During the school day as well as before and after hours, educators invest care, energy, and time into the school community. We invest ourselves into our students and communities in our mission to help them grow. Summer break is a time for rest.
When Jesus commissioned his apostles, they left their routine lives and followed him in support of the Great Commission. However, Jesus recognized their need for rest. When he heard "both what they had done, and what they had taught," he said, "Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while," (Mark 6:30-31). Upon their return to Christ after this period of rest, it is notable that they joined him in his work of compassion of feeding 5,000 men who Jesus taught "many things" and felt "were as sheep not having a shepherd," (Mark 6:34-37). Jesus acknowledged the apostles' work and encouraged them to rest. After the period of rest, they were all back at work serving Jesus serving the masses.
As educators, while we have a break from our typical school routines, let's use this time for refreshment and for seeking God. In our belief and faith in Him, we can find peace, joy, hope, and power (Romans 15: 13). What better way to equip ourselves for the coming school year?
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for the periods of break and rest that we receive throughout the school year. Please open our hearts and minds to you and your desires for our school communities, our families, and for ourselves. Please equip and guide us to be reflections of your love in our communities. We pray to you in the power and glory of your son, Jesus. Amen.
