When we left Italy, my heart was broken for many of our Italian friends who knew no other believers. God was gracious to allow us to introduce all of them to at least one of the other missionaries/pastors in the city. We prayed (and still pray) that some day God will bring those brief introductions to fruit.
I have one friend, in particular, for whom my heart still breaks. She actually knows several believers, but she is an outcast among them. She wears a Scarlett A on her chest and has experienced judgment, condemnation, and disgust from many of those bearing the name of Christ.
When we left Bologna, I wept and wept for this broken, wounded soul who, admittedly, had made a mess of life trying to find happiness outside of Christ. I could see in her face a need for a Savior more than any other. I was just beginning to get to know her beyond the casual formalities when we had to leave, so I lacked confidence we would be able to maintain a relationship across the miles.
At Christmas, we sent a care package. Love delivered in a box of American goodies. The thank you note was overwhelming. Again, my heart ached to be a part of her life on regular basis, to be a person who shows her Christ's love in every interaction. After Christmas, there was only the silence of the miles again.
And then yesterday, I heard from her. She contacted me.
As much as my heart aches for what we left unfinished in Italy, I am thankful the ache still moves me. I am thankful I still have the picture of my sweet friends' face longing for something more secure than herself. It will be the greatest joy of my life to see her enter the Kingdom some day.
Would you pray for her? Right now? Pray God would allow us to continue to build a sweet friendship, despite distance and despite my greatly atrophied Italian. Pray she would see Jesus across miles. Pray for the Spirit to be at work to draw her to the One who can finally heal a wounded and broken heart.
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