Last year (2023), when our Pastor presented pictures of the Brazil mission trip, one picture of his granddaughter and a group of young Brazilian children gathered around her touched my heart. I knew then I had to go. I was 74 at the time, living on a budget. I was willing to borrow the money, but before I knew it doors started opening and unsolicited donations flooded in.
On May 26, 2024 our group of 21 flew to Manaus, Brazil. At 3:00 am the next day we boarded the boat ‘Paul Marin’ and made our way to the Amazon Jungles. The only way to get to the villages from the Paul Marin was by Jon Boats. When our team of six loaded the Jon Boat that first time my thought was “If I perish, I perish.”
After the first day I decided that I was going to be a support person for this team. But the next day our leader asked which one of us wanted to share in the village we were approaching. Out of my mouth came “I will.” I looked around to see who said that and realized it was me!
In all my years I had never had the opportunity to lead anyone to Christ. I was uncomfortable talking with others about how to be saved when I didn’t understand Romans 3:23. “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” In preparing for this trip, I finally understood that because of our sin nature that passed down from Adam and Eve, we are indeed all sinners.
Normally the women and children were separated from the men while we met. The children were with their teacher so there I was witnessing to the adult men and women. When I stepped forward and began to share about Jesus, the Holy Spirit took over; nine accepted Jesus as their Savior, including the president of that village. It wasn’t me; it was the Holy Spirit that did that.
I turned 75 June 3rd, the day we returned from that trip. On that bridge of time, I witnessed the Lord going before me and preparing the way. It was described to me as a ‘Divine Appointment’. I will never be the same.
“For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23
Brenda Garner
Sardis City, Alabama
Great story Brenda! Thanks for sharing and reminding us that God is in control! I am so proud of your love and faithfulness! What a blessing you are!