Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from Him. – (Psalm 127:3, NIV)
Children are a gift from the Lord, a reward from a mother’s womb. – (Psalm 127:3, ERV)
Don’t you see that children are God’s best gift? The fruit of the womb His generous legacy? – (Psalm 127:3, MSG)
As I use my last day before school officially begins to complete final preparations, I appreciate this reminder in today’s reading. Every child that comes into my classroom is a gift from God. No matter how they come, they will become part of their family and community legacy. How we encourage, challenge, inspire, and educate each child impacts who they become. If they learn that they are capable, they will learn to persevere. When they realize they are valued, they tend to value others. Teaching is no small or easy task, yet how we approach the young people in our class can make all the difference. One of my favorite quotes by Maya Angelou is the epitome of my hope as a teacher: “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” If kids feel seen, known, valued, and cared for as they come into my class, I will accomplish my greatest hope for each student that walks in my classroom. Some days, this is far easier than others, yet every day it is equally important. May we ever seek the Lord to lead us in how we interact with others, so that each person we meet might feel seen, heard, known, and loved.
One of the best gifts,
we can truly give;
is love and kindness,
each day that we live.
If we show value,
to all whom we meet;
tender hearts can grow,
overcome defeat.
May we encourage,
choose listen and learn;
discover great strengths,
overcome concerns.
Lord, help us to see,
beyond what is shown;
grant grace and wisdom,
so each child feels known.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that each child is a gift from You, and that each is a part of their own family’s legacy. Thank You that You call us to recognize, see, and foster growth in all whom we meet. Forgive us for our frustrations that keep us from seeing who You have created each person to become. Teach us to seek You to see through Your eyes, for You know the strength and beauty within. Lead us to love well, every person with whom we interact throughout each day. May many come into a lasting relationship with You. Be glorified O God, as we seek You to show us how to value everyone in such a way that they feel seen, heard, known, and loved. Amen.
© Shannon Elizabeth Grabrick and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present
Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. – Ephesians 4:2
Revelations In Writing 