Hey everyone! I’m back with my first update!
The past month has been full of change, challenge, and sweet reminders of God’s goodness. As I prepare for this next season, I’ve been holding on tight to the truth that God is always present, even when we don’t feel Him.
There was a moment about a week ago when I was feeling really discouraged. I was mentally exhausted, emotionally drained, and honestly just wondering where God was in it all. I sat down with my Bible, not even sure what to read, and just opened to a random page. I landed on Isaiah 33:2—
“LORD, be gracious to us; we long for you. Be our strength every morning, our salvation in time of distress.”
And in that moment, I knew God saw me. He knew what I needed before I even asked. That verse was exactly the comfort and strength I didn’t even know how to pray for. He really is our strength every single morning.
Another sweet way God has been moving in my life is through relationships. He’s been restoring old friendships I never expected to see again. Some of these friendships were ones I thought had run their course, but God has been softening hearts, opening doors, and bringing healing in ways I honestly never imagined. It’s reminded me that nothing is too far gone for Him. He is the God of restoration.
Another huge part of this season has been serving at Breakaway, our church’s kids camp. Over 800 kids showed up and encountered the love of Jesus, and it was wildly powerful. I had a group of 5th grade girls and got to walk alongside them as they learned more about God’s heart. One of the most beautiful moments was when four of them raised their hands to accept Jesus for the first time. I still get goosebumps thinking about it. God is moving in this generation, and it’s an honor to be part of it.
On top of everything, I recently started a new nanny job, and it’s been such a special blessing. It’s been reminding me that patience is a quiet kind of love. God has been teaching me that love doesn’t always have to be big or loud, sometimes it’s simply about showing up with a calm heart, listening with care, and being steady and present. These small, everyday moments with the kids are shaping me in ways I didn’t even know I needed, and I truly believe He’s using this job to prepare me for what’s ahead.
As of now, I’m about 70% funded for our trip to Albania and Italy! I am SO incredibly thankful for everyone who has supported me through prayer, encouragement, and donations. Your generosity is helping make this calling a reality, and I can’t say thank you enough.
Please keep praying for me and my team as we continue preparing. Pray for unity, strength, wisdom, and open hearts, for the people we’ll meet and for ourselves. The closer we get, the more real it becomes. And the more excited I feel.
God has been so good, even in the hard days. He’s been teaching me that He never leaves, not when I’m tired, not when I’m doubting, and not when I feel distant. He shows up in the quiet, in the Word, in restored friendships, and even in the ordinary moments of everyday life.
Thanks for being on this journey with me. More soon!
With love and gratitude,
Emma Villani
Leave a Reply