Scripture: Exodus 12:37-41
The Israelites journeyed from Rameses to Succoth, about six hundred thousand men on foot, besides children. A mixed crowd also went up with them, and livestock in great numbers, both flocks and herds. They baked unleavened cakes of the dough that they had brought out of Egypt; it was not leavened, because they were driven out of Egypt and could not wait, nor had they prepared any provisions for themselves. The time that the Israelites had lived in Egypt was four hundred thirty years. At the end of four hundred thirty years, on that very day, all the companies of the Lord went out from the land of Egypt.
Thought for the Day: Do you remember your first day back at school? If you were like me, there was both anxiety and excitement. There was always the unknown factor, but if it was a new school, the anxiety usually eclipsed the excitement. I can’t imagine what it was like for the Israelites as they were escaping more than 400 years in Egypt, many of those years were spent as slaves. They were rushed out, unprepared when it came to their provisions. Their bread had not had time to rise, and so it was unleavened. They didn’t know exactly where they were going and they didn’t trust Pharaoh who they hoped would remain behind. Would this be the doorway to their destruction or would there be promise and new possibility in the future?
To be fair, starting a new school year is not the equivalent of the Israelite’s exodus from Egypt. And even though some kids will suggest that school is like slavery in Egypt, it is not. At the same time, the unknown is the source of great uneasiness. Children’s imaginations can run pretty wild, and their late night fears about teachers, locker combinations or school food can produce all kinds of apprehension. If you’re like me, I had some of that return to school apprehension. Let us pray for our children who are returning to school and those who are beginning school for the very first time. Though it is hard for them to see it from where they currently stand, these are important steps toward the promised land of knowledge and growth. As best we can, let us listen to their concerns, comfort their anxiety, and cheer for them along the journey.
Prayer: Quiet the anxiety that is felt, O Lord of Grace. Provide assurance to those who are feeling fear. Let the nightmares of three-headed monster teachers be replaced by the genuine love each teacher seeks to share. Amen.
TODAY
SPECIAL SERVICES
for
Teachers and Support Staff and Students
A special prayer card will be given
to all educators present in worship
ALL WOMEN ARE INVITE
To a Gathering from 3-5pm
TODAY
(In the Activity Room)
COMING SEPTEMBER 2
