30 Days of Prayer: Space and Grace

“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9

We had been quarantined for about two weeks when our family had a much-needed dinnertime conversation. Each of us at some point had experienced times when emotions were raw and more tears were being shed than usual. As we talked, we were able to identify why we were feeling the way we were. The kids were learning how to do school remotely while missing their friends and teachers, and Joe and I were trying to figure out how to work from home while helping our kids stay on track with their school work. As a teacher myself, I felt the burden to connect with my own students in a way that was completely new to me.

For parents and teachers, adjusting to our new norms is a hard task. As Joe and I sat discussing things, the words “space” and “grace” came to mind. I reminded the kids that during these unusual times we may need to give one another space. We are together far more than we usually are. But perhaps more importantly we need to give one another, and ourselves, grace.

Teachers, parents and kids are all missing the comforts of our old routines during these challenging times. The good news is that God’s grace is sufficient for us and He is able to use the struggles we are going through today to make His work in us more evident!

Prayer:

Father, help teachers, parents, and kids to recognize our need for space and grace. May we be gracious to others and to ourselves as we navigate through new norms and lots of emotions, and may we identify ways to make space for you to speak Truth into our lives. Please give us all strength to persevere, knowing that you are doing a good work in and through us.

For Reflection:

• “Working, parenting, and teaching are three different jobs that cannot be done at the same time. It’s not hard because you are doing it wrong. It’s hard because it’s too much. Do the best you can.” Emily W. King, Ph.D

By Jen Wright