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

Then the Lord said, “Don’t come any closer! Take off your sandals, because you are standing on holy ground.” He continued, “I am the God of your father, Abraham’s God, Isaac’s God, and Jacob’s God.” Moses hid his face because he was afraid to look at God.

Exodus 3:5-6

Think

God asked Moses to take off his sandals because he was standing on holy ground. It wasn’t a famous place or a temple, but it was a place where God was present.

Sometimes we think we can only find God in church or other places formally designated as sacred. But God is also present in the school hallways, in the classroom, at work, at home, and in all the places and things that are part of God’s creation.

When we recognize that God is with us at all times and in all places, we begin to treat people and places with greater care, respect, and consideration. Every day can become an opportunity to encounter God and speak with God.

Jhanderys Dotel-Vellenga

Jhanderys Dotel-Vellenga

Question to Ponder:

How can you recognize God’s presence in the places where you spend most of your day?

Pray

God, help me to discover your presence everywhere. May I never forget that you are with me. Make my life a reflection of your love. 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.