Greetings Community,
As we step into the first full week of May, we are presented with a beautiful opportunity to celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week.
Though this week is mainly focused on our school educators, I would like to celebrate all who teach and disciple within and beyond our church walls, using Jesus Christ as their ultimate example.
The Heart of a Teacher
A teacher's impact is profound and often eternal. They do more than educate; they inspire, challenge, and guide. Jesus Himself was often called 'Rabbi,' which means teacher. He taught through words and actions, showing love, humility, and wisdom. This week, we honor our modern-day teachers—those who carry on His legacy by shaping minds and nurturing hearts through both education and faith.
School Educators
Our school teachers work tirelessly to impart knowledge and values to the next generation. Let us take a moment this week to thank them—send a note, offer a prayer, or simply express your gratitude for their dedication. We recognize the extream challenges they face both in and out of the classroom and the perseverance they exhibit daily. So many educators are leaving teaching becuase of what is going on in the world right now. It is our call to lift them up and surrounded them with prayer.
Proverbs 22:6 - "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it."
Spiritual Mentors
Outside of our schools and in our communities, many serve as spiritual mentors including Pastors, Sunday school teachers, street preachers, and Bible study leaders. They sow seeds of faith that grow into deep spiritual roots. Their commitment to teaching the Gospel and living out the truths of Scripture is a cornerstone of our community's spiritual life. But they too experience the enemy as he tries to distract and deter Gospel teachings.
Matthew 28:19-20 - "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
Parents and Guardians
Many parents are opting to homeschool their children to ensure a safer environment, both physically and spiritually. Additionally, numerous grandparents and other family members are stepping into parental roles, dedicating their time and knowledge to educate children academically while also laying a solid faith-based foundation.
Deuteronomy 11:19 - "You shall teach them to your children, talking of them when you are sitting in your house, and when you are walking by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise."
Let Us Pray for Our Teachers
This week, let us boldly uphold all our educators in prayer. Being a teacher is a challenging yet profoundly impactful vocation, and our educators face daily demands that test their faith, strength and resilience. May God grant them wisdom, patience, and abundant joy as they navigate these challenges. Pray that they feel deeply encouraged and actively supported by our communities as they handle the immense responsibilities entrusted to them. We ask for God’s continued guidance in their lives, that they may be strong and courageous in every circumstance. Let us commit to engaging with and supporting our teachers, recognizing our responsibility to provide them with the resources, appreciation, and care they deserve as they educate and inspire both in the classroom and within our community.
James 3:1 - "Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness."
Getting Involved
If you feel called to support teachers in any capacity, or are interested in becoming a mentor or educator, there is a great need, so I encourage you to reach out in your community. There are so many opportunities to serve, and your contribution can truely make a significant difference.
A Special Thanks
To all our teachers, including any that are in this email list, thank you for your service! You do not labor in vain. The seeds you plant today will bear fruit for years to come, in ways you might never see but God fully knows and appreciates.
"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." - Galatians 6:9
In closing, may this Teacher Appreciation Week remind each of us of the profound role teachers play in our lives, both children and adults, and in our communities. Let us celebrate and support them with the love and encouragement they so richly deserve.
Many Blessings,
Billie
