Friday, February 12, 2016

Spiritual Emphasis Week and Field Day

This week was eventful at Sahel Academy!

Monday began what we call "Spiritual Emphasis Week."  Both elementary and secondary students had the privilege of listening to and learning from the Roche Team, a group who ministers to children in Niamey.  Nate Bramsen spoke to the secondary students for an hour each morning about the lies of Satan.  Elementary students enjoyed worship, skits, and messages based on the life of Joseph.

For the elementary students, a new part of Joseph's story was brought to life through humor and drama each day.  And each day, a connection was made to the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  I was impressed by the students' insight.  On the second day, Joseph was betrayed by his brothers when they threw him into a pit and sold him into slavery.  Nate posed the question:  who are we in the story?  A fourth grader raised her hand and said, "We are the brothers."  Wow!  Just like Joseph's brothers betrayed him, we have betrayed Jesus.  Our sinful nature put Jesus on the cross.  And each day, God's forgiveness, grace, and redemption was spoken as truth for these young hearts.  At least 3 students received salvation, and a handful approached the team about assurance of faith.  Praise God!

What an amazing gift to have the Roche Team come to Sahel and speak Truth.  I am so grateful to be able to teach in a school where the name of Jesus is boldly proclaimed.  Please continue to pray for students in both elementary and secondary as they search their own hearts and respond to the Holy Spirit's convictions.  May they be filled with boldness as they challenge each other to live out the Gospel daily.

---

At the end of the week, Sahel enjoyed a day of track and field at Niamey's Stadium!  All 160 students, along with staff and many parents, came together to run, jump, and throw.  The weather stayed nice and cool throughout the morning, and even the afternoon was not too hot.  K-12 was divided into four teams:  The Blue Ninjas, The White Cobras, The Orange Tigers, and the Green Dragons.  It is always neat to watch the younger and older students connect, cheering each other on at their various events.  Praise God for no injuries and an overall beautiful day!

---

On another, more personal note, I experienced some sickness this week.  Wednesday after school, I came down with a fever.  I am grateful for Sahel's willingness to find substitute teachers.  A kind parent filled in for me Thursday.  While I am not 100%, I am on the road to recovery.  Thank you for your prayers.

No comments:

Post a Comment