A Peaceful Reassurance?

In the past week, life in the cottages have relaxed and while things have not slowed down things are nice.  We have still been having some sweltering heat and long days but all is well here at Oak Ranch.  Our babies are getting bigger and we are all doctoring some sunburn after a day at the water park.  Every week it is amazing to see a count of how much change is going on in not only the animals but also the students, especially the boys.  While our newest is still adjusting to cottage life we are beginning to see a different side of him.  He is still looking for his spot within the cottage which has come with its own challenges but we are all trying to be as helpful as we can and as encouraging as we can.  This has been one of the most difficult things for the guys lately, that is, helping one another out and build each other up.

Last week my heart was heavy and combined with a wore out body I just felt horrible.  It seemed as though I was struggling to keep my head above water.  For the first time this summer I felt frustrated.  So before matters got worse God broke me.  I was on the phone catching up with a good friend and I lost it.  I cried for what I thought was no reason and let everything out.  In the midst of this all of my frustrations released and soon I didn't know why I was still crying as I was smiling uncontrollable at the same time.  During this moment I could hear the sounds of a pending thunderstorm as the sky rolled out its sounds and the wind picked up around me.  At first I felt like my heart was so heavy from all of the weeks events that it would fall out of my chest but afterwards it felt like it was empty and ready to be filled.  I realized that in this moment I was no longer in control.  I felt like God was reassuring me of my work here.  Although I was hurting so much inside I have never felt more fulfilled.  Like everything I was doing was for a reason and part of something greater, I was truly happy.  There was no place that I would have rather been than in the midst of all the hurt. 

Before I started this summer I intended to completely immerse myself in servitude here and not allow other distractions.  I feel like that moment was God telling me that it's alright and He was just reminding me of His presence and his plan for me.  While being a child care worker like this may not be exactly what God has for my life (or could be) I can't imagine Him having me in a situation where I couldn't use what He has taught me this summer and the relationships that I have made.  Who knows...could this have been my 'official' calling to ministry?  Or was this just a peaceful reassurance?  Either way I'm excited and can't wait for the next part of this journey that God and I have ahead of us. 

Please pray for the 3 empty slots in the girl cottage and please continue to pray for the rest of our students.  Pray for the friendships that they are building and the lessons they are learning.  Pray for the health of several of our student's families and pray for the needs that each one has. 

"Evangelism occurs from the overflow of your own relationship with Christ." 

So I pray that your cups overflow!