Living Life in Albania

Hey friends!

Since the last time I wrote, I…

• Took a really, really long bus ride from Bucharest, Romania to Durres, Albania
• Had a week of training
• Spent a few days resting and processing
• Then took two more buses to get to Saranda, Albania

I’ve been in Saranda for about two weeks now, and I have to admit, Albania as a whole has stolen my heart. The people are so open and friendly, the food is amazing, and I’ve been awestruck with how God painted this country with jaw dropping mountains and sparkly beaches. Albania is a hidden gem and is definitely a must for all to experience. I know I’m hoping I get to come back at some point in my life!

While it’s been a blast getting to hang out with fun people in a beautiful country, my favorite thing about my time in Albania so far is what God has been doing around me, through me, and in me.

God Working Through Me and Around Me

Our ministry while we’ve been in Saranda is what the World Race likes to call, “Ask the Lord” or ATL for short. Every day, we literally ask the Lord what He wants us to do, and it’s been EPIC. Sometimes He’s had me just quietly pray while walking through the city. Other times He’s put people in my path that I get to serve with small acts of kindness or have a conversation with. He’s used my painting skills to give people art with special messages from Him. He’s also had me throw a small worship dance party in front of a mosque, and another time He invited me to passionately worship/dance for Him all over the beach, in broad daylight, in front of all the tourists (talk about getting over the fear of man).

I don’t have the full picture yet, but He’s used many of these playful moments to give me a little more insight into what He meant when He said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matthew 19:14) I know He’s on the cusp of unveiling a whole new territory for me when it comes to the power of childlikeness, and I am eagerly waiting in anticipation.

God Working In Me

It has been so special to be a part of what God has been doing through me and around me in Saranda, but honestly, where I’ve seen Him show up the most is in me. I’ve gotten to spend a lot of extra time just basking in His gaze, and it’s unlocked a new level of security, love, and intimacy with my Beloved. I know, I know. It sounds so cheesy, but it’s the only way to put it. He is mine, and I am His, and stepping into a deeper revelation of that truth has been exhilarating. My heart beats faster just writing about it now!

It’s also changed my desires for the rest of the year. The only thing I want is more of Him and more time to just sit at His feet. I don’t care if I see another miracle or go to another country. All I want is more of Him. And if this was the only reason for this journey, it has been 10,000% worth it. But I know it’s just the start, and I am so excited to see how He reveals more of Himself to me in the 9 months remaining.

So What’s Next?

Well, on Friday I leave for Kosovo where I’ll get to do more ATL! I’m expecting Holy Spirit to push me into doing even wilder things than I have in Saranda while also carving out more time to sit with Jesus.

Please pray that my team and I have the Father’s heart for the area we’re going to and that we get specific direction on how He wants to use us!

Wishing you all the best,

Natalie