The sight of the back-to-school supplies section is enough to cue a combination of excitement and anxiety for kids, parents, and teachers counting down to the first day of school. Most of the school districts are now back in the swing of things whether you’ve got a kindergartner, middle-schooler, high-schooler, or college student – this time of year always takes a bit of getting used to once again (even if you’ve done this whole routine before). In addition to the practical preparation for another school year, we find ourselves back in the ongoing debates and pressures surrounding education in America. Students of faith, no matter their age level, combat temptation, apathy, and the will to persevere through their studies leading them to that next chapter of their lives. So how can we prepare our little ones (or older ones) to succeed this year with spiritual readiness? Here’s a few ways:
In the early weeks – I remember my parents, Sunday School teachers, and leaders in the church explaining to me, “God has called you to do incredible things, and right now, what he called you to do is do well in school. He wants to open up your mind, to prepare you, equip you for the assignments he has for you. So how you spend your time at school – it’s worship… it’s an opportunity to invite the Lord into how you spend that time.” There was discipleship that happened. Instead of having a negative view about taking a test or taking notes, I felt like, “Wow, the Lord blessed my note-taking today!”
In our outlook – If we change the mindset from “we go to school to prepare for college” to “we go to school because we love learning, and it’s an opportunity to glorify God through our minds,” that’s a game-changer! Reread Romans 12:2 and you’ll see how important it is to “renew our minds”! Schools (no matter the age level) make us better, more critical thinkers. They allow us to think differently about other ethnicities, cultures, and worldviews. We must value education because our Christian voice needs to be around fireside chats, in academics, and with intellectuals.
In our balance of School, Home, Church, Sports, Work, etc. – It’s been said, “You can have it all, but you can’t have it all at once.” News flash – your life isn’t just about your children! There’s a call on our lives to communicate the word of God, to build the local church, to participate in leadership. We as a church family have a mission to serve this community and build the local church. But our world should not revolved around our kids 24/7 activities. Where do you draw the line and say no? Are Sundays sacred or is your kids activity? Should they do sports, music, and be a church leader? No matter what, how busy the kids are, come hell or high water… always have sacred moments of prayer together. That provides a sense of balance and a foundation upon our activities across all levels.
In Faith and the Classroom – Growing up in public schools, my parents had an open communication with my teachers and me. They did it in a respectful, truthful way. But there’s no avoiding those “BIG” topics: evolution, abortion, sexual identity, politics, etc. They are a part of the curriculum – but that doesn’t mean that you as parents can’t be involved in your child’s education. Don’t make it a war of “us vs. them” or “right vs. wrong”. Do it in a way that’s not putting down the whole system and let it be heard differently. Christian leaders suggest when talking to teachers/professors to use the “sandwich approach”: Encourage the person you’re speaking with, provide that concern of what you’d like to be tailored, and end with an encouragement of some kind.
Events in September:
- Choir Practice Begins (Sept 12) – Junior and Senior Choir are back again for this fall season as they each prepare for the Christmas Cantata. Junior Choir (Children and Youth) begins at 6:30PM and the Senior Choir (Adults) starts at 7PM. Come along and join us!
Bible Study (Wednesdays starting Sept 13 @ 7PM) – Each week join Pastor David as we spend time together in prayer and study through the word of God. Previously we’ve done Proverbs, Elijah, John’s New Testament Letters, and Spiritual Warfare. Beginning September 13th beginning at 7PM we will begin a 16 session study on the book of Romans. The book of Romans is widely regarded as one of the most influential writings of all time. The foundation document of Paul’s theology, Romans shaped the teachings of influential leaders such as Augustine, Luther, Bunyan, and Wesley – and continues to change million of lives today. Our study will explore this beloved book of scripture that calls us to transformed living showing us how to put our beliefs into practice. - The 2nd Annual California Church Open (Sept 24th) – Making its second annual appearance, be sure to get your practice swings in and golf shoes shinned as we head over to New Holland Pitch-n-Putt Golf Course located at the New Holland Community Memorial Park in the 400 block of East Jackson Street, New Holland. Be sure to mark your calendars, practice that golf swing, and we’ll see you on the greens! (Check out that picture of some of last years competitors!)
Upcoming Events:
- Communion (Oct 1st) – Worship through coming to the table of God. Be sure to be a part of our special time of Communion remembering the Last Supper and its impact on our daily lives. Christ’s body was broken for you – Do this in Remembrance of Him.
- Grand-pal Luncheon (Oct 15th) – As our students head back to school during this time of year, they are connected with an adult in the church who connects with them and continually prays for the success, growth, and spiritual maturity. If you or your family would like to be involved or want to signup for this luncheon, be sure to stop in and you’ll find all the info you need on the bulletin board.
- Harvest Party (Date TBA) – Each year during the fall, families gather for a fun night together here at the church for games, great food, and even a hay ride! So be sure to check back soon for a date and time.
Don’t forget to stay in touch here on our website as well as at our church! Feel free to COMMENT and SHARE with your friends on social media and we look forward to seeing you at California EC Church this month!
Did you miss out on a new a post or missed a Sunday and want to hear the message? Be sure to check back for more Monthly Snapshots (always on the 1st of the month), “The Gospel According to…” reviews, recorded sermons, and lots of other great things here on our church blog and website!
Leave a Reply