opportunity to meet with a "father in the faith" named Moyses along with a group of others to whom he ministers. He had just returned from a grueling journey with travel delays, lack of sleep, and much ministry yet at the age of eighty-eight he was still full of spiritual and physical vigor. What a blessing!
     Saturday morning was invited to meet with the elders and deacons here. Again am amazed at the harmony and interaction that they share without any apparent tension. There is mutual respect and cooperation among these men that is very rare in my experience.
     In the evening I was given the opportunity to share the Word of God with a group of mostly younger people. I spoke about the value of memorizing the Word of God. One fascinating thing that they do here is the manner in which offerings are received. People take envelopes of different colors according to what type of offering that they are given. Several elders/deacons stand at the front of the church. Lines form for the people to bring their offerings and they are greeted with a handshake or a hug as appropriate.
    This morning had yet another opportunity to share the Word, this time about the simple life. This represents a major work of God in my own life. Galatians 6:6 expresses a principle that those who receive the Word of God are to share with those who teach. These brethren practice this. After every message people come up to me; to greet me and to respond to what was preached. Some speak in Portuguese; in which i am not fluent, and others in whatever limited English that they may have. All have been touched by God and express this to me in the most encouraging way.
   Along the way I have many conversations with my friend, brother, and host Samir as we help to learn each other's language. He is a very godly man who ministers to many in many places.

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