Five Smooth Stones

                            

                                    FIVE SMOOTH STONES    

 A recent worship service at a small Bible-believing church, led by an American pastor, left us incredulous and blessed.  At the service, four young Albanian men, ages 18 to early 20's, were installed as deacons.  Behind the scenes were five young Albanian women, all highly educated (2 medical doctors, 2 business women and 1 teacher), who have been devoted stalwarts of the fledgling congregation for the past several years. Indeed, they kept it alive for two years while waiting for a new pastor to choose to come to them.
     As young (pre-king) David chose his weapons for his no-contest encounter with the Philistine giant, he carefully selected five smooth stones from a nearby stream.  The stones had been tumbled for years by the steadily moving currents.  All rough edges were worn away over time, leaving them smooth and perfectly shaped for their intended purpose.  Of course, David needed only one of those stones to carry out God's providential plan of bringing down Goliath.
     The faith of five young Albanian women has been shaped, honed and smoothed out by the Lord over time, and like the five smooth stones, they are being used as instruments in God's hands to take down the strongholds of this world.  It is with courage and conviction that these young ladies are using every opportunity to bring the Gospel message to whomever they encounter.
     While working for government wages (equivalent of $500-600/month), the two doctors never fail to pray with their patients, and in many cases, facilitate Bible studies and follow-up discipling sessions with those who are interested.  Currently, they are working on a church plant in a small village 1 1/2 hours from Tirana.  After a grueling day of medical practice, the ladies often spend several additional hours at the church helping out with youth meetings, study groups and other church-related ministry.
     The young Albanian men spend many days doing street evangelism.  They are jeopardizing family relationships (most families have Muslim tradition) while they try to draw their family members into accepting the truth of Jesus.

     Praise God, there is progress being made in Albania.  We continue to meet young people of deep faith who are willing to put their jobs, their friendships, and their family relationships on the line in order to serve the Lord, relying on His provision to meet their needs.  It is both humbling and encouraging to get to know them.