August of last year I visited Mitrovica with Pastor Kurt. At that time I felt called to go and to serve there, to help in the healing work of Jesus Christ in the mending of that city. I wanted to participate in the reconciliation of people there; first to God, and then to one another. When Jesus summarizes the Law and the Prophets, he makes the loving of the neighbor as you love yourself the second thing. If we love God with everything we are, perhaps the loving of the neighbor is a natural byproduct. (I have been meditating on this lately) Shortly after returning from Mitrovica I was told all of the reasons why I would not be able to serve there. Out of respect for those God has placed over me, and in accord with a conviction that I need to follow a path of greater obedience to authority in general, I let it go.
About two weeks ago, on Easter Sunday, I attended an evening service at ICF Tirana. International Christian Fellowship is a unique church with a club-like ambiance and the most modern of music. As we worshiped, I found myself with my journal in my hand, taking down notes for the work in Mitrovica. In my mind’s eye I could see people standing on the bridge there, holding candles, praying and singing to God for the healing of that place. I decided to reopen the conversation with my superiors.
Two days after Easter I had a meeting with Kurt and Stephanie. Again, there were a host of reasons given why it would not work for me to serve there. As we discussed things, and as I allowed them to walk themselves through the logistics of my being a part of God’s work there, the reasons began to fall away. The hurdles started looking more like stepping stones; stairs along a clear and healthy path. By the end of our conversation, we had a game plan; at least enough to get a list of “next questions” together for the journey ahead.
Is Mitrovica the place where God will have me in His will for a long time? Or is it, also, like a stepping stone along a much longer path? Mitrovica holds one of the keys to my destiny and for the destiny of this place. Praise God.
albaniacalling 