One of the things Brin and I had been wanting to do since we got here was visit a waterfall and cave that we had heard about. The journey is just difficult enough (a 45 min. motorbike ride and 30 min. jungle hike) to keep the crowds away. We were guided by three Brazilians, Beto (my language tutor), and two of his friends - Alisao and another name I can't pronounce, let alone spell.
It was great to be able to experience more of the jungle, relax in the cool water and explore the cave. But more than that, it was a great opportunity to get to know the guys we went with. Alisao plays electric guitar in our church's worship band (looking every bit the part with his Bono-esque glasses). Beto, my language helper, has ambitions of studying to be a tour guide (I didn't know that was a college degree...), so this excursion was just up his alley. In working with Beto and getting to know him, I have seen his heart for the Lord. He is helping with a new church plant in Altamira. The church meets in the garage of the pastor's home. The crowd has long since overgrown the meager facility, spilling out into the street. They have purchased land and are just starting construction on the new building. When I asked Beto when it would be done he just laughed. It seems starting the project is victory enough. Work will progress slowly, and only as funds come in. The other guy that came with us is a young man from Beto's church, whom he is discipling.
We are slowly learning more and more about Brazil, the culture and the work here. We are looking forward to the day when we feel more a part of things here. For now, we are content with mostly observing from the outside, getting glimpses of where God may use us in the future.
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