The Goodsell Family

His Plans

On July 10, 2018

July 10, 2018

Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

I remember getting my first planner when I was little. It was a Lisa Frank, pink/purple calendar that had a side panel for notes. I was so excited! At age eight, a girl doesn’t really write much in a planner except for the fun things—having a sleepover, going to a movie, and really just doodling because it’s fun. In third grade, there was very little planning I was required to do, but I always loved to organize, make lists, and make timelines for myself of when things would happen or get finished (all of which had lots of bright colors, stickers, and drawings). Making the big checkmark with my purple glitter pen was always fun and flipping the page to a new month or section of the planner was just as exhilarating.

One more year: the best year

By Christine Goodsell

On May 23, 2018

In Christine's Blog

James 1:12 “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised.”

As I approached my third year of teaching fifth grade, I knew it was going to be another year of adventure. As I rearranged some furniture in my classroom and put up new bulletin boards, I couldn’t help but smile. God had continuously blessed me with wonderful students, families, and memories that will last a lifetime. Each year presented its own challenges, but they were so little compared to the joy and laughter I experienced with my students and friends at work each day. Students came to know Christ. Bible class was indescribable. I fell in love with each group of students and kept falling in love with teaching.

Closing: Another College

By Christine Goodsell

On October 11, 2017

In Christine's Blog

Hearing the news of Grace University’s closing this morning brought similar emotions that came with the news of Dana’s closing seven years ago. A piece of my heart shattered as I tried to wrap my mind around it again. As a student, I had been devastated. For a few moments, I felt the sadness, confusion, and fear of the unknown that haunted me for a time as a student. As I looked at my students from my desk, I realized that without my school closing, I would not be sitting here as their teacher. I was immediately filled with hope and reminded that God’s plans sometimes are not our own.

The Exchange: The Cross for Our Circumstances

By Christine Goodsell

On March 26, 2017

In Christine's Blog

2 Corinthians 5:1. “For we know that if the earthly tent which is our house is torn down, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.

One thing God has very clearly taught me these last six months is that He hears every prayer. He takes them seriously, never lightly. He’s reminded me that my prayers are powerful, even when I may view them as just another prayer. Sometimes I forget that He hears each one. Throughout these last six months, He has reminded me that our earthly bodies are so temporary. He’s reminded me that the cross is greater than my circumstances.

Guitars and Pianos in Heaven

By Christine Goodsell

On December 21, 2016

In Christine's Blog

Today was the day all students and teachers eagerly wait for beginning in about…October. It was the last day of school before Christmas break. The morning flew by with making Christmas cards for parents, a science test, math test, and band. The students were so excited to come in from recess and prepare for the Christmas party. I told them I would open their presents before the party, and it was so fun to have them sit around as I opened each gift. They put so much thought and love into each one. They really personalized them to me and my love for the little things—ducks, bags, apple cinnamon tea, etc. One student got me a pretty pen and said, “I know you love to write and if you could, you’d write for hours a day.” True statement. It was then when I realized, “Wow. It has been awhile.” I also looked at my students and remembered how much they pick up on those little things that I say.