Kingdom Progress

 

Sometimes, when you are involved in Kingdom work, it’s easy to get discouraged. The world is fallen and messed up and can leave us feeling disheartened. There are times at Cookson Hills when it’s hard to remain encouraged and hopeful because of the choices the kids make while they’re here or after they leave. Or it can be discouraging when a child is discharged early or a parent pulls them out. But today, I was reminded that not all change is external. In fact, real change happens from the inside out.

This poem was written by one of our high school students who is changing from the inside out:

Overcoming it
I look into it’s face,
With an air of defiance.
It will not chain me in this dark place.

That’s not how my life’s supposed to go,
I don’t have to lose myself anymore.
I no longer have to have my bags in tow.

I’ll show who I really am at the core.
No more faking it for everyone else.
I’ll take my troubles and throw them out the door.
— Ejae

Won’t you pray with us for Ejae and her classmates, that God would continue to change them from the inside out. And pray for us, the staff and teachers in the middle of the battle, that God would provide courage, direction and steadfast hearts.

But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.
1 Corinthians 15:57-58

ABOUT THE AUTHOR — Anna Lenardson, High School Teacher, is from Jackson, Michigan and loves hanging out with teenagers…which makes teaching the perfect profession! In her downtime, she enjoys reading, music, crochet, writing poetry, and COFFEE!