a packed house

"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds." Hebrews 10:24

This week all the educators in our building found themselves with a packed schoolhouse... and i'm not referring to our students.  A local business gifted all with a box filled with a variety of teaching essentials.  Smiles and even giggles flowed from every doorway of our school over the unexpected care package.  It was a sweet reminder of how acts of kindness create goodwill, inspiration and pure JOY. 

Through my years at school, i've been the recipient of many random acts of kindness.  Whether a handmade card, tasty treat, helping hand, sincere "thank you", cute pen, hug, big smile or a packed schoolhouse... whether from family, a student, parent, coworker, friend or complete stranger... each act contains the power to spur us on in our endeavors and keep the faith. Thank you, DG, and the countless others who support us in loving and educating our most valuable gems... our children.

 

Father, thank you for the hands and hearts of those who surround us and lift us up with gratitude.  May i not neglect to pass on this gift of active thanks to the many who serve me.  It's what you created us to do.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal 

proper care

"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Where you lead, they will follow.
How you lead, they will learn.
Why you lead, they will know, grow and prosper.

As you labor in love, you are right where God wants you and needs you.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

classroom rules

 "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you." Psalm 32:8

As a teacher, what do you expect from your class?

1.  Pay attention; listen when the teacher is talking.
2.  Be prepared; read your lessons and do your homework daily.
3.  Apply what you learn to your work.
4.  Follow the teacher's directions.
5.  And, if you need help, ask the teacher.

Would you agree that those expectations are building blocks for the success of the student? To help them get the most out of their studies? And, to reap benefits now and in the future?

We, also, are students and are under the watchful, loving eyes of the greatest Teacher of all... our Father.  Since we are in the classroom-of-life for Christ, may we follow the same guidelines.  He has the desire and ability to equip us with wisdom, discernment, power and peace.  Let us listen to Him, read His Word, do as He instructs, and pray... in times of need and praise.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it, 

veneal

it's showing

"Let all that you do be done in love."  1 Corinthians 16:14

When you do what you love and love what you do, it shows.

God's love overflows from you.  It boomerangs off you in a world marred with hurt, rejection, loneliness and doubt with the Power-from-Above to make a difference.    

EnJOY your weekend.  You've had a productive week in His eyes.

you are loved and chosen by God,

may you live, love and do like you believe it,

veneal

jitter bug cures

 "He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart..." Isaiah 40:11

Teachers are known for teaching, correcting and putting out fires; but i think one of their most admirable and effective qualities is hugging with words and arms.

A sure cure for jitter bugs first days and hard days... big hugs!

When we love like God, we hug like God.

we are loved and chosen AND hugged by God,
may we live, love and hug like we believe it,
veneal

lead with love

 "Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock." 1 Peter 5:2-3

When we lead by example and with a servant's heart, the flock is properly led, empowered and prepared.  Remember the dreams that ignited your fire to teach so you may inspire others to discover their dreams.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live, love and do like we believe it,
veneal

time for a fresh start

"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! " Isaiah 43:18-19

If last year was filled with hardships and struggles, God has Good News to share.  What lies ahead is a new year, new opportunities, new friends, new material, new start, new growth.

The time for putting behind the past and moving forward with a renewing of mind, soul and spirit is now. Praying for Him to lead us into this new year with His Wisdom, Peace, Strength, Joy and Truth.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live, love and do like we believe it,
veneal

cross thoughts

"In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before You and wait in expectation." Psalm 5:3

The first days of school are over, but hopefully not your excitement.  Keep the thrill and joy of the new school year in your heart by connecting with our Father every morning.

  

With God at the top of your lesson plan, these cross thoughts will aid in strengthening your focus, direction and JOY for a glory-filled day.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live like we believe it,
veneal

my lucky day!

"For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." Ephesians 2:10

The first full week of school is almost complete.  And judging by all the smiles and chatter throughout the school, it's apparent students are very happy to be back. They love being back with friends, and they love their new teacher.  It's fair to say, when they entered your classroom, they felt it was their lucky day!

The year is off to a wonderful start.  I am so thankful we have an unshakeable lead Teacher to lean on during good times and during hiccups.

EnJOY your weekend, friends.  Your faithfulness to God shows. You are an answer to many prayers. 

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

you are needed

"...Jesus said, 'Feed my lambs.'"  John 21:15

It's what we have been called to do.

May we feed all our children/students with love, understanding, compassion, patience, kindness and truth.  And with God by our side, we can.  Thank You, Father.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

The Voice

 "Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." Colossians 4:6

The lamination machine at school has been on a roll  -- literally.  Teachers dropped off many items they wanted preserved and protected all year, such as name tags, rules and procedures to our workroom.  During this time, i got to see many important points made in creative ways. One thing for sure, it's never too early to implement expected and accepted  rules for the year.

Sometimes the simplest and best rules are the most important... not just for today or the year, but for life.

May THE VOICE of reason and kindness be yours.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

all A’s!

“Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord..." Acts 3:19 

There is nothing much better than the first days of school.  Everyone gets to start with a clean slate... no strikes, no demerits, no detention, no zeros.  From grades to behavior, everyone has all A's.  No wonder the halls are full of smiles and good cheer! It's a wonderful opportunity and start for all, no matter the past. 

When we ask for forgiveness and approach the throne of grace, we have that same wonderful opportunity.  Our Father wipes away all the failures, shortcomings and sins in our lives and remembers them no more.  We are then able to serve Him in A+ style.  In need of a new start and refreshment in your life?  There is no better day than today... the "A" is yours merely for the asking!

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal

it’s here!

 "This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." Psalm 118:24

First day with students. Relax... 
With God, you've got this!  Smile and enJOY!!

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,
veneal

'twas the night before school

"I will give you as a light to the nations, which my salvation may reach to the end of the earth." Isaiah 49:6

‘Twas the night before school and all thru the town,

Children were filled with delight and couldn’t settle down.

Their book bags by the door were packed with care,

Knowing a new school year was almost there.

The children were giggling and tossing in bed,

While visions of super teachers danced in their heads.

Now, across the way, teachers were finally at rest,

They had busily prepared for "day one" - to their very best.

Then out came the sun, shining so bright.

The teachers feared they'd overslept the night!

With a deep breath they grabbed their glasses and peered at the clock,

Alas! there was plenty of time before the school doors were unlocked.

Arriving early for a final check of the room before the bell at a quarter to 8, 

The teachers breathed easily for their classrooms looked great.

The books and supplies were stacked neatly on shiny, clean desks,

The chairs were in perfect order… there was absolutely no mess.

Soon the bell rang, and one-by-one the children eagerly came;

What sweet music to their ears as the teacher called them by name.

Hello Ben, Hi there Emma, Louise and Jada,

Welcome to our class Anna, Tommy and MaKayla!

Come on in Craig, Rashaad and you too, Donna Sue! 

Oh, my! Look at my list, what a wonderful crew!

Now find your seats quickly, the teacher said with a grin,

And she explained classroom instructions so everyone could win.

Her knowledge was vast and she made learning a ball,  

What the teacher had to offer was her gift for all.

The children drooled over the information she shared;

Whether they learned quickly or not, they knew she truly cared.

The teacher lovingly taught all because she truly believed,

Each child deserved her best…and she wanted to meet their needs.

At the end of the day, students and teachers skipped away,

Both feeling happy and relieved it had been such a great day.

And I heard the students exclaim as they rode out of sight,

My teacher is great!! this year is going to be just right!

Yes, my friends, you teachers have the power,

To serve the Lord, our Father and Teacher, each and every hour.

So to Him give your best in all that you do,

And you will make a difference in others, perhaps for an eternity too!

Shine my sisters and brothers, light up your classroom and world!

It's the beginning of a fabulous school year!  And it all starts with wonderful you!

May we trust God to provide the strength, wisdom, courage and protection needed for each day.

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it!

veneal

puttin' on the shine

 "...let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:16

It almost called for sunshades...

On my first day back at school, i was immediately WOWed by the beautiful floors. While i enjoyed the summer, our custodial team buffed, polished and worked tirelessly putting our building in spit 'n shine shape.  Their effort and dedication clearly glowed in every corner of our building.

Father, as we prepare for the return of students next week, i pray they find Your Light shining through us.  Brush off my weaknesses, erase my impatience, polish me with kindness and fill me with JOY  while i  shine with Your endless love.  It's a new year, and time to put on the shine and "Son"shades.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live, love and do like we believe it!
veneal

crossroads

 "The LORD said: Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, and ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls." Jeremiah 6:16

Visiting a new place, i soon got lost with all the unfamiliar turns and twists before me.  My anxiety increased with each minute going down strange roads. With much relief, i soon looked up and read street signs i recognized as the way leading back to where i needed to be.

Father, i am so grateful to know that no matter where i am or what i am dealing with, You are by my side.  Uncertainties are not as unraveling when we rely on You. As we seek Your direction, peace and wisdom follow. You are the safe corner in my world.  Thank You.

we are loved and chosen by God,
may we live, love and do like we believe it,
veneal

what happened?

"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." Hebrews 13:8

"Enjoy your summer!"

"You too! I can't wait to put my feet up and rest!"

Wasn't this conversation just last week??  Or so it seems.  Two blinks later, and it's time for "Welcome Back to School!"

Summer, again, has slipped through my toes.  It was not the relaxing, feet up, iced tea sipping summer i planned, but rather a whirlwind of doings, comings and goings... some expected and some not.  Honestly though, i am ready for summer to end.  I need a break from this so-called vacation. Do you know what i mean?

There is something good to be said about a routine.  Knowing what to expect each day cultivates a sense of security, comfort and peace.  Nowhere is this Truth better demonstrated than with our Father.  On Him we can expect the same unconditional love, grace and mercy every day.  He never waivers or reneges or forgets His promises to us. In an every changing world and day, we can depend on God to be the steady constant in our life.

So, Welcome Back, Friends! With God as our Anchor, we have a wonderful year ahead of us!

we are loved and chosen by God,

may we live, love and do like we believe it,

veneal