Just an Update

After having not blogged for several months, I've been thinking for a few weeks about posting some again. I don't know who might read this, but it struck me that there may still be a few who wonder exactly what has happened in the past year. Even if not, I've found it is good for my own soul to write what is happening in my life as a discipline of reflection. So here goes:

The last many people knew, I was really enjoying substitute teaching in the KSD and RSD. That ended with the school year in June. During the summer I washed windows and had the privilege of tutoring a young man from Kamiakin. In addition to this, I began a program that will result in me receiving a fully-accredited teaching certificate from CWU (probably in early February 2010). I began this school year as a student teacher and just completed my 6th week of teaching 8th grade math all by myself (called a solo). People have asked me if I am enjoying it and the answer is yes -- I enjoy the students. Much of this last year (February through September) I had the opportunity to preach on a weekly basis at a small church in Pasco. I stopped that as I began my student teaching, and I find that I really miss preaching. I am still trying to sort out how my desire to do this, my thoughts on the need to have significant relationships outside the church, and how to earn a living for my family coexist.

In this past year I have felt so many emotions. Highs of joy, anticipation, peace, hope, and confidence have been mixed with lows of fear, sorrow, confusion, hurt and doubt. I find it a bit ironic that as people have told me that I am inspiring to them, many times I feel like I am walking in circles. I'd love to say that this past year has been one of constant growth in my relationship with Jesus, but that's just not true. More accurate is that, in my better moments, I am grateful for the mercies of God which are new every morning.

I still believe God's word to me is Wait. That very clear word was spoken to me over two years ago, and I don't think God has changed that yet. If I come to mind, please pray that I'll wait faithfully, hopefully and contentedly.