There are two words resounding in my heart as I reflect on our course work thus far. Two tiny, yet intensely powerful words...
I am.
Here is why: there has been no mention, reference, indication, or advocacy for God throughout these state run classes, and yet, I see Him everywhere. I wasn't even looking for Him.... In an environment that by law has to be void of religion and laden with case studies and facts, He is there. In the classroom He goes by names like Needs, Strengths, Attachment, Disciplinary Practice, and Case Plan Support. I hear those titles, I read their definitions and understand their applications. Great stuff, totally useful. But when I really stop and peel back the layers of this onion I see a different and more accurate list of names. I see Patience, Good, Discipleship, Grace, Forgiveness, and Fellowship. I see Love. Unadulterated, painful, sticky, unfailing Love.
I am.
I will never understand why God allows terrible things to happen to children. I will never be able to explain to them why this is their life. But I have a feeling that at least a small part of it may have something to do with this resounding testimony to hundreds of families across the country. They are all hearing His teachings and beginning to understand His heart. I say this because you either believe God is sovereign over everything, or sovereign over nothing, but it cannot be anything in between.
I am.
He knows these children, He knows these families, He calls each one by name. Now perhaps I am way off base, it wouldn't be the first time, but I know I see God is those classrooms. I know the other wonderful people choosing to help these children and learn these tools see Him too. They just might call Him something else.
"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6