ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHING
January 19, 2022
I have spent a lot of time lately thinking about and praying for our teachers and school staff. A couple of things – I come from a family of educators, and so I have always had a deep respect for those who feel called to this important work. I have also witnessed firsthand my mother sitting at the dining room table late at night as I went to bed and then to find her there when I got up the next morning. Her time at school had ended around 4pm, but outside of 45 minutes for dinner, she worked until way past midnight and was back up at 4:30am. And she wasn’t balancing COVID, masks, teacher shortages, etc. In Exodus 18, Moses was dealing with the pressure of leadership which included teaching among the people. His father-in-law was concerned about Moses being stretched thin and said to him, “Let them know the way they are supposed to go and the things they are supposed to do.” His father-in-law went on to suggest the need to look for capable people who could share in some of the work. I think our education system, including the students, are looking to the community for support. Educators are being stretched well beyond their capacity. Above all, we need to be voices of support and encouragement. And if necessary, we need to be ready to do whatever is needed. Teachers are not alone in their exhaustion, but today I want to spend some extra time sharing encouragement for all who are doing good work in this very difficult time.
For all who are working with and alongside students – from the youngest to oldest – we give thanks. O Gracious God, in faith, we believe you are always pouring your love and encouragement into people’s lives. You are forever faithful, but frustration and exhaustion can often make us a bit less receptive to your gifts. For those who find themselves in a tough place right now, we ask for your Spirit to show us where we can be agent of your love and encouragement; show us where we can come alongside with true compassion. Amen.
