The Week After…Teacher Appreciation Week
It is pretty neat that there is an actual week set aside to appreciate teachers. Someone (there are mixed reports as to whom) reached out to Eleanor Roosevelt back in the 1950’s about the idea. She then persuaded Congress to set aside a day to recognize educators. I love her.
A lot happened after that to make it an official day, but I was intrigued by how it all started with one determined person. My guess is that person may have been a teacher who was feeling slightly underappreciated. Just a guess.
Nevertheless, if we were honest, we all have to admit it feels good to be appreciated. Every educator I know dedicates so much time, energy and heart to teaching. They do it because they love kids, and they truly want to make a difference. However, sometimes the work is hard, and sometimes teachers just need someone to say, “Thank you.”
If you are an educator, I want to encourage you. Now that Teacher Appreciation Week is over and many of you felt VERY appreciated (at least I hope you did!), guard against the potential slump that lurks in the shadows. The grind of the daily job is still there, and the lack of appreciation may very well return sooner than later. I want you to know that even though others may not see your worth, God does.
He knows the students that are learning because of you.
He knows the parent that is blessed because of your kind words.
He knows the athlete that was discouraged but pushes on because of your encouragement.
He knows the colleague that you counseled when he/she wanted to throw in the towel.
He knows the child that got a second chance because you went the extra mile.
He knows the sacrifices you are making.
He knows the burden you may be carrying.
HE KNOWS.
I am reminded of Ruth who made great sacrifices to do what she knew was right. No one really understood her level of vulnerability, but God knew. God saw. God provided. He even spoke through Boaz in Ruth 2:12 when Boaz said, “The Lord repay you for what you have done, and a full reward be given you by the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge!”
Even though you may not be appreciated for the work you do day in and day out, remember that God knows. He loves you. He will provide. He will reward you in His time and in His way. My prayer for you is found in Numbers 6:24-26.
“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.”
When you know Jesus, every week is Teacher Appreciation Week!
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