A few weeks ago I shared about how our family was accepting God’s invitation to join what He was doing in Italy. Many friends (lovingly) expressed jealousy of the adventure we were embarking on. That’s about to change.
Shortly after we arrived 10 days ago, we learned our visa paperwork needed to be completed before leaving the US. We made phone calls and appointments to confirm the worst case scenario: my husband returning to the States to complete the visa application there.
The worst case scenario one day is good news another day. Turns out, even going back to the States won’t help. Italy issues a limited number of work visas, and the quota is already exceeded. There’s no way he can legally work in Italy this year. Next year doesn’t look good either.
Since we can legally stay in Italy for 90 days as tourists, we thought we could travel to a neighboring country, turn around and come back every 90 days. We know clandestine missionaries who’ve done this. But Italy is part of a border agreement that requires tourists to leave the EU for 90 days before re-entering. And we can’t just “go home”. We left everything to make a new life here.
So here we are in Italy. It’s the height of the tourist season. Prices that are normally doubled (compared to US prices) are doubled again in many cases. We can’t (legally) work here. We can’t sign a rental contract, because we’d be obligated to pay rent for a whole year, even if we’re forced to leave. The missionary family we’ve been staying with has been more than gracious and accommodating. But we need to leave their house to make room for short term missionaries arriving in a few days.
We’re a homeless, unemployed family of seven in a foreign country.
This is not the story I wanted to tell you. I wanted to tell you stories of miraculous healing, deliverance, and divine appointments. Stories of unexpected opportunities to bring blessing.
Instead I have the opportunity to declare God’s goodness in the midst of deep sorrow and uncertainty. And the chance to reach out to the Body of Christ for help discerning what God is doing. Listeners all over the world are offering encouragement and insight. Stories of God’s faithfulness are pouring in.
It would be easy (and lazy) to make this situation a cautionary tale against _____. One thing is clear: we need to know the truth about who He is, who we are, and receive only the lessons God has for us.
Because this isn’t my story to tell. It’s still His story, and He will still be glorified. No matter what.
Now it’s your turn: What’s the most difficult situation you’ve ever praised God in? Share it in the comments below to challenge and encourage everyone in this worldwide community of listeners.