Daily Devotional for March 8, 2023

Monday evening, I had the privilege of praying at the Temple ISD School Board Meeting.

After Dr. Ott gave me a tour of their new facility, I visited with two of the school board members who happen to be members of our church.  Both are named Shannon – not my Shannon, but I am partial to the name.

As I looked at this group of people, serving God by serving the needs of our children, I realized what a thankless job it is to be part of the public education system.

Sometimes they deal with angry unappreciative parents, violent children, apathy, and shrinking budgets.  But they carry on because they know the value of a quality education and a nurturing environment.  They are responding to a true calling.

As Dr. Ott and I were talking, he told me next week was Spring Break, and while for some children, it was an exciting time, for others, it wasn’t.  

While our society doesn’t seem to value those in education, I believe God has a special place in his heart for those who take such a low paying job, work exceptionally long hours, and receive little affirmation from those they serve.

Teachers are so important to God that Paul lists teaching as a gift.  He said, “We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach.”  (Romans 12:6-7)

Prior to my mother’s diagnosis with cancer, she was a teacher.

I still remember she would leave our house at 6:30 every morning, to let a little girl sit in her classroom instead of out in the cold because it was the only time her single father could take her to school.  My mother also fed this girl breakfast every morning.  Her care for this little girl left a permanent mark on me.

To have the heart of a teacher is to be a person of service. There’s no higher calling.

Prayer:  Dear Gracious Heavenly God, I pray you bless everyone involved in the teaching of our little ones.  Give them joy amidst their labors, patience and wisdom when dealing with challenges, and the belief they are making a difference.  In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen.

I truly believe when God looks at a teacher, God smiles.

I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins