Beth Smith, learning language and culture in Albania, describes a re-encounter with the gospel for herself.

Something has changed in me – and it has been a breakthrough in a very long work in process!

I've shared in many of my letters my struggles and inner battles with my thoughts and feelings about myself and about the difficult things in life. Circumstances around me and life in Albania have not been the main reasons of my hard times; instead it has been my doubts and my fears that have accompanied me to inner desolate places.

But as I am also finding out, there has been a contentment and a joy that have been slowly making their way home to me too … and simply put: I feel happy again!!

I wake each day with the hope that God will breathe in me new life again, and it is not merely a hope - I keep trying and testing and finding that the Lord is good.

I cannot save the world …

I came to all the conclusions of myself – I cannot save the world, I cannot live my life, I cannot be a good friend, I cannot do anything – and there in that despairing place a quiet voice of Jesus came and He said 'oh, but I can ...', and not only that but 'I will...I will live and shine my life in you', and of even more value 'I love you Beth, I died so that you can always be free.' The gospel re-encountered.

I'm learning more about Albania, I have lovely friends and I am part of a team of people that love the Lord. My life is rich. I have a nice home and a great little cat that brings a sparkle.

God has me where He wants me to be and I know in being here I will and want to share in the hardships that the Albanians face and in the good times too. A simple life of eternal worth – no wonder I am happy!