As we flew into the small river town and landed on the tarmac, worry lined my face. I wondered how effective this trip would be. Plans changed so often before we arrived that I was not sure we would be able to get the photos we needed, or keep professional photographer, Dale Stroud busy. Now we were not permitted to go upriver to the area we had originally aimed and that was a disappointment.
When the plane screeched down on the hot tarmac, I noticed a group holding banners along side the airstrip. Some tourist agency, I imagined, advertising a wildlife adventure. Boy was I wrong! It was the tribal people who had come into town to meet us and greet the missionary who was our guide on this venture. Hand made signs in English, Spanish and the tribal language welcomed us along with wide grins and excited chatter. Dale and I were awed by the esteem and affection with which they greeted missionary, Wayne Gibson, who has given his life to reaching these people.
While we are taking photos, Wayne will be giving a seminar to three church leaders on Bible Translation. They will be responsible for the updated version of the Bible in their tribal language. Many more believers joined these leaders when they heard Wayne would be here and another tribal group has offered their meeting place for Wayne to teach the people each night. Even though we could not go into their village, the village came to us.
I wish you were here with me to witness the passion these tribal believers have for God’s Word and their genuine hunger to learn and grow in the faith. Thank you, Lord, for people like Wayne and Patsy Gibson, who are reaching those in far away places. Dale and I feel privileged to witness what God is doing here and share some of it with you who pray and give.
Your prayers are not in vain. Thank you. Macon