Boundaries

I posted a picture of a book that I just finished reading on my Facebook account the other day. I was soooo surprised by the response to this book, called Boundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend. Isn't it funny how we all want to learn more about boundaries and how to get them? It's hard! Isn't it? But I'm thankful for a God who has designed a world where boundaries work. He does a wonderful job of showing us how. He respects ours and we, honestly, need to do a better job of respecting His. He leaves work for us to do that only we can do and respects our no. We have the free will when it comes to our behavior, and the Lord let's us figure it out. He wants us to change to be more like Him, but also doesn't come rescue us when we don't. He pleads with us to come back to Him, but doesn't violate our desire to turn our backs. It reminds me of the parable of the lost son. The father allowed him to walk away, loving him steadfastly. The Father is a giver! He always gives a choice, while also giving consequences for those choices. He respects our boundaries, so let us do better! Instead of saying no, and acting out no, say yes joyfully. OR say no. Let us be more honest with our desires to God. That way, if I say no, God and I can work on it together and repentance can come. If I say yes, it will be coming from a place of peace, honesty, and joy.

Melissa

Women's Conference

Prato Visit

Update

I started this month with a biggie! Last month I talked about working on planning the Women's Conference! Well, it happened at the beginning of April. It was so wonderful to see many old faces from around Italy, but also new ones too. The women really enjoyed getting to spend time together and diving deep into what the scripture has to say in Colossians 1:3-12. We discussed being filled with the knowledge of God's will, what it means to live a life worthy of the Lord, and having endurance, patience, and joyfulness while sharing the light. It was so nice to be able to attend another women's conference, but sad that I will not be here for the next one.

My good friend Melissa came to visit us in Florence for a few days during the holidays. Holidays are many in the month of April, but it was great to see her! She is a Christian from Sicily, living in Milan teaching Spanish and English in an Italian public school. She is one of the sweetest people I've met in Italy. If you remember, she appeared in some of our pictures from the trip to the beach and trip to Milan last year. We hope to go visit her and the church in Milan again, now that she is settled!

My American friend, Meredith, who moved to Italy the same time I did came over to our apartment for one weekend to participate in a retreat. Velvet Ashes is the group that organizes and hosts the retreat. They are a community of women who have seen a need of connecting missionary and expat women through Jesus and similar life experiences. They provide this online retreat for women around the world to watch and participate in together. We had a great time studying the Word together and reflecting on what sustains us. If you know anyone living overseas, recommend "Velvet Ashes" to them. It's been a light in what, sometimes, seems like a sea of unrelatable people.

Nathan and I have attended a couple of different churches this month too! Meredith lives in Prato, a city outside of Florence. So we had a girls day with Aleece and Ana, a Honduran living in Italy. Their church is full of people who love the Lord from around the world. Soon, they are going to need a bigger building to meet in! It was wonderful seeing that. We also went out to lunch in China town, had a walk, and ate gelato (of course!). Nathan and I also attended an English church meeting here in Florence. It takes a while to get there, but oh so worth it. I didn't realize how normal it has become to worship in Italian. Singing in English and hearing a sermon in English was such a sweet encounter with the Lord. All I can say, is don't take where you are at for granted!

Of course, we've continued with our weekly classes! I don't want you to think we are doing just the things listed above. We have our classes every week. Well, mostly... If the students don't cancel. It's been a busy month for everyone here in Italy, I think. The weather is warming up. People are coming out of hibernation for a passeggiata (walk), and enjoying the many holidays. Our students love us, we think ;) Some still want to meet on holidays, which is fine by us! Studying the Bible is just intriguing, isn't it?

Thank you so much for everyone's support and prayers! This month has been a highlight in our time here! We have recieved a package from the church along with a fantastic letter which many people signed for us. We love you all!!! We love hearing from you and hope you write to us again!

Blessings to you,

Ashley