Snow Day Thoughts.

What a glorious morning.

As a little girl snow days consisted of waking up early, putting on every bit of clothing known to man, and sledding down our neighbors massive hill until our pants were wet and fingers were frozen. Sleep did not happen because the excitement of waking up to a winter wonderland was too much to bear.

As a teacher snow days are a gift from God. Sleep is restful because you know you have the entire next day to yourself. Your mind is at ease because you know you won't be needed every second of the day. The pressures of performing well go out the window and all that's left to do is sit with a cup of coffee and gaze out the snow-falling window. Glory.

For me, last week marked the worst week of the 2013-2014 school year. It was a week filled with kicked chairs, pushed tables, and first grade fits of exhausting behavior from a special friend. While the week was horrendous, I was reminded of a powerful truth that will forever be at the forefront of my mind.

When you work so hard each day to be successful and do not see immediate results, it's easy and dangerous to begin to trade your identity in Christ for your identity in your profession. I realized early on last week I was beginning to do this. I put so much pressure on myself to perform well in the classroom, to "fix" every unacceptable behavior, and when this does not happen immediately, my mind transfers this as, "You aren't good enough. You aren't made to be a teacher. Why is this your profession? How could you think you could make an impact on this child?"

Lies. To the one whose name goes unnamed - you are absolutely not welcome to come creep in on my heart. 

"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." (John 10:10)

My profession, as an educator, is absolutely not my identity. Yes, I am a teacher, however that is a small portion of who I am. I am also a roommate, a daughter, a sister, a friend, and a girlfriend. Most importantly, I am a child of GOD.

"How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!" (1John 3:1)

Therefore, when the hour, day, week, month, becomes draining I will cling to the Truth from the One who has overcome the world.

"...you are strong, and the word of God lives in you, and you have overcome the evil one." 

(1John 2:14)

Abba Father. Thank you for weeks that are terrible. It is in moments such as these where You are so quick to remind us of Your Truth, Your Love, and Your favor. Thank you. Thank you for calling me Yours. I will take up my cross and follow You forward.

Amen.