A New School Year

Another school year is upon us, in another week or so teachers will be opening their doors to a brand new class of students.  This time of year fills many of us with conflicting emotions, mostly we are excited about getting a new class of students, excited to teach them new things, excited to work with them to grow emotionally, socially and academically.  But along with this excitement comes worry, a distinct nervousness about whether or not we'll be good enough, will we be able to teach these young people, will we be able to communicate our thoughts in such a way that they will understand and learn what we are trying to teach them, will they even listen to us!  Yes, the job of a teacher is a challenging one, one that is often not appreciated, some students just don't want to learn and some parents don't want to here that their little Johnny or Suzie might require additional assistance or that Tommy or Katie are having difficulties adjusting socially.  And on top of all these concerns comes the realization that with the current economy and most school districts facing budget cuts that our class sizes are certain to increase.  I teach in a private school so I don't really have to worry much about class size or whether I will have enough supplies for all of the students in my class.  My two best friends however teach in public schools, one teaches fourth grade and the other high school math.  They are both facing larger class sizes and the challenge of reaching each child in their care.
Isn't it interesting that Romans 12:7 says "If your gift is serving others, serve them well.  If you are a teacher, teach well." that serving and teaching are mentioned in the same verse.  The two go hand in hand I have never seen a teacher that isn't also a person who serves others.  Daily we are called to serve, daily we are called to teach even on those days when we don't particularly feel like it.  It's our duty and our calling!  We are called to teach responsibly and with integrity.  Two subjects which have been the topic for recent sermons at church.  It's amazing how much what we are called to do as teachers ties in with what we are called to be as Christians.  Serve, teach, be responsible, be people of integrity, be light to those around us, to lead others to Christ, to love others, to help those in need.  What an awesome responsibility! What a wonderful way to serve God by using the talents He has given us.