Because You Are Strong

I write to you, dear children,
because you know the Father.
I write to you, fathers,
because you know him who is from the beginning.
I write to you, young men,
because you are strong,
and the word of God lives in you,
and you have overcome the evil one.
(1 John 2:14, NIV)

Here, where I live, we are one week away from the first day of school.  This time of year usually comes with a unique mix of emotions.  For many it is both dread and excitement as the carefree days of summer disappear for the structure of daily studies and reunion with friends.  Undoubtedly, this year carries with it an additional set of fears, frustration, and disappointment all before school has even begun.  Students are beginning the year knowing that this year will likely be all the work (plus some more) without the relationships that encourage them.  No funny faces will be made across the classroom when the teacher turns her back.  No notes will be passed in hallways between classes.  And parents will always be close by even though students are "in class."  The patterns that have been developed and mastered over the last five, ten, or twelve years are meaningless.

We have a simple rule for school success in our home: Every class. Every page. Every assignment.

It is hard.  There are many distractions, many things that bring more immediate joy, and many things that are easier. It doesn't always feel like it, and actions may not always reflect this truth, but YOU ARE STRONG. Despite the uncertainty faced by students, teachers, and parents, God is here.  He will remain here.  And unlike those in our classes, He is not with us remotely; THE WORD OF GOD LIVES IN YOU. May you face each day with this knowledge and live accordingly, so that when it is done we will see and know that YOU HAVE OVERCOME THE EVIL ONE.  Amen.