ANOTHER WEEK PASSES
That being said, I hold fast to the promises that His Love Letter is pouring into my soul daily. I am so thankful that coming to China finally shook me up enough to figure out how to dwell on His Promises every day with thanksgiving and purpose. It changes EVERYTHING.
APARTMENT DISASTER
SCHOOL CONCERNS
The first situation is that due to some changes within local government, as well as, some new policies and requirements our school may become at risk for having the license temporarily revoked. This issue stems from protocols on school buildings and our structure not quite meeting the new qualifications. Our school building was just built/renovated this summer and the hired contractor did not adhere to some of the mandatory and requested construction. It would be an absolute nightmare to have our school be forced to close mid-year until the modifications are made and we apply for a new and updated license. We are going to need a miracle.
Last week, we also had protestors outside our school for the first time. Our staff was made aware that this same contractor who failed to update certain structural systems within our building apparently also did not pay fair wages to the men who helped in the construction of our new building. This led to the workers protesting outside our school. Our Head of School met with their leaders and is hoping to help the workers get in contact with the right people to force the hired contractor to fulfill his obligations to his employees. That being said, it doesn't bode well for us or the workers that this contractor seems to have been a dishonest and unhelpful person. Still, I am thankful that our Head of School was able to talk with the leader of the protests in a way that shows care and interest in the worker's wellbeing... something that is not always guaranteed here in China.
I must mention that this final incident with the windows was used as an object lesson during staff devotions on Friday. Our Head of School presented the shattered window (pictured) as an example of how sin can destroy people's lives. The impact point may just hit in one small place, but the effects stretch farther than we could ever imagine. He shared this as a reminder to not only watch our words and actions towards others, but also as a warning of how even private sin, unseen by the rest of the world, can impact every portion (and every person) of your life. To close, he shared this verse, "And we know that for those who love G-d all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28). This promise can remind us that even from the deepest hurts, from the darkest days, the biggest mistakes, the Father can BRING GOOD. I can see the beauty even amidst the splintered glass of this window, but only if I take a step away from the 'hurt' and see the big picture. There are times in life when only HE can see the beauty when we see shatters. Yet, I hold onto this hopeful message that every earthly disaster is an opportunity for Heavenly Glory to SHINE.
TAKE ME OUT TO THE... MOVIES
SNOW THAT STAYED
I p—y that the rest of your January is filled with confidence at HIS GOOD.