For Such A Time As This

In January of this year I started interviewing for an elementary teaching position at Santiago Christian School in the Dominican Republic. I had applied last year, but God directed me to stay here for another year. My heart has been drawn to the people as I've interacted with them in different situations during my time there. In the last year I've seen God develop in me a love and desire for them, as only He could do. I had been praying for several months for God's clear direction on where and how I should serve in the Dominican. I wanted to be right in the center of His will- the safest place to be. During my last interview with the principal of Santiago Christian School, I was asked if I was confident that this was were God wanted me to be. I was able to answer with a definite yes. God had given me such peace in making the decision that I had no doubts. On February 16th I was officially welcomed into the SCS family! Within a couple of weeks I had paperwork signed stating my intent to teach (either 2nd or 3rd grade) and some other details about the job offer, with more to come in the months ahead. Adrenaline was running high and my excitement was overwhelming. I can see how God has orchestrated events in my life for such an opportunity as this. His timing is always perfect. He knew what preparation I needed before He sent me, even though it's a continual growing and learning process. He knew my heart and the things I needed to let go of to be an effective instrument for Him.

Also, at the beginning of this year I learned that the school I currently teach at- Charleston Christian Academy- will be closing after eleven years. God has a bigger plan (much better than I can imagine), but it's bittersweet to leave my classroom, the staff I've been blessed to work alongside, and the families I've had the privilege of connecting with over the years. It's become a "safe place". Sometimes God calls us to leave that comfortable place, as He is doing with me. One door is closing, but another is opening.

As in many instances, the "happy feelings" come and go. The excitement begins to fade. And reality sets in that I'm soon facing some big changes. However, I'm reminded that a life committed to serving God and others is more than feelings and emotions. It's a close relationship with God, built on faith and trust. In spite of my ever changing emotions, God remains steady and faithful. His word is never changing. When fears arise (like maybe tarantulas?), God says, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." When I begin to think I can't do this (facing many new things), God says, "You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you." When loneliness sets in (as it will being away from family and friends), God says, "I will never leave you or forsake you." 

But, God didn't ask me to do this alone. He gave me a great support team. I am thankful for my family (including my church family) that listens as I babble with excitement, encourages me when my resolve wavers, lifts me up in prayer, and loves me unconditionally.

For now I choose to focus on the present, which is finishing strong the tasks God has given me and not taking anything for granted. As I face each day, I find God gives me sufficient grace and I'm confident "that He who began a good work in me will carry it through to completion".

Luke 10:2 He told them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.