Christ’s Love IS Tangible

7/30/23: Beginning in Italy, around 4:30 AM, we woke up to pouring rain, thunder, and lightning. A gas station with a coffee bar stood before our empty stomachs and tired bodies. No one wanted to leave the bus due to the severe weather, but because of bodily necessity, I remembered the ponchos we were given, put it on, and ran straight to the bathroom! A few soon followed, and grabbed coffee. Thankfully, the weather cleared up shortly after and we got back on the bus. We headed to a little town just 30 minutes from Venice, hopped on a train, and shortly arrived to a beautiful scene of colorful buildings, water canals, & gondolas! Bishop Milan showed us the way, due to his knowledge of the city, and we all walked along with immense gratitude for the incredible views and guidance we were given. We were able to stop in one of the most beautiful churches I’ve ever seen, and though I was not allowed to take pictures inside, I managed to capture photos what looks like a mosaic icon that was located before entering, along with photos of the exterior.

Following our explorations, due to unforeseen events, I ended up in a hospital (hence the delayed message and photos)! Thankfully I was dispatched a few hours later and am safely (and somewhat healthily) back with our group. Our group was and has been incredibly loving and caring, and I’m extremely grateful for the help that they so easily gave. 

Everyone here radiates Christ’s goodness and love. It is a real blessing to experience His love in such a tangible way. I challenge you today to reflect on the little moments that have been wholly and truly good today, with or without others, and know that it is Christ Himself working through them. Christ’s love IS tangible. In the hugs we receive, in the nourishment of the food we eat, in the smiles we are greeted with, in the hospitality we receive - it is all Christ. Think about this today. He breathes life into us, so long as we allow it, and all the good we experiences we have need to be acknowledged and appreciated. He deserves our gratitude, and when we choose to give it, it only helps us grow closer to Him!! He loves you!!!

God bless you all! Talk soon :)

Click here for more photos.