Sometimes it still takes me by surprise—they get it! Sometimes their insights are profound. While our Albanian members may not yet have an extensive understanding of the Bible’s finer points, they are deeply moved by the relational aspects of its stories and parables. And really, isn’t that the central theme of the everlasting Gospel anyway?

When they watched the video of my surprise birthday visit to my daughter (whom they love like their own child), even the grown, macho men wept with joy. I love these people!

Often, as we read and study the Bible together, our friends seem to gain only a superficial understanding, and I’m tempted to become frustrated. But then, either during group discussion time on Sabbath or in friendly conversation during the week, I realize how deeply they have grasped the most essential things. They tend to get straight to the heart of the matter. God’s love for man is a new concept for them, and they are eager to explore that theme. After the forced “equality’” imposed on them by the communist dictatorship, the genuine selflessness of Christ intrigues my Albanian friends.

Because of the strong family ties and the shame/honor culture in Albania, we spent three Sabbaths just on the parable of the prodigal son, and we are glad we did. Not only did they find the parable deeply meaningful, but I also gained new insights by viewing it through their eyes. I’m not sure who is learning more!

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