In the wee hours of the morning

It is early morning in Fortaleza. The sky is clear blue as it is most mornings. The wind is blowing at 15-20 miles per hour as always and the coffee smell is good and strong just like every morning. The team is waking up pretty much in the same order that it hás done every day. But this day is different. Today is the day we leave and have to say goodbye to everyone we have come to know and Love.

We are going back to the church this morning to do the last bit of sanding and painting that we can do. This will really brighten up their sanctuary, but we know that as we say our goodbyes the true brighteness will be in the heart felt hugs and kisses. And I am very sure there won´t be a dry eye in that place. We have done a lot of good work in this place, but the truly good work hás been done by God in each of us and in those we have come to know as our brothers and sisters in Christ. There are truly only two kinds of people in the world – those who belong to Christ and those who need to belong to Christ. Really there is only one kind of person in the world – those who are in need of Christ. There is really no them and us in the world. We are all truly one family and have one Father over all.

When we left our cars at the church parking lot in Richmond we read a sign that said
“Welcome to your mission field”. The mission field truly starts on the other side of the church door, but it hás no end. People have the same needs in all the world – food, fresh water and shelter. This list can go on and on, but the greatest need in all the world is for Love and compassion. If we have Love, all of the rest will be fullfilled. Not only in Brazil but just outside of our church door.

The world is indeed a very very small place. Some people wonder why we go on foreign missions. The question should be why do we serve - not where do we serve. We serve because of the greatest commandment “A new commandment I give you, LOVE ONE ANOTHER”

PEACE,
Jimmy



P.S. from Barbara:

Dear Friends and Family,

Thanks so much for all of your prayers for our mission team, and for travelling mercies for our trip (especially for my fear of heights and of flying). I felt your prayers and those for my fears were definitely answered. I truly was not afraid while we were flying and actually enjoyed the views (when I was lucky enough to get a window seat).

While I am sad to be leaving this church family in Brazil, I am looking forward to seeing all of you again.

LOVE,
Barbara