Teaching is a profession where individuals continually return to school to enhance their skills and knowledge, striving to be the best they can be. This commitment reflects true passion, whether we openly acknowledge it or not. When passion is present, educators become a guiding light in the lives of others. As believers, we are called to be that light in the darkness. However, with so many shining lights in the educational field, why do we still encounter confusion and chaos in our schools and systems?
A Journey to Genesis 1:14-19
Let's explore Genesis 1:14-19. This chapter provides a detailed account of God's creation of the heavens and the Earth, highlighting His precision in executing His plan. It tells us that God approved everything He created, indicating that His systems were without error. Even when something was good, He established another layer to ensure perfection. This brings us to verses 14-19, where God created two great lights in the sky the sun and the moon to separate day from night. These lights serve as signs to mark sacred times, while the stars were created to oversee both day and night.
Isn't it amazing how the word of God speaks to every aspect of our lives? Verses 14 through 19 serve as a powerful metaphor for educators. We are all lights in this field, but what kind of light are you? God created the sun and the moon to illuminate the Earth, with one being more powerful than the other.
The Sun, the Moon, and the Stars
Let’s start with the sun. It provides warmth and light, making it the most joyful part of the day for many people, plants, and animals. However, as Earth orbits around it, the sun must fight to maintain its presence, illuminating only what is directly in front of it.
Next, we have the moon. While it also emits light, its visibility is less consistent and powerful than that of the sun, often referred to as the lesser light. Yet, it still shines.
Lastly, consider the stars. Many people don’t realize that stars are present throughout the day, contributing to daylight. They may be quiet during the day but become prominent in the darkness, shining brightly.
Reflecting on Your Role
Now that we understand the differences between these types of lights, I invite you to reflect on your role in your school. Are you the sun, focusing solely on those immediately around you while distancing yourself from coworkers, students, or the community? Are you the moon, revealing different phases of yourself based on your mood? Or are you a star, shining consistently throughout the day to help others, especially when darkness falls?
Hopefully, you identify as a star! If you haven’t been in the past, it's never too late to start shining, as stars never turn off their light and don’t lose their energy. As 1 Corinthians 15:58 states, “Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for Your word and its power to challenge me in every aspect of my life. As I begin a new school year, guide me to become a STAR not in the way the world defines it, but as You created me to be. Protect me as I enter this year and help me to avoid behaviors associated with sunlight and moonlight. Convict me during those moments, and grant me the grace to make adjustments, allowing me to see the positive changes that result from them. In Jesus name, Amen!