Hi friends and family! I hope you’re all enjoying the last few weeks of winter! I figured now would be a great time to update you on the past month and a half in Albania since I only have 8 days left here… soon I’ll be writing to you from Guatemala! The Lord has done so much during my time here, both in ministry and even more so in my heart, so that’s what this blog will be about
The Heart of God: Our Shepherd!!
Recently, I’ve been reflecting a lot on the heart of God, which made Valentine’s Day all the sweeter despite being away from so many loved ones back home 🙂 One of the coolest things I’ve been learning recently is how the Bible describes God as our Parakletos. It’s a Greek word that’s hard to translate because it means so many things at once—Helper, Companion, Advocate, Comforter, Counselor, etc. Basically, it captures everything about who God is to us. I think it’s incredible because God IS everything to us.
Tied to that idea, God has been revealing Himself as my shepherd in this season. Many days, I’m the sheep who thinks she can do everything on her own. If you’ve read any of my previous blogs, that probably doesn’t come as a surprise. It’s a little ridiculous when I picture my life in the image of a sheep. It’s like God, as my shepherd, opens the door of the pen to lead me somewhere, and I run off ahead of Him, bleating back that I know the way, then I’m off running! Of course, He ends up finding me stuck upside down, bleating for help, not much later. Despite my failings, He stoops down and cares for me so gently. And wow, what a love it is. The Lord has been bringing Hosea 11 to mind quite often, specifically verse 4, which says:
He drew them with gentle cords, with bands of love; He was to them as those who take the yoke from their neck. He stooped and fed them.
Sheep really are some of the dumbest animals, but they are also the most dependent. And what a gift it is to be dependent on Christ as our Shepherd. He doesn’t care for us out of obligation; He doesn’t have a sour attitude or grumble every time He needs to pick me up again. But He does it with love! The God of the universe, love incarnate, stoops in the dirt for me—someone who couldn’t be further from worthy. What a love!!
Seeing God in Community:
As I shared in my previous blog, our ministry here is partnering with ICF Tiranë, a local church in Albania. Each week has looked a little different—sometimes we’re painting boxes for the kids’ ministry, other times we’re leading events for young adults. I could go on about all the different things we’ve had the privilege of doing, but what’s really stuck with me is the amazing community here. More than anything, I’ve been moved by the hearts of the people for the Lord, and how that love for Him flows so naturally into their love for others and their willingness to serve.
Ive loved having a front row seat to seeing so many individuals from the church community live out their faith in such a real and tangible way. Even with the busyness of their own lives—many balancing school, work, or both—they show up, day after day, to serve others. Their commitment to living for the Lord isn’t just something they do in this season—it’s been a constant long before we came and will continue long after we leave. Witnessing their dedication to serving has been such an encouragement, and I’ve loved seeing God’s heart reflected in their lives. I’m truly grateful that my team and I have had the chance to come alongside them, even if only for a short while. (And they are probably reading this… 😂 love you guys :))
Prayer Requests:
- Pray for the church we are partnering with, ICF Tiranë! You can pray specifically for the leadership team and all the individuals that serve so faithfully! Pray that they would be strengthened in the Lord and for growth of the church.
- Pray for boldness and urgency for the gospel for my team and the members of the church!
- Pray for joy, peace, and strength for myself and my teammates in the hard moments!
- Pray for safe travels as my team leaves for Guatemala in about a week!
- Pray for continued provision with fundraising. I’m officially 73% funded now which means I only need a little over $4,500 to be fully funded!
- if you feel led to give, you can donate at: https://adventuresinmissions.servicereef.com/events/adventures-in-missions-3/2024-world-race-gap-year-24g0903/participants/isabella-ormey
- Praise! I get to see both my parents for PVT (Parent Vision Trip) in Guatemala so you can be praying for safe travels for them as well!
I’ll leave you guys with a verse that has touched my heart recently:
Isaiah 43:1-3
Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.
Thank you for the endless prayers and support. Love you all!!
Until next time,
Bella 🙂
Gooooooooo Isa! Such fun adventures and so many blessings, can’t wait to hear all the little stories