Giving Thanks

It's been a hard few weeks. There has been a lot going on in and out of the classroom. This is our fifth Thanksgiving celebrated outside of the USA and each year it looks and feels a little different, but as this day comes around it is time to practice what I teach my students: be thankful in everything. So on this sunny, somewhat normal day in Bogota I stop to give thanks to God.

I give thanks to God for the wonderful team of co-workers He has joined together in ministry. From my wonderful co-teacher, our fantastic assistant and the plethora of volunteers he brings each day- I thank the Lord that our hearts are united to serve and love our students.

I give thanks to God for the attitude of flexibility has has given my class this year. We have had a interesting few weeks together. First, my co-teacher is on a leave of absence to take care of her daughter, so we have had substitutes to cover her role. Second, we have had to say goodbye to two wonderful short-term volunteers who helped us throughout the day. Third, we have been blessed to welcome some new volunteers and helpers. Although there has been a lot of changes my students are still eager to come to class, learn new things and are excited to participate in activities.

I give thanks to God for his provision when I am lacking. When I have felt overwhelmed He has reminded me it is His work, not my own, that I am doing When I have felt exhausted, He has provided for me bits of energy through wonderful Colombian coffee, hugs from cute pre-kinders, and encouraging words and prayers from others. When I have felt homesick and discontent He has given me good conversations with family and friends, and wonderful reminders from parents of students of why I am here and doing what I am doing.

Just today I received a kind note from a parent saying "Mrs Trussell in this day thanks to God for your work in Colombia, for your heart and love for our children, thanks for be in Colombia."

As I go through this day- celebrating with Ed and friends here in Bogota (both American and Colombian) This is on my heart: 

Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth!

Serve the LORD with gladness! Come into his presence with singing!

Know that the LORD, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name!

For the LORD is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.

Psalm 100.

I will leave you with these fun pictures from our Thanksgiving celebration in PK.

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