Sigh of relief

I am sitting here and I couldn't be happier. I'm in a beautiful Italian apartment with friends. We just came in from a long day of Italian classes and shopping. I'm beginning my Italian learning and I'm just happy. I'm listening to good music writing on some note cards for the words I need to know by tomorrow. And I'm happy.

When times are good, be happy;

But when times are bad, consider:

God has made the one

As well as the other.

Therefore, a man cannot discover

anything about his future.

Ecclesiastes 7:14

Here is an amazing passage that I found on the plane ride over. I said I'd share it so here it is:

Israel's Only Savior

But now, this is what the Lord says

He who created you, O Jacob

He who formed you O Israel:

"Fear not, for I have summoned you by name; you are mine.

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;

And when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.

When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned;

The flames will not set you ablaze.

For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior;

I give Egypt for your ransom,

Cush and Seba in your stead.

Since you are precious and honored in my sight,

And because I love you,

I will give men in exchange for you,

And people in exchange for your life.

Do not be afraid, for I am with you;

I will bring your children from the east

And gather you from the west.

I will say to the north, 'Give them up!'

And to the south, 'Do not hold them back.'

Bring my sons from afar

And my daughters from the ends of the earth—

Everyone who is called by my name,

Whom I created for my glory,

Whom I formed and made."

Isaiah 43:1-7

Now I haven't really studied the history of Isaiah, but I this passage just hit the spot when I was riding the plane to Rome. I hope you all enjoy it. Okay, well it's time for me to get going because I need to head to sleep early after I study Italian homework… I hope to wake up early and read my Bible and also stop at a coffee shop before school. (Great coffee for one euro!!!!)

Much love to all who reads this.