As I weave through the bazaar’s narrow, crowded walkways, the familiar noise and bustle disturbs my peace. Voices raised in heated argument, blaring Eastern-flavored Albanian music, nearby traffic noise and the calling of vendors hawking their wares all seemed intent on irritating me today. Although the scene is lively and interesting, some days I crave quiet. Yet this is where the people are, and how can I mingle with the people as Christ did unless I go to them?

I walk into one of the many small clothing and handbag shops nestled under a corrugated metal roof. It’s more of a booth really, with walls of layers of clothing hanging from chains. At the back of the shop I see my friend Elli quietly studying as she always does when there aren’t any customers. Although in the midst of the chaotic din, somehow she seems enclosed in a sanctuary of peace. As always, she has opened her work day with an offering of prayer.

Elli is a rare jewel. In an atmosphere of corruption and deceit, she is scrupulously honest. Though the pastime of those around her is unkind gossip, Elli chooses to focus on praiseworthy things. When other women complain about their lot in life, Elli honors her husband like the woman of Proverbs 31:10-31.

When she looks up and notices me, she smiles broadly, welcomes me with a kiss on each cheek and then insists that I take her chair. We chat a little, and then between customers she helps me with Albanian grammar or recounts God’s blessings.

Elli is a learner. Sean gave her family a Bible after her baptism earlier this year, and it is her favorite subject. Her busy life is filled with managing a household with teenagers, running her business, taking an English course and helping others in her community, yet her daughter told me she makes time to study God’s Word for at least an hour a day in her hunger to know Him more. Her face glows as she describes sensing God’s closeness when her family prays together.

Elli is overjoyed at becoming part of a growing Adventist family, and she and her family would enjoy hearing from brothers and sisters from around the world. She is especially eager to know how she can pray for her Christian sisters. You may send a letter to her through AFM with our names on the envelope.

Elli’s family has graciously opened their home for Sabbath worship but look forward to helping build a church building big enough to hold all the people who will want to know Jesus when they see the joy and peace He brings to their hearts. If you wish to give a gift of love to make this a reality, our first goal is to buy some land.

May Elli’s heart inspire you to let Jesus reign on the throne of your heart and make it a sanctuary of peace in this world.

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