So here it goes: BEGIN
Lesson plans, grading papers, tutoring, conferences, discipline, and hugs. This is my life and these are my days. There are days why I wonder why I chose to have a ministry in education. There are days I think I may want to do something else...like work at Starbucks or sit in an office. Then the Lord always does a little something that reminds me why I am here teaching 20 precious children reading, writing, arithmetic, science, social skills, and Bible. I am here because God wants me here. He sent me here to minister to 20 students and their parents. He sent me to be a shining example in a dark world. He sent me here to give children who have hard home lives a hug and a smile and extra encouragement. He sent me here to encourage students struggling academically that they can do it. He sent me here to teach these boys and girls about Jesus and how he loves them. He sent me here so I can learn to love others as Christ loves them--as he loves me and as he loved me before I received Him. He sent me here to bring laughter and smiles into children's lives, and to show them its okay to laugh at yourself when you do something funny {trust me I laugh at myself a lot and we laugh a lot in class}. He sent me here to LOVE 20 children this year. In the end the work, tears, stress, and even the days I just want to go home are worth it when I reflect on why God sent me here. I love what I do, and can't imagine doing anything else but being a teacher. 
Students writing me notes
A flower a student gave me-made my day (even though its silk)
Flat Teacher a fun project we did this year--my student took her home along with a note book and wrote me a story about what they did with "Flat Teacher"
Such noble work you are doing; here & now! I can only imagine the joy you must feel {most of the time} at the end of the day. I honor you for answering the call - for "BEing" the difference in the lives of these very fortunate 20 children.
ReplyDeleteP.S. I love the Flat Teacher Project!!! My son brought home "Foofer" a raggedy ole' dog who now that I am thinking of it must have been filled with o' so many raggedy ole' germs. It was back in the days when we did not worry about such things. LoL!!
Isn't it amazing how when we stop and listen, God shows us why He places us in certain moments and experiences? I love how you have shown gratitude to our King through your words and the love you have in your situation comes through so beautifully. thank you for sharing and for reminding me to listen.
ReplyDeleteLove and blessings to you.
ReplyDeleteI know pouring your love and encouragement into 20+ kids each year must take a lot of energy. Bless you for doing this work, and i hope those children see Christ in you!
ReplyDeleteIt does take a lot of energy, but the Lord sure does help me through each day...along with my daily cup of coffee in the morning. :-)
DeleteI love your photo - I just love shots like that. Paper and pens and all.
ReplyDeleteI thoroughly enjoyed your post. We've just started the Beth Moore study "Patriarchs". In it, she was talking about how she loves what she does - not the stress - but what she does. She said something about if she could eliminate the stress then there'd be something else to come along stressful and how could she when everyone else has their stress too. I guess, "you're not alone", right?
Teaching with a heart is a most honorable thing. Thank you! I'm sure you're reaching kiddos and probably parents in ways you don't know - never give up!
Thanks for the post, Jenn
Yay! This is great. What a lucky bunch of kids to have you as their teacher. I am so thankful you are in their lives. You are a blessing. I love your take on this word "here".
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