
Like many educators across the United States, we have just completed the school year and are deep into our summer break. In my district, which is in a suburb of Wichita, Kansas, we finished our school year at the end of May. Our school is now looking forward to the beginning of the new school year. Last year we had high points and low points, but through it all, we had the opportunity to make an impact in our building.
For me last year marked the end of a profound thirty-second year in education, a journey that has been uniquely shaped by the Lord’s hand. Each year unfolded a distinct chapter, and this year was no exception. We transitioned into a brand-new building, bidding farewell to one that had been the educational bedrock of our community for sixty-nine years. The bittersweet moment of the old building's demolition was swiftly replaced by the exhilaration of a fresh start in a gleaming new environment.
It takes me back to the Bible Story about the building of Solomon’s temple. I can only imagine what it was like to walk into such a magnificent building with gold coverings everywhere, tall cedar pillars, exquisite furnishings, and beautiful stone. What a sense of awe they must have felt entering for the first time. However, as we know from the years that followed, God’s chosen people were quickly led astray, chasing after false gods and religions and turning their back on Him. What the people of Israel knew at the time as the dwelling place of God, as wonderful as it appeared, was never able to keep their focus on what truly mattered: a relationship with the Creator of the universe.
Regrettably, the new temple could not prevent the people from straying from the Lord, just as a shiny new building cannot replace the importance of quality instruction. This year I gained a deeper understanding of the pivotal role of dedicated individuals in the success of education. It's not about new desks or fancy flex rooms but about the unwavering commitment of the educators in the building. Having quality teachers and staff who prioritize the students, build relationships, listen, teach, and yes, pray, is far more significant than anything else.

As Christian educators, we hold a unique position in the school environment. Our relationship with Christ empowers us to intercede for those around us. One story that resonated with me this year was about a middle school teacher who would walk the halls each morning, praying silently for the students, teachers, and administrators. What started as a ten-minute routine soon became a source of comfort for those who understood her actions. She would arrive early each morning, traverse each hall, and allow the Spirit to guide her in prayer. Some mornings others would join her, but most of the time she was alone. However, by the end of the year, many came to express their gratitude. Consider the impact a praying Christian can have in any workplace, inviting the Lord's presence. Taking the time to pray and invite the Lord into this building can do wonders.
Remember, let us not be swayed by the physical attributes of the building we inhabit or the demographics of our students. I urge each of you to recognize the profound influence you wield over the students who grace your classrooms. Realize that their success hinges on your advocacy. The enemy may believe he has a firm grip on education, but his pride blinds him to your presence and the power of your faith. Make sure to take the time each day to pray for those around you. Call on the Lord to move His hand over your coworkers, directing their path through the day. Ask Him to fill your room with His Spirit, pushing out the unknown pain and struggles your students bring with them. He will be there with you.
My entire career has been spent listening to the needs of those around me and praying earnestly for the Lord to move in their lives. I was thankful to have the opportunity to be a servant in the lives of others, allowing them to understand that I am here to help. Since I am in a public school, I may not be able to share my walk with Christ, but I can definitely pray. As you reflect on the school year, think about what you can do next year to ask the Lord to intervene in the lives of those around you. Invite Him to be present and guide you in everything you do.

This year may have taught me more about the needs of students than any of my previous thirty-one years. Even though we were walking through the hallways of a shiny new building, the students still needed love and acceptance. They longed for a relationship with teachers and staff who they could trust. Each child wanted to come to school each day, understanding that regardless of what they looked like, how they dressed, and even their behavior, they would find adults who cared for them.
The upcoming year brings new opportunities and excitement. I hope my thirty-third year is my best, and I will spend time over the summer asking the Lord to go before me in this endeavor. I will begin this with prayer for the decisions I make and for the Lord’s will in everything I do. I know his plan is perfect. I ask each of you to ask the Lord to guide you through this. He will not disappoint you. Many times, when we are struggling, He has a plan to either give us the strength to endure or teach us the wisdom to face this again in the future.
Let me add one final thought. If you know fellow Christians in your building, remember to pray for each other throughout the year. It is not easy to take this responsibility alone. The enemy does not want you to pray, so you will find frustrations arise that will cause you to second guess what you are doing. For me, after an incredible year, once the students were gone, it seemed attack after attack had been thrown my way, weakening my resolve. Stay the course and continue to follow our King in all you do. If He has called you into the mission field of education, He will never forsake you.
Robert Leis
May 26, 2024
Comentarios