First Day of School

Recently my Facebook feed has been filled with “first day of school pics”. I love seeing the hope and excitement of beginning a new school year. There is everything ranging from “1st Day of Preschool” to “1st Day of Middle School” to “1st Day of College”. Parents post those pictures proudly. Their child has achieved a new grade, beginning a new set of adventures and learning.

I loved first days of school. New shoes (come on, who doesn’t love new shoes?); fresh haircut; notebooks that haven’t been written in or wrinkled; the hope that I would actually understand Algebra this year; wondering who I would sit with at lunch (cool kids or nerds? In truth, I usually hung with the choir kids – somewhere in the middle). When looking back at my school pictures I noticed while there was always a smile on my face, I could often see anxiousness in my eyes. Would I fit in? Was I smart enough? Or just “enough” in general?

Scripture has encouragement for all of us as we begin again in any situation.

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.
- Isaiah 40:31

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
- Jeremiah 29:11

What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?
- Romans 8:31

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
- Philippians 4:6-7

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
- Proverbs 3:5-6

A Prayer for Those Beginning a New Year at School:

God thank you for our students and educators. Thank you for learning that transforms lives. Bless our schools, keep them safe. You know the challenges our kids and teachers are facing this year. And we know you love them more than we can imagine. Amen.

A Prayer for The Rest of Us:

God thank you for the gift of this new day. A chance for a new start. Yesterday is gone and with it any regrets, mistakes, or failures I may have experienced. It's a good day to be glad and give thanks, and I do, Lord. Thank you for today, a new opportunity to love, give, and be all that you want me to be. Amen.

Written By: Karen Gossett