I never really gave it much thought regarding the physical research that had to be done for missionary work. The author of this book was assigned the task of scoping out parts of Brazil to see just how much spiritual groundwork was already being provided by Baptist churches.
I traveled along with Paula and Van Edwards as they encountered language barriers, vehicle trouble, and water puddles. Actually, the water puddles turned out to be more than that!
A missionary’s work isn’t exactly convenient or pleasant. I probably would’ve went on home, but they stuck with it for the long haul.
If you want to learn how missionaries research which areas need church planting, you’ll want to read this book.
Book Summary:God’s ambassadors on foreign soil . . . or sheep among wolves?
Were Paula and Van Edwards called to Brazil to help spread the Good News of Jesus . . . or to gather material for a new slapstick comedy act?
These “late-in-life” missionaries often believed they might be undertaking a bit of both activities. Assigned as itinerant mappers, Van and Paula were to travel the Brazilian coastline and identify fishing villages that needed churches planted there. Nothing could have prepared them for the hair-raising traffic, countless scary vehicle breakdowns, unthinkable bureaucratic snafus, survival totally at the mercy of strangers, and the endless search for a decent pousada (lodging)–all experienced in a language the Edwardses barely knew.
Along the way they also encountered gracious Brazilians whose hospitality knew no bounds and an occasional national believer whose unbridled joy in the Lord motivated this American couple to push on so all Brazilians in these remote areas might know Jesus. Paula’s irrepressible humor and optimism will amuse you; the Edwardses’ commitment will challenge you to an awareness that God can use everyone.
I received this from HannibalBooks.com, in exchange for my honest review. You can purchase the book from HannibalBooks.com, Amazon.com or your local bookstore.