The Plans of the Lord Stand Firm

I started the following blog back in mid- August, while I was still in the states.  Somehow I got interrupted and did not get my thoughts posted.  I have since returned to Germany and I came back to this today and realized that although I was able to return, what I was going through last month still is very relevant.  Down at the bottom I am adding some current thoughts about the beginning of the school year, but here is what was happening personally then - and still is; 

For the word of the Lord is right and true;

    he is faithful in all he does.

The Lord loves righteousness and justice;
the earth is full of his unfailing love.

But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever,

the purposes of his heart through all generations.
Psalms 33:4-5,11

These verses have been part of my study recently and as I was reading them they captured my mind.  I am at such an uncertain place right now but I know these verses are true.  It is comforting to remember that when the psalmist wrote this, he probably was also uncertain, but as he wrote later in the passage:        

We wait in hope for the Lord;

    he is our help and our shield. 

In him our hearts rejoice,

    for we trust in his holy name.

May your unfailing love be with us, Lord,

    even as we put our hope in you.

Psalms 33: 20 -22

 I am continuing to wait and I know that He is my only help for my future.  Please continue to pray for me and my finances so I can remain in Germany for the next two years and accomplish the task He has given me.  

-Now the update, the school year officially started and full classes began today.  I am continuing to wait on the Lord about financial and legal matters in the states and things are far from settled at this point.  I have come back to teaching at BFA, knowing that this is where I am supposed to be and watching to see how God is going to resolve all of the unknowns so that HE will receive the glory.  

I am confident that I can trust His holy name and His love will not fail.  This has been evident in the last couple of weeks as I have met new staff and heard their stories of how God brought them here so we can serve alongside one another in ministering to these students and their parents. At the opening ceremonies yesterday there was a roll call of nations - as is tradition- highlighting all of the countries represented on our campus.  Again I was awed at the work God is doing throughout the world through the people that have trusted us with their children. 
Here are a few pictures from the celebrations and goodbyes that happen on our first day of school.