Italia Firenze

 Roma was packed with people this year. I had hoped that Firenze would be a bit less crowded, but not so. It was every bit as busy. Our Agape Italia staff spent a lot of time with us.

These two guys are Gianlucca (from southern Italy) and Trey (from southern Texas). Gian works with our friend Baldwin (Gino in Italy) with Athletes in Action. As Gino explained, sport is a HIGH priority in Italian culture.

And, speaking of Italian culture, this is the most famous site in Firenze--Il Duomo. I have said before, this, in my view, is the most beautiful building ever constructed. Although I have been inside it many times, I couldn't resist another visit. It was built, like most everything in Italy on the foundations of a previous church.

Likewise, we as Followers of the Christ, are built on foundations of those who have gone before us. Those first Christians, the first martyrs, the first missionaries, the first reformers--we have benefitted greatly from all of these. May the L^rd make us as beautiful as Il Duomo.

"How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace, who brings good news of happiness, who publishes salvation, who says to Zion, “Your God reigns.”  Isa 52:7.