Back To School .... Almost!

T-minus 24 days until yet another school year begins.  That feels a bit strange since it was just 6 weeks ago that we finished our 2nd year.  What an incredible year it was.  After completing the second year of our new Christian Bilingual School, I can definitely and confidently say that God has exceeded any and all expectations we had.  But that should be expected right?  We do indeed serve the Creator and Sustainer of all things who, “…alone does wondrous things” (Psalm 72:18).

This pas school year we saw our enrollment almost double. We went from 53 students (kinder-jr high) to 95 students and had the opportunity to start a high school.  We finished the school year with 88 students as 7 had to leave for various reasons.  We started basketball, soccer & volleyball teams.  How exciting it was to see our students compete against other schools in our town and the surrounding community.  We held ‘clubs’ at our school on Wednesdays for things like music, chess, explorers, dance, history, art, crafters.  We hosted chess and volleyball tournaments a kids fair, science fairs, special family events, concerts, Christmas programs and all sorts of things at our campus for our students, their families and our community.   We saw 5 kiddos graduate from kindergarten, 6 students from elementary school and 5 students from Jr High.

We have seen firsthand and have been blessed to be a part of the impact taking place in the lives of our students.  They are learning how to read, write, excelling in their academics.  They are speaking english through our english program.  They have learned how to play instruments.  And, most importantly, they are learning and understanding about a God who created them, loves them, forgives them and died for them.

Thank you so much for your prayers, your financial support your text messages and emails of encouragement. Please continue to pray for us in the coming weeks, especially as we prepare to start classes on Monday August 26th. We already have an enrollment of over 100 students and a wonderful staff and team of 18 men and woman who are passionate about teaching and caring for children and teens.

On the last day of school, we showed a recap video to our staff and students of all the exciting things that took place over the school year.

Next week we will be sharing about our House of Blessing Golf Tournaments coming up in September as well as ways you can get involved in helping sponsor a students tuition. Blessings to you all and talk to you soon!

Jason

Death, Grief & Beauty...

Trying to understand God’s timing or why things happen when they do, is a great and at times frustrating mystery.  To be fair, the bible does indicate that we really can’t, in our own strength or ability…

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8-9).

When difficult things happen it pushes us to press in closer to the Lord. It challenges us to lean not on our OWN understanding, but to completely trust in the Lord, placing our hope and faith in Him.

This past Sunday, a former student of our school and member of our church passed away.  Alejandro Meza Rivas was just 16 years old.  He battled with a rare heart condition for many years.  After countless doctor’s appointments, tests and long stays in hospitals, Alejandro made the list for a heart transplant.  He was taken to Monterrey to await his turn for a transplant.  Alejandro spoke with his mother, Rosa, one last time Sunday evening before passing away a few hours later.  His little heart just couldn’t take it anymore.  His older brother Dionicio was there with him when he passed.

On Wednesday, we were able to have his memorial service at our church.  What a difficult, emotional and yet special time it was, remembering and celebrating his life.  I had the opportunity to lead worship for the service.  What a powerful time it was to hear the voices of those grieving as they sang and cried out to the Lord for comfort. One of our pastors, Jose Nieves gave the message which was a wonderful reminder that Alejandro is in the presence of the Lord. No more pain, no more sorrow, no more heart condition!

Alejandro Meza Rivas is survived by his parents, Rosa and Ignacio and his siblings, Adrian, Dionicio, Rosita, Carmen, Ignacio Jr and Juan Pablo.  This dear family has been a part of our church for many years and it’s been amazing to see the love and support that has come both from our church, our school and the community.

Please pray for Alejandro’s family as they grieve and begin the new chapter without their son and brother. Please pray for our staff and students at our school who are also grieving his passing.

Thank you so very much….

Jason

Happy Thanksgiving...

One of my favorite Thanksgiving traditions growing up was the annual Sanchez family (and friends) Turkey Bowl.  A fierce, intense, and at times painful football game at some random park.  Two teams battling it for ultimate victory bragging rights. Afterwards usually included a Starbucks run and then of course, ibuprofen to help with the pain settling in.

The last Turkey bowl we were apart of was in Nashville a few years ago.  What a wonderful time gathering with my 2 brothers, their spouses and our daughters.  No sons, just 8 beautiful, strong and wonderful daughters.

I love Thanksgiving and have definitely missed certain traditions since moving down to Mexico.  Of course, this evening we will feast on turkey, stuffing, green bean casserole, etc.  But the day, was business as usual.  Woke up early to drive the school bus and pick up students.  I taught my 5 music classes, the girls were in school, Jackie taught her usual kindergarten students and then it was time to take students home at 2:40.

Today was definitely extra special though.  As I watched our students and teachers working, studying, laughing, learning and playing, I was overwhelmed with gratitude and thankfulness.  As I listened to my music students continue to practice and learn their Christmas Posada songs, my heart was blessed and encouraged.

What an amazing opportunity our team and staff of 14 have here to invest in the lives of these 95 students, their families and our community.  What a blessing it has been to have so many of you partner with us in prayer, financial contributions and visits.  Because of all the support we receive on a daily, monthly and yearly basis, we are able to continue are mission of caring for children, partnering with families and investing in our community.

So on this very special Thanksgiving Day, thank you to ALL OF YOU.  We love and appreciate you so very very much.  I pray and hope that your day has been special and filled with love, family, friends and gratitude.

Blessings to you all…

Jason