Dear Sister,

As we begin the 24-25 school year, there are a few things I look forward to as I think about my 30 years in education. I look forward to walking through the halls of my public school, peeking and praying in classrooms and walking and talking with students who are truly excited about being back in school.  Just like us, let’s pray that they sustain this momentum through Christmas break.

It’s always a highlight to see how much they have grown over the summer.  I like reconnecting with parents through the car rider line and catching up with bus drivers who circle the bus loop.  No matter what’s going on, this is when I see our invisible God at work. 

Have you ever watched His wind and rain as we try to keep students in a dry and comfortable place? We all scamper for umbrellas while most students count on those infamous hoodies.  While I try to situate entrance mats at the bus door, I’m always frantic over those rubber shoes that cause students to slip and slide.  Yet it's through the students and staff laughing, crying, smiling, and helping one another that a long day with God is worthwhile.

What do you think of this scripture: 

Then he [JESUS] said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.

(Luke 9:23, NIV)

This scripture is a huge part of discipleship in public schools. What’s interesting about the timing of these words is that this proclamation follows the Lord’s prediction of His death. Who follows a dead man?  How does this scripture apply to our lives today?

Be assured through the words of the angel, “He is not here; he has risen, just as he said (Matthew 28:6, NIV).Once obviously visible to His disciples' human senses, they found him gone. Jesus took his seat at the right hand of the Father (Mark 16:19).  Now, by the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, we still experience His Lordship as we pick up our cross and follow His commands, purpose, ways, gifts, character and life into our schools.

 Sister, on the other side of our call to be disciples in education for the sake of others, you and our brothers can expect to be personally changed from the inside out.  Don’t miss God’s work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure (Philippians 2:13, NIV). We are all in need of more godly wisdom, understanding and knowledge. All of us need more patience. Most of us need to daily read and comprehend the Bible without skimming key words such as holiness, righteousness, and godliness. Amen? How are you doing with everyday compassion?  Please don’t say, “I didn’t grow up with compassion.”  It’s better to say, “Awful! I’ll try again tomorrow because I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13).”

May you and our brothers see and enjoy our invisible God, making Himself visible, this year.

- Mya Lynn