I have heard people say before that God speaks to them but I never really understood what they meant. They say he doesn't use words but he does speak in certain ways. Well, after visiting Israel and spending time in Palestine I can say that God spoke to me really clearly for the first time. And like people say it wasn't with words but with a strong conviction and an assurance in my heart of what direction to take in life.
While I was in Palestine I stayed with a couple who run a school in Hebron. I spent three days there just smiling and playing with the children, trying to communicate despite the immense language barrier. There is a section of the school specifically for the deaf and hard-of-hearing. I spent two days there and those children stole a part of my heart. They are so beautiful and precious and just need so much love. But they also have so much love to give in return! It was incredible. As I walked around the school and saw the children and how smart they are and how wonderfully God has made them I realized something. These children deserve the best. They deserve well-equipped teachers that challenge them and give them the chance to excel. From this realization came my decision to get a masters in education. I want to become the best teacher I can using all the resources God has given me to be able to go back and supply the teaching and education those kids deserve.
Another amazing thing that happened is that the couple who own this school said that after I graduate they would love to have me come back and teach! So, now I see a clear direction for my life. I don't want to get ahead of myself. Perhaps this school is not where I will end up but I know for sure that my heart is with children and my desire is to teach them, love them and give them a chance to expand their minds and nurture their talents.
I began my trip to Israel and Palestine with no expectations and left with a clear direction from God. I can truthfully say that God spoke to me - not in words- but decisively and undeniably. I am so excited for what the future holds with the Lord leading me. The last sentence from Galations 5:6 sums up all that is burning in my heart.
"The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love." Amen.
God has shown me a clear and practical way that I can love children. It's not only about holding them and playing with them but also about teaching and nurturing.
