Day Four - Berat and Power of Relationships

I fell in love with Albania today. The countryside and the new relationships have now stolen my heart. It’s clear that this is where I am meant to be.

We went up to a castle in Barat. This is the first castle I’ve been to that is still occupied. Among the ruins there are homes, shops, and, in typical Albanian fashion, a coffee bar! As I was looking at the ruins of the small church inside the castle walls, a modern mosque blared their call to prayer. I’m reminded of the need of Jesus in this place.

After a full day with exploring the countryside and meeting with local a pastor we came back to Luchnje and I had coffee with one of the businessmen I will working with. It was a good reminder of the power of friendships in this culture. Lorenc is visionary. He said that Albanians need a change in mindset. They were not allowed to think under communism and that has left a mark on the generation. So, even now they have not given themselves the freedom to do so. He has big dreams for his country, and is looking for my help. I’m reminded that I am a leader not a savior. I’m reminded that change must come from within the country not from outside. There is much I can do by God’s grace, but change will need to come from the Albanians who have the voice, who have the vision, and who can lead their people to something greater. I see that in Lorenc and I see that in Gjergji.

Going to dinner my eyes well up. A year ago I was walking the Camino is Spain asking God to give me a heart after His. On this trip I had asked him to give me a heart for the Albanians. It took four days, but today it happened. I see that this is where my family and I are needed. I see that God has prepared me for years to be here at this time. I have peace about brining my family here, and I know that I am partnering WITH God in this journey.

I shared this with a close friend and he said that morning he prayed that God would give me a deep passion for this ministry or take it all away. I’m in awe of God’s timing.