Read Genesis 1.
The work of a teacher is planned and measured by seasons at a time. We articulate our original plans, tweak them as needed as we go, and look back at student progress and results to determine if we met our goals or need to try a new strategy for the next season. What are some important plans you have for your students this semester?
God has given us natural cues that drive the decision making of our waking and sleeping hours. His natural creation and plan for us has been in place some the beginning, and he took time out for reflection: "And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good" (Genesis 1:31).
Sometimes, we can get caught up in what can seem like the hectic, busyness of our plans and forget to admire God's goodness around us. As we move forward through our plans with our students, it is so important to take time out to reflect on how the journey is going - What's working? What isn't? What could we add for enrichment? What could we subtract to simplify? - and to share in that reflection time with students as well because we are all in this journey together, and it is for them.
As you move through the seasons of this school year, in what ways or at what times can you incorporate checkpoints for your students and yourself to reflect? What would your points of reflection be? Possibly even more importantly, how will they know if they measure up to the goals set before them? And will there be a plan in place if they haven't quite met the expectations just yet? In other words, is there hope for those students who have a bit further to go in their journey to reach the end goal?
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for your goodness that surrounds us in this world, and thank you for the hope we have in your son, Jesus Christ. Please bless our journeys with our students and school communities this year, and guide us to establish goals and plans that will strengthen them and provide opportunities for them to grow and mature in ways that please you. In the name of Jesus we ask these blessings. Amen.
