Categories : A Culture of Listening Listening to God

 

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.

DSC_3543We’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.



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  • http://saundrawright78.zealforlife.com Saundra Wright

    Praise God, my Dear Sisters in Christ.
    Hi I just saw this post today, Wow’ technology!
    God promises that He will never leave us nor forsake us especially in times of trouble. He is faithful all the time. As you and your family continue to trust Him and seek His will in this situation you are blessed. We will continue to stand in prayer for your strength to stand when you’ve done all that you can. To God be the glory. I appreciate reading the comments, they are encouraging to many of us. I pray that as of this date all is well with you and your family.

  • Lesli

    While I was reading this, my 5 year old son, Isaac (who had no idea what I was reading) started singing… “We can trust our God. Always, Always.”

    • Hannah Kallio

      Preach it, Isaac!
      This really challenges me to search my heart and be honest about the lies I’m still believing about God, and about myself. If I have trouble trusting God’s goodness right now, I’m not believing the truth. Thanks for the reminder and the challenge, Lesli

  • Breanna Rose

    Hannah, we had a similar experience (although not the same)! On our way back to our previous country, where are “home” was, we had a layover in a nearby country. That is where we found out we wouldn’t be allowed back “home.” So disappointing and unsettling. We stayed with friends, going from house to house, while we sought God on what was next. At first I thought it was the enemy, keeping us from going where God wanted us. But then God revealed it truly was Him. Now we’re in a country we wouldn’t have chosen ourselves, but we believe God wants us here.
    Praying for you- times of transitions, especially with unknowns, can be both hard and faith-building. I admire you guys.

    • Hannah Kallio

      That’s such a great point about how God’s redirection can seem like enemy attack. It helps us so much to recognize that our enemy is already defeated, and all he can do is lie to us, unless we give him authority to do more. Thank you for your example of faith and perseverance. Blessings on you and yours, and the work you’re doing!

  • Teri Smart

    I was a mom of four little boys, homeless and married to a man with a violent temper. One day I found the strength to gather my boys, a few belongings and fearfully leave the situation. I went to a shelter of catholic sisters who helped us change our lives and get back on our feet over the course of 18 months. I didn’t know God before I left but found him in the midst of this frightening time. He is the reason we survived and prospered and I believe with everything in my heart that he is with you also. It’s been 18 years since we arrived at that shelter, and God has carried us through every trial and joy since then. Looking back I would not change a thing, because every trial we stood with Him along side of us has shaped us into the people we are today. One day you will look back on this adventure with a smile. Praying for you and your family.

    • Hannah Kallio

      Wow Teri. Your story is such a great reminder of what we have to be thankful for, and the fact that even the most serious trials are temporary. Once again I am humbled by your beautiful, brave transparency. Thank you.

      • Teri Smart

        Our transparency is our testimony to gods greatness and love for us. I am excited to see what he is doing in yours and your families lives. :)

        • Hannah Kallio

          Good point. It’s about giving the credit to God. Knowing what you’ve overcome makes seeing what you’ve accomplished even more meaningful.