My original plan for this school year had included a teaching position in a large, busy, urban area. Life here at Immanuel Mission is about as opposite from that plan as could be possible! I am enjoying living here in the “middle of nowhere”–I have never lived in a place where the night is so still, and the sky so clear. And yet, contrary to this appearance of peace, I am daily reminded that Satan is indeed roaming nearby and seeking souls he may devour. Pray for the protection of these students; the battle raging for their allegiance is strong.
Before moving to Immanuel Mission in August, I was amidst graduate school life in Kansas. Within this current switch from being student to being teacher, I know I am still the one doing the learning. My school day at Immanuel includes classes of Science, and high school English and Spanish. Pray that these classes will not become times of learning mere fact, but times for the students to consider cause and affect, widen their view of life, and evaluate where they are headed.
I see that my 33 students are no different than a group of urban young people–they face the same choices and struggles. These students possess a wide range of diligence, creativity, tenderness, and caution. Some appear fearless and controlling. Some are orators, others artists. They are all able to inspire me, and also drive me completely crazy! God continues to grow my love for them–another affirmative that He has directed me here to Immanuel. Pray that I will be aware of the students’ needs, and not focus solely on the visible and urgent.
Pray that God will move mightily in the hearts of the high schoolers. Pray for the leaders within these peer-groups to lead in healthy ways. Pray specifically that those students who are Believers will take initiative and leadership roles and influence their classmates for good, that God will become more real in their daily life, and that they will build on their faith and be encouraged.
During the last month and a half together, both in the classroom and outside, the students and I have shared good conversations, and many hilarious situations (usually at my expense); we have also shared many frustrating days. How good it is to remember that God is working in all events, not only the situations I can see. Pray for both my patience and theirs as we continue getting to know each other and learning to trust. Pray that more opportunities arise for us to spend time outside of class. Pray that I will be a venue for God to show Himself to these young people.
One specific part of my normal day has become lunch hour with the 5th and 6th grade girls. It is a refreshing and royal treat for me to spend time with these precious young ladies. Pray that God uses it to benefit their lives as well.
Daily, I am thankful and excited that God has brought me here, to witness what He is doing and become a part of it. Thank you so much for praying.