Grace That Overflows

Lately, I have experienced a lot of grace ... or have been in tune with receiving it.

I cried watching a video on Lifehouse that my sister had put on her blog and it made me reflect on the many situations I find myself battling. Then in the end, I realize how it's God who has been fighting my battles for me and with me. Recently, a friend reminded me the definition of grace in Jesus's terms (and it's not God's Redemption at Christ's Expense at this time). He said "...saw something 'new' and good in another person. They had something in them that allowed that growth. Jesus calls it grace." God sees something good in me; even when I don't think I've been good, He allows growth. That is grace. How wonderful!

My job is going great so far. Almost all of my students, including the ones whom I've been warned about by their parents, their case files, previous teachers, and psych-ed reports, have responded really well to my teaching. I'm actually surprised at how well the students and I are relating with each other. Moreover, I'm connecting with other students in the school, even though they are not under my direct care. With over 600 students in the school, I feel really blessed that I get to have that connection with some of them. I'm still trying to figure out all the transponding (thanks for the title C, E, and T) paperwork that needs to be done by the end of this month, but I'm so grateful for supportive colleagues and fun students.

Furthermore, D and I have been consistently going to a church near our house. Last Sunday, we were invited to join a care group for young couples. I'm so excited! I'm a little sad because it reminds me of another care group I have to leave behind because I know they'll be going through a lot of changes and I won't be able to share those with them, but God sees us in our different paths and I know He'll take care of us wherever we are.

I pray that I will continue to see God's grace, despite the difficulties I see happening in my family (dad's illness, mom's fatigue, and my sister's days filled with having to make hard decisions).

You are the strength, that keeps me walking.
You are the hope, that keeps me trusting.
You are the light to my soul.
You are my purpose...you're everything.

How can I stand here with you and not be moved by you?
Would you tell me how could it be any better than this?

~~excerpt from Everything by Lifehouse