Project, papers, and presentations. Final exams and labs. The students in our district are consumed with the end of their semester. You can almost feel the levels of tension rising. The other day I spoke with one of the school counselors who was in her office late after the final bell. She had a tired smirk on her face when she said that some students are handling things better than others. She said that everyone is feelings the stress of the end of the semester… students and staff alike. But things will slow down in a week or two.
How about you and the families that you serve? What are the rhythms and experiences that your community regularly goes through? Take out your calendar and map out the times of year when routines change, semesters begin or end, and other things that regularly impact the families you serve. What could it look like for you to be an agent of God to dispense his grace and peace during these times? How could you adjust your schedule during these seasons to encourage the parents, students, school staff, and others during these times?
Would you block off some time today to pray for people you know – by name? Would you take the extra step in sending them a message to let them know you are praying for them and thanking God for them? Would you take a minute to overflow the grace and peace of God to those you shepherd?
“God the Father knew you and chose you long ago, and his Spirit has made you holy. As a result, you have obeyed him and have been cleansed by the blood of Jesus Christ.
May God give you more and more grace and peace.” 1 Peter 1:2
What other ways could you reach out in friendship by overflowing with the grace and peace of God? For several years, we would recruit a team of home schooled students to help us deliver freshly made cookies and an encouraging note to the homes of the other students – on the first day of school. Have fun and get creative in overflowing with the grace and peace of Christ – with others.
(And if you think about it, be praying for Mehgan – she’s a little stressed about her upcoming science project and the AP Spanish exam.)
Do you need someone to help you brainstorm ideas for your local context? Send me an email – mark@cadremissionaries.com – I would love to help.
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