11 OCT 6 AM

I struggle to get out of bed with my back pain. After I am up and going it feels a bit better. Maybe the stout coffee that you can stand a spoon in did it. 8 AM we are airborne, HCM heads SE toward the 6 to 9 thousand foot mountain ranges that ring the valley 1 hour flight time from Palu, that is home of the Wana people. It has been 3 years since the missionaries have seen their people. They had to flee also in the persecution of the church in Central Sulawesi.

9 AM We clear the last ridge into the mission station of Pada Lempe. It is an emotional moment for Steve and Ed as we turn final for landing at their mission station after 3 years. I cool the engines for shut down. Steve and Ed exit only to be mobbed by the elders and leaders of their church. It is an emotional time for everybody. I talk with Ed later. He said he walked into his house to be greeted by their cat Peso who has managed to survive alone these last 3 years. His wife’s birthday cards were still taped to the wall and the clock had stopped at 8 AM the day they fled with a small suitcase and back pack. He said the tears just flowed it felt so good to be home again back with their people. It was like they had left the day before, been gone overnight, and returned the next day. While they unpacked and visited with the elders I set about getting the faithful old diesel generator going again, along with the little trail bike Ed and Steve left behind 3 years ago. Either in the air or on the ground we are called to serve others. Today I am overwhelmed with how much I love the call of being a missionary pilot. It is hard for me not to cry.

7 PM we gather in one of the elders hut to share a simple meal together. We eat with our fingers. Being in the villages gives new meaning to the words "finger foods." 8 PM we gather for a special evening service. The little church is packed out to hear Ed and Steve open the word of God again. 10 PM lay down to sleep, have to grit my teeth from my back pain. I pray, "Lord I need help and I need it now for the next 6 days."