“Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths. Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all day long” (Psalm 25:4-5)

Our neighbor was out early this morning, standing with his two young children as they waited for the school bus to arrive. He is a faithful father, and he does this every morning. It is a tender moment that I get to witness as I pull out of the driveway. After both children are safely on the bus, and in their seats, my neighbor shares a last wave, and then he gets into his truck and heads off to work. He is a faithful father, and he stands with his children every morning before school because he loves them. His daily presence is a gift to his children, a gift of love and a gift of safety. These two children will remember this simple gift for many years to come. I am grateful that their father is my neighbor. My prayer as we begin this new school year is that all of our children might experience this same level of love.

Love is the way of Jesus. I wonder how you might live the “Jesus way” this day? I wonder how you might live the love of Jesus?

A Prayer for Teachers and Students
O God, source of all goodness: we give you thanks for the gift of reason and the opportunity for education. Bless our schools, that they may be places of learning and safety where teachers challenge the minds and nurture the hearts of students. Grant that teachers and students may work together in mutual respect and find joy in the challenges of academic life; through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. Amen. (Evangelical Lutheran Worship, pg. 78)