CONVALESCENT HOME OF THE HEART
by Erwin Bourne—March 12, 2002
Both Grandma and Grandpa Boyd have retired to glory
land. They were both up in their nineties! Mildred
does not need her rocking chair in their new home; and
one of old Brother Boyd’s favorite songs was, “I’ll
sit down by the river and with rapture old
acquaintance renew.” In the long living room of the
Casa Grande, AMA mission base, Jean has Mildred Boyd’s
lovely rocking chair. But you can guess it: —she
never has time to sit and rock! When possible, she
does sit at the keyboard for a few minutes. I find my
relaxation on internet, which is definitely in the
line of duty.
Many choose the convalescent homes of the heart.
Healthy bodies. Sharp minds. But retired dreams.
Rev. G. T. Bustin was an example of a missionary
refusing to abandon his dreams. When one of his sons
wanted to buy him an elegant “LAZY BOY” recliner, he
refused the very suggestion; but finally consented if
he could call it a “BUSY BOY” recliner. Brother
Bustin died also in his nineties (if memory serves me
correctly).
My own awakening thoughts this morning (4 ‘clock) were
along this line. Should I ditch my plans? Should I
rock back and forth in the chair of apologies? Listen
closely to this unlikely missionary of Amazonas: “If
only I had a strong missionary organization….” “If
only I had a healthy body…” “If only others could
catch the vision….” “If only there was more
cooperation….” “If only….” As Jean helped me get
dressed and into my wheelchair, my stalwart spirit was
protesting loudly. As I wheeled out onto the
riverfront veranda and gazed out into the predawn sky,
I pleaded with God to give me some special courage.
He did! And I have written it to you.
We thank our dear friends for the following:
“Dear Erwin and Jean, You have been faithful for a
long time and God is honouring your "stickability".
May you see more and more accomplished for Him in
these last days. So glad to hear of the wide open
doors along the Amazon trail too. We pray that the
Lord will strengthen you both physically as the work
grows daily. God bless you both. Love from Noel and
Sandra Quinlan”
—Erwin and Jean Bourne