Back-to-School
Believe it or not, school is about to start around the country. If the child in your life doesn’t start school for a few weeks, we invite you to tuck this one away and pull it out then. I (Anthony) know I will. Enjoy Jake’s PAUSE.
PAUSE
Sit with Jesus. He is here. He is willing. He is your steadfast love.
This morning the house is quieter. Backpacks sit by the door, shoes lined up, clothes folded ready for the first day of school. I remember that same restless excitement as a kid. Maybe you have a child, neighbor, friend, or grandchild headed back to school. Back-to-school first days can bring worry mixed with excitement for all involved. Pause and breathe deep. Let the nostalgia and the worry both surface, then hand them to God. Pause long enough to notice your heart and to invite God into it.
PRAY
"Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us.” (Ephesians 3:20 KJV)
Ponder that promise. Pray with it. Pray for courage in classrooms, for friendships that build, for teachers who see and steward these children well. Pray gratitude for all teachers. Pray for patience and humility, for struggles turned into growth, for protection and joy. Pray for parents - to trust, to let go, to celebrate small victories. Ask God to do immeasurably more than you can ask or imagine for this school year, for you, for others, no matter what obstacles you face this Fall.
SEND
Give a blessing, a hug, a word of confidence, and then send them out. Release your grip with faith, not fear. Trust that God’s love for them is deeper than yours and that His power is working in ways you cannot yet see. Walk away lighter, knowing you’ve paused, prayed, and sent them into His hands.
Close by praying with everyone else who reads this mid-week pause:
Lord, thank You for this new season. Be with every student stepping into their new school year. Fill them with courage, open their minds to learning, guard their hearts, and move in ways beyond our asking. Help us, parents, to trust and to let go. In Jesus’ name…Amen.
