August 18, 2020
Dear Friends;
This morning you are on my heart. I am especially thinking about the children, teenagers, parents, teachers, support staff, and administrators as school opens today in Bastrop County. The photo attached I took a few years ago when I was with my eighty-one-year-old dad and it reminds me that we must navigate these troubled times together. Just like ducks and geese travel together in groups, let’s walk through these days together with love, kindness and gentleness- caring for one another and looking back making sure nobody is left behind.
Today, I would like to share a prayer I wrote just for you:
A Prayer for Returning to School
Father, we come to you in the name of Jesus. We ask, Heavenly Father, that you would protect all those going back to school today. We ask for your holy presence to fill the homes of those in our community as students learn in a virtual environment. We ask that your presence would fill every classroom where students are learning in person today and where teachers are planning and recording live lessons for their students. We ask that your presence would fill every board room and office where leaders are making important decisions. You promised to give us a peace that passes all human understanding. You promised to be with us when we felt confused or unsure. Many parents and teachers feel overwhelmed right now balancing school, work and family. We ask that you be their helper. We ask that each one of us would lean on you when we feel like it is all too much.
Just like Jehoshaphat, when we don’t know where to go or what to do, may our prayer be, “Our eyes are on you.” Help us all to remember that we don’t need to fear because you are with us. When we can’t feel you or sense you, help us remember that you are still there. We need you more than ever before. Be with us today and every day.
Thank you that your mighty hand of strength and wisdom is upon our teachers today. Thank you that our children have hearts eager to learn. Lead us in these unchartered waters. You are the captain. We follow you.
Amen
Scriptures to Meditate:
Philippians 4:7
Psalms 91:15
2 Chronicles 20:11-12
John 14:26
Isaiah 41:10
Sending love and prayers to all both here in Bastrop and all over the United States and world.
Pastor Maureen Stanek
Bastrop, Texas