As I sit here the night before school begins, I find myself anxious. Anxious about the first day of school, meeting my new little friends, and leaving my own children behind for this career. I'm thinking of my new 2nd graders and wondering what the new year will bring. I'm thinking of my now 3rd graders and hoping I have equipped them well for the upcoming school year.
As someone who strives for excellence in all she does, the anxiety is rooted in the unknown. I know that I have the skills necessary to teach academics to my class. But I'm left to wonder...Am I enough?
Am I enough for an autistic child who needs me to guide his social quirks?
Am I enough for ESL students that speak little English and read even less?
Am I enough for the students repeating 2nd grade?
Am I enough for children with medical issues that may need my attention?
Am I enough for the children who are grieving a loss or living in abuse?
Am I enough for special education students who will need extra help in all that we do?
Am I enough for my co-workers who who need my input on curriculum and grade level decisions?
Am I enough for my own children when I get home?
In His amazingly soft, but clear voice this evening, God has reminded me that I don't have to be enough. I just have to show up. I am his tool, his vessel for reaching these children this year. He stills my heart and tells me that Jesus was enough. All I have to do is follow.
And so, tomorrow I will get up with confidence in Him. I will smile my best smile and greet those sweet children with all the love He has given me. He has perfectly equipped me to hug the child whose mom is so burdened with life that she has no more to give. He has prepared me to encourage the teacher who carries the same doubts and fears as me. He has given me the ability to love. For that is all I have been called to do.
Dear God,
Thank you for another opportunity to teach your precious children. Please walk with me in that school building tomorrow. Help me to hug needily, smile constantly, share happily, and love deeply.
In Jesus' name,
Amen
"Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you." ~ 2 Thessalonians 3:16
