Trust God And Smile
The Accidental Missionary: A Gringo’s Love Affair With Peru by David L Winters is the true account of the missionary life of David Bredeman and his family. For seventeen years they faithfully served in Peru after David Bredeman was called to go there. “God’s calling on my life grew stronger every day.” It is always important to have ears that listen and a heart that obeys God. “Jesus opened my eyes and my heart.”
In Lima David Bredeman found his life partner as she was part of the Bible school. After marriage they spent a few years in America before returning to Peru with their young family.
Living in Peru the Bredemans faced challenges of climate, culture and terrorists but “God’s spirit sustains us as we minister.”
Although there was physical poverty, David Bredeman noted “spiritual poverty is the biggest cause of suffering.” People living in darkness needed to know Jesus. One story that really spoke to my heart was that of a man who was still called illegitimate. The label had followed him through life. David Bredeman introduced him to Father God and he is now adopted into God’s family.
In 1988 David Bredeman felt called to smuggle Bibles into Cuba. It was a dangerous task. Here he witnessed the thriving underground church. “I thrived on seeing God’s power in the face of a government trying so hard to eradicate Christianity.”
At several times in his life David Bredeman battled alcohol addiction. He confessed to his wife and received help from his church. “When the body of Christ operates as intended, we don’t shoot our wounded.” He noted that attending AA meetings was similar to church but with swearing!
The Accidental Missionary is a very personable account of a life led by God’s calling. There were challenges and human battles but God was faithful through it all. Thank you David Winters for introducing us to one of God’s faithful servants, his account is fascinating.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
JULIA WILSON
I cannot wait to read this! 🙂 I love reading about missionaries and their trust in God as they share Him with those who need Him. I’ve raised children with mission minds and hearts because we read stories such as this. I look forward to the lessons you learned that will motivate me and others to be as faithful to our God and His call to go and make disciples.
Great review and recap of the book, David. I love missionary stories. I honor, respect, and pray for those people and families willing to be on the frontlines with the gospel and God’s Word in hostile environments.
This is powerful, “spiritual poverty is the biggest cause of suffering.” People living in darkness needed to know Jesus. Amen!
How interesting! I went on a couple dates with a man with a heart and passion for Peru a couple years ago. He opened my eyes to the political and spiritual crises in the country.