And there were twelve...

7 weeks down with 7 to go (including this week)...Every year has it's unique experiences, personalities, highlights, challenges, etc. and this year has been no different. But in spite of these things (or maybe better put, THROUGH) these things we see God working and using each and every situation for His glory. Perhaps what has marked this year particularly was the fact that one of our full-time teachers suffered a stroke just over a month ago. Many of you have been praying and we couldn't be more thankful for every one of the prayers offered, to see how God has been restoring his health quickly. As it was a fairly serious stroke, the fact that he was out of the hospital just over two weeks later and back with us was in and of itself a miracle. Time and time again the doctors and therapists who have worked with him have been amazed to see how quickly he is advancing. It was just over a week ago when he himself exclaimed, "I'm back!" alluding to the constant progress made as far as his memory, mind, and recognition of what had taken place. Physically, he has a long ways to go to recover strength, motor skills, etc. but here too he has been making rapid advances. Thankfully he was able to be released back to school here where his wife as well as the students and staff have been able to be a significant part of the therapy and recovery. Perhaps what has been more inspiring through it all has been his own attitude: never doubting God, never angry, never depressed, sometimes frustrated and feeling ready to go (mentally) but realizing that there are physical limitations that will not be overcome overnight, but peacefully resting in God, knowing that He is in control. There were several times, not long after returning to school from the hospital, where we gathered in the apartment where he is staying to encourage him and pray for him, but he was the one who encouraged us much more than we anticipated encouraging him! With tears he would encourage the students to trust God, to take advantage of every opportunity knowing that God had many plans for each of them following there time here at CEC. These are those moments which speak so much louder and clearer than many hours taught in the classroom. We have twelve students - some have had to leave due to health issues in the family or personal issues that need to be worked out in their lives, but regardless of the bumps along the way we've seen God speak to each one of the students. They are grasping a greater appreciation for God's Word, resting in His Grace, learning how to live in community, loving one another. It's by far the youngest group of students we've had, the majority being in their 20's with a handful in the 30's. This comes with it's challenges but not without it's rewards! Continue to pray for the receptiveness of the student's hearts, that they would continue to respond to God's moving, for us as teachers as we seek to be sensitive to what God wants to do in their lives, and for us as a leadership team, that we would continue to work together as a unified group. Thanks and God bless! ¡Dios les bendiga!