Picture this...a hilltop covered with lush trees of every kind, a view of the city in the distance, enticing aromas from the "community" kitchen, the best coffee in the world, monkeys in the mornings and a group of committed people who love the Lord. These were some of my first glimpses into Brazil, the YWAM base that we stayed at and the YWAM people who live there.

I loved not going to work every day and sitting behind a desk, planning, talking ministry, having meetings. I love my work, but this was an incredible change in my schedule and it was a perfect setting. Our team from Chase Oaks was a dream team! We loved being together and working side by side. We cooked, cleaned, prayed, and loved on those who we met!

Those who serve at Jocum were lovely people, uniquely called by God to be exactly where they are right now. I'm thankful for them and the steps they have taken to follow the spiritual journey that God has them on. It has not been easy for any of them and they continue to struggle in their endeavors - financially, emotionally, physically and I would suspect spiritually. And, they keep going. I loved their perseverance in the midst of their difficulties.

This was a beautiful experience. Recife and the places we visited are beautiful. The people are friendly and beautiful. But, their struggles and needs are great. We attempted to help those we could. We did what we believed God asked us to do. And now that we're home, we will continue to pray for them, tell others their stories, love them, facebook them and support them as we can.

If everyone does something to love another as they do themselves, to impact another life, we can make a difference. What will you do today?