Full of Praise and Ready to Work

This morning’s staff praise and worship session provided the first opportunity for me to lead worship since June.  And, boy, do I have reason to worship.  God continues to show me his kindness in ways that I in no way deserve. 

Since returning to ACA, I’ve been repeatedly asked, “How was your summer?” My response? “Perfect.” Now, I realize that “perfect” is perhaps a bit hyperbolic, but really, I stand in awe of the blessings I received this summer. From a wedding celebration with many greatly missed friends, to miraculous week of disability camp, to incredibly encouraging updates from friends, to a stimulating and successful A&P II course, to a beautiful reunion in Hillsdale; I’ve had a blast. Top that off with an amazingly supportive family and an unprecedented amount of encouragement and prayer from my church, and I’m just overflowing! I so appreciated the opportunities I had throughout the summer (in lieu of an adequately updated blog…) to share the work that God did last year in my life and in the school. He has done far more than we could ever ask or imagine, and I take joy in testifying to His faithfulness.  As good as last year was at ACA, and as super as my summer was, I am fully expecting God to do even greater things this coming school year. 

            After a 24 hr. trip from Knoxville to Lagos, I arrived at ACA this past Sunday night. The house was a bit of a wreck when we arrived, partly due to the construction around the compound and partly due to the inevitable mold/mildew growth and rodent infestation. After a few days of unpacking, deep cleaning, throwing out dead rats, and organizing, we’re finally settling in. The three Tennesseeans (Gretchen, Meghan, and I) have been joined this year in the American House by two new teachers, Samantha and Elizabeth.  With God’s grace guiding us, it will be a great group.

            My job description has shifted again this year. Along with some upper level Language Arts classes, I’ll be attempting some counseling—both for emotional needs and college prep. I’m excited to continue leading worship and teaching Bible classes, this year using the Jesus Storybook curriculum—and by the way, if you haven’t read the Jesus Storybook, you’re really missing out. I was so privileged last year to see a large number of students embrace the Gospel for the first time. I anticipate that God will pull many more hearts to Himself this year as His Truth is spread throughout this school.

            Students arrive next Tuesday.  There’s plenty to do before then in preparation. But all work for now is done in the great expectation that God will continue to be faithful as our Provider, our Guide, our Prince of Peace, and our Faithful Friend.

            After plenty of encouragement from friends and family this summer, I have every intention of updating my blog more frequently than last year. We’ll see how long my resolution stands…