Be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. 2 Timothy 4:2, NIV
Sow your seed in the morning, and at evening let not your hands be idle, for you do not know which will succeed, whether this or that, or whether both will do equally well. Ecclesiastes 11:6, NIV
As a friend of mine says, “It’s September, and I’m in love!”
Most teachers feel that way at the beginning of the school year. The kids come in wearing their new clothes, with new backpacks and lunch boxes, and ready to learn. But take a look at the same scene in June! What happened to the passion?
We can all make a list of “in-season” characteristics: great lesson plans, attentive children, supportive administrators, good health, comfortable weather, a creative and motivated class, a spacious and well-stocked classroom, parental support, and respect from peers. We can also make a list of “out-of-season” characteristics: uninspired lessons, belligerent, unmotivated children, sickness, tiredness, sweltering heat, not enough materials, complaining parents, and unsupportive administrators.
But Scripture tells us it doesn’t matter! God expects us to do our best with patience and care, no matter what. Isn’t it great to know that sometimes, even when we least expect it, our teaching hits home to someone and makes a real difference, in season and out?
Dear Lord, We are so glad that You are with us even at the end of the school year. Today, would You please move on my students’ hearts through the words I use? Please guide my actions, emotional responses, and lesson plans. I am forever grateful that You saved me and are using me to love my students. Amen.
Copyright Shirley Wilson.
Shirley is a retired Christian Educators member and a former board member.
