"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."

Read: 2 Corinthians 5:11-21 and Psalm 36

As we move in to summertime, we can enjoy the warm, bright beauty of God's creation. As God's earth is renewed each year with the changing of the seasons, we also can be made new in Him. Have you allowed the old you to pass away? In what ways are you becoming new?

By God's grace, we are made new through our relationship with Jesus Christ. However, realistically, redemption can seem a process that it easier said than done. We daily struggle to get it right, to live in ways that reflect God's glory. Through trial and prayer, we can move forward to be blessed in this life and live in ways that God blesses others through us. As Christians, we are sinners in need of God's grace, but Paul also tells us that "we are ambassadors for Christ." As such, we are on mission to help others find God's grace.

As educators, we are in positions to give of ourselves to others on a daily basis and often in a variety of ways, which can be spiritually, mentally, and physically fulfilling and draining at the same time. As ambassadors for Christ, let's take care of ourselves so that - as healthy, spirit-filled Christians - we can pour that which is in us out into our school communities. Fill up, brothers and sisters, so that you can, in turn, lead others to "the fountain of life."

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for your seasonal renewal of creation. Thank you for filling us with your spirit, making us new. Please guide us to fulfill your will as we seek to be ambassadors for the mission of leading believers to Christ. We serve you and ask for these blessings in Christ's name. Amen.