Back to School 
Pause
Take a deep breath. A new school year brings expectations and challenges, but also new opportunities. Before you start thinking about everything you have to do, remember that God is with you. Let God’s presence calm your worries and open your heart to hear God’s voice.
Listen
Love should be shown without pretending. Hate evil, and hold on to what is good. Love each other like the members of your family. Be the best at showing honor to each other. Don’t hesitate to be enthusiastic—be on fire in the Spirit as you serve the Lord! Be happy in your hope, stand your ground when you’re in trouble, and devote yourselves to prayer. Contribute to the needs of God’s people, and welcome strangers into your home.
Romans 12:9-13
Think
True love is not just words. Paul encourages us to consistently practice generosity, hospitality, and service. It is a very concrete way to live out our faith and show our love for God and creation.
At school, we’ll have many opportunities to do good; we can reach out to someone who’s alone, help someone solve a problem, share what we have, or simply treat everyone with respect and dignity. This year, God wants you to understand that you are an agent of change, transforming the world around you with love.
A small act can drastically and significantly change someone else’s day. When we choose to do good, we show God’s love in a way that others can see and feel.
Jhanderys Dotel-Vellenga
Question to Ponder:
What kind act can you do for someone today?
Pray
God, teach me to love not only with words, but also with actions. Make me generous and attentive to the needs of others. May my life reflect your love and goodness. Amen.
Go
Go forth with a willingness to do good. May your words, decisions, and actions reflect God’s love. Every day offers an opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life.
