Day 4 Events

Today we went back to Yarinacocha. As we arrived men, women, and children were waiting in line to see the doctors. The Lord has brought many people from many places to see us. The three nurses and two doctors saw about 90 people yesterday and it was the same today. I´ve only heard a few of their stories. Some were centered around malnutrition, cysts that needed removed, vitamins being needed by most, and hygiene concerns. These are only a few things that I´ve heard from them.

As for John and I, we did complete many of the same procedures as yesterday, but performed many fillings today. Extractions seem to be what is needed most. These procedures involve working around the tooth with care until Dr. Stocker is able to grab it with a tool that looks like a pair of pliers (don´t remember the official name of the instrument - if he asks for it I´m able to remember). He is very good at applying enough pressure to cause a rocking motion that loosens the tooth enough to be able to pull the root from the socket.

The most challenging part was to help little kids gain enough courage to allow us to help them. Many times, Joe and Vince would help them through prayer. Through God´s help, fear finally diminished and our work was able to relieve them of their pain and discomfort. Even though many didn´t verbally thank us, we could tell that they were touched through the Lord´s assistance. Some gave hugs, but we all hope they understand God´s love through what we are doing.

With the help of the Lord, it´s similar to what it says in the Bible (Matthew 4:23- )- Jesus went throughout Galilee, ... proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people. News about him spread all over Syria, and people brought to him all who were ill with various diseases, those suffering severe pain, ...

God has used us to show His love. He has given us the ability to help many and introduce them to His healing power. He has used us as a way to reach His people and we are very thankful.

Later that night, we went to the local church. At the church, the pastor, Vince (our executive pastor), and many others led the worship time. It was an awesome experience to be worshipping together with the Peruvian people of Pucallpa. All worshipping to the same God for the same purpose - to save lives and to help them understand the healing power of the Lord. Some gave testimonies and the local pastor´s wife led the singing and praise time. Even though the spanish was difficult to understand, Elizabeth did a good job of being our interpreter. She made it easier for us to follow along. The Holy Spirit was there as our group worshipped together.

We are looking forward to moving on to a new village (city) tomorrow. I forget the name at this time, but I´ll let you know more details on my next post.