When I heard from Pilot Luke: “I’m headed to May River tomorrow to pick up a Nakui (pronounced NAH-kwee) patient” about a hundred thoughts quickly went through my mind. But my primary thought was, “Great!”

Let me explain. Only days before I had been at a jungle airstrip in the Nakui area, where Kristina asked me if she and her pregnant daughter Kesti, could jump on our flight. With concern in her eyes, she explained how for weeks Kesti been experiencing abdominal pain and needed to get to the hospital quickly.

This was far from the first time I met Kristina, now a soon-to-be grandmother. She is the oldest daughter to Makai, the Nakui village leader who in the 90’s invited our family to come live with them, learn their language, and teach them God’s Word. Kristina helped us learn her language and her dad was a Bible translation helper. In 2001, when we first shared the Gospel, they were both among the first Christian believers.

I was with a pilot from another organization, and when he said he was unable to take any additional passengers, my heart sank. I knew there was no plane coming again for weeks. Although Makai had passed away long ago, I realized this baby was his great-grandchild. How could I get them help? I suggested they get to the May River aid post about 20 miles downriver, but I didn’t have much hope they’d make the long, difficult trek.

In rural areas most pregnancy complications have tragic outcomes, but not this time for Kristina and Kesti! When I saw them at the Boram hospital, they were beaming with joy and optimism. The doctor had already started Kesti on antibiotics, reassuring her that her baby would be ok. Although fearful of being in town for the first time, they had been well attended to by our caring staff. 

Thirty years ago, the Gospel moved into Nakui. Now through Samaritan Aviation’s ministry, a new generation of Nakuis, including Makai’s great-grandchild, are experiencing God’s love in a whole new way.

– Tim Askew