Day 29: Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Last day in Iquitos…for now.
Since my sleep has been quite limited lately, I tried to sleep in this morning so hopefully I won’t be completely miserable on my overnight flight.
The rest of the day was primarily spent packing and updating my blog – for y’all! Oh we did have a staff lunch to welcome Kerryn whose gonna be here for 6 months and to say goodbye to the interns (of which I’m the first to leave).
I was surprised when the boys (John and Daniel) said they wanted to take me to the airport too. They’re and interesting duo. In all, Sarah, Becky, and the guys all took me to the airport. I got to ride on Becky’s motorcycle one last time. There were a few people at the base that I didn’t get to say goodbye to, which made me a little sad.
My flight to Iquitos was delayed about an hour. Delayed an hour and a half from Lima. Sweet little fourteen year old next to me on the Lima-Miami flight thought I was sixteen. LOL! Sleep wasn’t great or plentiful but I got an inter-mitten few minutes of sleep even being next to the bathroom.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Day 28: Coming to a Close
Day 28: Monday, July 26, 2010
Something I eat or do when returning to Iquitos always seems to upset my stomach. This morning I woke up at 4 am and couldn’t go back to sleep (maybe I subconsciously missed the jungle noises. Ha!) So at 5:30 I decided it would be acceptable to rise since it was improbable that I would return to sleep. Although it was a foggy and overcast morning, I thoroughly enjoyed sipping my hot mug of café on the second story balcony. Just like those moments atop “the hill” in Parras de la Fuente, Mexico, I find it entertaining to watch the city come to life. There was even a man riding his ice cream “cycle” at that early hour. It was also one of the few times this month that I’ve been absolutely alone to spend time with the Lord.
Not long after I’d been out, the couple from Holland, Mark and Hannah, had to leave, so I was glad I was awake to send them off.
I was more than ready for the day when 8:00 came and we had breakfast. The Baltimore team was planning to go to a zoo in the city about 8:45. Sarah and I were planning to go (because it was a different tourist experience than the “river” zoo that I had been to) but they didn’t actually leave until nearly 10 and we had other plans for that afternoon.
As a “we’re all going home” lunch, John Short suggested that the interns and Beth and Clark all go eat saveche (a very Peruvian dish of raw fish). Since my stomach was already somewhat unsettled I went for a less adventurous dish similar to American stir fried rice. It was good.
After lunch, Beth, Sarah, and I had our nails done in Beth’s apartment. The lady will come to your house to do your nails and can paint beautiful designs on them for only s/10 each (about $3). I jokingly told Beth and Sarah that if I lived in Iquitos that I would get my nails done at least every two weeks, but I’d share the gospel and disciple the girl who did it. But seriously if she’ll come to you to do it, it’s an incredible ministry opportunity. I think Beth has started building a relationship with her, because we prayed specifically for a bad situation that Soma’d shared with Beth.
My last dinner at the base consisted of a fried weinny sandwich. Of course, on my last night we went to the Plaza. I finished all my souvenir shopping… I hope. To celebrate, Becky, Sarah, and I ordered a liter bucket of ice cream and put 7 different flavors in it.
I’m a little ashamed to admit this, but we finished our night by watching The Bachelorette. Between Sarah from England and Kerryn from Australia and myself, we mostly just made fun of the show, but enjoyed the entertainment, too!
This time tomorrow, I’ll be somewhere over South America on my way home. As much as I’m ready to see all my family and friends, ministering and living here has kinda become a way of life. I’m a little worried about how I’ll deal with the culture shock. I’m not sure I’m ready to handle rich, selfish Americans and I’m afraid I’ll return to being one.
This past month, I feel like the Lord has been stripping away parts of me that aren’t of Him and things that aren’t beneficial to the Kingdom. In an environment where you “make do” without luxurious things…or even things many Americans would consider absolutely necessary ( such as AC or hot water or even electricity or cars), it’s easier for me to realize that I put entirely too much emphasis on stuff and not people. So coming back to America where it’s “cultural” to always want and strive for more stuff…I guess I’m just realizing that I have to be more intentional about having a less materialistic mindset (by daily renewing my mind in Christ. Romans 12:1-2)
Something I eat or do when returning to Iquitos always seems to upset my stomach. This morning I woke up at 4 am and couldn’t go back to sleep (maybe I subconsciously missed the jungle noises. Ha!) So at 5:30 I decided it would be acceptable to rise since it was improbable that I would return to sleep. Although it was a foggy and overcast morning, I thoroughly enjoyed sipping my hot mug of café on the second story balcony. Just like those moments atop “the hill” in Parras de la Fuente, Mexico, I find it entertaining to watch the city come to life. There was even a man riding his ice cream “cycle” at that early hour. It was also one of the few times this month that I’ve been absolutely alone to spend time with the Lord.
Not long after I’d been out, the couple from Holland, Mark and Hannah, had to leave, so I was glad I was awake to send them off.
I was more than ready for the day when 8:00 came and we had breakfast. The Baltimore team was planning to go to a zoo in the city about 8:45. Sarah and I were planning to go (because it was a different tourist experience than the “river” zoo that I had been to) but they didn’t actually leave until nearly 10 and we had other plans for that afternoon.
As a “we’re all going home” lunch, John Short suggested that the interns and Beth and Clark all go eat saveche (a very Peruvian dish of raw fish). Since my stomach was already somewhat unsettled I went for a less adventurous dish similar to American stir fried rice. It was good.
After lunch, Beth, Sarah, and I had our nails done in Beth’s apartment. The lady will come to your house to do your nails and can paint beautiful designs on them for only s/10 each (about $3). I jokingly told Beth and Sarah that if I lived in Iquitos that I would get my nails done at least every two weeks, but I’d share the gospel and disciple the girl who did it. But seriously if she’ll come to you to do it, it’s an incredible ministry opportunity. I think Beth has started building a relationship with her, because we prayed specifically for a bad situation that Soma’d shared with Beth.
My last dinner at the base consisted of a fried weinny sandwich. Of course, on my last night we went to the Plaza. I finished all my souvenir shopping… I hope. To celebrate, Becky, Sarah, and I ordered a liter bucket of ice cream and put 7 different flavors in it.
I’m a little ashamed to admit this, but we finished our night by watching The Bachelorette. Between Sarah from England and Kerryn from Australia and myself, we mostly just made fun of the show, but enjoyed the entertainment, too!
This time tomorrow, I’ll be somewhere over South America on my way home. As much as I’m ready to see all my family and friends, ministering and living here has kinda become a way of life. I’m a little worried about how I’ll deal with the culture shock. I’m not sure I’m ready to handle rich, selfish Americans and I’m afraid I’ll return to being one.
This past month, I feel like the Lord has been stripping away parts of me that aren’t of Him and things that aren’t beneficial to the Kingdom. In an environment where you “make do” without luxurious things…or even things many Americans would consider absolutely necessary ( such as AC or hot water or even electricity or cars), it’s easier for me to realize that I put entirely too much emphasis on stuff and not people. So coming back to America where it’s “cultural” to always want and strive for more stuff…I guess I’m just realizing that I have to be more intentional about having a less materialistic mindset (by daily renewing my mind in Christ. Romans 12:1-2)
Day 27: Goodbye to the River
Day 27: Sunday, July 25, 2010
Let me begin by reassuring you that I am writing this today safely in Iquitos.
Last night after I wrote from atop the heap of luggage on the bank of Mira Flores, I went to rest in John’s hammock which he’d hung under a raised hostel.
When I woke up everyone was moving luggage onto a docked launcha. The owners had agreed to let us put all our luggage (and all the team’s bags ;) onboard and hang our hammock since the boat had to be painted and wouldn’t be departing again until Monday.
Just after, I’d hung my hammock over some of the team members sleeping on the floor, Julio returned with the rapido (speed boat). Because he was tired and the boat’s lights were quit working, along with the relatively high level of danger that comes with travelling rapidly on the Amazon River in darkness, he said we would be staying the night on the launcha. I would’ve pictured myself being dismayed but I was perfectly content to stay since I was so tired. Besides, I had my hammock and pillow and was more comfortable than I would have been riding in a boat into the wee hours of the morning.
Everyone started stirring at dawn and quickly packed up their stuff. The couple from Holland, Yola, Mallerin, Magly, Sarah, a mess full of luggage and I boarded the boat. John Short, Daniel, and Rob caught rides in peki-pekis until they could meet up with the returning rapido. Riding in such a fast boat was an exciting experience, a little hairy at times, but mostly just exciting.
In the taxi ride back to the base, we shared a Bimbo and an 8 pack of crackers (this was my only car ride while I was in Peru). At 10:00 or 10:30, we arrived nasty and exhausted in Iquitos.
After a shower, lunch, and a nap, Sarah and I went to eat with the team at the Yellow Rose of Texas, a restaurant in the Plaza that was actually established by a man from Texas. The food was ok, but this group was really fun to hang out with. Ice cream and crowded plaza later, we came back to the base and called it a day.
Let me begin by reassuring you that I am writing this today safely in Iquitos.
Last night after I wrote from atop the heap of luggage on the bank of Mira Flores, I went to rest in John’s hammock which he’d hung under a raised hostel.
When I woke up everyone was moving luggage onto a docked launcha. The owners had agreed to let us put all our luggage (and all the team’s bags ;) onboard and hang our hammock since the boat had to be painted and wouldn’t be departing again until Monday.
Just after, I’d hung my hammock over some of the team members sleeping on the floor, Julio returned with the rapido (speed boat). Because he was tired and the boat’s lights were quit working, along with the relatively high level of danger that comes with travelling rapidly on the Amazon River in darkness, he said we would be staying the night on the launcha. I would’ve pictured myself being dismayed but I was perfectly content to stay since I was so tired. Besides, I had my hammock and pillow and was more comfortable than I would have been riding in a boat into the wee hours of the morning.
Everyone started stirring at dawn and quickly packed up their stuff. The couple from Holland, Yola, Mallerin, Magly, Sarah, a mess full of luggage and I boarded the boat. John Short, Daniel, and Rob caught rides in peki-pekis until they could meet up with the returning rapido. Riding in such a fast boat was an exciting experience, a little hairy at times, but mostly just exciting.
In the taxi ride back to the base, we shared a Bimbo and an 8 pack of crackers (this was my only car ride while I was in Peru). At 10:00 or 10:30, we arrived nasty and exhausted in Iquitos.
After a shower, lunch, and a nap, Sarah and I went to eat with the team at the Yellow Rose of Texas, a restaurant in the Plaza that was actually established by a man from Texas. The food was ok, but this group was really fun to hang out with. Ice cream and crowded plaza later, we came back to the base and called it a day.
Day 26: A New Level of Faith
Day 26: Saturday, July 24, 2010
Sleep last night was minimal and quite elusive. As planned, the team got up about 5:45 am in order to pray as Julio, PR, and Cesar went to negotiate our passage across the barrier. We were just beginning to gather outside the school when they return, giving us the signal to pack up. So everyone begins to speedily get their things together, not knowing the brevity of the situation. As we load the Logos, I discovered that we had not yet gotten permission to pass the blockade. Instead of just sending our leaders, all of us went across to Paradiso to negotiate (they had told us yesterday that if we brought our boat back over that they wouldn’t let us leave and would confiscate the boat), help plead our cause, as well as prevent the boat from being overtaken while our leaders talking to their leaders.
By 7 a.m., we have packed the remainder of our stuff onto the Logos and docked at the village across the river. Already the climate of the village seemed volatile. Our leaders went to discuss matters. We could see the small group talking things over for awhile, but before long the entire mass of over 200 people gathered round them and the crowd continually grew louder. Several different people were allowed a turn on the mega speaker including some crazy woman, who so adamantly insisted that we not pass that she started chanting, “Take their boat!” in a terrifyingly unnatural Spanish voice. Julio continued to plead passage reminding them that the only reason we were there was to help them.
After significantly more arguments, shouts, and rallying, our leaders returned defeated. They simply would not allow us to pass the barricade. So Julio spent the next hour or more arranging boats for us to take from the nearest village down river from the blockade. Our plan was to carry our luggage off the logos into the next village, about a 15-20 minute walk.
So the pastor, PR, gets back to the boat saying rapidly, “Ok, we’re gonna attempt to walk through the blockade but they may stop us. So, we’re gonna go in teams of five. If people start talking or shouting at you, just ignore them and keep walking. Keep the same pace as the person leading you, don’t fall behind.” I waited to leave with the third team of five with my bags, keeping my eyes down as we pass through the crowd. We pass through the throng of people without major complications to continue our jungle excursion over rotting bridges and sidewalks (yes, a sidewalk trail through the jungle, I know, it doesn’t fit, but we were grateful to be able to roll our luggage). Alas, we board a small launcha and depart at 10:45 a.m. Thankfully, as we left the village, there were not guns or machetes pointed our direction.
I felt like a fugitive stowed in the underneath of the “two-story” boat. Because we were running out of food and water, we had an orange, a small package of crackers, and a slice of bread for lunch.
We arrived in Mira Flores at 6ish and as I write I’m still in the same place, sitting on my luggage amidst a pile bags. It’s 9 p.m. The Baltimore team left on the YWAM speedboat that met us here about 2 hours ago but it only holds a limited weight. So they left their luggage here for us to bring back, hopefully tonight, but probably tomorrow.
What an unbelievable day!
Sleep last night was minimal and quite elusive. As planned, the team got up about 5:45 am in order to pray as Julio, PR, and Cesar went to negotiate our passage across the barrier. We were just beginning to gather outside the school when they return, giving us the signal to pack up. So everyone begins to speedily get their things together, not knowing the brevity of the situation. As we load the Logos, I discovered that we had not yet gotten permission to pass the blockade. Instead of just sending our leaders, all of us went across to Paradiso to negotiate (they had told us yesterday that if we brought our boat back over that they wouldn’t let us leave and would confiscate the boat), help plead our cause, as well as prevent the boat from being overtaken while our leaders talking to their leaders.
By 7 a.m., we have packed the remainder of our stuff onto the Logos and docked at the village across the river. Already the climate of the village seemed volatile. Our leaders went to discuss matters. We could see the small group talking things over for awhile, but before long the entire mass of over 200 people gathered round them and the crowd continually grew louder. Several different people were allowed a turn on the mega speaker including some crazy woman, who so adamantly insisted that we not pass that she started chanting, “Take their boat!” in a terrifyingly unnatural Spanish voice. Julio continued to plead passage reminding them that the only reason we were there was to help them.
After significantly more arguments, shouts, and rallying, our leaders returned defeated. They simply would not allow us to pass the barricade. So Julio spent the next hour or more arranging boats for us to take from the nearest village down river from the blockade. Our plan was to carry our luggage off the logos into the next village, about a 15-20 minute walk.
So the pastor, PR, gets back to the boat saying rapidly, “Ok, we’re gonna attempt to walk through the blockade but they may stop us. So, we’re gonna go in teams of five. If people start talking or shouting at you, just ignore them and keep walking. Keep the same pace as the person leading you, don’t fall behind.” I waited to leave with the third team of five with my bags, keeping my eyes down as we pass through the crowd. We pass through the throng of people without major complications to continue our jungle excursion over rotting bridges and sidewalks (yes, a sidewalk trail through the jungle, I know, it doesn’t fit, but we were grateful to be able to roll our luggage). Alas, we board a small launcha and depart at 10:45 a.m. Thankfully, as we left the village, there were not guns or machetes pointed our direction.
I felt like a fugitive stowed in the underneath of the “two-story” boat. Because we were running out of food and water, we had an orange, a small package of crackers, and a slice of bread for lunch.
We arrived in Mira Flores at 6ish and as I write I’m still in the same place, sitting on my luggage amidst a pile bags. It’s 9 p.m. The Baltimore team left on the YWAM speedboat that met us here about 2 hours ago but it only holds a limited weight. So they left their luggage here for us to bring back, hopefully tonight, but probably tomorrow.
What an unbelievable day!
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Day 25: Stranded in the Jungle
Day 25: Friday, July 23, 2010
It’s hard to even know where to begin divulging today’s events to you. Proverbs 16:9.
Because the well-digging equipment had not arrived and the issues across the river had prevented us from ministering there last night, our plan this morning was to pack up and head to Nueva York to continue evangelism and other kinds of outreach.
But, at breakfast, Clever arrived with the necessary well-digging equipment. Since we had promised this village a well, Julio convinced the team to stay another day in order to dig and build the well.
After we ate, the team split up – some to remain in San Jorge to dig and others to cross the river to minister in San Paradiso. I went across with the team on my first peki-peki (which is basically an enlarged canoe with a “motor”-if you’re lucky), where we were literally sitting along the rim of the boat. The village across the river is beautiful. The community sits on a large hill at a bend in the Tigre River. Coming along shore it was obvious that the village was hosting many visitors because there were tarps pitched as tents everywhere. However the atmosphere was not nearly as serious as it had appeared the previous night.
The team went up a hill off the shore and stopped just off the path to start singing. A girl from the team gave her testimony then we talked to some of the people. We spoke with a group of ladies and young men who claimed to be Christians and were from another village. They had clearly come for the blockade. We sang a few songs with them (some of them even joined in), told them we’d be back that evening to show the movie, then choked our way across the river (the pastor’s peki-peki literally died 3 times).
It was nearly lunch time and the team in San Jorge had already finished drilling the well and were waiting to install the pipes. So encouraging to see a well progress so quickly!
This afternoon we swam/bathed in the river, held a baptism for 4 guys, then like all good Baptists must do – we had a team meeting.
We left for San Paradiso about 5:30 pm. The community was very lively, people milling all around and an annoying man constantly muttering over a megaphone. We headed up to the top of the hill to set up our equipment at the school. I snuck off with Magly and Sarah to find a bodega with a cold drink, our mission was futile. As we walked about some guys said they wanted us to play the movie closer to the water (probably so the men could enjoy the movie AND watch the barricade). So we moved all our equipment down and set up.
The team first sang some Spanish songs, then performed “Shackles” (unfortunately not the same version I learned in high school). Marie shared her testimony before the team started the Narnia movie projected onto a white sheet hung over a dead electricity wire. The crowd was massive. 200 hundred plus, easy. No more than 15 minutes into the film we were forced to stop it because of the annoying man on the megaphone shouting constantly. Later we discovered that all the while he was telling the “barricaders” that they should no longer be watching a movie because it was distracting them from the “war.”
John quickly blurted out the gospel, while we packed up and began boarding the boat. Once we were all loaded, we moved just a little ways upriver to dock and distribute clothes and other necessities. While we sat there we heard loud cries and shouts from the center of the village shore. Then we see a laden peki-peki cruise by, followed quickly by a speed boat laden with armed and hot-tempered Latinos. They force the boat to return to the village. Apparently they were supporters from another village that wanted to go home before the strike had ended. Clearly that was not part of the deal since they were unable to leave the chaos.
Not long after we returned to San Jorge, we received word from Julio that the situation has intensified. We were told to pack all our stuff except our tents and hammocks and other essential stuff for tomorrow. The logos has to cross the blockade now then tomorrow we will hike through the jungle to a launcha (public boat).
So after we pack and load our non-essential items onto the boat, the majority of us gather outside the school and sing old school worship songs a cappella as we gaze at the low hanging stars and wait for Julio to return with news. We all knew there was a possibility that we might have no other choice but to leave immediately.
The team’s leader, PR, and translator, Cesar, return with “bad news, bad news, and more bad news.” Pastor Julio knew about the blockade when he brought the team but been promised safe passage by the pastor but apparently the situation has escalated and they are adamant about not letting anyone pass the blockade. Today is only day 2, so it’s looking like it’ll be Monday or Tuesday before it’s over.
Bad news #2: We can no longer take the Logos across to Paradiso or it may get confiscated.
#3: We have only 1 jug of clean water left.
Here are the options as they were explained:
#1 Coast the Logos to the line then gun it across and hope you don’t get caught.
#2 Take peki-pekis to Iquitos.
#3 Call for YWAM’s rapido boat to come to the border, carry luggage over and go – problem – it only holds 8 people without luggage and costs about $900 to fuel.
#4 Essentially bribe “the blockaders” with support and money for sage passage.
So literally we’re stuck in the jungle. =) Our plan is to pray and our leaders go talk them in the morning. Psalm 91.
It’s hard to even know where to begin divulging today’s events to you. Proverbs 16:9.
Because the well-digging equipment had not arrived and the issues across the river had prevented us from ministering there last night, our plan this morning was to pack up and head to Nueva York to continue evangelism and other kinds of outreach.
But, at breakfast, Clever arrived with the necessary well-digging equipment. Since we had promised this village a well, Julio convinced the team to stay another day in order to dig and build the well.
After we ate, the team split up – some to remain in San Jorge to dig and others to cross the river to minister in San Paradiso. I went across with the team on my first peki-peki (which is basically an enlarged canoe with a “motor”-if you’re lucky), where we were literally sitting along the rim of the boat. The village across the river is beautiful. The community sits on a large hill at a bend in the Tigre River. Coming along shore it was obvious that the village was hosting many visitors because there were tarps pitched as tents everywhere. However the atmosphere was not nearly as serious as it had appeared the previous night.
The team went up a hill off the shore and stopped just off the path to start singing. A girl from the team gave her testimony then we talked to some of the people. We spoke with a group of ladies and young men who claimed to be Christians and were from another village. They had clearly come for the blockade. We sang a few songs with them (some of them even joined in), told them we’d be back that evening to show the movie, then choked our way across the river (the pastor’s peki-peki literally died 3 times).
It was nearly lunch time and the team in San Jorge had already finished drilling the well and were waiting to install the pipes. So encouraging to see a well progress so quickly!
This afternoon we swam/bathed in the river, held a baptism for 4 guys, then like all good Baptists must do – we had a team meeting.
We left for San Paradiso about 5:30 pm. The community was very lively, people milling all around and an annoying man constantly muttering over a megaphone. We headed up to the top of the hill to set up our equipment at the school. I snuck off with Magly and Sarah to find a bodega with a cold drink, our mission was futile. As we walked about some guys said they wanted us to play the movie closer to the water (probably so the men could enjoy the movie AND watch the barricade). So we moved all our equipment down and set up.
The team first sang some Spanish songs, then performed “Shackles” (unfortunately not the same version I learned in high school). Marie shared her testimony before the team started the Narnia movie projected onto a white sheet hung over a dead electricity wire. The crowd was massive. 200 hundred plus, easy. No more than 15 minutes into the film we were forced to stop it because of the annoying man on the megaphone shouting constantly. Later we discovered that all the while he was telling the “barricaders” that they should no longer be watching a movie because it was distracting them from the “war.”
John quickly blurted out the gospel, while we packed up and began boarding the boat. Once we were all loaded, we moved just a little ways upriver to dock and distribute clothes and other necessities. While we sat there we heard loud cries and shouts from the center of the village shore. Then we see a laden peki-peki cruise by, followed quickly by a speed boat laden with armed and hot-tempered Latinos. They force the boat to return to the village. Apparently they were supporters from another village that wanted to go home before the strike had ended. Clearly that was not part of the deal since they were unable to leave the chaos.
Not long after we returned to San Jorge, we received word from Julio that the situation has intensified. We were told to pack all our stuff except our tents and hammocks and other essential stuff for tomorrow. The logos has to cross the blockade now then tomorrow we will hike through the jungle to a launcha (public boat).
So after we pack and load our non-essential items onto the boat, the majority of us gather outside the school and sing old school worship songs a cappella as we gaze at the low hanging stars and wait for Julio to return with news. We all knew there was a possibility that we might have no other choice but to leave immediately.
The team’s leader, PR, and translator, Cesar, return with “bad news, bad news, and more bad news.” Pastor Julio knew about the blockade when he brought the team but been promised safe passage by the pastor but apparently the situation has escalated and they are adamant about not letting anyone pass the blockade. Today is only day 2, so it’s looking like it’ll be Monday or Tuesday before it’s over.
Bad news #2: We can no longer take the Logos across to Paradiso or it may get confiscated.
#3: We have only 1 jug of clean water left.
Here are the options as they were explained:
#1 Coast the Logos to the line then gun it across and hope you don’t get caught.
#2 Take peki-pekis to Iquitos.
#3 Call for YWAM’s rapido boat to come to the border, carry luggage over and go – problem – it only holds 8 people without luggage and costs about $900 to fuel.
#4 Essentially bribe “the blockaders” with support and money for sage passage.
So literally we’re stuck in the jungle. =) Our plan is to pray and our leaders go talk them in the morning. Psalm 91.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Day 24: River Blockade
Day 24: Thursday, July 22, 2010
Jungle life is never boring, to say the least. Last night the pastor of San Jorge told us to not be worried if we saw men with weapons because the surrounding villages were setting up a blockade on the river down at the next community (which was visible from the bank of San Jorge). Apparently there had been an oil leak upriver and the old company had not properly treated its employees and those affected. So these communities are blocking the oil companies from getting up or down river. I guess it’s like the jungle version of a strike or something.
This morning after breakfast the team held a “children’s service”. This group reminds me so much of my church’s mission trips. I felt like I was in youth group again. They had prepared quite adequately with crafts, Spanish songs led by guitar, skits, and “Shackles” dance. Several kids raised their hand to pray to receive Christ.
I took a very lovely nap this afternoon during free time. After dinner everyone boarded the boat to cross the river to the village that was hosting the blockade, Paradiso. It’s hard to describe what we saw as we rounded the riverbend. Obviously because of the blockade there was a line of boats and rope with flags and torches attached atop stretched across the river. Probably hundreds of people stood along the high bank. Dozens of peki-pekis littered the shoreline, each filled with men bearing rifles and machetes. We docked slightly north of the barrier and waited while Julio went to get permission to show the film from the community leaders. While we waited a large launcha (public boat) cruises up. The protestors won’t even allow it to dock, much less pass through. Peki-pekis rushed the waterfront while the loud crowd of men shouted from the bank. The boat returned to a nearby village down river of the blockade (still with in sight). Needless to say, the environment was not conducive to the work we wanted to do, so we returned to San Jorge, where we were staying, and showed the Jesus film.
The other interesting thing is that the team had planned to dig wells here in this village and another but Clever has not yet arrived with the equipment of materials. We thought initially that he was on the launcha that wasn’t allowed to pass. When Julio returned we learned that he had received permission to cross the border with a peki-peki to obtain the well digging supplies. It turned out all that was on the boat was the gravel and other supplies needed after the well was already dug. No well digging equipment.
As of now, the team has several options as far as itineraries go. It’s possible that Clever and the well digging equipment arrive tomorrow and we begin the well. Or we may pack up and return to Nueva York to do ministry. The plan is to pray overnight and decide at breakfast what to do.
Jungle life is never boring, to say the least. Last night the pastor of San Jorge told us to not be worried if we saw men with weapons because the surrounding villages were setting up a blockade on the river down at the next community (which was visible from the bank of San Jorge). Apparently there had been an oil leak upriver and the old company had not properly treated its employees and those affected. So these communities are blocking the oil companies from getting up or down river. I guess it’s like the jungle version of a strike or something.
This morning after breakfast the team held a “children’s service”. This group reminds me so much of my church’s mission trips. I felt like I was in youth group again. They had prepared quite adequately with crafts, Spanish songs led by guitar, skits, and “Shackles” dance. Several kids raised their hand to pray to receive Christ.
I took a very lovely nap this afternoon during free time. After dinner everyone boarded the boat to cross the river to the village that was hosting the blockade, Paradiso. It’s hard to describe what we saw as we rounded the riverbend. Obviously because of the blockade there was a line of boats and rope with flags and torches attached atop stretched across the river. Probably hundreds of people stood along the high bank. Dozens of peki-pekis littered the shoreline, each filled with men bearing rifles and machetes. We docked slightly north of the barrier and waited while Julio went to get permission to show the film from the community leaders. While we waited a large launcha (public boat) cruises up. The protestors won’t even allow it to dock, much less pass through. Peki-pekis rushed the waterfront while the loud crowd of men shouted from the bank. The boat returned to a nearby village down river of the blockade (still with in sight). Needless to say, the environment was not conducive to the work we wanted to do, so we returned to San Jorge, where we were staying, and showed the Jesus film.
The other interesting thing is that the team had planned to dig wells here in this village and another but Clever has not yet arrived with the equipment of materials. We thought initially that he was on the launcha that wasn’t allowed to pass. When Julio returned we learned that he had received permission to cross the border with a peki-peki to obtain the well digging supplies. It turned out all that was on the boat was the gravel and other supplies needed after the well was already dug. No well digging equipment.
As of now, the team has several options as far as itineraries go. It’s possible that Clever and the well digging equipment arrive tomorrow and we begin the well. Or we may pack up and return to Nueva York to do ministry. The plan is to pray overnight and decide at breakfast what to do.
Day 23: Narnia
Day 23: Wednesday, July 21, 2010
It’s been another grueling day and the fact that Sarah and I keep reminding each other that we will be home soon hasn’t helped much. Haha
I think we broke camp around 5 or 5:30 and actually left Nueva York around 6:30. Yola dished out breakfast on the boat.
We didn’t actually arrive in San Jorge until 12:30 or 1. That makes for about a 14 hour boat ride from Nauta (16 hour trip from Iquitos). It’s just ridiculous how tired I am after only sitting on my butt for hours.
We enjoyed a leisurely afternoon. In a small meeting with the pastor who just moved here a few months ago, I learned that this is the first missionary team to ever come to this village (or any surrounding). Juilo and a few other staffers had come one a staff trip to discuss the trip we’re on now. The surrounding villages (including San Jorge) have no churches. How humbling it is to think God would use us to initially represent him to these people!
Tonight the teams set up a projector and screen to show Narnia to the people. It was pretty awesome to watch a movie like that surrounded by Peruvians, close hanging stars, a bright moon and jungle trees in the background. After the movie, they explained the parable and presented the gospel. To end the night, they gave clothes, medicine, toothbrushes and toothpaste, and other items to each family in the village.
It’s been another grueling day and the fact that Sarah and I keep reminding each other that we will be home soon hasn’t helped much. Haha
I think we broke camp around 5 or 5:30 and actually left Nueva York around 6:30. Yola dished out breakfast on the boat.
We didn’t actually arrive in San Jorge until 12:30 or 1. That makes for about a 14 hour boat ride from Nauta (16 hour trip from Iquitos). It’s just ridiculous how tired I am after only sitting on my butt for hours.
We enjoyed a leisurely afternoon. In a small meeting with the pastor who just moved here a few months ago, I learned that this is the first missionary team to ever come to this village (or any surrounding). Juilo and a few other staffers had come one a staff trip to discuss the trip we’re on now. The surrounding villages (including San Jorge) have no churches. How humbling it is to think God would use us to initially represent him to these people!
Tonight the teams set up a projector and screen to show Narnia to the people. It was pretty awesome to watch a movie like that surrounded by Peruvians, close hanging stars, a bright moon and jungle trees in the background. After the movie, they explained the parable and presented the gospel. To end the night, they gave clothes, medicine, toothbrushes and toothpaste, and other items to each family in the village.
Day 22: New York
Day 22: Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Whew! What a day! As I write (in my journal) I’m swinging between two tents in some elevated wooden school room in a village called Nueva York (New York).
We left the base in Iquitos at 7:00 am by bus to Nauta, as usual. Because Carlos was slightly delayed in arriving, after we unloaded all our stuff onto the boat, they still had to get gas. So the boat left Nauta about 10, headed approximately 10 hours up river to San Jorge.
We trucked quite steadily along under the overcast sky and with relatively cool temperatures (although thankfully not as cold as the weather lately in Iquitos – that would have been much too cold on the river).
At 6pm we stopped in the village of Nueva York so we wouldn’t have to travel in the dark. Our new approximate travel time is 5 more hours up river.
I saw more dolphins today, they are very different than what is typical. The vegetation along the Tigre is taller because, according to all knowing Daniel, it hasn’t been cut down as much.
Whew! What a day! As I write (in my journal) I’m swinging between two tents in some elevated wooden school room in a village called Nueva York (New York).
We left the base in Iquitos at 7:00 am by bus to Nauta, as usual. Because Carlos was slightly delayed in arriving, after we unloaded all our stuff onto the boat, they still had to get gas. So the boat left Nauta about 10, headed approximately 10 hours up river to San Jorge.
We trucked quite steadily along under the overcast sky and with relatively cool temperatures (although thankfully not as cold as the weather lately in Iquitos – that would have been much too cold on the river).
At 6pm we stopped in the village of Nueva York so we wouldn’t have to travel in the dark. Our new approximate travel time is 5 more hours up river.
I saw more dolphins today, they are very different than what is typical. The vegetation along the Tigre is taller because, according to all knowing Daniel, it hasn’t been cut down as much.
Day 21: "Shackles"
Day 21: Monday, July 19, 2010
It’s been a refreshing time relaxing and gearing up for the next jungle trip.
The team from Baltimore arrived late tonight. It’s mostly young people, some are Chinese, Korean, etc too. So it’s looking like it will be a fun trip. We’re actually going further up river than I’ve been the past 2 times, so I’m interested in seeing what the differences and/or similarities are between villages/terrains that far up river compared to others I’ve been to.
Apparently, “Shackles” is a universal Christian mission trip choreographed dance, because this team has their own dance. I have to admit, though, that it doesn’t compare to ours. After dinner at the base, the team decided to go out to Long Fug to eat again so a few of us went with them just to hang out. Finally some Southern company has joined me! Two of the guys are from the South: John is from New Orleans and Mark is from Florida (which I don’t usually consider Southern, but in Peru it’s close enough). I felt like home when they said, “Y’all” or wore a Bass Pro hat. Haha.
So tomorrow is my last jungle trip. Ambivalent about that fact.
It’s been a refreshing time relaxing and gearing up for the next jungle trip.
The team from Baltimore arrived late tonight. It’s mostly young people, some are Chinese, Korean, etc too. So it’s looking like it will be a fun trip. We’re actually going further up river than I’ve been the past 2 times, so I’m interested in seeing what the differences and/or similarities are between villages/terrains that far up river compared to others I’ve been to.
Apparently, “Shackles” is a universal Christian mission trip choreographed dance, because this team has their own dance. I have to admit, though, that it doesn’t compare to ours. After dinner at the base, the team decided to go out to Long Fug to eat again so a few of us went with them just to hang out. Finally some Southern company has joined me! Two of the guys are from the South: John is from New Orleans and Mark is from Florida (which I don’t usually consider Southern, but in Peru it’s close enough). I felt like home when they said, “Y’all” or wore a Bass Pro hat. Haha.
So tomorrow is my last jungle trip. Ambivalent about that fact.
Day 20: Carolina
Day 20: Sunday, July 18, 2010
It is COLD in the jungle today. I was afraid it would warm up from yesterday, so I slept all night in a room with only a sheet in a room with open windows. Even with sweatpants, sweatshirt, and socks I was cold. Never expect that in the jungle.
I got dressed in my one dress, which was of course cool. Church was suppose to start at 9:30 but I’m in Peru so things got rolling around 10:15. Just to be honest, I didn’t get much out of the Spanish only service. However in the middle of David’s sermon, Carolina passes a me a slip of paper with Isaiah 55: 5; 54:2,3,4,5,10 written in hot pink ink. Initially I thought it was the passage the preacher was referencing but later she told me that it was just for me and that I should ask the Lord what it means for me.
It is COLD in the jungle today. I was afraid it would warm up from yesterday, so I slept all night in a room with only a sheet in a room with open windows. Even with sweatpants, sweatshirt, and socks I was cold. Never expect that in the jungle.
I got dressed in my one dress, which was of course cool. Church was suppose to start at 9:30 but I’m in Peru so things got rolling around 10:15. Just to be honest, I didn’t get much out of the Spanish only service. However in the middle of David’s sermon, Carolina passes a me a slip of paper with Isaiah 55: 5; 54:2,3,4,5,10 written in hot pink ink. Initially I thought it was the passage the preacher was referencing but later she told me that it was just for me and that I should ask the Lord what it means for me.
Behold, you shall call a nation that you do not know, and a nation that did not
know you shall run to you, because of the Lord your God, and of the Holy One of
Israel, for he has glorified you.
Englarge the place of your tent, and let the curtains of your habitations
be stretched out; do not hold back; lengthen your cords and strengthen your
stakes. For you will spread abroad to the right and to the left, and your
offspring will possess the nations and will people the desolate cities. Fear
not, for you will not be ashamed; be not confounded, for you will not be
disgraced; for you will forget the shame of your youth, and the reproach of your
widowhood you will remember no more. For your Maker is your husband, the Lord of hosts is his name; and the Holy One of Israel is your Redeemer, the God of the
whole earth he is called.
For the moutains may depart and the hills be removed, but my steadfast love
shall not depart from you, and my covenant of peace shall not be removed," says
the Lord, who has compassion on you.Isaiah 55:5; 54:2-5, 10
I don’t think I’ve fully described Carolina yet. She is a precious girl, who loves the Lord and her joy is always shining through an ever present bright smile. Her family is here learning how to run a YWAM base before heading to Chiclayo to start a new base. Her dad, Miguel, went with us on my first jungle trip and Carolina and both of her parents went with the last group. Sweet family. God has big things in store for them. Actually Carolina kinda reminds me of one of those Chinese anima characters.
I spend the rest of the day contemplating her words and trying to stay warm.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Day 19: Cristo ama a los ninos
Day 19: Saturday, July 17, 2010
Blasting Spanish children’s music floated up into my room at magnified decibels around 7:30. I drug myself to the kitchen for instant café before heading downstairs to help with the children’s ministry.
Last night Becky and Sarah explained some of the issues concerning the youth and children of Iquitos – the street kids. Many families don’t have jobs with steady incomes, which isn’t a major problem in the jungle because there’s always some type of fruit tree nearby by which they can survive. There isn’t a need for money because they have no bills (water comes from a well or the river, no electricity, free access to lumber), money is more or less a luxury.
Life in the city is not so simple. If you want to eat, you need money to buy your food. Many of the kids here are forced into prostitution (especially homosexual) because they were hungry and wanted money to buy food with.
The girls told me the story of one of the kids now in the YWAM youth group:
As a child this boy’s family worked for a private individual, an older woman (not exactly sure what kind of work they did). This woman employed the whole family. When the boy was young, the boss lady took a fancy to him. So she brought him to live with her and do whatever she asked. This went on for several years with the family’s full knowledge.
I was appalled as they told me this child’s story. How on earth could a mother possibly allow such injustice to come to her own child? But once again, Becky gave me some perspective. Although this child was forced to do shameful things, the boss lady provided all his food, clothes, lodging, and education. The parents kept their jobs, a steady paying work that is difficult to find. If they had refused the woman to take their son, they would have lost their everything and all of their children would be at risk of the same fate or worse. Nothing could ever justify the decision they made or the lack of proper parenting that they exhibited but how unfathomable it is that someone would ever even have to be out into such a situation! Our world is in desperate need of accepting our Savior!
Stories such as these are all too common among Iquitos young people. Young men struggle with homosexuality because foreign men come and pay for sex. It all began with, “I would like to eat today…”
The work at YWAM is encouraging because they are mentoring and discipling these children who want to change. This morning kids come for songs, a message, Bible study, and a free hot meal. At night the youth are invited for a service as well.
The team that returned from the river the very first day I arrived had actually taken the youth with them up river for a mission trip.
“But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.” Mark 10:14
Blasting Spanish children’s music floated up into my room at magnified decibels around 7:30. I drug myself to the kitchen for instant café before heading downstairs to help with the children’s ministry.
Last night Becky and Sarah explained some of the issues concerning the youth and children of Iquitos – the street kids. Many families don’t have jobs with steady incomes, which isn’t a major problem in the jungle because there’s always some type of fruit tree nearby by which they can survive. There isn’t a need for money because they have no bills (water comes from a well or the river, no electricity, free access to lumber), money is more or less a luxury.
Life in the city is not so simple. If you want to eat, you need money to buy your food. Many of the kids here are forced into prostitution (especially homosexual) because they were hungry and wanted money to buy food with.
The girls told me the story of one of the kids now in the YWAM youth group:
As a child this boy’s family worked for a private individual, an older woman (not exactly sure what kind of work they did). This woman employed the whole family. When the boy was young, the boss lady took a fancy to him. So she brought him to live with her and do whatever she asked. This went on for several years with the family’s full knowledge.
I was appalled as they told me this child’s story. How on earth could a mother possibly allow such injustice to come to her own child? But once again, Becky gave me some perspective. Although this child was forced to do shameful things, the boss lady provided all his food, clothes, lodging, and education. The parents kept their jobs, a steady paying work that is difficult to find. If they had refused the woman to take their son, they would have lost their everything and all of their children would be at risk of the same fate or worse. Nothing could ever justify the decision they made or the lack of proper parenting that they exhibited but how unfathomable it is that someone would ever even have to be out into such a situation! Our world is in desperate need of accepting our Savior!
Stories such as these are all too common among Iquitos young people. Young men struggle with homosexuality because foreign men come and pay for sex. It all began with, “I would like to eat today…”
The work at YWAM is encouraging because they are mentoring and discipling these children who want to change. This morning kids come for songs, a message, Bible study, and a free hot meal. At night the youth are invited for a service as well.
The team that returned from the river the very first day I arrived had actually taken the youth with them up river for a mission trip.
“But when Jesus saw it, he was indignant and said to them, “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.” Mark 10:14
Day 18: Smallville in Peru because Jesus loves Brandi
Day 18: Friday, July 16, 2010
Praise the Lord for Skype. It’s so incredible to see and hear from family and friends. Such a blessing! At this point in the journey especially, I’ve been gone for quite some time.
The weather in Iquitos today is worth mentioning because it was considered a “cold” day by the locals. It was somewhat chilly (low 70s). I actually wore jeans and a sweatshirt and didn’t break a sweat all day. Awesomeness. AC from heaven! Haha
Sarah and I were expecting a boring day but Beth actually us to housesit for a bit while we they were out and the maid was cleaning. While we were there, we got to watch TV in ENGLISH! Also, she is a huge Smallville fan and let me borrow her entire collection! Yay!
Praise the Lord for Skype. It’s so incredible to see and hear from family and friends. Such a blessing! At this point in the journey especially, I’ve been gone for quite some time.
The weather in Iquitos today is worth mentioning because it was considered a “cold” day by the locals. It was somewhat chilly (low 70s). I actually wore jeans and a sweatshirt and didn’t break a sweat all day. Awesomeness. AC from heaven! Haha
Sarah and I were expecting a boring day but Beth actually us to housesit for a bit while we they were out and the maid was cleaning. While we were there, we got to watch TV in ENGLISH! Also, she is a huge Smallville fan and let me borrow her entire collection! Yay!
Day 17: Pedicure
Day 17: Thursday, July 15, 2010
Today we said goodbye to another team. After going to the market with them, I didn’t feel 100% today, my stomach was a little bit unsettled, so I rested most of the afternoon.
Sarah took me to get a pedicure which only cost S/. 10 -15 (like $3 -5 USD) for a crazy polka dotted design. It’s hard to describe how much better I felt after having clean and pretty feet…I feel like a girl again.
Now it’s past 11 pm and the dorm has been invaded by a new team from Puerto Rico that leaves for the river tomorrow. The instant influx of people kinda stresses me out…even more so this time because they mostly speak Spanish. Overwhelming!
Sarah, Becky, and I sat on the balcony for a bit this evening discussing the desperation of the Iquitos, especially concerning the children. There is much need here.
Today we said goodbye to another team. After going to the market with them, I didn’t feel 100% today, my stomach was a little bit unsettled, so I rested most of the afternoon.
Sarah took me to get a pedicure which only cost S/. 10 -15 (like $3 -5 USD) for a crazy polka dotted design. It’s hard to describe how much better I felt after having clean and pretty feet…I feel like a girl again.
Now it’s past 11 pm and the dorm has been invaded by a new team from Puerto Rico that leaves for the river tomorrow. The instant influx of people kinda stresses me out…even more so this time because they mostly speak Spanish. Overwhelming!
Sarah, Becky, and I sat on the balcony for a bit this evening discussing the desperation of the Iquitos, especially concerning the children. There is much need here.
Day 16: Phase 10
Day 16: Wednesday, July 14, 2010
We were all grateful for a calm awakening this morning. Before we left Lisboa, we baptized three precious people in the river. It was beautiful!
On the “Logos” ride back, Steve, Sarah, Alex, and I played the new card game we learned, “Dirty Clubs” then Phase 10. It definitely helped pass the time, yet in a way it made me miss old times and all my friends in MS…We used to play that game all the time. I remember laughing hysterically when a group of us played during siesta time in Mexico. What memories!
As seems to be the generally case, we unloaded in Nauta and enjoyed a cold drink before getting reloaded onto a bus. The “young” folks all loaded into the back for a ride full of riddles: “the line game”, “Black Magic”, brain teasers, and lateral thinking were all pulled from various youth group repertoires (sp?). No more than 20 minutes into the 2 hour ride when we hear a loud pop come from the left rear wheel of the bus. Of course, all the Americans (and Romanian Americans, and Brits, and Peruvians, and Columbians) are thinking we should stop and take a look at it all, but the driver doesn’t stop until we hear a second pop followed by a clung, clung, clung and feel the bus bouncing up and down. And when he finally decides to stop he must’ve forgotten the “pulling over” part because he straight up parks in the middle of the road.
More men than necessary get off the bus to evaluate the situation, concluding that the tire needs to be changed but we don’t have a spare on the bus so we’ll just keep driving until we meet another bus and use their spare. Oh South American culture!
Thankfully, it wasn’t much longer before we finally met up with the other bus and stop once again in the middle of the road to jack it up (with all of us in it still… “esta bien”) and change the faulty tire. It’s one thing to have a busted tire…it’s quite another to have a busted tire in the middle of the Amazon jungle. Haha!
We arrived in Iquitos around 4, although it should’ve been much sooner. After a glorious shower, which no one had enjoyed the whole trip apart from a river bath, we went to eat with the team at Kiwiriki. A wonderful place since it had AC and something like French fries. It was amazing apart from a few misunderstandings. Of course, we concluded with some ice cream too! Osmar was gonna take Steve and Alex to go see Eclipse and Sarah and I wanted to go because supposedly it was playing in English, but it started at like 11 and the base closes at 10:30. In the end, I think only Osmar went and it turned out to be in Spanish anyway.
I don’t feel like I got to know this group as well because it was shorter I guess. Even though the hammock sleeps better than this bed at the base, I’m glad to be away from that blasted rooster!
We were all grateful for a calm awakening this morning. Before we left Lisboa, we baptized three precious people in the river. It was beautiful!
On the “Logos” ride back, Steve, Sarah, Alex, and I played the new card game we learned, “Dirty Clubs” then Phase 10. It definitely helped pass the time, yet in a way it made me miss old times and all my friends in MS…We used to play that game all the time. I remember laughing hysterically when a group of us played during siesta time in Mexico. What memories!
As seems to be the generally case, we unloaded in Nauta and enjoyed a cold drink before getting reloaded onto a bus. The “young” folks all loaded into the back for a ride full of riddles: “the line game”, “Black Magic”, brain teasers, and lateral thinking were all pulled from various youth group repertoires (sp?). No more than 20 minutes into the 2 hour ride when we hear a loud pop come from the left rear wheel of the bus. Of course, all the Americans (and Romanian Americans, and Brits, and Peruvians, and Columbians) are thinking we should stop and take a look at it all, but the driver doesn’t stop until we hear a second pop followed by a clung, clung, clung and feel the bus bouncing up and down. And when he finally decides to stop he must’ve forgotten the “pulling over” part because he straight up parks in the middle of the road.
More men than necessary get off the bus to evaluate the situation, concluding that the tire needs to be changed but we don’t have a spare on the bus so we’ll just keep driving until we meet another bus and use their spare. Oh South American culture!
Thankfully, it wasn’t much longer before we finally met up with the other bus and stop once again in the middle of the road to jack it up (with all of us in it still… “esta bien”) and change the faulty tire. It’s one thing to have a busted tire…it’s quite another to have a busted tire in the middle of the Amazon jungle. Haha!
We arrived in Iquitos around 4, although it should’ve been much sooner. After a glorious shower, which no one had enjoyed the whole trip apart from a river bath, we went to eat with the team at Kiwiriki. A wonderful place since it had AC and something like French fries. It was amazing apart from a few misunderstandings. Of course, we concluded with some ice cream too! Osmar was gonna take Steve and Alex to go see Eclipse and Sarah and I wanted to go because supposedly it was playing in English, but it started at like 11 and the base closes at 10:30. In the end, I think only Osmar went and it turned out to be in Spanish anyway.
I don’t feel like I got to know this group as well because it was shorter I guess. Even though the hammock sleeps better than this bed at the base, I’m glad to be away from that blasted rooster!
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Halfway Gone
Day 15: Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Life in a jungle village is never boring. Four am this morning the entire community was awakened by the terrifying screams of a pig being slaughtered. The problem was that they missed him three times before actually killing it. Craziness. But, of course, it didn’t stop me from going back to sleep. I figured I would sleep until I smelt the bacon I was hoping we would have for breakfast now.
Not many women appeared for the Bible study so they rescheduled for the afternoon.
For the rest of the morning they only thing there really was to do was watch the soccer semi-finals. After lunch I even inaccurately kept score. I don’t know how someone could miss something like a player scoring a goal when they watched the entire game. I blame the jungle.
The women gathered after the afternoon service to hear the story of Mary and Martha. We had a short prayer time to conclude. A neat thing about this group is that many times they participate in communal prayers, where instead of just one person praying, everyone prays aloud simultaneously. It caught me off guard initially but I find it very encouraging now.
During the futbol finale the Father gripped my heart. Sitting on the stoop of the church, I was watching this young boy. His appearance alone was desperate enough with his dirty and torn cream and plaid shirt and tattered blue shorts, but his eyes were slightly off too. He would look at me and smile but it took me a minute to realize he was looking at me and not someone else. So I went and sat by him on one of the church pews that had been evacuated to the outdoors when the team moved into the church. I shared a smile, “Hola, como estes?”, and the rest of my Bimbo (like sprite) with him. As soon as he received the bottled drink, he immediately turned around and gave it to his little brother. He didn’t take a sip, and his little brother still had his own drink remaining. That’s when I noticed his hair, filled with loads of grass and lice, yet his hermano’s hair looked quite decent. Just our brief interaction really touched my heart. Being the girl that I am, I started crying. I began searching for a quiet place to pray. The church was full and there’s virtually no privacy in the hammock so I went behind the water pump next door, nearly standing over a pile of garbage in order to be alone.
Weeping and praying, I felt the Lord answer my questions, “This is worth devoting your life to,” It scared me because I’d been thinking about what it would be like to live here. I’m still not sure exactly how it will turn out… I used my sunglasses to disguise any signs of tears as I returned to the church to get my Bible, hoping the Lord would continue to speak. My Bible opens to Lamentations 5, a random place I had stuck a note from Beth that said, “God knows what it takes to perfect you.”
I collect myself in time to engage in Sarah’s conversation with John and Daniel about giving up things for the kingdom – quite humbling.
To end the day we held a forever long service two couple were wed, Romanian/Spanish/English songs were sung, and we prayed for healing in the makeshift church in front of the church building.
Oh and today is the halfway mark. I left home two weeks ago and I return two weeks from today back to the States. Important things I’ve learned:
1) Mosquitoes are from the pit of hell
2) Pedestrians do NOT have the right of way in Iquitos streets
3) Our God is an awesome Creator
4) Skype is the best invention known to the modern world
5) Humidity is relative
6) All roosters should die
7) There’s a camera guru in every bunch
8) poco Spanish
9) Love isn’t bound by language
10) Deet ruins your toenail polish
11) Missions isn’t as romantic as I formerly believed, it involves much pain, suffering, and discomfort.
12) Jesus really is all I need!
Life in a jungle village is never boring. Four am this morning the entire community was awakened by the terrifying screams of a pig being slaughtered. The problem was that they missed him three times before actually killing it. Craziness. But, of course, it didn’t stop me from going back to sleep. I figured I would sleep until I smelt the bacon I was hoping we would have for breakfast now.
Not many women appeared for the Bible study so they rescheduled for the afternoon.
For the rest of the morning they only thing there really was to do was watch the soccer semi-finals. After lunch I even inaccurately kept score. I don’t know how someone could miss something like a player scoring a goal when they watched the entire game. I blame the jungle.
The women gathered after the afternoon service to hear the story of Mary and Martha. We had a short prayer time to conclude. A neat thing about this group is that many times they participate in communal prayers, where instead of just one person praying, everyone prays aloud simultaneously. It caught me off guard initially but I find it very encouraging now.
During the futbol finale the Father gripped my heart. Sitting on the stoop of the church, I was watching this young boy. His appearance alone was desperate enough with his dirty and torn cream and plaid shirt and tattered blue shorts, but his eyes were slightly off too. He would look at me and smile but it took me a minute to realize he was looking at me and not someone else. So I went and sat by him on one of the church pews that had been evacuated to the outdoors when the team moved into the church. I shared a smile, “Hola, como estes?”, and the rest of my Bimbo (like sprite) with him. As soon as he received the bottled drink, he immediately turned around and gave it to his little brother. He didn’t take a sip, and his little brother still had his own drink remaining. That’s when I noticed his hair, filled with loads of grass and lice, yet his hermano’s hair looked quite decent. Just our brief interaction really touched my heart. Being the girl that I am, I started crying. I began searching for a quiet place to pray. The church was full and there’s virtually no privacy in the hammock so I went behind the water pump next door, nearly standing over a pile of garbage in order to be alone.
Weeping and praying, I felt the Lord answer my questions, “This is worth devoting your life to,” It scared me because I’d been thinking about what it would be like to live here. I’m still not sure exactly how it will turn out… I used my sunglasses to disguise any signs of tears as I returned to the church to get my Bible, hoping the Lord would continue to speak. My Bible opens to Lamentations 5, a random place I had stuck a note from Beth that said, “God knows what it takes to perfect you.”
I collect myself in time to engage in Sarah’s conversation with John and Daniel about giving up things for the kingdom – quite humbling.
To end the day we held a forever long service two couple were wed, Romanian/Spanish/English songs were sung, and we prayed for healing in the makeshift church in front of the church building.
Oh and today is the halfway mark. I left home two weeks ago and I return two weeks from today back to the States. Important things I’ve learned:
1) Mosquitoes are from the pit of hell
2) Pedestrians do NOT have the right of way in Iquitos streets
3) Our God is an awesome Creator
4) Skype is the best invention known to the modern world
5) Humidity is relative
6) All roosters should die
7) There’s a camera guru in every bunch
8) poco Spanish
9) Love isn’t bound by language
10) Deet ruins your toenail polish
11) Missions isn’t as romantic as I formerly believed, it involves much pain, suffering, and discomfort.
12) Jesus really is all I need!
Day 14: "Mississippi"
Day 14: Monday, July 12, 2010
I still hate roosters but have yet to murder one. Steve said it well this morning, “I want to take that rooster, wring its neck, and pluck his feathers out one by one.” Haha!
I know people have been praying for me today. Yesterday I felt horrible because of my sinus infection. I took two naps but my head hurt all day. Last night I had the hardest time going to sleep (I listened to Kyle Reno’s latest sermon at the Movement at least 2 times). Yet this morning I felt fabulous.
Someone along the way nicknamed me “Mississippi” and that stuck throughout the day, unfortunately.
After breakfast, many of the ladies gathered in the pastor’s house for Bible study. It was precious to see them share about the journey that God had brought them on, to see them crying over leaving their children. “When I see your kids,” began one of the women from Chicago, “I see the faces of my children.” It made me realize that a lot of people have given up much more than I have to be here. It also encouraged me because when I see families and children it makes me miss my own family and home. I am definitely strengthened by the faith of this team.
The futbol tournament resumed without much fanfare. After lunch the women of the villages played a game of their own. It was even more intense to me than the guys.
We all enjoyed a light rain, which served to cool us all off and slickened the field pretty good. I enjoyed it.
During the last game the ladies brought out crafts for the kids to do. It was sweet to watch the children paint their wooden animals and treasure them.
At dusk, it was time for a river bath. Lisboa definitely has a good swimming hole…black sand replaced the usual sticky mud. It was much easier to clean my footsies.
Carolina and John played some worship songs after dark under the meager electric lighting. It’s incredible to praise the Creator in the splendor of his handiwork; sitting in sight of the Amazon, under the sparkling stars, with people of over 4 different nationalities, all while the grasshoppers and beetles dive for your face. Wow. I can’t believe I’m actually experiencing all this.
I still hate roosters but have yet to murder one. Steve said it well this morning, “I want to take that rooster, wring its neck, and pluck his feathers out one by one.” Haha!
I know people have been praying for me today. Yesterday I felt horrible because of my sinus infection. I took two naps but my head hurt all day. Last night I had the hardest time going to sleep (I listened to Kyle Reno’s latest sermon at the Movement at least 2 times). Yet this morning I felt fabulous.
Someone along the way nicknamed me “Mississippi” and that stuck throughout the day, unfortunately.
After breakfast, many of the ladies gathered in the pastor’s house for Bible study. It was precious to see them share about the journey that God had brought them on, to see them crying over leaving their children. “When I see your kids,” began one of the women from Chicago, “I see the faces of my children.” It made me realize that a lot of people have given up much more than I have to be here. It also encouraged me because when I see families and children it makes me miss my own family and home. I am definitely strengthened by the faith of this team.
The futbol tournament resumed without much fanfare. After lunch the women of the villages played a game of their own. It was even more intense to me than the guys.
We all enjoyed a light rain, which served to cool us all off and slickened the field pretty good. I enjoyed it.
During the last game the ladies brought out crafts for the kids to do. It was sweet to watch the children paint their wooden animals and treasure them.
At dusk, it was time for a river bath. Lisboa definitely has a good swimming hole…black sand replaced the usual sticky mud. It was much easier to clean my footsies.
Carolina and John played some worship songs after dark under the meager electric lighting. It’s incredible to praise the Creator in the splendor of his handiwork; sitting in sight of the Amazon, under the sparkling stars, with people of over 4 different nationalities, all while the grasshoppers and beetles dive for your face. Wow. I can’t believe I’m actually experiencing all this.
Day 14: "Mississippi"
Day 14: Monday, July 12, 2010
I still hate roosters but have yet to murder one. Steve said it well this morning, “I want to take that rooster, wring its neck, and pluck his feathers out one by one.” Haha!
I know people have been praying for me today. Yesterday I felt horrible because of my sinus infection. I took two naps but my head hurt all day. Last night I had the hardest time going to sleep (I listened to Kyle Reno’s latest sermon at the Movement at least 2 times). Yet this morning I felt fabulous.
Someone along the way nicknamed me “Mississippi” and that stuck throughout the day, unfortunately.
After breakfast, many of the ladies gathered in the pastor’s house for Bible study. It was precious to see them share about the journey that God had brought them on, to see them crying over leaving their children. “When I see your kids,” began one of the women from Chicago, “I see the faces of my children.” It made me realize that a lot of people have given up much more than I have to be here. It also encouraged me because when I see families and children it makes me miss my own family and home. I am definitely strengthened by the faith of this team.
The futbol tournament resumed without much fanfare. After lunch the women of the villages played a game of their own. It was even more intense to me than the guys.
We all enjoyed a light rain, which served to cool us all off and slickened the field pretty good. I enjoyed it.
During the last game the ladies brought out crafts for the kids to do. It was sweet to watch the children paint their wooden animals and treasure them.
At dusk, it was time for a river bath. Lisboa definitely has a good swimming hole…black sand replaced the usual sticky mud. It was much easier to clean my footsies.
Carolina and John played some worship songs after dark under the meager electric lighting. It’s incredible to praise the Creator in the splendor of his handiwork; sitting in sight of the Amazon, under the sparkling stars, with people of over 4 different nationalities, all while the grasshoppers and beetles dive for your face. Wow. I can’t believe I’m actually experiencing all this.
I still hate roosters but have yet to murder one. Steve said it well this morning, “I want to take that rooster, wring its neck, and pluck his feathers out one by one.” Haha!
I know people have been praying for me today. Yesterday I felt horrible because of my sinus infection. I took two naps but my head hurt all day. Last night I had the hardest time going to sleep (I listened to Kyle Reno’s latest sermon at the Movement at least 2 times). Yet this morning I felt fabulous.
Someone along the way nicknamed me “Mississippi” and that stuck throughout the day, unfortunately.
After breakfast, many of the ladies gathered in the pastor’s house for Bible study. It was precious to see them share about the journey that God had brought them on, to see them crying over leaving their children. “When I see your kids,” began one of the women from Chicago, “I see the faces of my children.” It made me realize that a lot of people have given up much more than I have to be here. It also encouraged me because when I see families and children it makes me miss my own family and home. I am definitely strengthened by the faith of this team.
The futbol tournament resumed without much fanfare. After lunch the women of the villages played a game of their own. It was even more intense to me than the guys.
We all enjoyed a light rain, which served to cool us all off and slickened the field pretty good. I enjoyed it.
During the last game the ladies brought out crafts for the kids to do. It was sweet to watch the children paint their wooden animals and treasure them.
At dusk, it was time for a river bath. Lisboa definitely has a good swimming hole…black sand replaced the usual sticky mud. It was much easier to clean my footsies.
Carolina and John played some worship songs after dark under the meager electric lighting. It’s incredible to praise the Creator in the splendor of his handiwork; sitting in sight of the Amazon, under the sparkling stars, with people of over 4 different nationalities, all while the grasshoppers and beetles dive for your face. Wow. I can’t believe I’m actually experiencing all this.
Day 13: Chills in the Jungle
Day 13: Sunday, July 11, 2010
Chills in the Jungle
This Romanian team is proving themselves faithful. They are very focusing is spreading the gospel, very consist in prayer and devotion time. In retrospect, I think this team is more like what I subconsciously expected it to be. But I’ve also realized that I learned so much about unity, leadership, and servanthood from the first team.
I HATE roosters! It’s quite likely that I will kill one before I return to the States. Even with earplugs in this morning I was awakened to blasting music over the village’s loudspeaker (which is conveniently located next door to the church we’re all sleeping in), and the deformed crow of the neighbor’s rooster. I had actually gone to bed early last night because my sinuses were bothering me (and causing a huge headache). Needless to say, all was not well with me when I was so suddenly woken. I virtually fell out of the hammock only when I had to pee so bad that it started interrupting my sleep. Already the village was alive with men taking advantage of the early morning coolness to machete the tall grass. The team was slowly, groggily stumbling out of their tents, so I tried to get up and get going.
I went outside for a bit, saw that the guys were setting up the soccer field (quite religiously), found out that breakfast was at 8 at the earliest, tried to help where I could, didn’t feel very useful, my head was throbbing because I was trying to wait until breakfast to take my medicine with food. So I slipped back into the church and laid on the wooden floor because I didn’t feel like putting forth the effort to get back into the hammock. A short nap later, the community and YWAM team meeting had just gotten started.
Once the schedule had been set and the rules established for the games, it was time for breakfast. The usual eggs and instant coffee but this time we also had bananas and bread with jam, so I didn’t have to deplete my snacks any this morning.
In compliance with South American culture, the futbol tournament started about an hour later than planned. I observed from the sidelines with Sarah, Alex, and Steve. The group had purchased jerseys with the name of the community printed on the front. They provided these along with shorts and socks for 12 communities. The Peruvians were so into it too. What a better what to evangelize than join in on what they already love.
The games obviously took a break for everyone to watch the World Cup finals. Not a single family here has indoor plumbing, but you better believe that somebody in the village has direct tv. I don’t even have cable in America. Haha! Futbol is such a big deal here. No less than a hundred people were standing in the scorching sun watching the game on a 12 in tv sitting in some guy’s window.
Then before the last game we had a service. There were hundreds of watchful eyes that greeted the worship team. John from Chicago (who struggles with saying, “Mississippi”) spoke on the parable of the prodigal son. Then Juilo shouted some words in Spanish and gave an altar call. Six or seven adults gave their lives to Christ. Talk about Holy Spirit goosebumps in the middle of the Amazon jungle! It was incredible!
The theme for my day from encouragement notes and literature seems to be wisdom. 1 Kings 4:29. James 1:5-8
Chills in the Jungle
This Romanian team is proving themselves faithful. They are very focusing is spreading the gospel, very consist in prayer and devotion time. In retrospect, I think this team is more like what I subconsciously expected it to be. But I’ve also realized that I learned so much about unity, leadership, and servanthood from the first team.
I HATE roosters! It’s quite likely that I will kill one before I return to the States. Even with earplugs in this morning I was awakened to blasting music over the village’s loudspeaker (which is conveniently located next door to the church we’re all sleeping in), and the deformed crow of the neighbor’s rooster. I had actually gone to bed early last night because my sinuses were bothering me (and causing a huge headache). Needless to say, all was not well with me when I was so suddenly woken. I virtually fell out of the hammock only when I had to pee so bad that it started interrupting my sleep. Already the village was alive with men taking advantage of the early morning coolness to machete the tall grass. The team was slowly, groggily stumbling out of their tents, so I tried to get up and get going.
I went outside for a bit, saw that the guys were setting up the soccer field (quite religiously), found out that breakfast was at 8 at the earliest, tried to help where I could, didn’t feel very useful, my head was throbbing because I was trying to wait until breakfast to take my medicine with food. So I slipped back into the church and laid on the wooden floor because I didn’t feel like putting forth the effort to get back into the hammock. A short nap later, the community and YWAM team meeting had just gotten started.
Once the schedule had been set and the rules established for the games, it was time for breakfast. The usual eggs and instant coffee but this time we also had bananas and bread with jam, so I didn’t have to deplete my snacks any this morning.
In compliance with South American culture, the futbol tournament started about an hour later than planned. I observed from the sidelines with Sarah, Alex, and Steve. The group had purchased jerseys with the name of the community printed on the front. They provided these along with shorts and socks for 12 communities. The Peruvians were so into it too. What a better what to evangelize than join in on what they already love.
The games obviously took a break for everyone to watch the World Cup finals. Not a single family here has indoor plumbing, but you better believe that somebody in the village has direct tv. I don’t even have cable in America. Haha! Futbol is such a big deal here. No less than a hundred people were standing in the scorching sun watching the game on a 12 in tv sitting in some guy’s window.
Then before the last game we had a service. There were hundreds of watchful eyes that greeted the worship team. John from Chicago (who struggles with saying, “Mississippi”) spoke on the parable of the prodigal son. Then Juilo shouted some words in Spanish and gave an altar call. Six or seven adults gave their lives to Christ. Talk about Holy Spirit goosebumps in the middle of the Amazon jungle! It was incredible!
The theme for my day from encouragement notes and literature seems to be wisdom. 1 Kings 4:29. James 1:5-8
Day 12: The gospel is global
Day 12: Saturday, July 10, 2010
The gospel is global.
The morning came early, but Beth Barnard had pancakes ready in her apartment (with syrup!) so it was worth it. I tried to focus solely on traveling; otherwise I was reminded that I wouldn’t see Lea again. It also took me some time warming up to the new team because I was constantly comparing the two.
The bus ride to Nauta seemed to last forever and once we arrived, Carlos and Julio told us that the boat gas station was out of gas. We lost another hour there. The “Logos” (YWAM boat) was quite laden once all our luggage and persons got on board. The more I observe the new team, the more intrigued I am. Out of 15, all but 2 of them are Romanian. So to begin with their accent is thick but then they throw random Romanian words in mid-sentence. It’s funny. Some of the younger guys seem to be a lot of fun but I miss having younger girls here too. It’s just Sarah, Carolina, and me this trip.
The boat ride up was like something off the Discovery channel. About halfway into our 5 hour journey, a jungle rainstorm comes down, sending everyone into a frenzy trying to keep things dry without blocking the driver’s visibility. The noise was deafening because of the tin roof. The blue tarps which we rolled down the sides gave a dark blue tint to everything and everyone.
Suddenly everything in the boat lurches forward. As I brace myself, I searched the faces of those in charge and find anxiety combined with shock. Rob announces that we’ve hit a sandbar beneath the surface that couldn’t have been seen. I later learned that the level of the river changes everyday because of the ocean tide.
After all the excitement died down and the rain let up, the boat ride got rather boring. I chatted politely with folks then borrowed John Short’s copy of “Les Miserables”. A great first 27 pages!
As soon as we reached the village of Lisboa, I sensed a huge difference from the others I’d visited. The people were eager to help us carry our luggage into the church (a batless church too! Yay!). As I’m walking from the church back to the bank one little girl runs up and slides her tiny hand into mine. It was the most precious and welcoming thing ever. Love isn’t bound by language.
We all quickly assembled our tents and hammocks, racing against the encroaching twilight. I went straight for the back corner to hang my hammock and somehow eventually ended up between all the single guys….mostly because they are the ones who have mosquito nets and hammocks, too. No worries since we’re all in the same large sanctuary.
After our salty chicken and fried plantains, we held an outdoor service. A lot of it was boring; a thanks to this person and let’s recognize all the visitors but the worship and preaching was great! Two kids even received Christ. It was awesome to worship God in the jungle along with people from so many other nations. God is definitely about a global, kingdom work.
The gospel is global.
The morning came early, but Beth Barnard had pancakes ready in her apartment (with syrup!) so it was worth it. I tried to focus solely on traveling; otherwise I was reminded that I wouldn’t see Lea again. It also took me some time warming up to the new team because I was constantly comparing the two.
The bus ride to Nauta seemed to last forever and once we arrived, Carlos and Julio told us that the boat gas station was out of gas. We lost another hour there. The “Logos” (YWAM boat) was quite laden once all our luggage and persons got on board. The more I observe the new team, the more intrigued I am. Out of 15, all but 2 of them are Romanian. So to begin with their accent is thick but then they throw random Romanian words in mid-sentence. It’s funny. Some of the younger guys seem to be a lot of fun but I miss having younger girls here too. It’s just Sarah, Carolina, and me this trip.
The boat ride up was like something off the Discovery channel. About halfway into our 5 hour journey, a jungle rainstorm comes down, sending everyone into a frenzy trying to keep things dry without blocking the driver’s visibility. The noise was deafening because of the tin roof. The blue tarps which we rolled down the sides gave a dark blue tint to everything and everyone.
Suddenly everything in the boat lurches forward. As I brace myself, I searched the faces of those in charge and find anxiety combined with shock. Rob announces that we’ve hit a sandbar beneath the surface that couldn’t have been seen. I later learned that the level of the river changes everyday because of the ocean tide.
After all the excitement died down and the rain let up, the boat ride got rather boring. I chatted politely with folks then borrowed John Short’s copy of “Les Miserables”. A great first 27 pages!
As soon as we reached the village of Lisboa, I sensed a huge difference from the others I’d visited. The people were eager to help us carry our luggage into the church (a batless church too! Yay!). As I’m walking from the church back to the bank one little girl runs up and slides her tiny hand into mine. It was the most precious and welcoming thing ever. Love isn’t bound by language.
We all quickly assembled our tents and hammocks, racing against the encroaching twilight. I went straight for the back corner to hang my hammock and somehow eventually ended up between all the single guys….mostly because they are the ones who have mosquito nets and hammocks, too. No worries since we’re all in the same large sanctuary.
After our salty chicken and fried plantains, we held an outdoor service. A lot of it was boring; a thanks to this person and let’s recognize all the visitors but the worship and preaching was great! Two kids even received Christ. It was awesome to worship God in the jungle along with people from so many other nations. God is definitely about a global, kingdom work.
Day 11: "An Experience in Culture"
Day 11: Friday, July 9, 2010
“An experience in culture” this morning as we traveled to Belen, Iquitos’s poor district. The open air market was unbelievable. Tarps hung low over the streets, which were filled with tables of various goods – everything from raw chicken to fresh cut watermelon, or bootleg DVDs to toothpaste. Becky (YWAM staffer over the women’s ministry) called it the “people’s market” unlike the souvenir shops we’d visited on the Boulevard (which is more like “the place to be on Friday night” kind of happening place). I called it “somersault stomach market” because of the atrocious smells (including piles of garbage in the middle of the walkway).
Dan and Jolene both became ill during the night and seemed quite sick when they left the base at 5:30pm (they couldn’t even keep water down).
The team from Chicago is actually staying in hotels but they came to the base for a meeting about the same time the New York team had to leave for the airport. It was very bittersweet. The six members of the New York team along with Nate, Lea, Rob, Daniel, and John have been nearly all I’ve really know of YWAM, it’s hard to imagine what it will be like without them. Saying goodbye left me feeling quite emotional and slightly homesick. As a surefire cheering up tactic, Lea, Becky, and I went out for ice cream after the Chicago meeting.
The three of us went to the ice cream place along “the Plaza” (Plaza de Armos). As is usual, while we were sitting in the ice cream parlor, people came to beg from the “gringos”. I bought one kid an ice cream bar (which was not much of a sacrifice since it cost 50 centimos- half a soles, or 30 cents USD) but then a lady came up with a baby on her shoulder asking Becky for some money for medicine for her baby. I was blessed to watch Becky’s response. She told us that she wasn’t sure if the lady was telling the truth or not but that she was kinda give her some money anyway. I assumed it would be an obligatory pass off of spare change but instead Becky looks intently at the woman and starts making conversation with her. After a short time, she concluded her conversation and gave her the money. I don’t have even the slightest clue what she shared but her personal contact looked a lot like love.
“An experience in culture” this morning as we traveled to Belen, Iquitos’s poor district. The open air market was unbelievable. Tarps hung low over the streets, which were filled with tables of various goods – everything from raw chicken to fresh cut watermelon, or bootleg DVDs to toothpaste. Becky (YWAM staffer over the women’s ministry) called it the “people’s market” unlike the souvenir shops we’d visited on the Boulevard (which is more like “the place to be on Friday night” kind of happening place). I called it “somersault stomach market” because of the atrocious smells (including piles of garbage in the middle of the walkway).
Dan and Jolene both became ill during the night and seemed quite sick when they left the base at 5:30pm (they couldn’t even keep water down).
The team from Chicago is actually staying in hotels but they came to the base for a meeting about the same time the New York team had to leave for the airport. It was very bittersweet. The six members of the New York team along with Nate, Lea, Rob, Daniel, and John have been nearly all I’ve really know of YWAM, it’s hard to imagine what it will be like without them. Saying goodbye left me feeling quite emotional and slightly homesick. As a surefire cheering up tactic, Lea, Becky, and I went out for ice cream after the Chicago meeting.
The three of us went to the ice cream place along “the Plaza” (Plaza de Armos). As is usual, while we were sitting in the ice cream parlor, people came to beg from the “gringos”. I bought one kid an ice cream bar (which was not much of a sacrifice since it cost 50 centimos- half a soles, or 30 cents USD) but then a lady came up with a baby on her shoulder asking Becky for some money for medicine for her baby. I was blessed to watch Becky’s response. She told us that she wasn’t sure if the lady was telling the truth or not but that she was kinda give her some money anyway. I assumed it would be an obligatory pass off of spare change but instead Becky looks intently at the woman and starts making conversation with her. After a short time, she concluded her conversation and gave her the money. I don’t have even the slightest clue what she shared but her personal contact looked a lot like love.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Day 10: "Back from the Jungle" celebration day
Day 10: Thursday, July 8, 2010
Life at the base can be quite hectic when a team stays.
Today we went to several “touristy” places. We rode a motorcar to Nanay where we got in Osmar’s brother’s peki-peki (which is basically an large canoe with a motor on the rear). On the boat we traveled from the Nanay River into the Amazon. Then we stopped at two different villages where the people perform ancestral reenactments (they were dressed with straw skirts and sometimes tops as they danced around the hut). It was…interesting to say the least. While we were at one village, they let us take a shot at using a blow dart gun and got to hold a monkey. Lastly we stopped at a zoo of sorts (cages built up in case of flooding, we actually walked from cage to cage and went inside to hold or take pictures of the animals). This was my favorite part of the tour because we got to see a sloth, monkeys, anacondas, jungle rat, “prehistoric turtles”, parrots, and cayman (crocodile).
After lunch, Lea and I went out on our own. We first went to the Radio Shack on Prospero (we actually stopped to get some ice cream, but shh..it’s a secret because we had some after dinner too). After purchasing some ear phones, we went to “TopiTopi” a clothing store that played English music (Maroon 5, actually). Then we went to the grocery store where I purchased coke zero (YAY!!!), chips a hoy cookies, and other snacks. A 16 oz bottled coke product cost S./1.70 (soles), which is approximately equivalent to $0.60. I was quite excited. Lea and I had a good time hanging out. We only have tomorrow before I leave for the River again with the Chicago team. I think I will miss her and her German accent and the random English words she uses out of context like “ironically”. Haha!
We enjoyed hamburgers (seemingly mediocre back home) at the base but it felt like a real treat since we’d been talking about it since the Fourth of July. Then we went to the Plaza de Armas for ice cream and souvenir shopping.
It’s been quite a successful “back from the jungle” day.
Life at the base can be quite hectic when a team stays.
Today we went to several “touristy” places. We rode a motorcar to Nanay where we got in Osmar’s brother’s peki-peki (which is basically an large canoe with a motor on the rear). On the boat we traveled from the Nanay River into the Amazon. Then we stopped at two different villages where the people perform ancestral reenactments (they were dressed with straw skirts and sometimes tops as they danced around the hut). It was…interesting to say the least. While we were at one village, they let us take a shot at using a blow dart gun and got to hold a monkey. Lastly we stopped at a zoo of sorts (cages built up in case of flooding, we actually walked from cage to cage and went inside to hold or take pictures of the animals). This was my favorite part of the tour because we got to see a sloth, monkeys, anacondas, jungle rat, “prehistoric turtles”, parrots, and cayman (crocodile).
After lunch, Lea and I went out on our own. We first went to the Radio Shack on Prospero (we actually stopped to get some ice cream, but shh..it’s a secret because we had some after dinner too). After purchasing some ear phones, we went to “TopiTopi” a clothing store that played English music (Maroon 5, actually). Then we went to the grocery store where I purchased coke zero (YAY!!!), chips a hoy cookies, and other snacks. A 16 oz bottled coke product cost S./1.70 (soles), which is approximately equivalent to $0.60. I was quite excited. Lea and I had a good time hanging out. We only have tomorrow before I leave for the River again with the Chicago team. I think I will miss her and her German accent and the random English words she uses out of context like “ironically”. Haha!
We enjoyed hamburgers (seemingly mediocre back home) at the base but it felt like a real treat since we’d been talking about it since the Fourth of July. Then we went to the Plaza de Armas for ice cream and souvenir shopping.
It’s been quite a successful “back from the jungle” day.
Day 9: "Civilization"
Day 9: Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Today we left the farm by boat to Nauta. From Nauta, we rode a bus for two hours to Iquitos. Lea seems to be feeling better and even ate a little of her lunch at the base.
It’s so nice to be back in “civilization” even though it hardly compares to American standards. I was glad to get away from the mosquitoes and take a legit shower. I’ve also been able to sykpe with my family back home, which gives me such joy!
Tonight almost the whole team (from New York) that worked with us this week will be going out for a “fancy” meal. I think it’s called “El Carbon”, I’ll let you know how it is.
Today we left the farm by boat to Nauta. From Nauta, we rode a bus for two hours to Iquitos. Lea seems to be feeling better and even ate a little of her lunch at the base.
It’s so nice to be back in “civilization” even though it hardly compares to American standards. I was glad to get away from the mosquitoes and take a legit shower. I’ve also been able to sykpe with my family back home, which gives me such joy!
Tonight almost the whole team (from New York) that worked with us this week will be going out for a “fancy” meal. I think it’s called “El Carbon”, I’ll let you know how it is.
Day 8: It is well
Day 8: Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Even though we technically found water and installed pipes in José Olaya and Los Palmas, we left instructions and materials with the community leaders to pour the gravel and cement around the pipes before we returned to install the actual pump. At each site, we had to flush the pipes and then install the pump. Unlike the well digging, this process is much more a one or two man job, which made it difficult to feel useful. I really wanted to go back to Iquitos as soon as we were finished because I haven’t spoken with anyone from home all this time. I only briefly called my dad on a borrowed phone card to tell him I had arrived safely. I miss them.
Juilo left instructions for each community on how to work the well and what to do if problems arise. And then he brought the GOSPEL! It was incredible to hear him preach God’s good news. There was no mistaking why he was there.
I also enjoyed playing with the kids while everything was being completed. Although I did observe some disgusting hygiene habits: mothers picking the lice out of their child’s hair…and eating it. Ugh!
it was good to get to know the team a little bit better before leaving. Unfortunately, Lea is not feeling well. She has a very high fever, which worries me due to all her many bites.
We had back to the city tomorrow. Praise God! The jungle is ok but I’m really craving some ice cream and French fries and looking forward to an actual bed that I can’t flip out of and a shower I don’t have to share with insects or marine life.
Day 7: Dirty Clubs
Day 7: Monday, July 5, 2010
Los Palmas is my favorite village thus far. Just as we’ve done all week, we left right after breakfast by boat to Los Palmas, the closest of the three villages. When we first arrived we saw a sloth, pet to one of the families in the village.
There are two other teachers on the trip and Lea is studying to be a teacher, so naturally once the welling digging is in motion they drift off to locate the school and talk to the teacher/principal about sharing. I’d felt led in all the other places we’d been to help with the well but today I went to the school (which was actually only 50 ft from well).
I fell in love with the wooden one room school building and the sweet teacher. There is something romantic and enchanting about a one room school in the middle of the jungle. Inside I was quite surprised to find such adequate materials. The walls were colored with maps, and posters, much like an American classroom. The students sat in very well made wooden desks that were arranged into three groups (clearly age groups). I noticed a small closet to the left that seemed to be a library/resource closet which came as quite a surprise. Many of the students also had books and colored pencils and paper, another rarity. I was however quite shocked to see their communal cup and bucket of “water” – filthy, dirty water from a stagnant pond that I probably wouldn’t even bath in is what they were drinking. I realized how much of an impact building a well can bring. It’s quite difficult to lead dead people to salvation.
Praise the Lord for allowing us to find water and we only had to dig about 50 feet deep. There was definitely a need for God to provide this water and I’m so glad that he used us to accomplish his purposes.
We also finished much earlier than any other time and were actually back to the farm around 2:30. Because I had been bit by mosquitoes the first night I tried to take a shower in the dark, the rest of the week I swan in the river with a bar of soap for my bath. But today, since we got back so early and for the benefit of anyone with nostrils in a 5 miles radius, I decided to try the shower again. It was mostly successful, only minimal bites and no bats. Haha!
It was nice to chill and hang out with the team instead of being dog tired or running to our tents from the mosquitoes. Nate, the Harvard grad from Minnesota, taught a few of us a card game called, “Dirty Clubs”. It’s quite complicated but I won the first game quite quickly. Then we added more players and the game lasted like 4 hours before we all just quit. But it was fun. Card games is a universal way to get to know people.
Los Palmas is my favorite village thus far. Just as we’ve done all week, we left right after breakfast by boat to Los Palmas, the closest of the three villages. When we first arrived we saw a sloth, pet to one of the families in the village.
There are two other teachers on the trip and Lea is studying to be a teacher, so naturally once the welling digging is in motion they drift off to locate the school and talk to the teacher/principal about sharing. I’d felt led in all the other places we’d been to help with the well but today I went to the school (which was actually only 50 ft from well).
I fell in love with the wooden one room school building and the sweet teacher. There is something romantic and enchanting about a one room school in the middle of the jungle. Inside I was quite surprised to find such adequate materials. The walls were colored with maps, and posters, much like an American classroom. The students sat in very well made wooden desks that were arranged into three groups (clearly age groups). I noticed a small closet to the left that seemed to be a library/resource closet which came as quite a surprise. Many of the students also had books and colored pencils and paper, another rarity. I was however quite shocked to see their communal cup and bucket of “water” – filthy, dirty water from a stagnant pond that I probably wouldn’t even bath in is what they were drinking. I realized how much of an impact building a well can bring. It’s quite difficult to lead dead people to salvation.
Praise the Lord for allowing us to find water and we only had to dig about 50 feet deep. There was definitely a need for God to provide this water and I’m so glad that he used us to accomplish his purposes.
We also finished much earlier than any other time and were actually back to the farm around 2:30. Because I had been bit by mosquitoes the first night I tried to take a shower in the dark, the rest of the week I swan in the river with a bar of soap for my bath. But today, since we got back so early and for the benefit of anyone with nostrils in a 5 miles radius, I decided to try the shower again. It was mostly successful, only minimal bites and no bats. Haha!
It was nice to chill and hang out with the team instead of being dog tired or running to our tents from the mosquitoes. Nate, the Harvard grad from Minnesota, taught a few of us a card game called, “Dirty Clubs”. It’s quite complicated but I won the first game quite quickly. Then we added more players and the game lasted like 4 hours before we all just quit. But it was fun. Card games is a universal way to get to know people.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Peruvian Fourh of July
Day 6: Sunday, July 4, 2010
I miss the United States today. The fourth of July has always been my favorite holiday, but this Independence Day will always hold a special memory.
It was a shorter boat ride up the Maranon today to José Olaya, a river village of approximately 300 people or 60 families. Once again we were planning to dig a well there. By this point the team began work on the well with amiable fluidity. Before too long there was a village crowd gathered to watch as we worked, many more men came out to work than the last village and they were very excited to see us.
The New York team had some coloring pages for the children to do which were appropriately themed after the woman at the well (John 4: 1-42) where Jesus said, “whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty forever. The water than I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” – John 4:14. It was beautiful to think that we had part in sharing the Living Water with these precious people.
One team member was sick through the night and still couldn’t eat much today. Lord, heal her body. The past two days I’ve jumped right in and gotten dirty to help with the well digging but for some reason today I was content to sit on the sidelines, praying and worshipping. In the stillness I noticed that the children here doing “play dolls”, they actively take care of their younger siblings. I saw a small child (probably around 4 or 5) running through the village holding a baby. I guess Americans are just too protective. Haha.
To commemorate America’s independence a few of us screeched our way through the National Anthem in the middle of the jungle. Quite patriotic I’d say.
About mid-afternoon the earth turned to sand and shortly thereafter water started gushing up out of the pipes! Praise the Lord! To think that I had even a small part in bringing clean drinking water to an entire community brings an indescribable feeling of joy. I imagine the Father beaming with even more pleasure when he offered us the Living Water through the blood of his precious son.
Tonight was the worst meal I’ve had so far, not really just in my mind because we were all sitting around the dinner table (sweating and swatting flies, of course) talking about what we would be doing for the Fourth in the States. Needless to say, all our talking about hamburgers, watermelon, French fries, baked beans, potato salad, homemade ice cream, and apple pie made our rice and fried plantains seem even more foreign. .
“For the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me a drink, I was a stranger and you gave me food, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and gave you a drink? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these, you did it to me.’” Matthew 25: 34-40
I miss the United States today. The fourth of July has always been my favorite holiday, but this Independence Day will always hold a special memory.
It was a shorter boat ride up the Maranon today to José Olaya, a river village of approximately 300 people or 60 families. Once again we were planning to dig a well there. By this point the team began work on the well with amiable fluidity. Before too long there was a village crowd gathered to watch as we worked, many more men came out to work than the last village and they were very excited to see us.
The New York team had some coloring pages for the children to do which were appropriately themed after the woman at the well (John 4: 1-42) where Jesus said, “whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty forever. The water than I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” – John 4:14. It was beautiful to think that we had part in sharing the Living Water with these precious people.
One team member was sick through the night and still couldn’t eat much today. Lord, heal her body. The past two days I’ve jumped right in and gotten dirty to help with the well digging but for some reason today I was content to sit on the sidelines, praying and worshipping. In the stillness I noticed that the children here doing “play dolls”, they actively take care of their younger siblings. I saw a small child (probably around 4 or 5) running through the village holding a baby. I guess Americans are just too protective. Haha.
To commemorate America’s independence a few of us screeched our way through the National Anthem in the middle of the jungle. Quite patriotic I’d say.
About mid-afternoon the earth turned to sand and shortly thereafter water started gushing up out of the pipes! Praise the Lord! To think that I had even a small part in bringing clean drinking water to an entire community brings an indescribable feeling of joy. I imagine the Father beaming with even more pleasure when he offered us the Living Water through the blood of his precious son.
Tonight was the worst meal I’ve had so far, not really just in my mind because we were all sitting around the dinner table (sweating and swatting flies, of course) talking about what we would be doing for the Fourth in the States. Needless to say, all our talking about hamburgers, watermelon, French fries, baked beans, potato salad, homemade ice cream, and apple pie made our rice and fried plantains seem even more foreign. .
“For the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me a drink, I was a stranger and you gave me food, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and gave you a drink? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these, you did it to me.’” Matthew 25: 34-40
Friday, July 16, 2010
Day 5: Fighting Discouragement
Day 5: Saturday, July 3, 2010
The disappointments of yesterday were strong and unpleasant, and continued to intensify today. We returned to Canon to continue drilling, hoping that we would be able to break through the rock and find water right underneath. Instead of just turning the drill the men had to pick up the drill to add momentum as they slung it back into the rock.
We enjoyed a nice little shower as we worked into the afternoon. It really was nice because it caused the temperature to decrease immensely. Even after all the hard work we put into the well, we didn’t break through the rock, so those in charge decided to move the machinery just to the other side of the drainage holes to see if the rock was there as well. Sure enough, we hit rock again. Although we did dig deeper on the second attempt…no water.
It was quite discouraging to have to walk away from a village of so many people who so desperately need life, not only clean drinking water but the Living Water! I believe we showed them Jesus, but we couldn’t keep attempting to dig wells there all week because we had promised other villages that we would come.
I was reminded of the prophet Jeremiah who was called to prophesy and proclaim God’s words to a people that would reject him. And God told him that this people would not receive his message but that he was to go anyway (Jeremiah 7:27). Yet I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you. To give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11 All we can do is be obedient to the Lord…the rest is up to him!
Later Juilo told us that he had noticed a lot of things about that community that weren’t exactly right (like the number of people who came to help, the fact there had been a lot of drinking going on, etc). Perhaps God wanted to show himself just to these people. Here’s a harsh yet encouraging quote from a friend, “[Keep in mind] that the Lord knows what it takes to perfect you.” Maybe it’s me that the Lord wants to begin a change in. I can’t begin to fathom his ways, but I do trust that his is good!
To end on a more upbeat note, we did see an anaconda today in the village and the world’s only fresh water dolphins on the ride back to the farm! Most of the meals consist of a lot of carbs (rice or pasta or potatoes or all three in a single meal) and loads of salt, not exactly the massive amounts of fruits like I was expecting.
The disappointments of yesterday were strong and unpleasant, and continued to intensify today. We returned to Canon to continue drilling, hoping that we would be able to break through the rock and find water right underneath. Instead of just turning the drill the men had to pick up the drill to add momentum as they slung it back into the rock.
We enjoyed a nice little shower as we worked into the afternoon. It really was nice because it caused the temperature to decrease immensely. Even after all the hard work we put into the well, we didn’t break through the rock, so those in charge decided to move the machinery just to the other side of the drainage holes to see if the rock was there as well. Sure enough, we hit rock again. Although we did dig deeper on the second attempt…no water.
It was quite discouraging to have to walk away from a village of so many people who so desperately need life, not only clean drinking water but the Living Water! I believe we showed them Jesus, but we couldn’t keep attempting to dig wells there all week because we had promised other villages that we would come.
I was reminded of the prophet Jeremiah who was called to prophesy and proclaim God’s words to a people that would reject him. And God told him that this people would not receive his message but that he was to go anyway (Jeremiah 7:27). Yet I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you. To give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11 All we can do is be obedient to the Lord…the rest is up to him!
Later Juilo told us that he had noticed a lot of things about that community that weren’t exactly right (like the number of people who came to help, the fact there had been a lot of drinking going on, etc). Perhaps God wanted to show himself just to these people. Here’s a harsh yet encouraging quote from a friend, “[Keep in mind] that the Lord knows what it takes to perfect you.” Maybe it’s me that the Lord wants to begin a change in. I can’t begin to fathom his ways, but I do trust that his is good!
To end on a more upbeat note, we did see an anaconda today in the village and the world’s only fresh water dolphins on the ride back to the farm! Most of the meals consist of a lot of carbs (rice or pasta or potatoes or all three in a single meal) and loads of salt, not exactly the massive amounts of fruits like I was expecting.
Beyond what meets the eye
Day 4: Friday, July 2, 2010
I awoke this morning slightly confused and disoriented. I was in a hammock with a mosquito net draped over me, there was a thatch roof above me, and through another screen was the most beautiful sunrise cascading over a lush landscape. I’m in the Amazon Jungle waking up to a view of the river. What?!? And I actually went back to sleep for a bit until everyone else started stirring. Sleeping in such conditions, basically outside, will make you do crazy things without even knowing it…like getting up at 5:30 because the sun is shining.
Not long after the gringos had risen, I noticed a group of guys cutting the grass with their machetes of course. Haha! They’ve started working before I’ve even gotten out of bed.
The farm is relatively isolated, with 2 or 3 families living there in order to maintain the farm. We are quite fortunate to have tile showers and a porcelain toilet. Right now it doesn’t seem like anything could be better.
We had a breakfast of scrambled eggs and sweet café amidst swarming mosquitoes. All knowing Daniel and John tell us that the bugs are the worst at dawn and dusk. Now we know.
The team left for the first well-digging site around 8. We traveled up river for about an hour until we arrived in Cannon (Canon?), a village of around 700 hundred people. Everyone on the team was so willing to serve. Even the women and girls were eager to help carry heavy equipment or moving mud with their hands. So it didn’t take long for us to get all our supplies and equipment up the hill (or where the river would’ve been if it was high tide). Julio talked with the village authority about the placement of the well.
God uses the least like of people to accomplish his purposes. If you don’t believe that, maybe we haven’t met yet because I’m about as average as it gets as far as special talents or strengths go. Needless to say, it took me some time before I figured out the well digging process. I was really confused when they started digging holes in the ground with shovels and siphoning water from the river. Why were we there to dig wells if they already have water that they can use? Thankfully once again Daniel and John were wells of information. The drill that YWAM uses is a hydraulic drill which uses both the pressure of the water and the turning motion of the bit to drill more efficiently. So they were digging drains for the water siphoned from the river, so that they could reuse it. In order to keep the pipes aligned correctly and keep pressure off the drill, a wooden structure had to be build that a pulley could hang from.
A few hours after all of this had taken place, we finally began drilling. Around eleven some of the group had activities planned for the children, so they went to the school to minister. They left while I was taking my turn spinning the drill, so I just stayed and tried to help with the well. For me there is something so incredibly amazing about the thought of providing clean drinking water to an entire village, including the children whose stomachs are already poached because of parasites they’ve attained just by drinking impure water. By participating in something that everyone else in the entire village is doing, one might end up with parasites or any other number of diseases. What a picture of what sin can do in our lives. Just as we may choose to do things that everyone else is doing (secular or spiritual people), but the word tells us that in the end it leads to death (Proverbs 14:10).
We continued drilling through lunch, taking turns as we broke away from the work to eat the lunch that Yola and Yolanda had prepared for us on the makeshift boat stove. In the afternoon, the drilling became more difficult because of the depth and the fact that we continued to dig in clay. Also the heat and humidity was quite intense. One basically starts sweating the moment they walk into the sunlight or walk 5 feet, or lay in a hammock…essentially you’re always sweating. Welcome to the jungle.
The people who had dug a well before told us that usually you hit a layer of sand just before finding water. There was no sand. We only brought 20 pipes to attach to the drill, each pipe being about 1.5 meters or 5 feet. Around 2 or 3 we screwed on the last pipe, hoping and praying for water but we found none. We had drilled since 9 am 100 feet down in thick clay and still did not find water. So, Juilo and Clever (YWAM in charge of well digging) asked the authority where he wanted else he might want the well to be.
We carried all our equipment and repeated the entire set up process just up the hill more into the village. The team’s optimism still strong, we began drilling the second well. In general there was a guy manning the generator which powered the drill, John Short holding the top of the drill steady, someone keeping the accurate amount of tension in the rope pulley, and two or three people turning the drill. A few people from the village came to help but the majority just sat around and watched everyone work. Dan and Cathy, a brother and sister from New York, played with the kids at nearly every available opportunity. Wherever Dan went, a crowd of boys was sure to follow, and he speaks even less Spanish than I do, so it was encouraging to see him engage so quickly and not let language be a barrier.
20 feet down and we hit rock. Which they assured was not necessarily a bad sign, it happens often before finding water. Eventually we had to pack up with promises of returning the next day.
Meanwhile back at the farm, everyone scurried to the “showers” (whether that meant the river or the actual shower, to each his own). I opted for an official shower in the tile bathroom. Worst idea ever. I think like a thousand mosquitoes decided my naked butt would be a tasty dinner, which enticed the bat to fly into the bathroom…then I had to walk back the length of a football field through the scary night jungle. The shower was totally not worth it…even if people liked me more because I didn’t smell so bad.
Once again, night fell and all the humans raced for cover against the swarms of mosquitoes. It’s been quite a depressing day. We have come, traveled great distances, to see the Lord do great things and it was disheartening when we couldn’t see what his plan was. But I did hear someone say, “That is just the physical.” Who knows what the Lord accomplished in the hearts of the people who witnessed our love as we came to serve.
I awoke this morning slightly confused and disoriented. I was in a hammock with a mosquito net draped over me, there was a thatch roof above me, and through another screen was the most beautiful sunrise cascading over a lush landscape. I’m in the Amazon Jungle waking up to a view of the river. What?!? And I actually went back to sleep for a bit until everyone else started stirring. Sleeping in such conditions, basically outside, will make you do crazy things without even knowing it…like getting up at 5:30 because the sun is shining.
Not long after the gringos had risen, I noticed a group of guys cutting the grass with their machetes of course. Haha! They’ve started working before I’ve even gotten out of bed.
The farm is relatively isolated, with 2 or 3 families living there in order to maintain the farm. We are quite fortunate to have tile showers and a porcelain toilet. Right now it doesn’t seem like anything could be better.
We had a breakfast of scrambled eggs and sweet café amidst swarming mosquitoes. All knowing Daniel and John tell us that the bugs are the worst at dawn and dusk. Now we know.
The team left for the first well-digging site around 8. We traveled up river for about an hour until we arrived in Cannon (Canon?), a village of around 700 hundred people. Everyone on the team was so willing to serve. Even the women and girls were eager to help carry heavy equipment or moving mud with their hands. So it didn’t take long for us to get all our supplies and equipment up the hill (or where the river would’ve been if it was high tide). Julio talked with the village authority about the placement of the well.
God uses the least like of people to accomplish his purposes. If you don’t believe that, maybe we haven’t met yet because I’m about as average as it gets as far as special talents or strengths go. Needless to say, it took me some time before I figured out the well digging process. I was really confused when they started digging holes in the ground with shovels and siphoning water from the river. Why were we there to dig wells if they already have water that they can use? Thankfully once again Daniel and John were wells of information. The drill that YWAM uses is a hydraulic drill which uses both the pressure of the water and the turning motion of the bit to drill more efficiently. So they were digging drains for the water siphoned from the river, so that they could reuse it. In order to keep the pipes aligned correctly and keep pressure off the drill, a wooden structure had to be build that a pulley could hang from.
A few hours after all of this had taken place, we finally began drilling. Around eleven some of the group had activities planned for the children, so they went to the school to minister. They left while I was taking my turn spinning the drill, so I just stayed and tried to help with the well. For me there is something so incredibly amazing about the thought of providing clean drinking water to an entire village, including the children whose stomachs are already poached because of parasites they’ve attained just by drinking impure water. By participating in something that everyone else in the entire village is doing, one might end up with parasites or any other number of diseases. What a picture of what sin can do in our lives. Just as we may choose to do things that everyone else is doing (secular or spiritual people), but the word tells us that in the end it leads to death (Proverbs 14:10).
We continued drilling through lunch, taking turns as we broke away from the work to eat the lunch that Yola and Yolanda had prepared for us on the makeshift boat stove. In the afternoon, the drilling became more difficult because of the depth and the fact that we continued to dig in clay. Also the heat and humidity was quite intense. One basically starts sweating the moment they walk into the sunlight or walk 5 feet, or lay in a hammock…essentially you’re always sweating. Welcome to the jungle.
The people who had dug a well before told us that usually you hit a layer of sand just before finding water. There was no sand. We only brought 20 pipes to attach to the drill, each pipe being about 1.5 meters or 5 feet. Around 2 or 3 we screwed on the last pipe, hoping and praying for water but we found none. We had drilled since 9 am 100 feet down in thick clay and still did not find water. So, Juilo and Clever (YWAM in charge of well digging) asked the authority where he wanted else he might want the well to be.
We carried all our equipment and repeated the entire set up process just up the hill more into the village. The team’s optimism still strong, we began drilling the second well. In general there was a guy manning the generator which powered the drill, John Short holding the top of the drill steady, someone keeping the accurate amount of tension in the rope pulley, and two or three people turning the drill. A few people from the village came to help but the majority just sat around and watched everyone work. Dan and Cathy, a brother and sister from New York, played with the kids at nearly every available opportunity. Wherever Dan went, a crowd of boys was sure to follow, and he speaks even less Spanish than I do, so it was encouraging to see him engage so quickly and not let language be a barrier.
20 feet down and we hit rock. Which they assured was not necessarily a bad sign, it happens often before finding water. Eventually we had to pack up with promises of returning the next day.
Meanwhile back at the farm, everyone scurried to the “showers” (whether that meant the river or the actual shower, to each his own). I opted for an official shower in the tile bathroom. Worst idea ever. I think like a thousand mosquitoes decided my naked butt would be a tasty dinner, which enticed the bat to fly into the bathroom…then I had to walk back the length of a football field through the scary night jungle. The shower was totally not worth it…even if people liked me more because I didn’t smell so bad.
Once again, night fell and all the humans raced for cover against the swarms of mosquitoes. It’s been quite a depressing day. We have come, traveled great distances, to see the Lord do great things and it was disheartening when we couldn’t see what his plan was. But I did hear someone say, “That is just the physical.” Who knows what the Lord accomplished in the hearts of the people who witnessed our love as we came to serve.
Friday, July 9, 2010
Day 3: Where the rubber meets the road and the boat hits the water
(Reader Advisory: Yes I am an English teacher. However, I would like to direct my attention to the heart of the message and not the mechanics of our jumbled language. So please forgive the many mistakes I’m sure you will find in this and any other posts and remember that I am in the jungle where proper English is the least of my worries. Haha)
Day 3: Thursday, July 1, 2010
Where the Rubber Meets the Road and thus the boat hits the water
Sleep last night was amazing, I was exhausted. I’m not really sure what time I crawled out of the bed. In my typical “non-morning person” habit, each time I woke up I would scan the room to see who else what still asleep. As long as I wasn’t the last sleeper, it was a-ok to snooze. I do know that they served breakfast at 8 and I was tardy because I felt the need to put make-up on one last time before the jungle madness began.
In a surprisingly timely manner (Latin/South American cultures generally have difficulty adhering to time frames), the group’s luggage was loaded onto a bus. We left the base around nine o’clock headed two hours to Nauta. Because we were still for a whole two hours, most of us travel beaten kids fell asleep on the way. The bus didn’t have AC but there was a glorious cool breeze blowing through the windows that basically served to chill your sweat. Haha.
Nauta is an interesting port (I guess you would call it a port city, even if it’s not on the ocean?) city. Here we formed a chain line to pass all our excessive “American” amounts of luggage into the boat (“Logos”). By the time we were finished, everyone was basically drenched in sweat (which would probably have happened just by standing in the Sun…it’s intense). So we wondered through Nauta for 30 minutes or so. It’s really funny to walk around the souvenir shops and markets with a blonde-haired person. The natives don’t even attempt to hide their stares. I ended up with a cold electrolight (Gatorade) which tasted like rain in the desert.
Day 3: Thursday, July 1, 2010
Where the Rubber Meets the Road and thus the boat hits the water
Sleep last night was amazing, I was exhausted. I’m not really sure what time I crawled out of the bed. In my typical “non-morning person” habit, each time I woke up I would scan the room to see who else what still asleep. As long as I wasn’t the last sleeper, it was a-ok to snooze. I do know that they served breakfast at 8 and I was tardy because I felt the need to put make-up on one last time before the jungle madness began.
In a surprisingly timely manner (Latin/South American cultures generally have difficulty adhering to time frames), the group’s luggage was loaded onto a bus. We left the base around nine o’clock headed two hours to Nauta. Because we were still for a whole two hours, most of us travel beaten kids fell asleep on the way. The bus didn’t have AC but there was a glorious cool breeze blowing through the windows that basically served to chill your sweat. Haha.
Nauta is an interesting port (I guess you would call it a port city, even if it’s not on the ocean?) city. Here we formed a chain line to pass all our excessive “American” amounts of luggage into the boat (“Logos”). By the time we were finished, everyone was basically drenched in sweat (which would probably have happened just by standing in the Sun…it’s intense). So we wondered through Nauta for 30 minutes or so. It’s really funny to walk around the souvenir shops and markets with a blonde-haired person. The natives don’t even attempt to hide their stares. I ended up with a cold electrolight (Gatorade) which tasted like rain in the desert.
While we were waiting for some of our younger friends to finish shopping, we stood alongside the road. Men, women, and children are all staring at the “gringos” drinking our flavored drinks. Every kid 12 or younger that was bold enough would come and stand close by to toss up a piercing set of wide, black eyes. No language barriers exist with these poor children when they want what you have. Some of the guys passed off what was left of their snacks and a look of pure delight filled their sooty faces. How simple life is for them. Sometimes I dare to ponder who really has the better life. How much more would I be willing to give my God if stuff had no value to me because I didn’t have materialism to hold me back?
We collected all of our team and loaded up on the boat (it seems like such a simple sentences, but all of these actions do, in fact, bear some weight. “Collecting all of our team” can mean waiting awkwardly for some time and “loaded up on the boat” actually means we traipsed through the mud onto the boata). We traveled 2 or 3 hours up the Marañon river, a tributary of the Amazon, until we reached “the farm” – property along the river that is owned and operated by YWAM. The landscape is very lush, the water is very brown, and the air is hot and humid (not all that different from Mississippi). I enjoyed observing everything around me from the beautiful jungle to all the new people.
Once we arrived at the farm, Rob and Hulio gave everyone the tour of the building and land. The New York team and all the interns decided to set up camp in the church while the rest of the crew put tents up in the main building. I have no idea what goes through the average American mind when they ear church building. A gym or sanctuary maybe. Not even close. Let me try to paint a picture for you before I lessen it with an actual photograph. The church was of a decent size and made of cedar like planks. No insulation and definitely no AC. The roof consisted of rafters and dried banana/plantain leaves. We were lucky enough to have mosquito nets over the windows, but unfortunately there was nothing we could do about the many holes in the roof. Haha. Inside were wooden benches and bat poo on the floor.
The “passing chain” was put to work again, so we quickly unloaded all the bags and equipment before arranging our sleeping quarters. I decided to go with the hammock the first night and give it a try. Thanks to Chris for letting me borrow it for such an adventure. It took some strategic thinking to set it up at the appropriate height, but before long on was ready to sway the night away. Haha. Let me also explain that because of the mosquitoes, Clark had suggested a serious hammock with a mosquito net actually attached to it, not your normal siesta hammocks.
At dinner, which Yola had prepared, she walked around the table and gave some guys gentle massages to help them relax. Then she said something that was so profound to me, “It doesn’t matter what I do, it’s all for my heavenly Father,” What an incredible servant’s heart! She didn’t care that she wasn’t part of the team that went out and dug wells or played with kids – she cooked for all of us as her ministry to the Father, not begrudgingly but with undeniable joy. So inspiring.
6pm – the night comes. The mosquitoes decide it was time for dinner as well. It was literally so bad that all of us ran into a tent to play “Skip-bo”. Once dusk hit…it was time to stay covered. Which I thought would be fine the first night because I was so tired. The hammock is difficult to get situated into but once you do, it’s pretty comfortable. However, the jungle noises are something to be contended with. Unbelievably loud! Praise the Lord for earplugs and the comfort of his promises when he leads me so far out of my comfort zone.
We collected all of our team and loaded up on the boat (it seems like such a simple sentences, but all of these actions do, in fact, bear some weight. “Collecting all of our team” can mean waiting awkwardly for some time and “loaded up on the boat” actually means we traipsed through the mud onto the boata). We traveled 2 or 3 hours up the Marañon river, a tributary of the Amazon, until we reached “the farm” – property along the river that is owned and operated by YWAM. The landscape is very lush, the water is very brown, and the air is hot and humid (not all that different from Mississippi). I enjoyed observing everything around me from the beautiful jungle to all the new people.
Once we arrived at the farm, Rob and Hulio gave everyone the tour of the building and land. The New York team and all the interns decided to set up camp in the church while the rest of the crew put tents up in the main building. I have no idea what goes through the average American mind when they ear church building. A gym or sanctuary maybe. Not even close. Let me try to paint a picture for you before I lessen it with an actual photograph. The church was of a decent size and made of cedar like planks. No insulation and definitely no AC. The roof consisted of rafters and dried banana/plantain leaves. We were lucky enough to have mosquito nets over the windows, but unfortunately there was nothing we could do about the many holes in the roof. Haha. Inside were wooden benches and bat poo on the floor.
The “passing chain” was put to work again, so we quickly unloaded all the bags and equipment before arranging our sleeping quarters. I decided to go with the hammock the first night and give it a try. Thanks to Chris for letting me borrow it for such an adventure. It took some strategic thinking to set it up at the appropriate height, but before long on was ready to sway the night away. Haha. Let me also explain that because of the mosquitoes, Clark had suggested a serious hammock with a mosquito net actually attached to it, not your normal siesta hammocks.
At dinner, which Yola had prepared, she walked around the table and gave some guys gentle massages to help them relax. Then she said something that was so profound to me, “It doesn’t matter what I do, it’s all for my heavenly Father,” What an incredible servant’s heart! She didn’t care that she wasn’t part of the team that went out and dug wells or played with kids – she cooked for all of us as her ministry to the Father, not begrudgingly but with undeniable joy. So inspiring.
6pm – the night comes. The mosquitoes decide it was time for dinner as well. It was literally so bad that all of us ran into a tent to play “Skip-bo”. Once dusk hit…it was time to stay covered. Which I thought would be fine the first night because I was so tired. The hammock is difficult to get situated into but once you do, it’s pretty comfortable. However, the jungle noises are something to be contended with. Unbelievably loud! Praise the Lord for earplugs and the comfort of his promises when he leads me so far out of my comfort zone.
Day 2: Continued Orientaton
Continuation of Day 2: Wednesday, June 30, 2010
After arriving safely in Iquitos, experiencing the motorcar ride, eating Chinese food, and taking a siesta, as I mentioned previously, I showered just before a team came back to base from the river. The YWAM Peru base is massive but the girls’ dorm must be one of the most cramped places in the building. There are 5 bunk beds and a large shelf system that cover (what would be) the only free wall. Then you add girls to the mix…it gets interesting. So as I’m tried to get ready and organized, five random girls invade the dorm, introducing themselves, yelling about showers, and asking questions…I was ever so slightly overwhelmed, having not quite oriented myself yet.
My Swiss friend Leah and I left to go find out where we’re to eat dinner and once again new people are everywhere. In all the chaos I did meet two reoccurring figures in this journey: Sarah from England, 19, and John Short (for about half a week I thought Short was just a nickname, because he is ironically very tall), who are both interns as well for the rest of the summer.
Leah and I had dinner (garlic spaghetti) in Hulio and Yola’s (Peruvian YWAM staff) apartment. No one but Leah spoke English, and I realized how isolated the language barrier can make people feel.
The next river village team arrived at the base from New York not much longer after dinner and we had a team meeting. Enter the rest of the people I’m going to spend the next nine days with: Hulio (YWAM staff), Rob (YWAM River Village Ministry), Leah (intern from Switzerland), John Short (intern), Daniel (intern from Iowa), Tim*, Rick*, Janice*, Cathy*, Joline*, Dan*, and Nate (the Harvard grad tag-a-long from Minnesota).
*team from New York
In a matter of about 2 hours, I think I met 67038913 billion people.
The meeting was brief and straightforward. Rob translating for Hulio. Back to the dorm to repack for the river. Still don’t have a calling card but Beth let me make a quick call home so they knew I was alive. =)
After arriving safely in Iquitos, experiencing the motorcar ride, eating Chinese food, and taking a siesta, as I mentioned previously, I showered just before a team came back to base from the river. The YWAM Peru base is massive but the girls’ dorm must be one of the most cramped places in the building. There are 5 bunk beds and a large shelf system that cover (what would be) the only free wall. Then you add girls to the mix…it gets interesting. So as I’m tried to get ready and organized, five random girls invade the dorm, introducing themselves, yelling about showers, and asking questions…I was ever so slightly overwhelmed, having not quite oriented myself yet.
My Swiss friend Leah and I left to go find out where we’re to eat dinner and once again new people are everywhere. In all the chaos I did meet two reoccurring figures in this journey: Sarah from England, 19, and John Short (for about half a week I thought Short was just a nickname, because he is ironically very tall), who are both interns as well for the rest of the summer.
Leah and I had dinner (garlic spaghetti) in Hulio and Yola’s (Peruvian YWAM staff) apartment. No one but Leah spoke English, and I realized how isolated the language barrier can make people feel.
The next river village team arrived at the base from New York not much longer after dinner and we had a team meeting. Enter the rest of the people I’m going to spend the next nine days with: Hulio (YWAM staff), Rob (YWAM River Village Ministry), Leah (intern from Switzerland), John Short (intern), Daniel (intern from Iowa), Tim*, Rick*, Janice*, Cathy*, Joline*, Dan*, and Nate (the Harvard grad tag-a-long from Minnesota).
*team from New York
In a matter of about 2 hours, I think I met 67038913 billion people.
The meeting was brief and straightforward. Rob translating for Hulio. Back to the dorm to repack for the river. Still don’t have a calling card but Beth let me make a quick call home so they knew I was alive. =)
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Arrival
Day 2: Wednesday, June 30, 2010
11:30pm
Exhaustion hit me hard around 8 or 9 am. Once I boarded my final flight, it was all I could do to keep my eyes open…actually I didn’t keep my eyes open. The lady beside me had to nudge me when the flight attendant came by.
Lima’s airport gave it a modern feeling with wifi available, clean floors, and flat screens. When I landed in Iquitos, I thought Oh wow! I’m really here. It was everything a remote jungle airport should be - old airplanes that were left to rust in the field, small aircraft all around, and best yet, disembarking passengers (like me) walking across the runway into an open air (just a roof) “airport”.
11:30pm
Exhaustion hit me hard around 8 or 9 am. Once I boarded my final flight, it was all I could do to keep my eyes open…actually I didn’t keep my eyes open. The lady beside me had to nudge me when the flight attendant came by.
Lima’s airport gave it a modern feeling with wifi available, clean floors, and flat screens. When I landed in Iquitos, I thought Oh wow! I’m really here. It was everything a remote jungle airport should be - old airplanes that were left to rust in the field, small aircraft all around, and best yet, disembarking passengers (like me) walking across the runway into an open air (just a roof) “airport”.
Iquitos Airport Runway
Once inside the noise level reaches an incredible height, as men yell out their bargains for hotels or taxis and people shuffle around looking for their luggage. Slightly overwhelmed by the atmosphere but trying to blend in with the crowd, I take my bags to the door. The exit walkway is surrounded by a large yellow fence lined with mothers, fathers, aunts, uncles, daughters, sons, cousins, coworkers, and (thankfully) missionaries waiting to transport friends or family members. I’m anxiously searching the crowd for a YWAM or “BRANDI WILKINS” sign or maybe a white person. One glance over=nothing. Another glance over=nothing. Am I in the right place? I decided to wait just inside the exit doors in case they didn’t show, then I wouldn’t have to go through security again to reach phone. Third glance over= there’s a white man with glasses that catches my eye and mouths, “Are you Brandi?” I’ve never been so glad to say yes in all my life.
Clark and Beth Barnard greeted me with warm hugs and a big, “Welcome to Iquitos!” Clark returns to his motorcycle while Beth and I scurry to a motorcar. What an awesome introduction to Iquitos. The motorcar is not even close to an American car. It’s basically a tricycle. Kinda looks like a motorcycle with half a carriage hanging on the back. It feels about that stable, too. Haha. No really it was perfectly safe and that’s the primary mode of transportation here in the city. Almost all the cars you find will be police or ambulances, everyone else is in a motorcar or motorcycle. Beth and I fell into comfortable conversation that was easy even in silence. I could definitely tell this isn’t their first rodeo. The Lord has gifted them with incredible hospitality and sensitivity.
We arrive at a yellow cement house with red doors. Beth takes me to the girls’ dorm where I met Leah. Leah is a tall, blond girl from Switzerland. She’s amazing at languages. She’s fluent in German, English, Spanish, French, and understands Portuguese. And she learned them all at school. She showed me around the base, which is quite massive. Then we talked with Clark and Beth for a little bit for heading further into the city for lunch.
I was surprised to find myself eating my first “Peruvian” lunch at a Chinese restaurant. The best part about it was that it was air conditioned! Haha! By the way, it actually is more humid here. I think it gets just as humid at home, but I doubt it stays as consistently humid as Peru. The Chinese food was good, but I always like fried rice. Beth and Clark are great, it’s obvious that they love to share their stories and entertain guests. They also have a very natural, easy air about them. As lunch is ending, so I am I. My body decides that I need some sleep and I didn’t even have to say anything. Everyone quickly noticed that I was tired, so we came back to the base and I took a good little siesta.
I want to tell you about the rest of the day while it’s all fresh, but I think I’m just too tired. Hopefully I’ll come back and revise before we leave for the river tomorrow.
It's a long way from D to J but it's worth 5A
Dear Blog Readers (if indeed you actually exist),
I feel I should warn you about the natural of the following posts. As I embarked on this journey of faith, I quickly realized (and am still realizing) “denying myself” (Luke 9:23-35) does not come natural to my flesh. It was quite a battle with the “old man” (2 Corinthians 5:17, Col. 3:9-10,) to leave home. The warning comes in lieu of the fact that Christianity is not always easy (actually hardly ever according to the gospel) and I do not intend to paint a false picture of my experiences. As I already hinted, there are two reasons for not sugar-coating God’s calling: 1) Jesus didn’t. 2) There is a beauty in sharing one another’s burdens. As I open up, I hope you will use this blog to help direct in praying for the people of Peru who are in desperate need of the gospel and the laborers God has sent out for harvest. So all that to say I don’t what to be negative, but I want to be honest too.
Day 1: Tuesday, June 29, 2010
It’s actually 7:04 am on June 30 as I write this in the Lima airport, fighting against drowsiness until my flight leaves in 2 hours, but the perfect time to blog as I sip my morning caffeine boost of coffee.
Beth surprised me Monday night after I wrote with a scrapbook filled with notes and pictures from my friends! It is so special. Thanks to everyone who took the time to write a note, it’s hard to explain how encouraging that is…and I’ve barely even opened yet. It was quite interesting fitting that huge book into my luggage but the “Queen of Packing” made it work. She actually packed a good deal of my things…I hope I can find them later. =) Thanks friend! All the bags were under the weight limit and the airline lady didn’t even charge me for my checked bag!
I wish I could say I left Brandon beaming with enthusiasm, but that’s just not the case - I was in tears. It’s just such a huge step of faith for me and the culmination of so much prayer and seeking God’s heart. Now that I’m finally here – I’m busting at the seams with contentment.
All my flights were basically on time. It’s been awhile since I’ve been to DFW airport. It’s pretty nice, lots to look at and do. On the Dallas – Miami flight there were two empty seats beside me and I took a little, but much needed, siesta.
Miami International Airport scared the mess out of me though. I landed close to 10:00 and all the shops were closing down as I walked from concourse D to concourse J. Let me just say, it’s a long way from D to J. And I went through some super sketch airport areas. You know the places where it’s just you and the weird man walking down a hallway together. You keep a safe distance behind him but then he suddenly feels the need to check his boarding pass again, so now he’s just behind you…yeah. Fun. Very unsafe feeling. I felt safer on the streets of San Francisco at 11 pm than Miami’s airport. I decided the bathroom stall would be a good place for a breakdown, so I had a chance to be alone and pray. The Lord encouraged me, showing me that I am never alone.
After I passed the gate and gave my passport and boarding pass to the attendant, I walk through the open doors just like everyone else and the harsh Spanish woman yells, “Brandi, Brandi!” I turn around and see her point to a chair behind her, “Sit here uno momento, por favor.” I comply, no doubt with a look that says, “What have I done?” Oh great! I haven’t even made it out of the country yet and I’ve already down something wrong. Another English speaking attendant comes over and starts writing on my boarding pass. They changed your seat. 5A.
5A was first class on an overnight flight and it was NICE! God is so faithful to provide encouragement at exactly the time it is needed. Just like Nelson Hannah prayed Sunday night, God is into the details. Besides having my own TV (which actually had an episode of FRIENDS. Perfect!) and extra nice things (like space and freebies) the seat fully reclined. Oh yes sir! That is the ONLY way to travel overnight. I got some SOLID rest (probably a good 3 hours) which way more than I would’ve gotten otherwise. Oh and I mentioned all the shops and restaurant had been closed, so I hadn’t had dinner. First class comes with a full meal (even glassware and real silverware). I was so grateful and encouraged. The Lord knows me, and how my body doesn’t function without at least some sleep. =) He is good.
So I leave you with this verse Beth gave me in a sweet note (which happened to be full of verses from Isaiah. You would friend. Haha!),
“For by people of strange lips and with a foreign tongue the LORD will speak to this people, to whom he has said, “This is rest; give rest to the weary; and this is repose.’” Isaiah 28:11-12
Today may each of us be instruments of rest for the weary, allowing God to give rest from strongholds by his freedom, disease by his blood, and despair by his peace!
Glory to God,
Brandi
Lima, Peru
I feel I should warn you about the natural of the following posts. As I embarked on this journey of faith, I quickly realized (and am still realizing) “denying myself” (Luke 9:23-35) does not come natural to my flesh. It was quite a battle with the “old man” (2 Corinthians 5:17, Col. 3:9-10,) to leave home. The warning comes in lieu of the fact that Christianity is not always easy (actually hardly ever according to the gospel) and I do not intend to paint a false picture of my experiences. As I already hinted, there are two reasons for not sugar-coating God’s calling: 1) Jesus didn’t. 2) There is a beauty in sharing one another’s burdens. As I open up, I hope you will use this blog to help direct in praying for the people of Peru who are in desperate need of the gospel and the laborers God has sent out for harvest. So all that to say I don’t what to be negative, but I want to be honest too.
Day 1: Tuesday, June 29, 2010
It’s actually 7:04 am on June 30 as I write this in the Lima airport, fighting against drowsiness until my flight leaves in 2 hours, but the perfect time to blog as I sip my morning caffeine boost of coffee.
Beth surprised me Monday night after I wrote with a scrapbook filled with notes and pictures from my friends! It is so special. Thanks to everyone who took the time to write a note, it’s hard to explain how encouraging that is…and I’ve barely even opened yet. It was quite interesting fitting that huge book into my luggage but the “Queen of Packing” made it work. She actually packed a good deal of my things…I hope I can find them later. =) Thanks friend! All the bags were under the weight limit and the airline lady didn’t even charge me for my checked bag!
I wish I could say I left Brandon beaming with enthusiasm, but that’s just not the case - I was in tears. It’s just such a huge step of faith for me and the culmination of so much prayer and seeking God’s heart. Now that I’m finally here – I’m busting at the seams with contentment.
All my flights were basically on time. It’s been awhile since I’ve been to DFW airport. It’s pretty nice, lots to look at and do. On the Dallas – Miami flight there were two empty seats beside me and I took a little, but much needed, siesta.
Miami International Airport scared the mess out of me though. I landed close to 10:00 and all the shops were closing down as I walked from concourse D to concourse J. Let me just say, it’s a long way from D to J. And I went through some super sketch airport areas. You know the places where it’s just you and the weird man walking down a hallway together. You keep a safe distance behind him but then he suddenly feels the need to check his boarding pass again, so now he’s just behind you…yeah. Fun. Very unsafe feeling. I felt safer on the streets of San Francisco at 11 pm than Miami’s airport. I decided the bathroom stall would be a good place for a breakdown, so I had a chance to be alone and pray. The Lord encouraged me, showing me that I am never alone.
After I passed the gate and gave my passport and boarding pass to the attendant, I walk through the open doors just like everyone else and the harsh Spanish woman yells, “Brandi, Brandi!” I turn around and see her point to a chair behind her, “Sit here uno momento, por favor.” I comply, no doubt with a look that says, “What have I done?” Oh great! I haven’t even made it out of the country yet and I’ve already down something wrong. Another English speaking attendant comes over and starts writing on my boarding pass. They changed your seat. 5A.
5A was first class on an overnight flight and it was NICE! God is so faithful to provide encouragement at exactly the time it is needed. Just like Nelson Hannah prayed Sunday night, God is into the details. Besides having my own TV (which actually had an episode of FRIENDS. Perfect!) and extra nice things (like space and freebies) the seat fully reclined. Oh yes sir! That is the ONLY way to travel overnight. I got some SOLID rest (probably a good 3 hours) which way more than I would’ve gotten otherwise. Oh and I mentioned all the shops and restaurant had been closed, so I hadn’t had dinner. First class comes with a full meal (even glassware and real silverware). I was so grateful and encouraged. The Lord knows me, and how my body doesn’t function without at least some sleep. =) He is good.
So I leave you with this verse Beth gave me in a sweet note (which happened to be full of verses from Isaiah. You would friend. Haha!),
“For by people of strange lips and with a foreign tongue the LORD will speak to this people, to whom he has said, “This is rest; give rest to the weary; and this is repose.’” Isaiah 28:11-12
Today may each of us be instruments of rest for the weary, allowing God to give rest from strongholds by his freedom, disease by his blood, and despair by his peace!
Glory to God,
Brandi
Lima, Peru
Monday, June 28, 2010
Introduction to a life changed
Here I sit, in a corner of my room on the only space of carpet that is free of bulging, needing-to-be-packed “stuff”, pondering the ramifications of tomorrow. Tonight and tomorrow will no doubt be the most difficult part of this journey. I am ecstatic about going to the Amazon River, providing clean drinking water to prolong countless lives, proclaiming “Jesus is Lord”, teaching young people about God’s word in word and deed -- every bit of ministry excites me to the core of my being because I know I was fashioned for this very purpose – to glorify God.
The “going” is thrilling.
The “leaving” terrifies me.
I fully trust that God “works all things together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purposes” (Romans 8:28). However on a very honest note, I will admit that I’ve been doing a lot of traveling this summer, and my flesh very much wishes to forget the callings of God on my life (and every believer’s- Matthew 28:18-20), to sit on my lovely red sofa, sip my sweet tea, eat some fried rice from Osaka, and continue my recently-developed LOST obsession. These desires are easily banished when the Lord brings to my remembrance Luke 9:23- 25. But as I’ve expressed previously, the core of the issue lies in the fact that it is difficult for me to leave, for such a long period, my family and close friends. These are people who have invested some much in me and I into them. They are such an integral part of my life. At times, it literally hurts to be distanced. Yet isn’t this the same type of passion God desires of us? Moses urged the Israelites in Deuteronomy13: 3b-4,
“For the Lord your God is testing you, to know whether you love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul. You shall walk after the Lord your God and fear him and keep his commandments and obey his voice, and you shall serve him and hold fast to him.”
We serve a personal God, who is passionate about intimacy with his bride in order to bring glory to himself. As David Platt writes in his new book, "Radical",
“God delights in using ordinary Christians who come to the end of themselves and choose to trust in his extraordinary provision. He stands ready to allocate his power to all who are radically dependent on him and radically devoted to making much of him.”
Father,
In my joys and struggles, in my faith and fears, in trust and in moments of doubt, in the midst of pain or the presence of gladness, in despair or Spirit-led contentment, remind me of this life’s purpose in living for your glory. Guide me into opportunities that will make much of you.
Lord you are my life. Bind me to you in such a way, Father, that all my wrongdoings would cease because I can no longer withstand being ripped from you. Thank you for these circumstances in my life that are causing me to cling to you. I am nothing apart from you. Jesus, you truly are all I need! In this passionate intimacy, Lord, would you continue to change me, that I may be a reflection of your love to all nations.
In the words of David Brainerd, "God, let be make a difference for you that is utterly disproportionate to who I am."
*"Radical", a great read for every American believer!
The “going” is thrilling.
The “leaving” terrifies me.
I fully trust that God “works all things together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purposes” (Romans 8:28). However on a very honest note, I will admit that I’ve been doing a lot of traveling this summer, and my flesh very much wishes to forget the callings of God on my life (and every believer’s- Matthew 28:18-20), to sit on my lovely red sofa, sip my sweet tea, eat some fried rice from Osaka, and continue my recently-developed LOST obsession. These desires are easily banished when the Lord brings to my remembrance Luke 9:23- 25. But as I’ve expressed previously, the core of the issue lies in the fact that it is difficult for me to leave, for such a long period, my family and close friends. These are people who have invested some much in me and I into them. They are such an integral part of my life. At times, it literally hurts to be distanced. Yet isn’t this the same type of passion God desires of us? Moses urged the Israelites in Deuteronomy13: 3b-4,
“For the Lord your God is testing you, to know whether you love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul. You shall walk after the Lord your God and fear him and keep his commandments and obey his voice, and you shall serve him and hold fast to him.”
We serve a personal God, who is passionate about intimacy with his bride in order to bring glory to himself. As David Platt writes in his new book, "Radical",
“God delights in using ordinary Christians who come to the end of themselves and choose to trust in his extraordinary provision. He stands ready to allocate his power to all who are radically dependent on him and radically devoted to making much of him.”
Father,
In my joys and struggles, in my faith and fears, in trust and in moments of doubt, in the midst of pain or the presence of gladness, in despair or Spirit-led contentment, remind me of this life’s purpose in living for your glory. Guide me into opportunities that will make much of you.
Lord you are my life. Bind me to you in such a way, Father, that all my wrongdoings would cease because I can no longer withstand being ripped from you. Thank you for these circumstances in my life that are causing me to cling to you. I am nothing apart from you. Jesus, you truly are all I need! In this passionate intimacy, Lord, would you continue to change me, that I may be a reflection of your love to all nations.
In the words of David Brainerd, "God, let be make a difference for you that is utterly disproportionate to who I am."
*"Radical", a great read for every American believer!
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Mexico Mission Mania
What an awesome opportunity to have Joshua join me on a VBS mission trip to Parras de la Fuente, Mexico. This was his first time out of the country and his first mission trip. I think he had a pretty awesome time and some hot food- watch him eat his first Mexican pepper. As the trip was coming together, it seemed like it was going to be quite a mixed group – a grandmother and her grandchild, two older men, a twenty-three year old, two teenagers, and a kid. I was excited to see how this dynamic would play out on a week-long cross-country journey as it was quite different than many of the other mission trips I’d been apart of (most of which I served with a group of my peers or with middle-schoolers).
When June 5th arrived, we discovered that the grandmother and her grandchild had canceled and two more teenagers would replace them on the trip. Wow! And I thought I wasn’t going on the middle-school mission trip this summer…haha! Apparently, I’m still called to young people. Can’t seem to get away from them (not that I was necessarily attempting).
I love introducing young people to missions. I guess it's something of a passion. It’s so amazing to watch them embark across the miles to change others for the Kingdom, and realize that God wants to do a work in them as well. Actually, I think it happens to every “missionary”. There’s hardly a better way to learn something than to teach it to others and when we go to preach Jesus, we start to become even more like Him, we seek His counsel on issues of confusion, we dig into His word for guidance, we cling to His heart, we long to be everything He is so a broken world can be reconciled. It’s beautiful. It's gospel.
As each member of this group prayed, worked, and served the people of Parras, God was faithful to “send out laborers into his harvest.” (Luke 10:1-3) and 16 people prayed to receive Christ! Praise the Lord for his faithful work to complete what He began in us and to use His people to accomplish His purposes.
Peace Out! =)
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