When in Rome...

So much to say...where do I begin?

This may be the first of a few of these...but then again, it wouldn't be the first time I attempted a series and didn't follow through.

I got back from Rome last night...I was there with a band that formed pretty randomly to go and do music ministry with some amazing people that work there full time...building relationships, learning the culture, and deciphering the overall perception of God and what a church would have to look like there to be effective.

A few people have asked about the biggest thing I learned...or the coolest thing that I witnessed to the glory of God. Well, I've thought long and hard...and I think God just totally blew my idea of ministry or what a "missions trip" could or should look like-completely out of the water. In many senses...the ministry that happened during our short time there was a gateway ministry; we were building relationships to be further cultivated by the missionaries there. Over time...conversations we had may lead to deeper conversations, close friendships, and opportunities to partner with others in ministry. However, essentially, we simply spent time with people-some like us, but most very different- and did so without an agenda. It's hard to feel effective in the context of short term missions-unless you consider the value in the simplicity of building relationships. Again, we are not called to "save" the world by any means-but to show the world what it looks like to follow Christ...in authentic terms. Simply- we need not show the world facades of perfection-we need only show the world that we see the infinite value of loving others unconditionally, serving each other and strangers alike, and in following after one capable of bestowing forgiveness and grace on all that is shameful, ugly, impure, cruel, and selfish.

Briefly-I am so thankful for the team. I don't know if I can say that I've ever been so convicted and encouraged by a single group of people as I was by this team. Through them, God showed me that despite my best efforts-I have a heart that passes judgement prematurely-that stereotypes and categorizes. My heart was proved painfully wrong. Through this team I was shown that there have been dreams and desires I have tucked away and hidden for fear of rejection and failure. I have closed doors on things not yet begun. I have looked at open doors and run in the opposite direction. I have tried to formulate and organize my life to be without risk and heartache. Through this team came words of wisdom, conviction, and encouragement. Through this team doors were opened that had seemingly unbreakable locks. I thank God for them...and renewed inspiration.

I guess that's all for now...jetlag is a curious thing...

Buona Sera...baci!

Emily