Read: Mark 10:13-16

Reflect: In our community, this week marks the beginning of a new school year for many students. In many households there is a certain energy of eager anticipation: kids look forward to connecting with classmates, teachers are busy readying their classrooms for a new group of students, parents are excited for their children and yet a little sad to admit they are a bit more “grown up”. We all have memories of that first day of kindergarten… or middle school. We recall the adventure of starting high school… or perhaps going off to college.

The story of Jesus as he welcomes and blesses the children is a favorite of mine at any time of year, but especially during the “back to school” season. Over the years our family has been truly blessed by many teachers at all levels of learning who have shared Christ-like welcome, respect, patience, and love with their students. Thank you to all who have responded to God’s call on your lives to offer kindness, inspire curiosity, and share knowledge and understanding of our world and its people!

Prayer: Gracious God, thank you for all who welcome your children of every age as they return to classrooms for another school year! Bless teachers, support staff, bus drivers, and administrators as they work on behalf of complex and wonderfully diverse student populations. Support and encourage parents as they entrust their children into the care of these professionals. Build healthy partnerships within our institutions of learning and across communities. Watch over all our children, to keep them safe and free from fear as they learn and grow in your wonderful world! We pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.