Surprises Around the Corner

Albania | OM International

An old school friend, Zamira* who runs a cafe in town had problems with depression. One morning, Rakela sensed she should change route as a she walked through town and bumped into her old friend! Zamira said to Rakela, “I’m really happy to see you. It makes me think about God and the times I used to go to church. Come and drink coffee with me.”

"As we sat in her cafe," said Rakela, "I shared the Gospel with Zamira. When I asked if she believed it, she nodded. We met again a few days later, and Zamira asked me whether I could see the difference in her. And yes, I could. Zamira said that she felt much better now that she believed in Jesus and read the Bible!"

Yaub, Rakela's husband continued with another the story. "My wife Rakela and I know our little town well – or so we thought. But while handing out food parcels recently, we were shocked to realise just how poor some folk are.

"One old lady opened the door and we gave her the package of flour, rice etc. explaining it was a gift from the Christian community in town. When she finally comprehended this, tears filled her eyes, and she said in shame, “But I have nothing to give you.”

You see, in Albania, tradition demands you give a visitor at least a sweet, a few walnuts – something. But this lady really had nothing to eat in her house! How have we not noticed such poor people just around the corner? May God open our eyes to the need here – both physical and spiritual." 

* All names have been changed.

Credit: OM International
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