Most schools started the middle of August, or like our granddaughter who has a four
day a week schedule, August 4th. College classes have also begun. Although we no
longer have children at home who we need to get ready for the first day, we have some
wonderful memories about those days, including some of the challenges. With changes
over the years, we also have homeschool, private, and charter schools. All have their
unique beginnings of each year. Advancing to a new grade level or perhaps a new
school or new school setting causes children and their parents to adjust to the new
arrangement.

During this time, there are a number of positive growth opportunities for all of us, and
the beginning of school is a great time to share encouraging Bible verses about
courage, wisdom, and peace. Joshua 1:9 provides support for courage and strength:
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid, do not be
discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Proverbs 2:6 reminds us of God’s role in wisdom and learning: “For the Lord gives
wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” And, of course, the
importance of attitude and hard work necessary for success can be found in Colossians
3:23 “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for
human masters”

Although this is shared in the context of school, these also apply for all of us in whatever
we do. When the workload seems to be too much, Isaiah 40: 29-31 reminds us: “He
gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow
tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will
renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow
weary, they will walk and not be faint.”

My background is in education, with the last 28 years spent on a year-round
administration job schedule, but I really looked forward to the first week of school. I was
out on campuses all year, but particularly during the first few days at all my campuses.
Interacting with the students and their parents as they came during those days was
particularly rewarding as they were more than willing to share their experiences.

As we continue to focus on the work of the Lord, it is a good reminder that we need to
understand the need for courage and strength, wisdom and learning, and being strong
and courageous. God is with us in all that we do.

Your Friend in Christ,
Larry Moehnke