Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1, NIV

Have you ever reread a Bible verse and felt like you were hearing it for the first time? I know I can’t be alone in this experience!

I felt that way this morning. It felt like I was being hit upside the head with a whole new revelation. I realized that I have read this verse a million times and have not asked myself a very simple question: What am I hoping for? 

I don’t know if I had never answered this question because of fear, or because I had not been walking in a space of conviction. However, this time I was deeply moved to begin a list of what I hoped for in my classroom. The list was simple and yet so complex: I want my students to know the love of Jesus. I want to reach them in spaces of pain and bring hope. I want to enrich their lives with learning and have that learning lead them to the truth of who God made them to be…

The list went on and on. It became deeply personal and connected me to each student and staff member in my building.

As I was making this list, it occurred to me that I should be asking others this same question. So I’m asking you, my friend, what are you hoping for? What are you seeking in your classroom and for your students this year? What convictions are you walking in?

I challenge you to take some time to think about this today. Pause and ask, “Jesus, what are your hopes for my classroom?”

I promise you He will show up. His hopes for your classroom are deeper than you could ever ask or imagine.

Jesus, Help us to hear Your heart for our students. Help us to ask You boldly for the hopes You have placed within us. And help us to see where those hopes are showing up each day in our lives. Amen. 

Copyright Rebekah Hutchinson.

Rebekah is a member and a second-grade teacher in Vancouver, Washington.