As I write this article, my family is getting ready for the back-to-school season.
Our kids are preparing for a new school year and my wife, who is an elementary school teacher, is returning to her routine, too. There is excitement and nervousness in equal share.
Following our annual tradition, we will be praying for students, teachers, and school staff this week as they begin a new school year.
In the bible, God stresses the older generation’s responsibility to invest knowledge and wisdom in the next generation. I have great respect for teachers because they have such an important responsibility in our society. In fact, my high school English teacher had such an indelible impact on my life that I still credit her for being one of the most influential people who have shaped my life.
The bible asserts that teachers should be mindful of their responsibility.
James 3:1 states, “Not many of you should become teachers […] for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.”
This verse addresses teachers of God’s word, but I believe the principle applies to all teachers who have such a unique influence on young people under their care — the responsibility is huge, so don’t take it lightly.
How often do we send our children to complete strangers and ask them to make a significant impact on their lives? In our school system, we inherently invest enormous trust in our teachers and school staff to care for our children and help us raise them to be good citizens. It is in our best interest that we pray for their protection, strength, and wisdom as they begin this school year. May God be with them and grant them his favour as they teach our next generation.
