A Knife Named Jesus (Agape Italia Update)

“Okay. Say this piece of pizza is you. And this other slice is God.”

This was the beginning of the Gospel story Marco heard in the mensa at the University of Florence this past summer. As he listened patiently to the explanation that the knife that could bridge the gap between the two slices of pizza was Jesus Christ, he was moved to tears.

We all know the Gospel is powerful. It has affected each of us in a profound way. But when the contents of a lunch tray can portray the message of salvation to a willing heart—the glory of God feels new and fresh again.

Marco’s journey isn’t over, in fact, that fateful mensa meeting was just the beginning.

Ryan Turner has been walking with Marco through his tangled web of questions and doubts about Christianity. Marco is reserved, thoughtful, and on a serious search. Sometimes they talk about computers, other times about Marco’s thesis on economics, but mostly they discuss Christ.

In the fall, as we all read through Acts and saw the apostles center their message on Jesus and His resurrection, Ryan was prompted to follow suit. He asked Marco the following questions: 
Do you think Jesus was a real man who walked the earth? 
Do you believe He said He was God? 
Do you believe that Jesus rose from the dead?

Marco’s answers were not unlike many Italians. He didn’t think Jesus was God. But more importantly, Marco didn’t think that Jesus ever claimed to be God.

Over the Christmas break, Ryan challenged Marco to work through a Bible study on what Jesus said about Himself in Scripture. Marco not only read it on his own, but when he came back he told Ryan, “ Ishould be more careful about what I say and think about Jesus in the future.”

Two pieces of pizza and a knife might not seem like anything special, but for Marco they were the beginning– the first steps on the most important journey of his life. He has taken steps toward that knife named Jesus.

Please pray for Marco as he continues to take steps toward the cross. Pray for Ryan as he guides conversations and leads Marco to confront Truth. Pray for Marco to see Jesus Christ as Savior and recognize his need for Him. 

 

Thanks Sarah for this article from Agape Italia monthly update!