In order to lead I must learn to follow

This morning I was reminded of what it meant to (FOLLOW) from our staff devotions. A follower is someone who pays close attention, someone who is alert, and in HEBREW follow means "foot steps." Whose foot steps? Well when I was in Israel I walked the many paths that Jesus walked and I can imagine his disciples doing just the same....so close even that they were covered in His dust as scripture tells us. His disciples were walking in HIS "foot steps" the roads were dirt and Israel is a very warm desert climate so the air was filled with dust as these men followed Jesus all over. They were learning to lead and before any of them could go out and lead others they first needed to learn how to follow. We have several older kids who are learning to lead the younger kids with chores, cooking, maintenance work,and basic living skills, but many of them first need to learn to follow. I am here teaching and learning to follow my leaders, as well as leading in the classroom. I do a little of both each day, but most importantly in order for me to even step out each day and lead for the Lord I need to follow him. I am always learning and I am thankful that each day I have the privilege to follow the greatest leader of them all our Lord Jesus Christ. What can I do today to follow? How can I draw closer to Him in this hour and in this day?

ITS A NEW YEAR

Wow we are almost done with January and have been enjoying every bit of the NEW YEAR! I am truly blessed to witness moments when my students are creating and writing complete sentences on their own. I am amazed to observe some of our older students get involved with job experiences in our local town. I am thankful for writing a verse, story problem, or sentence on the board and my students being able to read and respond. It is only January and so many little victories are coming alive here and the Ranch. I am blessed to share this new year with all of my friends, family, supporters, and many new faces that I get the opportunity to meet when groups come to serve here in Mexico almost every weekend. Each day is full of many blessings and many surprises. Enjoying the process of it all. One day at a time.