Lent 2014
March 28, 2014

 Read Scripture: Psalm 23 

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
He makes me lie down in green pastures;
he leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul.
He leads me in right paths for his name’s sake. — Psalm 23:1-3 

“I couldn’t do my homework. We don’t have Internet at home. My mom was out of gas and couldn’t take me to the library.” 

“We’ve gotta move again. I don’t think we will be going to this school anymore.” 

“I don’t have a pencil. Dad said he would get paid Friday. We might be able to get one then.” 

One small five year old boy entered the classroom with the principal who introduced him as a new enrollee. From the moment he walked into that room the entire atmosphere changed. It seemed he could not do or say anything that was not disruptive to the lesson plan or the learning process. The entire school day was centered on him. No one in that kindergarten class was enjoying school. It was a relief when he just stopped coming. 

The toll of challenges facing schools each day adds up. It is crucial that the staff and, yes, the volunteers, take the time each day to refuel spiritually, physically, mentally, and socially in positive ways. The most positive way I know is to turn to our Shepherd for some soul restoration. Building in soul breaks throughout the day may be the best way to take care of oneself when time is precious. Getting some exercise, eating healthier foods, reading a short devotion, or repeating the Jesus Prayer—Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, the sinner—will do wonders to hold off burnout, if we spice them throughout our days.  Try it. 

Prayer: Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, the sinner. Amen.

The identities of students, families, or staff in stories that are shared in the devotions have been altered to protect their privacy. Any similarities between these stories and the experience of others are coincidental. No stories about students, families of students, or staff from Putnam Heights Elementary School are included in any of these devotions.

All scriptures are quoted from the New Revised Standard Version Bible: Anglicized Edition, copyright 1989, 1995, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the United States of American. Used by permission. All rights reserved.