Have you read these books? Or seen the movies? This true story is 50 years old, but it never gets old. I can't think of a more amazing example of repentance, forgiveness and faith.
Today, the boys and I went on a field trip with a large group of home schoolers to meet Steve Saint. Steve was just a small boy in the 50's when his father was speared and killed along with 4 other men while trying to make peaceful contact with the indigenous people of the Amazon.
One widow and one sister of these men then returned to the very place where their loved ones were killed, committed to bringing them to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.
The Waodani tribe and the others that lived in the Amazon were killing each other at such a rapid rate that they nearly wiped themselves out. The people today realize that they would have done just that if the women did not step in when they did. Many came to Christ in those early days and within 2 years, the killings had come to an end. All the tribes agreed that they would not take vengeance upon each other any longer.
Steve has not only forgiven the men who killed his father, but he has adopted them as family; Grandfathers to his children. As a young man he was baptized by the very men who killed his father...in the very water where they found his father's body. Later, he and his family would live with the Waodoni.
Steve with his good friend, Mancaye, one of the Waodani involved in the killings.
Steve with his good friend, Mancaye, one of the Waodani involved in the killings.Today, Steve lives in Ocala, FL and he is the founder of the non-profit organization called I-TEC (Indigenous Peoples Technology and Education Center) Their goal is to teach practical skills to the indigenous people so they can become self-sufficient and independent.
I-TEC is where we were today.
I-TEC rents a hangar at the Marion County/Dunnelon Airport. They're always working on their planes and other flying equipment for dropping in supplies and such.
This is called the Maverick. It drives on land but can also fly via parachute.
This is called the Maverick. It drives on land but can also fly via parachute.
Their portable dental chairs are probably the most important tool for the missionaries.
Daniel, Steve Saint, Jaret, Me and Ethan. It really was great to meet him.
The whole crew (minus the moms)
We thought this was pretty cool. This plane was the actual plane that was used in the movie. It's exactly like the one that his father flew into the jungles of Ecuador. 
It was a special surprise to see Steve taxi down the runway and take off for a quick spin.
This is another book by Steve Saint that I picked up today. It's full of memories and stories of what God has done over the years in the lives of Steve and his wife, Ginny.
Steve and Ginny Saint
It was a special surprise to see Steve taxi down the runway and take off for a quick spin.
This is another book by Steve Saint that I picked up today. It's full of memories and stories of what God has done over the years in the lives of Steve and his wife, Ginny.
Steve and Ginny Saint 
Very cool. I definitely want to see the movie now.
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