Today I sat for a while chatting with two of our Iranian friends who are currently in hotel accommodation awaiting processing of their applications for asylum. With a mixture of body language, minimal words, Google translate, and the kind of patience and laughter that makes friendships out of perseverance, we managed to talk about some important things – like family, welcome of strangers, our shared faith in God, and football.
Using Google translate I promised my friend I would pray for his wife and family back in Iran. He was typing something to me at the same time. He went first, and his sentence was – "Please pray for my wife ———." I showed him what I typed, "I will pray for your wife ——-"
There are times when you just shut up, don't overthink it, and be grateful for the nudging of the Paraclete, the One who comes alongside as the ultimate translator.
The photo is of someone who was having fun with my name and my often understated proficiency at five a side fitba.
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