Allow me to introduce Bana, one of our young Albanian friends. She is a very busy dentist in our city, yet she somehow manages to find time for a visit now and then. A very intelligent woman with a gift for languages, Bana has helped me learn some of the basics of the Albanian language. Our entire family likes her very much. Megan volunteered as her dental assistant a few times last summer. Bana is honest, cheerful, hard-working, kind, generous, and well respected by those who know her in the community.

The best part is that Bana is a truth-seeker. Accustomed to spiritual darkness, many here are indifferent to or even fearful of the light. It is refreshing to find people who are open and courageous enough to actually seek out the light. Bana is one of these jewels whom God has led us to discover.

Sean and I were having dinner with Bana recently when she suddenly asked, “What is a Protestant? How are they different from Catholics and Orthodox?” Wow! Sending up a silent prayer, I began with a brief outline of church history. Then I carefully explained a few of the important differences that came to mind.

After quietly listening to each point, Bana thoughtfully replied, “I agree with Protestants about these things.”

My heart beat faster as I realized that Bana could be an answer to our prayers. You see, for over two years before we left the States, we had often prayed that God would work in the hearts of those in this city who would be open to the truth about Him, that He would cause them to seek Him, that He would bring us into contact with them, and that they would ask us questions. We prayed for the privilege of revealing His light to them. Now, right before my eyes was an answer to prayer! God had led me to touch on things that troubled her heart. God was clearly responsible.

Just before we separated, Bana’s face lit up with a beautiful smile as she exclaimed, “I have discovered that I am a Protestant and never knew it!” I believe this is just the beginning of a beautiful voyage of discovery for Bana.

My friend will also soon embark on a different kind of journey. She is engaged to be married to Mikel, a kindhearted speech therapist who works with the mentally handicapped. We ask that you keep them both in your prayers that they will continue to seek the truth together. When they are married, may their home be filled with joy and love. May they shine brightly together with the love of Jesus so that all the lives they touch will be blessed and drawn to search for God.

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