February 1, 2016
Dear family and friends,
Happy New Year! We’re in 2016, and what a year we’ve just had! From drought then rain, to political debates, to terrorist attacks around the world, it feels as if the world is spinning out of control. The fourth grade planned chapel for the end of November. Our theme was God’s omnipotence. We ended our program with Jeremiah 32:27, which says, “Behold I am the God of all flesh. Is anything too difficult for me?” I must focus and refocus on this idea that God is all powerful and is in total control of our world.
The holidays are behind us and a whole new year is ahead of us. As we approach Valentine’s Day, I think of God’s love and all that it means to us. I am particularly thankful for the gift of having a student teacher once again this year. Allie Conway, seen here with two of the fourth grade boys, hails from Taylor University. She was with us from mid-October through mid-December. Not only was she an extra teaching voice to our kids, but also an extra heart to love on them. She did both well!
This year, four of my thirteen students have had to deal with major family disruption. My heart breaks for them as I see their tears and their anxious bodies reflecting their grief. Their families are experiencing separation, divorce, alcoholism and temporary homelessness for one family or the other. I am attempting to help them navigate their fourth grade year in the midst of their ever changing background. It’s a challenge but also a privilege to guide them toward our all-powerful Heavenly Father, and to help them understand that He loves every member of their family and wants the best for each one.
Please pray for protection over the lives and hearts of these little ones, specifically that their trials would deepen their knowledge of God and teach them to rely on Him during the good and the hard times. Pray also for protection over couples living stressful lives in the inner city. Pray that they will maintain their love for God and for each other, so that Satan doesn’t get a foothold. Let’s rejoice in God’s love for us as manifested in Christ!
Love,
Anne
