Keep Him Near

I trust you are feeling a little more comfortable with your fall schedule and you and your students are
growing in a new and wonderful relationship. That being said I know there are still some of you that are
changing locations and classrooms. This can be a painful experience. I pray that if you are one of those who are moving, that you will find the blessings that will come in your new assignment.

Changing schools, grade levels, or even classrooms creates an angst in us that is sometimes hard to reckon with. What do we do with those feelings? How do we keep our focus where it should be and off the very thing that demands all our energy? How about giving yourself a cue, something to redirect your attention; something that will remind you who you really are and what's important. My grandson was washing his hands in school one day and as he was drying them, he noticed that the soap he had used (I'm glad he even used soap!) reminded him of me. He told his mom that night that his hands smelled like Grandma so he found himself smelling his hands all day so he could feel close to me. It does create sort of a weird picture but I found it endearing.

Your challenge might be to find something to look at, hold, or yes, even smell, that will create in you a peace that will allow you to be the teacher you were created to be, changing that angst you were feeling into a calm confidence. We don't have to be a re-assigned teacher to look for that cue. We could all benefit from a constant reminder of someone who loves us and grants us His peace.
Blessings,
Barb

A Bittersweet Good-Bye

The school year started and I felt rather removed from all of you and your first days. I was consumed with family matters as my elderly mother spent a week in the hospital and 4 days in a nursing home before going to be with Jesus last night. It was the sweetest of good-byes but still hard to do.

Isn't it amazing what happens when we really submit our wills to the Lord and watch Him work? Much of what happened with my mom these last 10-11 days, was totally out of my control and while it seemed the doctors and nurses were the caretakers, it was evident that even these strangers were being led by the Lord's hand. I was given peace at every turn and discernment with decisions. We never felt frustrated or fearful but trusted that everything was happening just how the Lord ordained it.

The lesson for all of us in this process might be to ask for wisdom when we need it, listen for the voice that delivers it, and accept the peace and comfort that follows. Because follow it will! God promises us that. I pray that your first days with your new students have been exciting and fun. You are the Jesus they need to see so ask for that guidance and strength as you need it. It's there in abundance.
Blessings.
Barb

Follow the (Your) Leader

I was reading in a devotional this morning and there was a reference made to bloopers and church signs or bulletins. It said, "I am their leader! Which way did they go?" At first I laughed then I recalled my classrooms throughout the years parading them down halls, sidewalks, through museums, etc. and hoping everyone followed me. What kept them in line? Sometimes it's enough "responsible" students that always do the right thing and strategically placed, I could hope they had some positive influence. At Art Prize, it was an actual rope that everyone held that kept us moving in a large, slow amoeba like fashion.

I wonder what the Lord is thinking when He sees us not following Him. I think I'm better off with some pretty concrete "ropes" to hang onto to keep me where He wants me to be. My ropes come through Scripture, other people, and prayer. Unlike most of our students who think they have a better way or just like the freedom to go their own way, I choose the rope. I'm safe and loved there. Hopefully your new students will feel safe and loved with you as well. Continued blessings on those who already started their year and fresh blessings on September starters. Follow your Leader!

"I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in  me and I in Him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."       John 15:5