Walking to a church service along a small path thru the jungle
There is something distinctive about being out in the bush. When I talk about the bush or the interior, I generally mean a location that is a considerable distance from town. The location is usually isolated from electricity, running water, and transportation. It is normally not along the river, but rather along one of the many jungle roads. Although the distance from town (Altamira where I live) may be relative close (several hours), this is often because I have motorized transportation. Those that live in the community normally are limited to traditional modes of transportation like walking or bicycling. A distance of 25 miles on dirt roads quickly become a journey of a couple of days when combined with hilly, muddy roads.
Recently I visited such a community in the bush with a small team. I was touch by the warmth with which they received us. They opened their home, preparing a special meal for us, and honoring us in every way possible. Later that night the small church building (about 500 square feet) was filled to overflowing. The people of the community came out to hear the Good News.
How is it that people that live in the relatively nearby regions are still unreached with the Gospel? The difficulty in going out to such places can be overwhelming. The lack of comfort, the overwhelming amount of insects, the dangers of malaria, dengue and other insect born diseases, the isolation from assistance in difficulties – all of these serve as reasons why people do not want to head out to the bush to share the Gospel.
Yet every single life was paid for with the same blood that Jesus Christ sacrificed on the cross. We want to see the Gospel arriving in each of these villages so that each person has the opportunity to understand the difference that Christ can make in their own context. I appreciate your prayers as we continue to equip leaders and reach out to such communities.
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Boards rough cut with a chainsaw from trees for the construction of the church building
This looks like a fun experience! Thanks for sharing!!!
Posted by: Costa Rica Hiking Vacations | March 20, 2012 at 01:46 PM