That’s also how it is with people. The ones who stop doing evil and make themselves pure will become special. Their lives will be holy and pleasing to their Master, and they will be able to do all kinds of good deeds. 2 Timothy 2:21, CEV

I admit that I get frazzled at school. There are deadlines, conflicts, and interruptions on a daily basis. I get up every morning really early to pray and read my Bible. I have a 45-minute commute in which I listen to Christian radio and by the time I arrive at school, I am ready to be a vessel fit for the Lord. However, somewhere between the parking lot and my first class, I usually feel pressure mounting. Some days, my joyful smile turns into a straight line.

However, Jesus isn’t dependent on circumstances. He doesn’t change because of a forgotten deadline, a surly student, or a persistent parent.

I had real evidence of this one day at my previous school. Every day was a battle —from administrators to teachers to students to parents. There was no such thing as a stress-free day in all the twelve years I worked there. Often, I felt utterly defeated because the joy I so wanted to emanate from me seemed to be jammed. One day, however, someone said to me, “You always have such joy! It’s wonderful to see.”

I was shocked…I felt no joy! I felt rushed and tired. Yet Jesus, the same yesterday, today, and forever was seen in me!

Lord, please give me Your joy and peace this day. May all I do be a silent prayer for Your presence to shine through me. Thank You. Amen.

Copyright Cheryl Skid.

Cheryl is a retired Christian Educators member from Missouri.