First thing: our event on Dec. 8 has been postponed. It really doesn't have to do with the holiday. We weren't ready. It has to do with strategy (and lack of prayer on our end). After talking and praying together and with our friend Alessandro, we realized since, for most of our non-Christian friends the idea of God and church is so misconstrued and foreign, it would be better to start with more natural approaches. Our desire to randomly connect all of our different friends in one place to have an intense spiritual discussion is a great thing, but it was out of order. That's maybe the best way to put it: it should be event 3 or 4, not number 1. That said, the next step is to pray pray pray through this month in a very particular way for our non-Christian friends. Then the last Saturday of December, Tania and I will host a holiday/new house warming party (haven't had time yet!). Here we will be strategic about inviting non-Christians and Christians to mix and pray the Lord helps us establish a good foundation for a January event. My siblings will be here to give us some live music! If you want more details or have advice in reaching European, urban young adults (not people off the street--but actual friends), send me an email! I don't mean to sterilize ministry into simplified strategies. I know God is working in ways beyond what our human minds can fathom. May His Spirit move!
My pastor shared on Philippians 4 recently. "I can do everything through him who gives me strength. Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles." (vv. 13-14) It is true that the God who created the universe and is love Himself cannot fail in providing all things so that we CAN do all the things He gives us strength to do. BUT I think we don't often read verse 14. It is good for you to share in my troubles nonetheless. God desires that for our Christian community. I am so immensely BLESSED by those of you who pray for me and write me and send me packages and support me financially... I cannot express it enough. Know that the Lord is pleased with us. I hope I can share in your troubles and pray for you as well! Thanks for keeping in touch and caring about what Jesus is doing here.
Lots of love, Allie
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