...but Jesus said to them, "Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven. --Matthew 19:14
I recently read Kristin Hannah's latest book, The Great Alone. The central character is a girl whose dysfunctional father and co-dependent mother move to Alaska to "live off the grid" in the 70's. They are totally unprepared for such an adventure and the girl is the "adult" in the family. I knew this was a work of fiction, yet could hardly sleep while reading it, worrying about this poor child. I'm aware enough to know that there are similar children, right under my nose, leading lives of quiet desperation.
I asked a friend who works with the WV Children's Home Society what is one thing people can do to help children in our communities. She replied," The one thing that keeps coming to my mind is mentor. We need mentors for these kids, and that can take many different forms, but so many of these kids and their families just need to know there are people out there who care." Our church has a backpack program which sends weekend food home with needy children at a local elementary school. I believe most every church in town has a similar program. That's a start.
I know both of our local high schools have food pantries, and I believe the middle schools do as well. Perhaps you can help stock the shelves in those pantries. Food, clothing, school supplies, so much need. But the children also need LOVE. That often comes from a teacher, a volunteer, someone willing to reach out.
My friend emphasized reaching out not only to the children, but to their families. This dedicated social worker mentioned helping with exterminations costs (bed bugs on the rise), power bills, etc.
As this school year is starting, please pray for the teachers, aides, counselors, bus drivers, cooks, janitors, and coaches, who interact with and may be the only positive role models in the lives of our children, and give them a pat on the back and offer them your support.
Anita Gardner Farrell
Dear God,
Grant our teachers an abundance of Your wisdom. Prepare their hearts to welcome and love our loved ones, and may we make sure to show them love and respect in return. Give them grace as they help students who aren’t thriving, courage to say what needs to be said, tools and knowledge on how and when to speak love, and strength when they feel weak. When they feel unseen, remind them that no moment goes unnoticed. They are shaping the future in one million small - yet incredibly important - ways every day. We are overwhelmed with gratitude for the gift of learning they share with our children. Bless them, Lord, and may they see even just a glimpse of how their faithfulness will forever impact generations to come. Amen. --DaySpring.com Kaitlyn Bouchillon
Grant our teachers an abundance of Your wisdom. Prepare their hearts to welcome and love our loved ones, and may we make sure to show them love and respect in return. Give them grace as they help students who aren’t thriving, courage to say what needs to be said, tools and knowledge on how and when to speak love, and strength when they feel weak. When they feel unseen, remind them that no moment goes unnoticed. They are shaping the future in one million small - yet incredibly important - ways every day. We are overwhelmed with gratitude for the gift of learning they share with our children. Bless them, Lord, and may they see even just a glimpse of how their faithfulness will forever impact generations to come. Amen. --DaySpring.com Kaitlyn Bouchillon
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