The Joinville Project

Pastor’s wife sends body double to sit pleasantly on front pew

2012-01-24T10:33:00.001-05:00

GRAND FORKS, Mich. — Unbeknownst to her husband or congregation, Trudy Smith has been avoiding church for two years, sending a look-alike in her place.

“I’m saddened to announce that the woman you’ve seen here is not my wife,” pastor Nevin Smith said to a hushed congregation at Belfrey Presbyterian church.

His wife Trudy began staying home after running into a woman at Kohl’s who looked very much like her.

“I asked what she did on Sunday mornings, and would she like to make a hundred bucks a week?” Trudy says. “She said yes and suddenly I was free.”

The impostor played the role successfully, greeting people, hugging her husband, listening to the sermon, taking copious notes. But she was found out when Nevin invited her up one Sunday for a spontaneous reprisal of an old hymn they sang early in their ministry.

“I knew the kids’ names, anniversaries and birthdays, but I didn’t know that song,” said the fake Trudy, who asked not to be identified. She made roughly $10,000 over two years.

“Worth every penny,” says the real Trudy, who’s back on the front pew. “You know, mannequins are getting more realistic …” •

http://www.larknews.com/archives/241

“Círio de Nossa Senhora de Nazaré”

2011-10-10T15:55:00.005-04:00

The “Círio de Nazaré” as it is called, is defined by Whikipédia (the Portuguese version of Wikipedia) as being in devotion to Lady of Nazareth, and is the largest religious manifestation of Catholics in Brazil and the largest religious event in the world, gathering about six million people in each one of it's veneration’s and processions. In Portugal it is celebrated on September 8 in the small town of Nazareth, and is celebrated, since 1793, in the city of Belém do Pará, each year, on the second Sunday in October. The term “Círio” has it's origin in the Latin work “Cereus,” that means large candle. In Brazil, in the beginning it was an evening pilgrimage, or even done at night, therefore the use of candles. In the year 1854, to avoid the repetition of torrential rains such as happened in the year before, the procession began to take place in the morning.

Some are considering the “Círio de Nazaré” in Belém do Pará, as being the largest religious manifestation on the planet. It is able to assemble more than two million people in one morning.

The stages of the celebration:

Currently the manifestations of religious devotion extend over a period of fifteen days, during the so-called Nazareth court. Among the high points of this manifestation, the following stand out:

The Transporting of Our Lady

Given this name because it marks the trajectory of the image of Lady of Nazareth, from the Basilica of Nazareth, through the streets of the city until the main church, in the municipal of Ananindeua, a neighboring municipal of Belém. This journey is carried out in an open car, and the Lady receives numerous homages. The image, spends the night in this municipal, were the people stay in vigil all night. This Pilgrimage happens on the night of Friday to Saturday, before the Sunday of the círio.

The Highway Pilgrimage

After one night in Ananindeua, and a mass, the image leaves before sunrise on another pilgrimage, this time in another direction, the town of Icoaraci, district of Belém. Even though it is before daybreak, the faithful followers wait for the passing of the image, once again, rendering numerous homages. The procession is accompanied by the directors of the círio in their cars, also by politicians, firemen, ambulances, official and civil vehicles. This is why it is called the Highway Pilgrimage.

Fluvial Pilgrimage

In this pilgrimage, the image is taken by boat, by way of the Guajará Bay, which surrounds the city of Balém, and is followed by many other boats, that are decorated according to the condition of each owner. In this procession you can see boats, yachts, and even simple canoes of the “ribeirinho” people that follow the procession. This journey from Icoaraci to Belém can take up to 5 hours. Upon arriving at the port of the city, it is received by a multitude and more homages are given. This pilgrimage was introduced in 1985, as a way to honor all those who depend on the rivers of the region, such as the “ribeirinha” population, that, because of their poverty cannot go to Belém, and by this, can now pay their own homages.

Motorcycle Pilgrimage

At about 11:00 am on Saturday, the image of the Saint arrives at the port of Belém. From there the image continues in an open car, now followed by many motorcyclist that blow their horns incessantly, announcing the passing of the image, the people stop in the streets, come out of their houses, and welcome her, with their hands raised high, as to ask for blessings. The Pilgrimage extends through the streets of the city till it reaches the Gentil Bittencourt School, where yet another multitude of faithfuls awaits the image. Then, at night, just after another mass, the Transport begins.

Transportation

The transportation of the image happens on the night before the Círio, in a candle light procession. It is symbolic of the legend of the discovery of the image and it's return to the original place where it was found. In this ceremony only the Berlinda (car in which the image of the Lady is carried) is used, in a trajectory that is the inverse of the Círio.

The Círio Procession

This actually gathers the most faithfuls (2 million, 250 thousand in 2010), in a procession, that in the past has taken about nine hours, today due to better organization and planning takes less time, and covers a distance of about five kilometers (about 3.1 miles) between the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Basilica of Nazareth. This celebration is divided in three moments: the Círio event, begins at six o’clock in the morning with the celebration of a mass, after which the faithful move to the streets along the trajectory. At seven o’clock, the Archbishop conducts the image of the Lady to the Berlinda, to begin the Círio. The image arrives at the Basilica of Nazareth before noon and is taken out of the Berlinda for the liturgical celebrations.

Recírio

This happens two weeks after the Círio, and is a goodbye procession.

It is said that the image of Lady of Nazareth was found under a tree in 1700 by a man named Plácido de Souza, and it is 11 inches tall. According to local tradition, the man of Portuguese and indigenous decent, took the image home and cleaned it up, but the next morning it was inexplicably back at the same place he had found it. This happened several times, until the man interpreted this as a divine sign, and decided to build a shrine for the image at that location, which is now the back side of the Basilica of Nazareth in Belém do Pará.

Information gathered from: http://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/C%C3%ADrio_de_Nossa_Senhora_de_Nazar%C3%A9

Picture is from: http://noticias.terra.com.br/brasil/noticias/0,,OI5402176-EI8139,00-Cirio+de+Nazare+reune+milhoes+de+pessoas+em+Belem.html#tphotos

Translated by James Timothy Allen

Please pray for the salvation of souls in Brazil.

Am I making it worthwhile?

2011-09-16T14:25:00.002-04:00

Am I making it worthwhile?

Far away on this mission field I sometimes wonder, am I making it worthwhile?
The special things that I have missed, am I making it worthwhile?
The weddings, the birthdays, the funerals, am I making it worthwhile?

Oh, how I love and miss my brothers, my sisters, my parents and in-laws, am I making it worthwhile?
The joyous graduations and conquests, the painful losses and mishaps, am I making it worthwhile?
All those simple moments that make life worth living, am I making it worthwhile?

I don't really know my Aunts and Uncles, am I making it worthwhile?
I have 1st, 2nd, and 3rd degree cousins that I've never met, am I making it worthwhile?
My nephews and nieces wonder who I am, am I making it worthwhile?

I hear my grandparents were great people, am I making it worthwhile?
Unknown American veteran heroes, am I making it worthwhile?
I would love for my children to have known them, am I making it worthwhile?

Then, in a moment, I am reminded of Christ's sacrifice for me, am I making it worthwhile?
“I must work the works of him that sent me,” He said, am I making it worthwhile?
“while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.” am I making it worthwhile?

“Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me:” am I making it worthwhile?
“nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.” am I making it worthwhile?
“Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” am I making it worthwhile?

And as I look into the eyes of those whose souls have been rescued from hell, I ask myself;
Am I making it worthwhile? Am I doing all that I can?
Am I working the works while it is day? For the end is soon at hand.

Far too many others are on the path of pain,
Leaping into eternity each and every day.
Who will go and tell them of the strait and narrow Way?

I conclude then “Therefore, my beloved brethren,
be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord,
forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.”

So as I stay and labor here on this mission field awhile,
I thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, for He makes it all worthwhile!

Are you making His sacrifice for you worthwhile?
Are you making your sacrifice for Him worthwhile?

James Timothy Allen
Second Generation Missionary to Brazil
Macedonia World Baptist Missions Inc.

September Prayer Letter

2011-09-15T14:20:00.004-04:00

Dear supporters and prayer partners,

I would like to present to you most of the members of the Igreja Batista Vitória. These are very sweet people that have been saved and are growing in the Lord. Many are being used of the Lord to influence their family and friends with the Gospel message. Please pray for the salvation of their family and friends.

As I look at my people in this photo I am reminded of the words of the Apostle Paul saying, “For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness; Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:” Col. 1:9-12 KJV

No, I'm not going to “preach to the choir” through my prayer letter, but I do want to ask you to please take a few moments of each day and bow your head, lifting up your heart and mind to the Lord in prayer for us. Please pray for the folks that have trusted Christ as their Savior and are just now learning what God's will for their life is. Pray that they may have wisdom and spiritual understanding. Pray that they may walk worthy of the Lord and be fruitful. Pray that they may grow in the knowledge of God and be strengthened in their faith.

Please pray for us as we do our very best to minister unto them and help them in their spiritual growth being an example of faith and faithfulness before them.

Thank you for your faithfulness in serving our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and for your faithfulness in supporting our ministry through prayer and financial gifts.

James & Soraia Allen

Lender Paradise

2011-08-10T12:53:00.002-04:00

My dearly beloved fellow Americans,

As you know I am a missionary working in the city of Joinville, in the southern part of Brazil, South America.

I went to the bank this morning to pay for our son's Bible College tuition. While waiting for my receipt the teller said to me that I had a pre-approved credit line that I could get right then if I wanted to. I thought, man, I really need funds right now, things are tough, I don't know how I am going to pay for some things in the next few weeks. Maybe this is the way out for me. I thought of all this a total of about a millisecond, and declined the offer.

Putting aside my reasons for not wanting to take out the loan, I would like to share with you the out of this world and even Universe, interest rates these guys charge, and people actually borrow money from them, and this is one of the lower rates!

As you can see in the picture, to borrow R$5.690,00 Brazilian Reais (that's the equivalent of about $3,556.00 US Dollars) you can pay back in 48 payments of R$359,36. If you do the simple math, 359,36 times 48 equals 17.249,28 or proximately $10,780.80 US Dollars. (Interest of 84.300% a year).
Observation: The comma (,) is used in the place of the period (.) here.

So, to borrow $3,556.00 in 48 payments of $224.60 equals $10,780.80 or 7,224.80 in interest alone.
(The exchange rate is 1.60 Reais per Dollar)

My question is, does any one out there want to make some money?

I have no other comment at this time!

Vicarious Verde (green)

2011-06-24T10:28:00.009-04:00

Vicarious Verde (green)
I read an interesting article this morning; It states:

“Instead of asking them to pray, priest tells sinners to plant trees”
June 22, 2011

“This one is to get folks into the mood of Corpus Christi, celebrated this Thursday. A priest in the interior of the Brazilian state of Goiás adopted an interesting strategy to make this year’s Fraternity Campaign of the Catholic Church count: for every sin confessed, the sinner should plant a tree. The priest’s forecast is to plant one thousand trees in the city of Pires do Rio, which has a population of about 28 thousand and is about 240 kilometers (150 miles) from Brasilia. Don’t you think he should redo this calculation?”

Sorce:http://wp.clicrbs.com.br/anverde/2011/06/22/em-vez-de-pedir-para-fazer-oracoes-padre-manda-pecadores-plantar-arvores/?topo=84,2,18,,,84 (in Portuguese)

Huh? So the environment has become a means of redemption?

Well then, the author said it well, “Don’t you think he should redo this calculation?”
With 28 thousand inhabitants, there will not be enough trees in the market!
They’re going to have to send trains, planes, buses, trucks, cars, pickups, vans, horse and buggies, bicycles, and even people on foot carrying tree seedlings in order to fulfill the demand!

That’s crazy!

Thank God we have the truth in us; that Jesus Christ hung on a “tree” (cross) for our sins!

The Bible says: “As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: 7 Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. 8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. 9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. 10 And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power: 11 In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ: 12 Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. 13 And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses; 14 Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;” Colossians 2:6-14 KJV

Folks, go plant a tree or two, it’s good for you and for the environment.
But know for sure that no amount of trees planted can redeem your sins, for only the sinless blood of the Lord Jesus Christ can wash away all sin!

Hebrews 9:11-28, “But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; 12 Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us. 13 For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh: 14 How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? 15 And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. 16 For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. 17 For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth. 18 Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood. 19 For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and of goats, with water, and scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book, and all the people, 20 Saying, This is the blood of the testament which God hath enjoined unto you. 21 Moreover he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the vessels of the ministry. 22 And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission. 23 It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. 24 For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us: 25 Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every year with blood of others; 26 For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself. 27 And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: 28 So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.”

Now, if you must, go plant a tree.
For remission of sin, go to the cross.

Mass Across the Street

2011-06-23T09:58:00.009-04:00

This morning, starting at 4:00 o’clock the neighborhood folk started to prepare the pavement with stained sawdust that they put on the street making a colorful pathway up to the house across the street from our house.

Then everyone gathered together there to celebrate Mass. The priest "preached" a message, then they sang some songs, and then they gave the "Eucharist" (the Roman Catholic Lord's Supper), finishing the event with the taking up of a sacrificial offering.

Unfortunately, the priest said that "the taking of the Holy Eucharist, along with feeding the hungry, guarantees the Catholic, blessings in this life, and eternal life in heaven!"
He did not read one passage of scripture, nor did he say where he got his "theology."

After seeing this "Mass across the street", I did a search on the internet and read the following information on Wikipedia;
( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Religion_in_Brazil ),
"A 2007 poll, made by Datafolha and published in newspaper Folha de S. Paulo, asked diverse questions about the beliefs of the Brazilian people. In this poll, 64% reported to be Catholics, 17% Pentecostal Protestants, 5% non-Pentecostal Protestants, 3% Kardecists or Spiritists, 3% followers of other religions, 7% non-religious or atheists. Less than 1% reported to follow Afro-Brazilian religions"

This tells me that at least 78% of the Brazilian population (about 145 million people) still does not understand that Jesus Christ the Son of God is the ONLY WAY of Salvation! (John 14:6, "Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.")

Then, I also think that about half (if not more) of the ones that declared themselves to be either Pentecostal Protestants (17%), or non-Pentecostal Protestants (5%), may not truly be saved, due to the enormous confusion that exists in many of these churches about salvation. (For example, many of these folks believe that a person can lose salvation, and many are basing the salvation they think they have, on their religiousness or some sort of works based belief).

This brings me to the conclusion that, today, June 22, 2011, 454 years after the first "evangelical service" held in Brazil on the beach of Guanabara Bay on March 10, 1557*, at least 89% of the Brazilian population are basing the salvation of their eternal souls on something other than faith in the Lord Jesus Christ alone.

My question is; are we doing this thing right?
What can I do to change this astounding fact?

I know we are not in the 10/40 window, but don’t take your eyes off of this unreached people!
Please, send more Bible-believing, Bible-living, Gospel-preaching missionaries to Brazil!

Pray for us, the ones that are already here, that we may be able to "pull them out of the fire".
Jude 20-23, "But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, 21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. 22 And of some have compassion, making a difference: 23 And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh." KJV

Thank God for the some 21 million Brazilians that claim to be truly saved!
But please pray for the approximately 165 million Brazilians that still do not have Christ as their only hope of salvation, that they might be saved.

Oh dear God, please help us!

* http://www.ipicprudente.org.br/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=274:o-primeiro-culto-evangelico-no-brasil&catid=35:editoriais&Itemid=112

June Prayer Letter

2011-06-21T17:56:00.004-04:00

Please read our latest Prayer Letter:

http://www.thejoinvilleproject.com/uploads/June_2011_PL_with_letterhead.pdf

Do you have good brakes?

2011-05-27T15:35:00.005-04:00

Do you have good brakes?

Today in my Bible reading, I read the five chapters of the book of James.
The exhortations in this book are both relevant and indispensable for practical Christian living. One of the exhortations in this small book is about a very small member of our body: Our tongue.

James describes the tongue as “… a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.” James 3:6

Look at what James says about the person that has good “brakes” on his tongue: James 3:2, “For in many things we offend all (*). If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.”

(*We all stumble or trip, Adam Clarke Commentary)
This is the way it is translated to Portuguese: “For we all stumble in many things. If someone does not stumble in word, the same is perfect, and powerful also to refrain the whole body.”

So, if someone is able to “restrain” their own tongue, keeping it from stumbling in word, then that person is also capable to “refrain” “the whole body”;

To refrain their eyes from seeing what they should not see,
To refrain their ears from hearing what they should not hear,
To refrain their hands from touching what they should not touch,
To refrain their feet from going where they should not go,
To refrain their mind from thinking thoughts it should not think,
To refrain their flesh from falling into the trap of lust,
To refrain their mouth form eating too much…
(Now your meddling preacher… lol)

Ultimately, he who can “restrain his tongue” should be able also to “refrain the whole body.”

So I ask the question: “Do you have good brakes?”

Ministry Memorable Moment

2011-05-20T10:13:00.004-04:00

As I write this post my heart is filled with joy as I remember a very special day in my ministry as a missionary. That day is May 7, 2011, just two weeks ago. It was the day I had the opportunity, for the first time in my ministry, to gather a group of godly Pastors and some godly men of our church to examine the testimony of salvation and call to ministry and doctrinal stand of my co-laborer Brother Ricardo Hogrefe.

It was really a formality because this dear Brother has proven his faithfulness to the Lord and His church for over seven years in working with me at Igreja Batista Vitória (Victory Baptist Church) in Joinville.

The meeting was marked by the presence of Pastor Edgar Sandri, of the Bible Baptist Church here in Joinville. This was Brother Ricardo's Pastor when he was saved and it was he who baptized him. Pr. Sandri gave a sweet testimony placing his complete approval and recommendation of Brother Ricardo's ordination.

Then, my Father, Dr. Phillip R. Allen, who was here on a short surprise visit, gave testimony of the time that he worked with Brother Ricardo, and also gave him his stamp of approval and recommendation.

Then I shared my observations of Ricardo's life and testimony also giving my approval and recommendation. I also read a letter that was sent from the Bible Collage from which Ricardo graduated that stated their complete and absolute approval in recommending this Brother to be ordained into the Gospel ministry.

All this reminds me of how the Apostle Paul must have felt in respect to young Timothy.

I truly am grateful to the Lord for placing this young godly man here to work with me and to hopefully one day soon, become the Pastor of this missionary work in the city of Joinville, Brazil.

To God be all of the honor and glory in this and every ministry memorable moment.

It’s not popular

2011-03-23T14:08:00.002-04:00

It’s not popular.

In fact it’s gotten to the point that when holy and righteous living is preached or taught, it is censored by many of those who should be saying; “Amen!”, in humble obedience and submission to the Lord and His Word!

Those who do make the decision to submit and live a life of holiness and obedience before the Lord and men, are mocked, discriminated and downright hated for their stand for right, but not only by the world, that’s to be expected, but by their own “brethren!”

The work of “Pastoring” today’s "sheep" is becoming more and more difficult and painful. Consider I Peter 5:2-4, “Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; 3 Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. 4 And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.”

Thank God for that “crown of glory that fadeth not away.” Because even many "aged" men and women are “fading away” or going astray, in ostentatious rebellion against Scriptural truth; Consider the Pastor’s responsibility shown in Titus 2:1-3, “But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: 2 That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience. 3 The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things;”

And what do I say about the young people? Many see their parents as the ones going astray in rebellious disobedience to God and His shepherds! This is devastating to the pastor that in love, willingly and of a ready mind and by example seeks to obey the Word of God. We must obey Titus 2:6, “Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded.”

Folks, we are to live godly, righteous and holy lives in this present day! In this present world! God has not changed! His Word has not changed! Yet so many think that they can call themselves “Christians” or “Believers” or “followers of Christ” and continue living like and loving this world!

Consider the following Bible verses: Titus 2:11-15, “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, 12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; 13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; 14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. 15 These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.”

Are we being “despised?” Yes. Are we allowing it to move us away from “speaking, exhorting and rebuking” with all the God given authority we have? No! We must not go astray!

We must continue steadfast preaching, teaching; Living the Word of Truth!
II Timothy 4:1-5, “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; 2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. 5 But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.”

Preach on the truth of Romans 12:1-2, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”

Preach on the truth of I John 2:15-17, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. 17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.”

Preach on the exhortation of Philippians 2:12-16, “Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. 13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. 14 Do all things without murmurings and disputings: 15 That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; 16 Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.”

Preach on! Live on! Declare “all the counsel of God.”

Oh dear Lord please help me to live my life in such a way that at its end I may humbly say as did our beloved Apostle Paul; Acts 20:26-27, “Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. 27 For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.”

May I obey the charge of verse 28, “Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.”

My Lord Jesus, they are Your sheep, purchased with Your precious blood; Please help me oversee well, this small part of Your flock.

(All Scripture references are from the KJV)

Youth Safari

2011-03-08T12:21:00.003-05:00

On Saturday February 26 we took our youth group to visit an archaeological site just a couple of miles from our house. It is a national park called “Parque Caieiras”, and it is where an indigenous civilization lived over 500 years ago. We had a great day walking the various nature trails and visiting the interesting sites. Then we returned to our house and ate hot dogs, after which the young people played street volleyball. (In case you are wondering, that’s volleyball played in the middle of the street!). We finished the day together with a devotional from I John 2:6, “He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.” KJV.

Please pray for our youth group as we seek to lead them into a closer walk with the Lord, and as we reach out to those that have not yet come to Christ as Savior.

Thanks.

James Allen

2011-01-04T04:56:00.003-05:00

I thank the Lord for our son Matthew Scott. Yesterday he turned twenty-one years old. I remember the feeling of being a Dad for the first time, it's inexplicable really. I remember holding him up in the air at our home church, Victory Baptist in Loganville, Georgia, on the next Wednesday night so everyone could see him.

On that day, I was just twenty one years old myself! Wow! I was married to the most beautify girl ever, we had just recently arrived in the United States to start Bible Collage, and I had just started a new job. Man, you could say that I was a bit overwhelmed! What precious memories.

Today, twenty one years later, here we are, I'm still married to the same most beautiful girl ever, and we are serving the Lord together as a family. I could not ask for more. God is so good to us, all the time He is good to us! Matthew, I am so proud of you! I love you, and always will.

Son, stay close to the Lord.

2010-12-20T13:29:00.002-05:00

Sorry, the link did not work.

Please copy the link below and past it into your browser to read our December prayer Letter.

Thank you

James Allen

http://www.thejoinvilleproject.com/uploads/December_PL.pdf

2010-12-20T13:19:00.003-05:00

I have just uploaded our December Prayer Letter to our website. Please take a few minutes to read some highlights of the work in Joinville, Brazil. Thank you.

Please follow the link below to read:

I am learning

2010-10-14T13:53:00.003-04:00

“But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity. 11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. 12 I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. 13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. 14 Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction.”
Philippians 4:10-14.

Dear Lord,
Thank you for the “state I am” in.
Teach me contentment.
Strengthen me to do this through You.
Give opportunity to those that will “communicate with my affliction”,
That I may rejoice in Thee greatly.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

“What a friend we have in Jesus”

2010-10-12T07:28:00.001-04:00

Joseph Medlicott Scriven, (September 10, 1819, - August 10, 1886)

Joseph Scriven was born at Banbridge, Co. Down, Ireland. He graduated from Trinity College, Dublin and embraced the teachings of the Plymouth Brethren. He was known to be eccentric but was a born philanthropist and devoutly religious; he gave freely of what money he had, even his own clothing and his services to all poorer than himself who needed them. He died at Port Hope, Ontario, Canada.

His fiancée drowned in 1845, the night before they were to be married. The grief-stricken young man moved to Canada. There he again fell in love, was due to be married and the young woman suddenly fell ill of pneumonia and died. He then devoted the rest of his life to helping others.

He wrote a poem to comfort his mother called "Pray Without Ceasing". It was later set to music and renamed by Charles Crozat Converse, becoming the hymn "What a Friend We Have in Jesus". (Wikipedia)

What a Friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer.

Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged; take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a friend so faithful who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness; take it to the Lord in prayer.

Are we weak and heavy laden, cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge, take it to the Lord in prayer.
Do your friends despise, forsake you? Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In His arms He’ll take and shield you; you will find a solace there.

Blessed Savior, Thou hast promised Thou wilt all our burdens bear
May we ever, Lord, be bringing all to Thee in earnest prayer.
Soon in glory bright unclouded there will be no need for prayer
Rapture, praise and endless worship will be our sweet portion there.

No matter what we’re going through, we can count on our true friend, Jesus.

Ups & Downs of Missionary Life (Edited version)

2010-10-08T17:25:00.003-04:00

Please do not misunderstand what I am about to share as “complaining”.
Wholeheartedly, I’m not. It is for information, and more importantly, prayer purposes only.

I noticed today that the US Dollar hit its lowest against the Brazilian Real in two years at R$1,66 for 1 USD.
So I looked through our financial books today and noticed that back in September of 2003 we were trading our US Dollars at about R$3,40 to one, with a high of R$3,90 to one.

Back then, we had full support. 100% of the Macedonia World Baptist Missions Inc, recommended support level for a family of four in South America. Needless to say, at that time we were able to accomplish quite a bit as far as the ministry goes. We helped in purchasing church property, we built a parsonage and a multi use sports area for the church, and we were able to help buy vehicles for national missionaries and pastors among many other financial contributions to different needs. I thank God for those opportunities to give to His work and His laborers. To Him be glory and honor for anything He may have used us to accomplish.

Since then, as we all have noticed, the cost of living has increased dramatically. The MWBM recommended support level for a family of four is now 30% higher than it was in 2003, when we had 100% support, officially dropping our support level by that much (30%), although in practice we were already feeling the setback. Plus, during the years we lost some support due to the financial hardship of a few supporting churches.

So, when we went to the USA for furlough in June of 2009, we were at approximately 60% of the MWBM recommended support level for a family of four, and we are a family of six. I praise my Lord and Savior that during our 12 month furlough He gave us an increase of about 16%, and believe me, we roamed the country seeking this new support! This put us back at the 2003 level of support, which, as I have stated, is 30% lower than what it should be to cover the increase in cost of living for 2010. Confusing? I know, I’m living it.

But here is what I want you to see.
You take a 30% cut in your monthly income because of the “cost of living” increase.
Then you add to that another 57% drop in the currency exchange (R$3,90 to one in 2003, now R$1,66 to one).
What do you have?

An 87% drop in your buying power in just seven short years.

That puts us at 13% support!

LOL! (That’s exactly what I’m doing as I write this!)

That’s just one of the ups and downs of missionary life!
And I would not trade it for anything in this world!
I love it.
I thank God for counting me worthy, putting me into this ministry!

Thanks for your prayers.
And for those of you that give so that we may “go”, you are my heroes!
I love you.

The Joinville Project Special Needs

2010-10-05T13:37:00.004-04:00

My family and I and some of our friends have been praying for these needs for some time now, and we would love it if you would pray about them with us too.

Copy and paste the link bellow and read about the Special Needs:

http://www.thejoinvilleproject.com/the_need.html

Thank you so much. The James Allen Family, Missionary to Joinville, Brazil.

www.thejoinvilleproject.com

October 2010 Prayer Letter

2010-10-05T11:50:00.001-04:00

Joinville, October 05, 2010

Dear supporting friends and prayer partners,

First of all I thank you for your continued faithfulness in supporting our ministry here in Brazil. As many of you, we too are feeling the effects of the global financial crises and especially the strong devaluation of the US Dollar. Even so, we are doing our best to continue the work of the Lord knowing that He will never leave us nor forsake us. He is the Almighty, and in Him do we put our trust.

God is blessing the work here and I am so excited about how the Lord has been using His Word to touch people’s lives. I have had the opportunity to visit several families near our home. We sit at a table, or stand under a tree, drinking coffee and at some point during our conversations; God opens the door so that I may share the gospel message with them. It has been such an encouragement to see their receptiveness, but even as I speak the truth in love and through tears, it hurts so much to see them refuse to accept the free gift of salvation. Please pray for their eyes to be opened to the truth.

We have also witnessed the Lord’s presence in the services at Igreja Batista Vitória . He has given Ricardo and me the liberty to preach through the power of the Holy Spirit and He has been working in hearts. In September there were three ladies that trusted Christ as their Savior, and others that have re-committed their lives to the Lord. Many visitors have come and have heard the message of salvation. Please pray for a young man named Flavio who has been coming faithfully, that he will be saved and surrender his life to the Lord. We rejoice in the salvation of two young girls also, Sabrina and Lubia. Both we led to the Lord by my mother-in-law.

In the month of October we are preparing to move the location of the church to about a mile away from where we are now. The Lord has led us to make this decision, and we believe it to be His perfect will at this time. I ask that you please continue to pray that the Lord will provide a place of our own to meet. We continue to pray and give toward buying property for the Igreja Batista Vitória. If the Lord leads you to give toward this need, please send any amount to Macedonia World Baptist Missions Inc. marked “The Joinville Project” and it will be placed in a separate account until we have enough funds to make the purchase. I thank those who have already given sacrificially toward this great need.

I would like to encourage you to please visit our web site, www.thejoinvilleproject.com to browse through the pages, pray for us, and pray for the several ministries here. Also, you can follow me on twitter if you like, and you can read my blog at www.thejoinvilleproject.blogspot.com E-mail me, and I will answer!

Thank you once again for your faithful financial support.
Thank you also for striving together with us in your prayers to God for us.

Occupying till He comes,

James and Soraia Allen

Sin phobia. (Revised edition)

2010-10-01T10:17:00.003-04:00

No, I do not hate China, its people, or its culture. (Sinophobe)

But I do hate sin!

Some may define it as Hamartophobia – the fear of sin.

I like to define it as the “fear of God” – “the beginning of wisdom”.

Chuckcomeau, who has over 30,500 followers on twitter, states:

“Homophobia is repulsive and so lame. How can people lower themselves to hating someone because of their sexual orientation? Pathetic.”

So that’s what Homophobia means? “To hate someone because of their sexual orientation?”

Sexual orientation is defined by Wikipedia as “the direction of an individual's sexuality with respect to the sex of the persons the individual finds sexually attractive.”

Sexual orientation is defined by God as “you are either a male or a female. If you are a male, you must be sexually attracted to a female. If you are a female you must be sexually attracted to a male. To consent to any sexual attraction outside of this established truth is rebellion against God’s perfect plan for your life, and is sin.

Note: Deferent from what many may say, sexuality is not an “orientation” because it is not a “choice”. You may not "orient" your sexuality wherever you want to!

A man does not "choose" his male sexuality or a woman does not "choose" her female sexuality, it is God given. And the only choice in the matter is for a male to choose which woman to marry or a woman which man to marry.
You "choose" to do right or wrong.

I would like to make use of my right to free speech, just as Mr. Chuckmoreau did, and declare the truth about how I feel about a person that allows his or her carnal sexual desire to follow a lustful and misunderstood "orientation" into a homosexual lifestyle:

I love them, the persons.

First of all I want to clearly state the fact that I, as a true Christian, do not hate people that choose a lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, transgender or intersex lifestyle. I believe that they misunderstand what causes these wrong impulses.

I hate sin, all sin.

But just as clearly, I must declare that I must hate and repudiate all sin. And since the homosexual “choice” in lifestyle is one of absolute blatant rebellion and depravity of the natural sexuality created by God, I hate that lifestyle!

But I love and pray for those who have fallen into this satanic lie that is – that a person must follow the "orientation" of their sexuality no matter where it is directed.

We must submit our fleshly passions and desires to the perfect fact that God created man and woman, and these two only.
Furthermore, He created woman from the flesh of man, and then brought them together as one in marriage.
This is the only sexuality for humans approved and blessed with procreation and absolute fulfillment.

To be a “homosexual” is to go totally against one’s natural sexuality. It is to offend your own self, your personhood. It is as repulsive as someone that says he or she has a sexual attraction to an animal, and the only way that they can be satisfied is to have sexual intercourse with a dog, or a horse. So, am I a “bestialityphobe?”

Ok, what about the people that have a sexual attraction to little children?
Is that ok?
Am I a “pedophileophobe” for disapproving of this “choice” in sexual orientation?

And what about those parents who have sexual intercourse with their own children?
Society calls it “abuse”, and I agree 100% with that. But it is a “choice” made by people.

Oh, but that is not a “consensual” relationship you may say.
In America, if an 18 year old has “consensual” sex with a 13 year old, it is called “statutory rape” and not very “acceptable” in our society. But in other countries, every day grown men have sex with 13 year old girls, and it’s totally acceptable in their "society". Does that make it right? Well, what is “right”?

It seems to me that this is the true question in all sexual perversions.

I read this statement somewhere: “Sex is a gift from God; A wedding gift to a man and a woman in marriage!”
I agree with that statement.

It is perfect and holy in the eyes of Almighty God, (and man) for a man and his wife to have sex as much as they desire to. It is for the woman to enjoy. It is for the man to enjoy. And both share each other’s body and emotions in love.

Hebrews 13:4, “Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.”

The problem is not just the homosexual lifestyle, or the bestiality lifestyle, or the pedophile sexual orientation, or even polygamy.
The problem is in the perversion of sexuality, manifested in any form, such as the ones mentioned above which can be defined as fornication, adultery, sodomy, prostitution, rape, and any other form of promiscuous behavior.

Note: By the way, you can “legalize” sin in mans eyes, but you will never make sin acceptable before God.

So it is very clear to me, as a Christian what true sexuality is, and I am perfectly fulfilled as a human being in the monogamous, God-given, heterosexual married relationship with my wife.
I "choose" to submit my sexuality to the "orientation" of God, my creator.

It is truly “pathetic” and sad to lower oneself into living a lifestyle that is unnatural and most importantly, ungodly.

Mr. Chuckcomeau, God loves you. He made you. One day you will face Him.
By the way, it’s not a choice either. Are you ready for that?

Hebrews 9:27, “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:”

John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

My prayer is that you, and all people that are blinded by Satan, have your eyes opened to the truth.

Acts 26:18, “To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.”

Warning: Don't die without trusting in Jesus!

2010-09-29T16:00:00.002-04:00

I was at the gas station today and while the attendant was filling up our VW van I noticed a warning sign posted near the gas pump. It was there, visible for all to read and be informed about the use and misuse of gasoline.

The first thing it said was that gasoline was to be used as fuel only.
For nothing else.
Then I noticed below, that there was another warning:
“If ingested, this product may cause death.”
There it was, in plain sight.
If you drink this stuff – your gonna die!!

I told the attendant,
“Some may say:”

“Now that’s too radical!”
“That’s offensive!”
“That’s not politically correct!”
“They should “water down” that warning!”

Then I continued talking to the man that was looking at me with a surprised look on his face;
“Want to hear something else that’s really radical?”
Here goes:

Romans 3:23, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;”
Romans 6:23, “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

John 3:17-18, “For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. 18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.”

John 3:36, “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.”

Friend, the wrath of God abides on those who are in sin!
Your only hope is to trust in the redemptive sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross in your place!

John 14:6, “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”

Jesus is the only way, the only truth and the only life!
Are you in Christ?

The attendant just looked at me and said;
"Well, you got to preach the truth, don’t you!?"

If warning people that they are on their way to Hell; and that their only hope is in Jesus Christ is “radical”, then I’ll bare that cross! What about you? Will you “post” the warning so all can see?

Eggs and Demons are at the gate!

2010-09-24T10:16:00.003-04:00

This morning I stopped by our construction to check on things, and for the second time since I have noticed, there were raw eggs broken and spilled in some of the rooms and also on the front gate. I told a friend about it and he said; "It's the enemy".

I'm not a specialist on the subject by far, but I've lived enough to see this on many occasions here in Brazil. Spiritist groups often burn candles, spill alcoholic drinks, and use chickens, eggs and other animals and food to place spells, strongholds and other condemnations on people and their property. They do this because of different reasons such as spiritual battles against an enemy, because of envy, or just plain old hatred. The purpose is to bring physical, emotional or spiritual harm to their target and/or loved ones.

So, should I be scared out of my mind? Should I stop building and sell everything I own and move as far away as I can, and then change my name? (Sadly, that's exactly what some folks do, and have to do, because they do not have power to repel these attacks)

As for me and my house, "we will serve the Lord". You see, as my friend said to me, "It's the enemy", he also said another truth, "But greater is He that is in us, than he that is in the world". I'm going to keep on serving the Almighty, Most High God that is with me all the time, no matter what the "enemy" may send my way.

I have learned that no matter what kind of battle we face, whether it be financial, physical, emotional, or raw eggs splattered all around the house, etc., there is but one "spiritual" solution: Trust God.

Psalm 3:3, “But thou, O Lord, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.”

II Thessalonians 3:3, “But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil.”

I Peter 3:12-13, “For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil. 13 And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good?”

I John 4:4-6, "Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. 5 They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. 6 We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error."

II Corinthians 10:4-5, "(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;"

Please pray for us; the battle is raging! But our King is reining!

Romans 15:30, “Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ's sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that ye strive together with me in your prayers to God for me;”

I'll take One Million Dollars please.

2010-09-14T13:01:00.003-04:00

Is it too much to ask? All I want is a Million or so Dollars, to do God's work here in Brazil! When Atheist Billionaires give 100s of Millions of Dollars (And even Billions) to organizations that push agendas that are, in many cases ungodly, I want to give all I have to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ around the World! What about you?

Follow this link - George Soros contributes 100 Million Dollars to Human Rights Watch: http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5h3xIGMSqJ9dJw5GW7Gq5UCvgQrRQD9I3D8800

To send an investment, of any size, to The Joinville Project in Brazil, or to any of our many other missions project around the world, just contact Macedonia World Baptist Missions Inc. www.mwbm.org

Address: P.O. Box 519
Braselton, GA 30517 USA

Phone: 706-654-2818

2010-09-13T12:12:00.002-04:00

I am so grateful for the working of the Lord in our services yesterday (09/12/2010).

We had six visitors in the evening service. One of the visitors, Ricardo and I had invited on Saturday visitation a week ago. She brought her two young daughters with her. She, along with two other ladies, accepted Christ as Savior. Praise the Lord.

(Picture is of the main street in the Adhemar Garcia neighborhood, Joinville)

Another young man that has been visiting also raised his hand for salvation during the invitation but did not follow through. I spoke with him and he has opened the door for me to visit him in his home. Pray for him, his name is Flavio.

I also had an unusual opportunity this morning (Monday) to visit with several families here in our neighborhood.
In each case, we sat and talked about many things, and eventually I was able to give a clear presentation of the Gospel. I had prayer with one family about a really bad “family feud” they are experiencing over a small piece of land.

For some folks, I drank too much coffee, but of course I don’t think that’s even possible!
Please pray for us as we lay the groundwork for the future church plant here in the Adhemar Garcia neighborhood of Joinville.

The heavens are declaring! Do you see His glory?

2010-08-09T17:42:00.003-04:00

The LORD reigneth; let the earth rejoice; let the multitude of isles be glad thereof. 2 Clouds and darkness are round about him: righteousness and judgment are the habitation of his throne. 3 A fire goeth before him, and burneth up his enemies round about. 4 His lightnings enlightened the world: the earth saw, and trembled. 5 The hills melted like wax at the presence of the LORD, at the presence of the Lord of the whole earth. 6 The heavens declare his righteousness, and all the people see his glory. 7 Confounded be all they that serve graven images, that boast themselves of idols: worship him, all ye gods. 8 Zion heard, and was glad; and the daughters of Judah rejoiced because of thy judgments, O LORD. 9 For thou, LORD, art high above all the earth: thou art exalted far above all gods. 10 Ye that love the LORD, hate evil: he preserveth the souls of his saints; he delivereth them out of the hand of the wicked. 11 Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart. 12 Rejoice in the LORD, ye righteous; and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness.
(Psalm 97 KJV)

Praise the Lord!

(Picture: View form our window, overlooking Joinville, Santa Catarina, Brazil)

Follow the mud trail

2010-08-05T12:40:00.005-04:00

What? Did I hear someone complain about a crack in their cemented driveway?

Every time I leave the house to go anywhere I get to go mud bogging in my VW!!
Aren’t you at lease a wee bit jealous??

I'm loving it!

I'm thankful I don't have to walk through the mud, my bus takes me just fine, praise the Lord!

Have a great day.

True Treasure

2010-08-03T15:38:00.003-04:00

Can you imagine finding a treasure chest full of silver and gold coins?
Today the current spot price of .999 fine silver is $18.47 per troy ounce
and .9999 (24 Karat) fine gold is going for $1,187.00 per ounce (monex.com).

If your treasure chest was big enough to fit one thousand one troy ounce coins of each precious metal, that would be valued at $1,205,470.00! (One million, two hundred and five thousand, four hundred and seventy Dollars)

That’s a pretty nice treasure chest don’t you think?

Well, what if in the treasure you found there were also Platinum and Palladium coins?
999.5 fine Platinum is going for $1,581.00 an ounce and the ounce of 999.5 pure Palladium is worth $502.00!

If you had one thousand one troy ounce coins of these precious metals also, that would bring your treasure’s value up to $3,288,470.00! That’s a bunch of Dollars! Imagine how happy you would be for finding that treasure chest!

Now imagine everything that you could buy with all that cash.

Are you done yet?

Well, now listen to this;

“Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding.
For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold. She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her.”
(Proverbs of Solomon 3:13-15 KJV)

Take it from the guy that knew a bit about silver and gold and every other precious thing on the face of the earth. Wisdom and understanding from God, surpass them all in value!

“Stay focused on the Creator of all the gold, silver, platinum and palladium, and He will make sure that you are filled with plenty!”

“Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase:
So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.”(Proverbs of Solomon 3:9-10 KJV)

2010-08-01T16:22:00.005-04:00

On Saturday, July 31, 2010, our church hosted the regional Pastor's meeting and it was such a blessing.

41 people were present for the meeting.

First, Pr Jair, a missionary from Florianópolis, presented his work, and then Pr Vlademir from the city of Itajai preached a wonderful message from Psalm 57.

Then we all enjoyed a delicious meal prepared by the ladies of our church.

It was all just wonderful, and we praise the Lord for His blessings.

2010-08-01T15:55:00.003-04:00

Last Thursday, July 29, 2010 we traveled to the city of Pinhais, just outside of the capital of the state of Parana, Curitiba. The Regular Baptist Bible Seminary is located there and that's were Matthew is now living and studying. He is so excited about being there too, and so are we. The official website for the school is http://www.sbrscuritiba.com/

Good News From a Far Country

2010-07-22T14:24:00.003-04:00

Today I would like to share an email that I sent out to some folks last week.

E-mail:

I have great news about Matthew.
.
In short, he has surrendered his life to the Lord! Yes! Praise the Lord! Hallelujah!

We were having another “what are you going to do with your life” conversation and he just chocked up, his chin began to tremble and he couldn’t speak a word. Then finally through tears he said it: “I surrender!”

You can only imagine the tears and sobs and hugs and praises to God that Soraia and I dished out upon our son!
He humbly asked God for forgiveness and gave his life to Him in prayer. It was amazing to watch and hear.

He confessed to me that he felt "very uncomfortable" during the invitation that last night at the Macedonia Regional Conference. You know, the one at Pr. Worley’s Church in North Carolina. He can’t remember what the preacher preached, but one thing he is for sure about is that the Holy Spirit was dealing with him that night!

He has also accepted my recommendation that he go to the Bible school in Curitiba for at least six months in searching for God's will for him. The Bible seminary there is a wonderful school and it's only an hour and a half drive from Joinville.

Soraia and I are so very glad to see Matthew come to realize God’s working in his life.

Please continue to pray for us! We depend on it.

End of E-mail.

Yes, we are very glad with Matthew’s decision.
Even though he does not feel called to preach or missions, he does realize that he needs God’s direction in his life.
So I ask you to pray that the Lord will clearly show our son His perfect will for his life, and that Matthew will be submissive and obedient to the Lords leading.

Thank you.

I Choose Christ

2010-07-12T22:03:00.003-04:00

I must simply state the fact that I love my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, more than anything! I pray that my life is pleasing unto Him. I choose to serve Him on purpose, and to present myself a living sacrifice unto Him because that is what He asks of me, but it’s no sacrifice, really, I love Him, and I want to please Him. I just needed to declare that tonight, after dealing with such ungodliness face to face. Lord, help me to be the last true Christian on earth if that's what it takes!

All must be "with Christ" to be at peace with each other.

2010-06-29T06:44:00.004-04:00

During my daily devotion time for the past few days I have been reading the book of Luke, and what a blessing it has been. Each day the Lord blesses me with something fresh and encouraging for the day. Today my reading was chapters 11-12. Among the many teachings in these two chapters, I especially noted verses 51-53 of chapter 12.

“Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division: 52 For from henceforth there shall be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three. 53 The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father; the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the mother in law against her daughter in law, and the daughter in law against her mother in law.”

I think of families were one or two have surrendered their lives to the Lord to honor and serve Him with their whole hearts and sadly suffer resistance and downright ugliness from their own loved ones.

Jesus said in 11:23; “He that is not with me is against me: and he that gathereth not with me scattereth.”

This burdens my heart for my own family. I pray that all six of us will be “with Jesus” and for His kingdom, so that we will not be “against” each other in our “little kingdom” (our home) here on earth.

Return to Brazil

2010-06-22T13:57:00.003-04:00

June 13 2010 was our last Sunday spent at our Home Church (at least for the next four years) and it was a wonderful Lord's Day. I thank the Lord for such a sweet Church family as Victory Baptist Church, Loganville, GA. Thank you Church for loving my family and me so much. Thank you for your prayers for us as we begin another term serving our Savior and Lord here in Brazil.

We miss you, love you and pray for you as you follow the Lord’s leadership there in the USA. Thank you Pastor Derik for your love and care demonstrated to us all. We love you.

James, Soraia, Matthew, Priscilla, Stephanie, and Frank Allen

2010-05-14T10:33:00.003-04:00

Well, today is May 14, 2010. Of course you already know that! But do you know what that means for this missionary family? Huh? It means that in just thirty short days we will be catching a plan to Brazil.

Our furlough is winding down and we are packing our bags to return to the field, and we are so excited about it. I say this with utmost respect. Let me explain something here. When you hear us say "we are so ready to get back to Brazil," please don't get offended or misunderstand us!

When we say this we are NOT saying that we are "SO READY TO LEAVE AMERICA!"
What we are saying is that we are ready to get back to the work that God has called us to do. To preach the precious Gospel of Jesus Christ to the lost souls that are there. We say it in response to a Divine calling upon our lives without the which we would never leave this great land that we love!!

God bless America!
America bless God!

Put away all lying

2010-05-12T16:27:00.003-04:00

Today during our family devotions I once again noticed a very interesting verse; Proverbs 12:22. It says this: "Lying lips are abomination to the Lord: but they that deal truly are his delight." Man! Can you imagine yourself being the perpetrator of an abomination to God? Check out this definition with synonyms of the word “abomination”:

1. Extreme hostility and dislike: abhorrence, antipathy, aversion, detestation, hate, hatred, horror, loathing, repellence, repellency, repugnance, repugnancy, repulsion, revulsion.
2. An object of extreme dislike: abhorrence, anathema, aversion, detestation execration, hate. (answers.com)

It’s pretty clear to me that God does not like lies! In fact, I would say that He flat out hates, abhors and detests lies!
Take a good look at your KJV Bible and check out some other things that God considers abominations; it should help you never want to be a part of causing that kind of aversion and repugnancy from God.

The Apostle Paul was inspired by God to pen an Epistle to the Ephesians, who were a society that not only accepted lying as “normal” but in many cases preferred it over the truth. (Adam Clarke) In chapter 4 verses 17-25 he writes;

“This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, 18 Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: 19 Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness. 20 But ye have not so learned Christ; 21 If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: 22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; 24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. 25 Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.” KJV

God help us as His children to never be an abomination to our own Father!
Let us "delight" our Lord with our constant truthfulness.

Furlough Report

2010-04-23T12:56:00.002-04:00

You’re probably wondering; “where is this guy!”
Well, sometimes I wonder the same thing! Or maybe you don’t really care that much. Either way, I am sorry for taking so long to post on my blog. We have been very busy that’s for sure, in the work that is furlough. Sounds kind of funny to put those two words together, “work” and “furlough”, in light of their definition:

Work: Physical or mental effort or activity directed toward the production or accomplishment of something.
Furlough: A leave of absence or vacation, especially one granted to a member of the armed forces. A usually temporary layoff from work. A leave of absence from prison granted to a prisoner. (Answers.com)

Since our arrival here in the United States on June 2nd, 2009, to the hugs and handshakes of some very special folks at the airport, we have reported of or presented our work in over 70 different Independent Baptist Churches in six states, participated in 11 missions conferences, several revival meetings, Homecomings, Jubilees, Fall Festivals and a few other special services such as Church Family game night, or Pastor’s meetings and fellowships. We’ve been to the Brazilian work my Father started in Alpharetta, GA for many services, singing and preaching in Portuguese to the very people that my heart aches to reach with the precious Gospel of Christ.

I’ve preached and witnessed of Christ also to Americans, Brazilians, Mexicans, Colombians, and Germans. (Some I did not even ask where they were from, just where they were going…) I’ve been privileged to see people respond to the Holy Spirit’s conviction, and I’ve watched as that miracle of miracles happened right before my eyes; one moment a soul is dead in sin and bound for eternal damnation in Hell, and the next that same soul is saved, redeemed by the Blood of the Lamb, forgiven and on their way to eternal bliss in Heaven! Hallelujah! Glory to the Lamb! To be honest, it’s been a while, oh to see another soul saved today!

During our furlough we have had the privilege of being at our Home Church, Victory Baptist of Loganville, GA, for at least 21 services. I have been honored to preach God’s Word there twice. It was there too that I got in the way trying to plant some sod, we were blessed to be a part of the 09 mission's conference, I learned so much about the organization part of church in the staff meetings and I really messed up those guys at the training center trying to teach on the life of Paul. I’ve had the joy of going out on Family Involvement day a couple of times, I went to the Resurrection Sunday early service, and once got a Pounding from my whole Church Family!

Really, I would need to write a book in order to adequately express my gratitude to my Pastor and my Home Church Family. Even then it would need to be in several volumes, and it would still fall short.

No matter where I go, I am blessed to report with my head held high and my voice strong; “I am a second generation missionary to Brazil, with Macedonia World Baptist Missions out of Victory Baptist Church, Loganville, GA, Derik Lawrence is my Pastor.”

This furlough Stephanie had her tonsils removed, once being rushed to the Hospital Emergency Room at 4:00 in the morning due to excessive bleeding after the surgery.
I spent several weeks in physical therapy for my neck pain to no avail, it still hurts!
We stopped on the side of Interstate 95 in Virginia once to keep Frank from drowning in his own vomit!
We saw God miraculously free my Mother from critical injury, even death in an automobile accident.
And God allowed me to travel back to Brazil for two weeks with my Mom, and there we saw God do a wonderful work in the hearts of those we ministered to.

It’s been so good to be with my Mom, Dad, brothers and sisters on many occasions and fellowship with them in the back yard around the barbecue grill, the bountiful table and the broom stick. Lots of good memories…

We have traveled many, many miles, eaten too many hamburgers and fries, spent the night in some really awesome places and went to Wal-Mart so many times I feel like I deserve to have stock in the company!

So as I finish this inadequate and incomplete summery of our furlough I will say this; “Are we there yet?”

Oh! God is so good, all the time He is good!

10 Indicators of a Spirit-Filled Leader

2010-03-30T11:16:00.001-04:00

10 Indicators of a Spirit-Filled Leader

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Jesus paid for yours!

2010-03-24T11:57:00.002-04:00

I got up out of bed this morning and went to the bathroom. I know that sounds grotesque, and you really don’t care to read about my personal business, but please bear with me. So, upon completing my “business” I reached over to get the paper… that’s right, just like you do my friend… and THERE WAS NO PAPER!! You, more than likely, know exactly how I reacted to that most horrific of all tragedies – I let out a disgusted phrase like; “why in the world do people not replace the paper, why do I have to pay for somebody else’s mistake!”

Then, after recomposing myself from that despicable moment, I made my way to the kitchen to make some coffee. I noticed that the coffee maker was unplugged, so I plugged it back into the electrical outlet and proceeded to rinse out, and fill the coffee pot with water. When I poured the water into the coffee maker, it started spewing and spiting water everywhere, and dripping old coffee water onto my clean coffee pot and spilling over onto the counter. My reaction: “Why do people just unplug the coffee maker without turning it off? Everyone knows you’re supposed to turn the thing off! Why do I have to pay for somebody else’s mistakes!!?”

At that moment, I heard the Holy Spirit speaking softly to my heart these words: “Jesus paid for yours.”
WOW! As tears came to my eyes I thought: “My Savior volunteered to pay, not for my little petty oversights, but for all of my wicked and awful sin!” “He, that knew no sin, took upon Himself my shame, all because He loves me, and He never once complained.”

“But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)” Ephesians 2:4-5 KJV
“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8 KLV

Conviction came swiftly to my heart and I was reminded of the following words: “Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:31-32

“Thank you my dear Lord Jesus, for paying for my sin, and for forgiving me. Help me to be more like you.”

PS – You’re probably thinking; “you dummy, you’re supposed to make sure there’s toilet paper on the roll before you sit down, and you’re supposed to check if the coffee machine is on or not before you pour the water into it.”
My answer to you; “thanks for being like Jesus and forgiving me.”

Just a Thought on World Missions

2010-03-12T15:19:00.003-05:00

"The single most indispensable factor in missions work is God's call upon a man to go, if you stick to that, the many other important factors will follow."

"Dear God, please call men to go into all the World and preach the Gospel to every creature, move upon these men to answer positively to that call, and please dear Lord, call upon Your Church to send them were You have called them to go and move upon them to answer positively to that call, because nothing less than the precious souls of men, women and children are at stake."

Sunday, February 28, 2010

2010-03-01T12:16:00.001-05:00

What a great service the Lord gave us at the Johnson Missionary Baptist Church in Philadelphia, Tennessee. It was a joy to meet Pr. Ted Pegram and the sweet folks of this church out in the Tennessee countryside.
Not even the snow flurries falling outside could chill the warmth that we felt among such kind people.

After church we enjoyed great fellowship and delicious food at the Dinner Bell Restaurant and General Store at exit 62 off I-75 in Sweetwater, Tennessee.

Then we drove back toward Georgia stopping by the Harvest Baptist Church in Acworth for the evening service. Even though we just “dropped in”, Pr. Dan Reed gave me the opportunity to share with the Church Family what God is doing through us in Joinville. I praise the Lord for this Missions Hearted Church.

Sunday, February 21, 2010

2010-03-01T11:37:00.003-05:00

On this day we were privileged to present our burden for the Brazilian people to the Catawba Falls Baptist Church in Old Fort, North Carolina. Pr. Phillip Wishon and all the Church Family were so kind and receptive. After church Pr. Wishon instructed us to stay at the fellowship hall and enjoy some delicious sandwiches, chips and sodas they had bought for us. We thank the Lord for His provision!

For the evening service we were blessed by the opportunity we were given to present our ministry to the Center Pigeon Baptist Church in Canton, North Carolina. Pr. Allen Blanton and the precious folks at this church made us feel so very welcome. At one point Pr. Allen asked Priscilla to give a testimony. She was kind of caught off guard, but did a great job. It was so sweet to hear about her surrender to missions and her desire to follow the Lords leadership in her life. You know several of us were in tears over it.

After the service Pr. Allen and his wife Debbie took us to Pizza Hut. We enjoyed the great fellowship and some real good pizza too.

Thursday, February 18, 2010

2010-03-01T11:12:00.003-05:00

Our trip back to the USA was a good one, praise the Lord, although just as we crossed over into Georgia air space Thursday morning we entered into some turbulence.

The funny thing about it is that I had just been given a cup of hot coffee, and it was very difficult keeping the coffee in the cup! Somehow though, I managed, but as soon as we flew out of the turbulence and it was smooth sailing, I placed my cup of hot coffee on my tray, and would you believe it, I managed to then spill it on my leg, and into my Mom’s carry-on bag, and on her purse!!

Mom, I’m truly sorry about that. Thanks for your sweet spirit of forgiveness, and for the wet wipes.

Thank you all for your prayers for Mom and I. Our trip to Brazil was absolutely terrific. We thank the Lord for watching over us and for bringing us back home safely. We praise the Lord for this opportunity that we were given to minister for Him these two weeks in Joinville.

2010-02-19T16:07:00.003-05:00

The services at the Igreja Batista Vitória on Sunday, February 14 were a blessing. In the morning service the Lord helped me to preach on the subject "Compassion for souls” using Matthew 9:36, “But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd."

In the evening service the Lord laid a message on my heart about living a “Crucified” life, using Romans 6:1-11, and Galatians 2:20, “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” KJV

In the Portuguese version of the Bible Galatians 2:20 states: “I am already crucified with Christ…” implying that Paul was dead to the Law, the World and to Sin – now!

The Holy Spirit moved in the service and several folks came to the alter to pray and others knelt to pray on their bench. It was one of those services that you long to happen every Sunday! Then we finished by celebrated the Lord’s Supper followed by a time of fellowship.

To God be honor and glory for all the great things He has done!

2010-02-15T06:17:00.002-05:00

The men and ladies meetings were both a great blessing. We were encouraged by the participation of three area churches plus our own. The ladies said that Mom did a tremendous job with her lesson and testimony, and that it was such an encouragement to them.

The men also had a great time in the Word of God.
One local Pastor named Luiz brought two men from his church in the town of Pomerode to the meeting. They are both of German decent. I received an e-mail on Sunday saying that the message truly impacted their lives and that they talked about it the whole trip home.

Mom and I are so thankful to the Lord for allowing us to come to Joinville and even more thankful for Him using us to minister His Word to the precious people here. It is truly an honor.

2010-02-12T06:24:00.002-05:00

On Thursday evening Mom and I visited Mrs. Edite and her son Eder. They were so happy to see us, as were we to see them. Mrs. Edite is a sweet lady that was saved several years ago and is a member of our church. Eder was saved a few months before his mother and is a very faithful man and has been greatly used of the Lord to bring other members of his family to Christ. He is our church treasurer.

Mrs. Edite has cancer that started in her Uterus and spread throughout her body. She is too weak to do surgery so they began chemotherapy on Wednesday of this week. She is 83 years old.

Since Eder accepted Christ as his savior he has prayed for the salvation of his two brothers and their families. His brother’s names are Edsom and Elvis. He told me that through his mother’s illness and her faith in the Lord these men are more open to the Gospel and have even participated in Bible reading with him. Please pray for the salvation of these men.

It was such an encouragement to me to see Eder and Mrs. Edite’s faith strengthened though this trial.

Thursday, February 11, 2010

2010-02-11T13:34:00.002-05:00

On Wednesday morning first thing, I took the flat tire off the little borrowed Fiat car and carried it up the street about 800 yards to the “Borracheiro” (the guy that fixes flat tires). “Mikon”, (that’s the name of the young “Borracheiro”) began to fix the tire. Once again I thought, what an opportunity! So I took it and shared with him the Gospel while he worked. Come to find out he lives in the same neighborhood as our church, “Petrópolis”. Please pray for Mikon to be saved.

Thirty minutes later, I carried the repaired 13 inch tire and rim back to the house and quickly put it on the Fiat. I did all that so I could drive to the Auto-Electrician again today to get him to check the VW Kombi out. (I forgot to get his phone number the other day, and could not find it in the phone book)

The prognosis is grim! The same electrical part that we replaced on Monday had burnt up, so he replaced it with a new one within the guarantee (PTL). But, he explained that there is something else wrong with the van that is causing this to happen. After two days now in the shop, the verdict: The fuel injection module is defective and needs to be replaced. Translation so all of us can understand: $440.00. And a week for the part to arrive! (I have him looking for a cheaper part)

The Wednesday night service was a blessing. I thank the Lord for giving me the message and helping me to deliver it. After church, several of us were outside in front of the building when Rogério, the wrecker driver drove by. When he saw me, he pulled his truck over and backed up to where we were and I was able once again to give him a gospel track with the service times. He has promised to come. Please continue to pray for Rogério’s salvation.

I thank each of you that are praying with us as we serve the Lord here in Joinville.

Tuesday, February 09, 2010

2010-02-10T08:38:00.002-05:00

At about 6:15pm my Mom, my Mother-in-law and my Sister-in-law and I packed into the VW van, excited about the visit we were headed to at Ricardo and Monica’s house on the other side of town. We were all talking about what we were going to eat, and about the fellowship we would soon experience.

About half way there, the “Zombie” (well, that’s what my Dad calls it anyway, the real name is VW “Kombi”), quit running, just as we were crossing the railroad tracks. I quickly prayed, “Lord help me get this thing over the tracks please!” I tried to start the van and nothing. I tried again, and again – nothing. Once again I prayed; “Dear Lord, I need to at least get passed the train tracks, please help us!” I turned the key again, and glory to God!, it started and I was able to get across the tracks and off to the side of the street before it quit running again.

I got out of the van to check the engine compartment. (Men, you know, so it would at least look like I knew what I was doing, remember, there were three ladies in the van, including my Mother-in-law!) After confirming that I did not have a clue what went wrong, I walked over to the side of the van to inform the ladies we would have to call for help. As I was talking to them we all heard a loud horn blow, you know, the ones trains have, and we looked back and sure enough, a huge train crossed the intersection we had just came across! We all looked at each other with big smiles and took big breaths of relief! Praise the Lord.

Ricardo came over and took the ladies on to his house, while I called a wrecker to tow the van. Now I know that God has a purpose in everything that happens in our lives, so I prayed and asked Him to help me not miss what He had planned for me through this. It became clear to me His plan as soon as I got into the tow truck with Rogério, the owner/operator. What an open door to share the precious Gospel to this man. He was very attentive, asking several questions and then after unloading the van from off his truck, he asked about the service times at our church. He knows were it is, and he promised to come sometime.

Please pray for the salvation of this man, Rogério, the wrecker owner/operator.
Please pray for the repair of our “Zombie”, I mean “Kombi”.

By the way, Ricardo came over to take me to his apartment also and we all enjoyed a wonderful time of fellowship, great pizza and some delicious ice cream together, it was just a bit later than planned. We were all praising God for His working through these unforeseen circumstances.

2010-02-08T19:38:00.002-05:00

We had a great afternoon today in the nearby town of Piçarras. We visited Soraia’s Uncle Domingos and his family, and Soraia’s Aunt Odete and her family.

We had the privilege of witnessing to Domingo’s Mother-in-law who is a staunch Catholic.
(she is the one on the right of the picture)

She has a picture in her house of the Pope that takes up a fourth of her living room wall. Her name is Laura and she is 61 years old. Please pray that the Word of God that she heard today will work in her heart through this week, and that when we go back to visit again next Monday she will be ready to trust Christ as her savior.

It rained this afternoon and cooled things down a bit.
It is now 10:33pm and the temperature is 103 degrees Fahrenheit!
Praise the Lord for the air conditioning in my room!!

Sunday, February 07, 2010

2010-02-08T08:30:00.002-05:00

Praise the Lord!

The service Sunday morning was wonderful.
It was so good to see everyone again at the Igreja Batista Vitória and share with them of the Lord’s blessings upon ours and their lives.
The Holy Spirit helped me in the preaching, and several folks told me later they were helped by the Word.

Sunday night I had the privilege to dedicate a little newborn baby.
Benedito, his wife Ana and their daughter Karine were all so proud of little Natã (Nathan).
Please pray for this dear family in our church, Banedito lost his job a few months ago and although he is constantly searching he has not been able to find a new one yet.

After the baby dedication I asked my Mother to give a testimony to the Church so she did. It was such a blessing. The folks were so glad to hear about how the Lord is working and encouraging Mom and all of the Allen family through some difficult times.

I told them that trials and temptations give us an opportunity to practice what we preach! Its one thing to SAY we live by faith, it’s totally another to actually LIVE by faith!

Monday, February 08, 2010

Praise the Lord again!

This morning I asked the Lord to direct my path to find someone nearby to fix our VW van. So after praying I left the house in search of an auto-electrician, that’s what they call a person that works on the electrical part of automobiles, in case you did not already know. The first one I checked with did not really want to help me because he would have to leave his shop. So I kept praying and searching.

The next one also did not want to go because that wasn’t his specialty, but he did tell me of a good auto-electrician I could use, and his shop is just a few blocks from my mother-in-law’s house. So I went to the shop named Neguinho’s Auto Eletrica, and spoke with “Neguinho” (whose real name is Valdercir, I finally found out) and he asked me were the van was and told me he would be there in 20 minutes.

Fifteen minutes later he was at the gate with his little scooter beeping the horn!
He checked the van and in about two minutes diagnosed the problem. So he rode off on his scooter returning shortly after to replace some electrical part and miraculously the van started!

Get this: The part cost $96.00. His work: $11.00!
In the States the values would be reversed!!

I thank the Lord for answering prayer and directing my path today.

Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

Saturday, February 6, 2010

2010-02-06T13:56:00.002-05:00

WOW!!! The heat here in Joinville is extreme!!
It feels like I am melting off my bones!!
Even so, it's wonderful to be here, and they have air conditioners in the rooms!! Hallelujah!!

Praise the Lord, both our flights went very well and we arrived in Joinville at 6:05pm on Friday, February 05, 2010.
Several of the folk from church picked Mom and I up at the airport yesterday. It was so good to see them. Others have called to say hello.

My VW van is out of service for the time being. Maybe I can get it fixed the first of next week. In the meantime, a lady from church, Mariza, has given us her car to use! How nice of her. You gotta love it! It’s a very compact 4 door fiat with a 1.0, yes that’s right, 1.0 liter engine! I won’t be drag racing anyone for sure, but I am very thankful for Mariza’s kindness.

I look forward to the services tomorrow at Igreja Batista Vitória. Please pray for me as I preach there in the morning and evening services.

Thursday, February 04, 2010

2010-02-04T09:15:00.002-05:00

Well, the day has come.
My Mother and I leave this evening at 7:35pm for a 2 week trip to Joinvile, Brazil.
Our hearts desire is to be used of the Lord during our stay.

The Lord willing, I will be preaching 6 or 7 times at the Igreja Batista Vitória (Victory Baptist Church) there in Joinville. On the 13th, they have planned a special regional ladies and men’s meeting to be held at 4:00 pm at the church in Joinville. Pray for my Mother as she ministers to the ladies and for me as I preach to the men.

I will also be dealing with several document issues and assessing the state of the construction on our house.
Please pray with us about this matter, we need to be able to finish the interior of the house in order to move in when we return from our furlough in June of this year. It will take about $15,000 to get the minimum done for the house to be ready for us to live in. I appreciate your prayers so much. This seems impossible to me, but I believe with all my heart that all things are possible with God, and nothing is impossible for Him!

I thank the Igreja Batista Brasileira Filadélfia (Philadelphia [Brazilian] Baptist Church) for giving me this opportunity to take this important trip.

To my family: I love you. I’ll see you guys in just a few days, the Lord willing.

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

2010-02-02T07:56:00.004-05:00

We are so very thankful today to the Lord for His protective hand upon our lives.

Last night, as my Mother was on her way to see her Mother at the nursing home, she stopped at the stop sign at the intersection of Faith Baptist Church Rd and Highway 11 in Monroe, GA. She looked both ways, made sure no cars where coming, and proceeded to make a left turn onto Highway 11 when out of nowhere a black Ford pick-up truck hit her car practically head on as she turned into the turn lane!

Mom told us later she kept asking the Lord, “Where did he come from, where did he come from, I looked both ways, then looked again and made sure no one was coming!” Thank God for a witness! The driver of the vehicle just behind the pick-up testified to the police that the pick-up did not have its headlights on at the time of the accident.

The pick-up truck driver and his wife were taken to the Hospital, he had a miner cut on his forehead and she was disoriented due to hitting her head on the windshield. We pray the she will be ok.

Dad took Mom to the Hospital where she was examined and released without anything more that a sore spot on her left leg. They gave her some pain medication and she went home.

As you can see in the picture, Mom’s car, a Mercury Grand Marquise, was totally destroyed.

When my sister Laura called to tell me of the accident, this was my first thought; the devil knows that Mom is going to be a blessing to the folks in Brazil this week, so he is trying his best to hinder us from going. Well, as the apostle Paul said; “Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you, (but was let hitherto,) that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles. 14 I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise. 15 So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also.”

Lord, make us “ready to preach the gospel” to the folks that are at Joinville!
Allow that which we have “purposed” to do for you come to pass.
We ask that you give is a prosperous journey by your will.

Monday, February 01, 2010

2010-02-01T16:56:00.000-05:00

Well praise the Lord!

I just spoke with my Mother and she told me her interview at the Brazilian consulate went very well.
They gave her a five year visa that she can use up to 180 days a year and they gave it to her today!
Normally you have to go back the next day to pick up your passport with the visa.
Then, when they found out that she had a son born in Brazil, (Andrew) they told her because of that she could apply to renew her permanent visa!

All we have to do now is pack…
Thank you all for your prayers, and please keep praying for us.
Our desire is to be a blessing, and bear fruit for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Please pray also for my family here in the USA.
I miss them already.

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2010-02-01T16:19:00.002-05:00

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2010-02-01T15:45:00.000-05:00

January 30, 2010

We spent a wonderful afternoon at my parent’s house with all the family.
We celebrated Luke’s 15th birthday and Timothy’s 24th birthday.
It was a blessing to spend time with my brothers and sisters and their families.

Sunday, January 31, 2010

It was such a blessing to be able to go to our Home Church today.
We love Victory Baptist Church in Loganville, GA.
The Sunday school lesson by Brother Mark was so encouraging, about “Burdens, what to do with them”.

Then at 11:00, we experienced the wonderful VBC choir, and Pr. Derik preached a message that stirred my heart about “Laboring more abundantly” asking the question: “Is it really worth it?” The answer: Yes, Absolutely! It is worth going after the “one” that is “wondering” away from the fold! It is worth it because of the “worth” of the sheep to the Lord. Thank you Pastor for your faithfulness in preaching His Word.

After lunch we all went to visit Me Maw at the nursing home. It was good to spend precious moments with such a special lady.

We went back to VBC Sunday evening for yet another great message, this time by Brother Josh Ayers.
Man, we were blessed to be there! After the preaching, it was a joy to partake of the Lord’s Supper at our Home Church. It was great to have my Brother Scott and his family and my sister Laura there also.

January 24-29, 2010

2010-01-29T17:34:00.002-05:00

January 24, 2010

We had a wonderful time in the Lord at Crossroads Bible Church in Elkton, MD.
In the combined Adult Sunday School class, we were given the opportunity to show our DVD and Soraia gave her testimony. Then I preached a three point message in three minutes!!

During the 11 O’clock service, with nearly 700 people present, Pr. Tim gave me 5 minutes to present the work in Brazil. Talk about feeling the heat! Man, that spotlight was hot! But the Lord gave me what to say and the words came out according to His will! (I say that because I couldn’t do it on my own!)

January 25, 2010

On our way back to Georgia we stopped in Washington DC and visited several of the monuments and memorials downtown; then ended our tour at the Arlington National Cemetery. It was a memorable time in our great nation’s capital. I asked about him, but did not get to see President Obama.

We spent the night at the home of a friend that is also an MK.
His parents were missionaries to Brazil for many years.

January 26, 2010

This day was spent in the van, Cracker Barrel, and Chic-fil-a, twice! (Because they always have a life saving indoor playground!) We made it home late that night. Praise the Lord for His protection.

January 27, 2010

Worked at home, getting things ready for my trip to Brazil next week. We visited with Dad and Me Maw for a while that afternoon. Dad is much better, not quite 100%, but much better, praise the Lord.
I led the singing and took the prayer request at my Dad’s Church that night. Scott preached a great message.

January 28, 2010

Today several of us went to help my Mom and Dad take Me Maw to the nursing home located about a mile from their house. Though this is a difficult decision, we are thankful for the Lord opening this door for our family. Thank you all for your prayers.

January 29, 2010

My cousin Larry, who is only 44 years old, had his third heart attack last night, so my brother Scott, my son Matthew and I traveled to the hospital in Carrolton, GA (close to the Alabama state line) to visit with him. We had a great opportunity to present the Gospel to him, and incredibly, unbelievably, he is still holding on to his way of life!!

Please pray for Larry. I hope the Lord gives him another opportunity to trust in Christ as his Savior. You know, a forth heart attack might be the last one…

Friday, January 22, 2010

2010-01-22T19:29:00.002-05:00

Got several things done today, praise the Lord.
Among other things, I typed, printed, signed, folded, stuffed, sealed, stamped and mailed a bunch of "thank you" letters for past meetings we have been in and a confirmation letter for a scheduled meeting in Tennessee! PTL!

Later I dropped by to see how Dad was doing. Thank the Lord he is a bit better today, the fever is gone and he is eating. Thank you for praying for him. Please continue to pray for his full recovery.

Mom is doing ok also. Matthew went over to help her check in on Uncle Lamar who lives alone in an apartment not too far from Mom and Dad’s place.

Me Maw was looking better today. She talked with me and smiled a bit.

I spent some time this afternoon with my four year old daughter.
She was with me when we visited Me Maw and Paw Paw and Maw Maw!
Then we went to Bulldog Tire in Monroe to get an alignment and tires balanced on the van.
They offer free popcorn to the customers, and boy, did that little customer eat some popcorn! It was almost embarrassing, if it weren’t for the fact that I was eating more that she was!
All that was fun, but she especially enjoyed the “car wash” that we experienced earlier at Wow Express on Hwy 11.

Tomorrow morning around 4:00am we plan on leaving for Elkton Maryland.
We will be at Crossroads Baptist Church on Sunday and are looking forward to what the Lord has in store for us. Soraia has been at home extremely busy packing and getting things ready for our trip. She is an extraordinary lady!

Thank you for your prayers as we travel and minister in this supporting church.
Have a great weekend and an encouraging, edifying, learning, God honoring, Spirit filled, soul saving Sunday!

2010-01-22T08:42:00.000-05:00

DO NOT READ!

WHAT ARE YOU DOING?

WARNING!

DO NOT CONTINUE!

DO YOU NOT UNDERSTAND WHAT I AM SAYING?

STOP!

ARE YOU BLIND?

I SAID DO NO READ!

TURN AWAY!

SAVE YOURSELF THE DISAPPOINTMENT!

FIND A WAY TO LOOK AWAY!

PLEASE, YOU MUST HEED MY WARNINGS!

WELL, IF YOU CAME THIS FAR, YOUR JUST LIKE MOST PEOPLE IN THE WORLD.

THEY NEVER LISTEN TO WARNINGS, UNTIL IT’S TOO LATE!

II Corinthians 4:4, “In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. (KJV)

If you are reading this line, please leave a comment stating that you did.

2010-01-22T08:24:00.000-05:00

Thursday, January 21, 2010
Praise the Lord my Dad is feeling better!
I took him to the Dr’s office once again and his white blood cells were down, which is good in his case.
He was glad that he did not have to lie to his Dr. about how he feels in order to stay out of the Hospital!! (Joking)

I helped Mom fill out the paper work on the Brazilian consulate web site to request her visa.
We also sent the consulate an e-mail requesting an appointment to be scheduled for the visa request.
We are now in the waiting period, and waiting… and waiting… and waiting…

Please Lord, intervene on our behalf!

2010-01-21T09:49:00.001-05:00

Tuesday, January 19, 2010
My Dad was very sick and needed to see a Doctor, so we went over to their house that afternoon to care for my grandmother so Mom could take him to the Dr’s office. During that time I spent several hours making phone calls and e-mailing different organizations just trying to get information about Mom’s visa from the Brazilian consulate. We are not sure if her “permanent visa” is still good because she has stayed out of the country for more than two years. We ended up staying there till late that evening helping lessen the load on my Mom.

Wednesday, January 20, 2010
This morning I spent a good bit of time praying and searching. I will be preaching several (6 or 7) times next month at our church in Brazil, the Lord willing. I am looking forward to this awesome privilege! I love those precious people in Joinville, and am begging God to help me to be a blessing and encouragement to their lives.

Dad is still in lots of pain and running a fever. I helped Mom again with some simple chores like getting a Chick-fil-a sandwich and tea plus some mashed potatoes and coleslaw from KFC for my grandmother. We had to sit Me Maw (that’s what we call Grandmother) up on her bed several times because she kept sliding down to the edge. She keeps talking to people that are not there, and she was trying profusely to change a baby’s diaper – her pillow! I could not help but cry as I saw my precious grandmother in this condition.

Then later that afternoon I took my Dad back to his Doctor. She is not really sure were the infection is coming from; she thinks it is either a kidney or bladder infection. If Dad’s white blood count is not down by Thursday, she is going to put him in the Hospital. Dad told me on the way home that he is seriously thinking about lying to her about feeling better just to stay out of the Hospital!! (He was joking of course).

Due to his illness, Dad asked me to preach for him at the Brazilian church, so my family and I went to Alpharetta and took care of the service there. It was a blessing.

Please pray with us for my Dad’s health, my Me Maw, and especially for my Mother, all of this weighs heavy on her physically and emotionally.

2010-01-21T09:07:00.002-05:00

Sunday, January 10, 2010
For Sunday School and the AM service we dropped in at Light of Calvary Baptist Church in Conyers, GA.
Pr. Terry Brock let us sing and gave me time to report of the work in Brazil.

For the evening service we traveled to Glennville, GA for a scheduled meeting at the Watermelon Creek Baptist Church. We showed our DVD presentation, Soraia gave her testimony and sang with Priscilla, and then I had the opportunity to preach. God gave me good liberty and several folks responded to the invitation. Praise the Lord. It was good to meet Pr. Steve Miller and his sweet family for the first time.
We traveled back home that night, arriving around 1:00am.

Obs. We saw several Deer beside the road that night, thank the Lord for His protection.

Monday – Wednesday, January 11-13
We traveled to Gospel Light Baptist Church in Salisbury, NC for their mission’s conference. We were there through Wednesday night. What a blessing! We had the opportunity to give testimonies, sing and I preached Wednesday morning, praise the Lord once again for His working in lives.

Thursday and Friday January 14-15
We were to be in Travelers Rest SC at Bethany Baptist Church mission’s conference but Pr. Jeremy Chism called Wednesday to let me know they had cancelled their conference due to the tragic death of a lady in a car crash from their church. Her 12 year old daughter was also in the car and was still in intensive care and needs our prayers. We are also praying for the lady’s husband and 14 year old son and their Church family.

Obs. The sweet family we were staying with during the conference at Gospel Light Baptist Church in Salisbury offered to let us stay with them for those two day, so we did. We had a great time of fellowship with Brother David and Sister Donna Cranfield and their son Keith.

Saturday – Sunday, January 16-17
We traveled from Salisbury NC to Marion VA, checked in to the Comfort Inn then had supper and good fellowship with Pr. Gary Trout of the Calvary Baptist Church there. Sunday morning I had the privilege of speaking in one of their adult Sunday School classes, mainly answering questions and talking about life as a missionary in Brazil. It was very enjoyable and the folks responded well. I also was able to show our DVD, Soraia and Priscilla sang, and then I preached. I thank the Lord for giving me liberty and peace with the message. He moved in hearts and some folks came to the alter to pray. Once again, praise the Lord for His working. Some folks from the church had fixed a delicious meal that we eat in the Family Life Center.

That Sunday afternoon we traveled to Salem VA, to the Southside Baptist Church. I had not been able to reach Pr. Bill Atkins on the phone so I had written him a letter explaining that I would be in Virginia on this date, and asked him if it was ok to come be with them that night. He was surprises to see us. He did let us sing and give testimony, then he asked me if I had a message, I said “several” he said, “oh we just want to hear one!” So I had the opportunity to preach and the Lord blessed in a great way. Then Pr. Atkins offered the fellowship hall for us to spend the night. It was a blessing.

Monday, January 18, 2010
We spent this day traveling back to Georgia. It is good to be home for a few days to take care of many things before we travel to Maryland on Saturday, January 23, 2010.

Dr. Phillip R. Allen, Faithful Servant of God

2010-01-07T10:54:00.003-05:00

On Sunday, December 27, 2009, my Father Dr. Phillip R. Allen celebrated his 70th birthday.

I had the privilege of preaching at the Brazilian ministry in Alpharetta GA where they had a birthday party for him. We ate lots of Brazilian finger foods and plenty of cake and we drank guaraná, a Brazilian soft drink similar to ginger ale.

Several folks gave my Dad gifts and spoke sweet words to him that night.
It was a joy to see honor be given to a faithful man of God.

This morning as I read the first few chapters of the Gospel of John, I was reminded of a time not too long ago that some folks were being critical of Dr. Phillip’s ministry to the Brazilian community in Alpharetta.

It does not matter what was said or who said it, and I would not dare to criticize one person here, but I remember sending a letter of encouragement to my Dad at that time, and I want to share it with whoever would like to read it.

It is a bit lengthy but I think my Father is worth the few minutes it would take to read.
(Isn’t it funny how folks with short attention spans want you to listen to them? Just a thought)

Joinville, May 9, 2008

Good morning Dad,

You were heavy on my heart this morning, so I just want to encourage you a bit, and I do this in humbleness of heart, considering the fact that you are an inspiration to me!

I want you to see something I noticed in John chapter 4 today.
(I know you already know this, but I thought it to be really good for today)

So look at verse 3. It says, “He left Judea, and departed again into Galilee.”

Do you know why Jesus left His beloved homeland here?

Look at verses 1-2, “When therefore the Lord knew how the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John, (Though Jesus himself baptized not, but his disciples,)”

I don’t want to focus on WHAT the Pharisees heard ABOUT Jesus, but the simple fact that Jesus knew that they HEARD it.
They HEARD something about Jesus, and evidently were not happy with it. And THAT, bothered the Lord.

Could it be possible for the Son of God to be out of His Fathers perfect will?
No way! I do not think that Jesus could possibly be out of God’s perfect will!

1 – I do believe Jesus was doing God’s perfect will in Judea, his own country!
(How could someone possibly not be happy with that! Unless THEY had a spiritual problem, which is the case.)

2 – But I also believe that Jesus did God’s perfect will in Samaria, don’t you? (See vs. 4-42)
(Notice especially verses 31-34)

3 – And He did God’s perfect will on the way back to Galilee too! (See vs. 46-54)

So why DID Jesus leave His homeland Judea?

Besides the fact that the Samaritans needed salvation, and the nobleman’s son needed healing, I think the answer is in verse 44; “For Jesus himself testified, that a prophet hath no honor in his own country.”

And I think verse 45 is very interesting too. It says; “Then when he was come into Galilee, the Galileans received him, having seen all the things that he did…”
(And notice that “…all the things that he did…” were done in Jerusalem!)

You know Dad, the Pharisees in verse 1, they just “heard” something about Jesus’ work.
But the Galileans in verse 45, they had “…seen all the things that he did…”

Dad, I want you to remember this today, and every day from henceforth, that the people of Altinópolis have seen your works, the folks of Orlândia have seen, twice, your works, the ones in Sinop, Serrana, Sertãozinho, Pontal, São Sebastião do Paraíso, Jacuí and Joinville have all seen your labor of love for the Lord! (Did I forget any?)

And every city in between these knows of your love for the Lord and the Brazilian people! (Besides many, many Pastors and Churches in the USA)
And there is a group of folks in Alpharetta, and consequently Ipameri and Goiânia, Curitiba and Natal that see your works too!
And may I remind you also that we “five Allen MKs” know exactly what you stand for!
And I don’t have to tell you that “Dr. Mom”, (a title she has deservedly earned) is with you all the way!
What’s best of all is the fact that if we all somehow go crazy and forget, Jesus knows your works!

Dad, I’m not saying that you should “leave” your “homeland” and come back to Brazil.
(Although that would be a great thing to do, but only if God leads you to do so)
What I am saying is, as long as you know that you are doing God’s perfect will, do it to the best of your ability, wherever that may lead you!

If the sinless Son of God, Jesus Christ, the perfect example to us all, left His homeland because He knew that some self-righteous religious folks “heard” something about him and his ministry, how could someone today even think about questioning your motives for what you are doing there!!

Besides, God is the one that must be pleased!
- 1Corinthians 10:31, “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.”
- Colossians 3:17, “And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
- Colossians 3:23, “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;”

Remember what Jesus said; “… My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.” John 4:34.
And He said; “…Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you.” John 20:21.

The Lord has “sent you” (and me) to do His perfect will in this WORLD!
Mark 16:15, “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.”
Matthew 28:19-20, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”

So what is it to do missions? What little part of this big world is considered a mission field?
Is there no need to reach one lost soul in any part of this vast earth?

Did not the Lord say, “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” Acts 1:8. (That’s all at the same time!)

Hey Dad, let’s just “do the best we can with what we have were we are” for the Lord!
Let us be found faithful by Him! Praise His sweet Name!

I love you.
I am praying for you.

Your First of two, second generation missionaries to Brazil, (That’s because you are the generator!)

James Timothy Allen

PS – Romans 12:17, “Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.”
Matthew 5:44, “But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;”

2009-12-25T12:31:00.002-05:00

I am so thankful to the Lord for giving me the opportunity this year to spend Christmas with my family here in the United States. It has been six years since we spent this very special date together and I am looking forward to going over to my parents’ house in a little while to enjoy a nice meal with everyone.

“Merry Christmas” to you, and may Christ be glorified in our lives today and every day in the coming New Year.

The James Allen Family

Security Awareness

2009-12-18T10:50:00.002-05:00

I received an email from the United States Consulate in São Paulo Brazil back in August of this year;

The following is part of what it said:

“U.S. Consulate São Paulo - August 11th, 2009

The Department of State has issued this Worldwide Caution to update information on the continuing threat of terrorist actions and violence against American citizens and interests throughout the world. In some countries, the worldwide recession has contributed to political and economic instability and social unrest.

American citizens are reminded to maintain a high level of vigilance and to take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness.

The Department of State remains concerned about the continued threat of terrorist attacks, demonstrations, and other violent actions against U.S. citizens and interests overseas. Americans are reminded that demonstrations and rioting can occur with little or no warning.

Current information suggests that al-Qaida and affiliated organizations continue to plan terrorist attacks against U.S. interests in multiple regions, including Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. These attacks may employ a wide variety of tactics including suicide operations, assassinations, kidnappings, hijackings, and bombings.” (End of email)

Obs. This reminds me that simply because I am an American Citizen I have some pretty vicious enemies.
They want to destroy me and all my fellow Americans, and will use whatever means necessary to do so.

It also reminds me of a much more important warning from the Almighty God of the Universe!
It’s recorded in I Peter 5:6-11,

“Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: 7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. 8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: 9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. 10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. 11 To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.”

We as children of God have a vicious adversary!

Job 1:7, “And the LORD said unto Satan, Whence comest thou? Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it.”

I Thess. 5:6, “Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.”

I Peter 4:7, “But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.”

Our adversary also uses a wide variety of tactics and he tempts us with little or no warning!
We must maintain a high level of vigilance and take appropriate steps to increase our security awareness against the wiles of the Devil!

Eph. 6:11 “Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.”

Are we being Vigilant?

A worthwhile adventure

2009-12-15T21:29:00.002-05:00

I’ve experienced a few adventures in my 41 years; I’ll share just a few.

I’ve ridden a bicycle from one town to the next, leaving early in the morning and returning late that night. I’ve climbed mountains carrying my son with me, in a stroller. I’ve jumped off a cliff into a river hundreds of feet below.

I’ve driven a car at 80 miles an hour – on a narrow city street (maybe I should leave that one out). I’ve seen the Empire state building, the World Trade Center and the Statue of Liberty.

I’ve driven a motorcycle – in the rain – in the middle of winter – with a very painful fever and cold, while my bike was leaking gas from all four carburetors, having to stop every twenty minutes to refuel, and loved every minute of it.

I’ve been fishing in the middle of the Atlantic ocean, no land in sight, catching three to four fish with the same pole, and that's the honest truth. I’ve been wave jumping on a wave runner. I’ve been in the middle of the Amazon jungle hunting for wild boar and fishing for Piranha and then eating both!

I’ve preached messages that God used to change men’s lives. I’ve had the amazing privilege of showing the Gospel message to people, and watched as their eyes brightened and through tears of joy they surrendered their life to the Lord, changing their eternal destiny.

And one day, I looked into the brown eyes of the most beautify girl in the world and asked her to marry me – and she said – YES!! That, my friend, was the beginning of the greatest adventure of all.

To my precious wife of 21 years; Soraia - you have made my life an adventure worth living. We have experienced so many wonderful moments together, and whatever tomorrow may bring, I want to be there with you – love of my life.

2009-12-11T19:10:00.007-05:00

Introduction to Joinville

While Joinville does not have the historic center (or the beer festival) of Blumenau, it does have German roots. They are evident in the city’s nouveau-Alpine architecture and in the well-manicured lawns and litter-free parks around town. The economy thrives on metallurgy, plastics and information technology, but this industrial activity is tucked neatly away from the eyes of visitors. The result is a big city with the good manners of a small town. Joinville’s citizens are proud of their prosperous, orderly home, and they welcome visitors with warm hospitality and a surplus of helpful information.

Joinville means “joyous city”, but it was also the family name of the prince Ferdinand Phillipe, husband of princess Francisca Carolina. The prince of Joinville, owning vast extinctions of lands, was unable to care for them and without ever seeing them, gave a large portion to the Hamburg Colonization Society.

The land was used as a settlement for a colony of German, Swiss and Norwegian immigrants. On March 9, 1851 the ship “Colon” docked on the River Cachoeira with the first immigrants. Those first years we not easy for the Dona Francisca Colony, but their fighting spirit overcame the difficulties.

With nearly 600 thousand inhabitants and a diverse manufacturing park, Joinville has more than 700 major industries; some of which are the largest in Brazil. Among the products manufactured are galvanized pipes and connectors, electric engines, plastic tubing and connections, compressors for various equipments, refrigerators, air conditioners, washers and textile products. Many of them are exported to several continents.

This entrepreneurial dynamism gives it the name "Manchester of Santa Catarina" and makes it the largest city of the State, including in revenue. Although a city given to work and production Joinville has not failed to keep alive their traditions, history and customs, through artistic and folkloric presentations, typical architecture and the special care for the gardens and flowers.

Situated in a plain between the dense forests of the “Serra do Mar” and the Babitonga Bay, which is linked by Lake Saguaçú, the city is an invitation to those who love to walk or ride a bicycle.

Joinville is not a coastal city, but is connected to the sea through the bays of Babitonga and Saguaçú, and the closest beaches are only 30 minutes away by car. The boat "Prince of Joinville" leaving Joinville via the Babitonga Bay, can take up to 50 people to one of the oldest cities of Brazil, São Francisco do Sul, passing between numerous tropical vegetation-covered Islands and small private beaches.

Joinville is a level city and it's neighborhoods stretch around the central area, which is relatively small. Behind the modern avenues, tranquil cobble stone streets still exist and are lined by beautiful well groomed flower gardens, and reveal true treasures of Germanic colonial architecture. The timber framing style houses, with details in wood, flower pots in the windows and metal roosters on the roofs, they seem to have come out of a fairy tale.

The industrial strength of Joinville does not affect the purity of its rural region, where small and well cared for properties are surrounded by picturesque groves of native vegetation, rivers and waterfalls of crystalline water. An example of this is the “Estrada Bonita” (Pretty Road), just 20 km from town, that ends at the Aunt Martha getaway where a restaurant on the banks of the Rio Bonito serves delicious typical foods.

In recent years Joinville has enriched its calendar year with festivals in all seasons of the year. In May they have the National Shooters Festival – FENATIRO, which gathers shooting clubs from all parts of Brazil for competitions lasting 10 days. In the month of July the Joinville Dance Festival happens. It is the largest in Latin America and the 4th in the world. It gathers around 5000 dancers, from Brazil and abroad, for 12 days of presentations on indoor and outdoor stages.

Translated from the www.joinville.com site in Portuguese.

God always knows where you are!

2009-12-09T15:21:00.001-05:00

The following is most of an e-mail I received from Missionary Sean Lundy in São Paulo, Brazil.
I have added names and information in parentheses for clarity.

“Hey James,
Good to hear from you! I just want to share a blessing with you. Recently we were needing to buy some kitchen chairs. After looking in several places for the best deal, we finally ended up on the other side of the city in San Bernardo. There we closed the deal on some chairs at a small store. While we were writing the checks, we had an opportunity to witness to the sales lady, who is also the owner of the store, Veiga Móveis. (Veiga Furniture) She said that she had been saved and baptized in a Baptist church. She asked what we were doing in Brazil and we explained that we were missionaries. She said that she knew a missionary whose name is Soraia who had moved to Santa Catarina. To make a short story long, her and her husband had been saved in São Sebastião de Paraíso (city in southeast Brazil, 4 hours from São Paulo) while your parents (Phillip & Charlotte Allen) were still there. Sister Oraci (James’ mother-in-law) was her hair dresser and had witnessed to her and later took her to church. They have moved to São Paulo about a year ago and started a furniture business. They have been attending the Igreja da Graca, (Grace Church) because they couldn't find a Baptist church near them. I told them about Don Merchant's old church, which is about a mile from their store. Interesting that in our little city of 24 million people, God would lead us to these folks. 'His ways are perfect'.
I thought that might be a blessing to you.
God bless you and your precious family. Merry Christmas!
Sean, Steph and the boys” (end of e-mail)

It is a great encouragement when God allows us to see fruit that continues in the Faith.
Glory to God!

The Joinville Project: First Post

2009-12-08T15:51:00.000-05:00

The Joinville Project: First Post

First Post

2009-12-08T12:11:00.000-05:00

Well, I guess I can now say I'm a blogger!! This is my very first post to my new blog, the Joinville project. Here, I wish to inform those who care to know about the work God has called my family and I to do in the largest city of the state of Santa Catarina in southern Brazil.

We moved to Santa Catarina February 17, 2003, to a small coastal town named Piçarras, about 30 minutes drive from Joinville, until God opened the door for us to move to the city in April 2005.

On May 03, 2003 with the very helpful assistance of my Father, veteran missionary to Brazil, Dr. Phillip R. Allen, Victory Baptist Church in the Petrópolis neighborhood was started. Just a few months after starting this work, we came to the US for a 10 month furlough, during which I found out I had Testicular cancer, and with much pray by so many of God's people around the world, the Lord healed me and we returned to Brazil in March 2004. My Father continued in Joinville for that year.

The church is now six years old, has 35 members and a Brazilian leader named Ricardo, who graduated from Bible College in November, 2008. We also have a weekly preaching point in another neighborhood called "Morro do Meio". We are currently on furlough until June 2010. Upon returning to Joinville, we are planning on ordaining Ricardo and helping the Victory Baptist Church call him as their Pastor. Then, we plan on starting a new work in another one of the 43 neighborhoods called Adhemar Garcia.

My Brother Scott and his family are currently raising support to come to Brazil as church planting missionaries. For their first year in Brazil they will work with us in Joinville. Ricardo, the Victory Baptist Church family and I are excited about this, and we are praying that we can together reach out to the almost 600,000 souls that make up this great Brazilian Metropolis with the precious Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Please pray with us so that God will open hearts and minds to the preaching and teaching of His Word in Joinville. Thank you.