Good Evening/Morning! I started this before midnight. Tried something new for sleeping that didn't work so might as well do this so, Lord willing, I can sleep in
. You know in my quest to try to discover what's causing this sleeplessness, the thought came that I may be trying to hard. Now I'm not positive that this is from God because I haven't ha time to pray and process. However, it makes sense, at least during my sleepless stupor.
Then I opened the Sarah Young devo and boom! This sure sounds like me--ever planning, busy doing all I can to advance the Kingdom and bless God's church and others. I started thinking about the several (too many really) times God had to set me down to get my attention and remind me to be still and watch and know as I hold more loosely to what I think I need to be doing. I don't mean this as a pat on the back, but man, it can be very wearying be a servant leader. There are only so many hours in a day and only so much that God really does have for me to do. I can't do it all, but sure try too often! Forgive me Lord. God did bless us with a great refreshing vacation and then I was slammed down and pretty much incapacitated for over a month now. I love the line from the devo that feels like it's right from God's heart to mine..."Give your mind a break from planning." As if! Wish I could! I have lists for my to do lists. My mind is always planning. Now that is not why I can't sleep. I'm usually in that empty box and thinking of nothing but trying to sleep. BUT I do need to slow it down and allow God to lead for awhile. Maybe we are doing all we're supposed to be doing for such a time as this? Maybe we are to enjoy and celebrate how God has been using us and allow Christ to build he church, not Donald. So, I'm going to try a more hands off approach and juts watch for where God wants me/us to join Him as we go. Pray for that for me please! Thanks! It's time to let His Spirit lead more without all the planning, maybe. May I choose to rest and abide, trust and obey all day, daily.
It's too early to be posted yet, but ODB reminds us to plan prudently. Now that's a good word for me and us! "The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to their ways." Amen! Help me plan with You Lord--prudently according to Your perfect plans and timing. May my choices honor You and follow the way of Jesus who worked from rest. Thanks! Amen! Check out the devo if you have it. Good stuff! Ok that's enough for now and gives you some prayer requests for me and us and some accountability opportunities to check in on me with. Jesus said, come to me all you who are weary and I will give you rest for your souls." Yes please! Amen and shalom to you all too!
Sarah Young:
Wagner's Update
Greetings Friends,
Crazy to think that we are half-way through the final term of this school year! Here’s what we’ve been up to since our last update.
African Field Studies in Cape Town
During our week-long school trip with seven juniors and seniors, we learned about the history of South Africa from early settlers to the end of apartheid, marveled at the diverse natural history and neighborhoods in and around Cape Town, experienced current ministries going on in the area, and were challenged by the complexity of contemporary issues facing South Africa and ways those issues are being addressed. We also thoroughly enjoyed tasting traditional South African cuisine!
Term Break Blessings
We had two glorious weeks of heart-filling joy, laughter, and fun with our grandson (& his parents), Micah & Lynnsi, as well as dear friends and RVA alumni at a marriage celebration! We returned to Kenya with tired bodies, thankful hearts, and special memories from our time together.
Third Term, Part 1
Here are some of the highlights from the first half of this term!
Ways to Pray
Brian is currently Stateside scoring AP Calculus exams while Missy is single parenting our nine boys as RVA heads into the final stretch of the school year. PRAY for good health, strength, and restful nights at the end of long days.
The senior class is experiencing their *lasts* with graduation just five short weeks away. PRAY for good closure as they make final memories together and excitement as they look ahead to where God is leading them next.
In the same way, current RVA staff will be leaving while new staff are preparing to come. As we look toward starting a new school year in August, there are still needs for teachers, dorm parents, and support staff. PRAY that God will graciously fill these needs with the right people at the right time.
Family News
Rachel & Luke (along with Bibi & Babu) are anxiously awaiting the birth of their second baby (grandbaby) any day now! PRAY for a safe delivery and that this sweet addition to the family would arrive in plenty of time to receive love and snuggles from Babu before his return trip to Kenya. PRAY for a healthy baby and a smooth transition to a family of four.
Along with grad school classes and church commitments, Hannah & Jamie are preparing for a long-awaited trip back to their childhood homes in Kenya! They’re looking forward to arriving in time for RVA’s alumni weekend, spending time with both sets of parents, visiting special people and places, and vacationing together at the Indian Ocean. PRAY for good health and safety in travels, along with making fun new memories together.
Micah successfully finished his second year of teaching middle school math & Lynnsi is fully funded and excited to begin her new role as a TCK Specialist with Interaction International! Check out her website to learn more: https://lynnsiwagnertckspecialist.my.canva.site. PRAY for all they have going on this summer between grad school courses, week-long camps for TCKs in transition, and preparations for changes in their jobs.
We’re so grateful for an amazing team of prayer warriors over many years of life and ministry at RVA. You are a blessing!
