Monday, August 27, 2007

A Special Day

For many people, today begins a new school year. It has been a while since Beverly has been in the classroom -- or since I have had to drop off kids for school. Yet, I still think that the beginning of the school year is more like New Year's than January 1st. It is truly a time of new beginnings -- holding new possibilities.

It is also an emotional time for many. Parents taking their children to school for the very 1st time. My daughter was telling us at lunch the other day that she doesn't understand parents saying they can't wait for school to start so they can get the kids out of the house. She said she has enjoyed her daughter (my granddaughter) so much this summer that she was not anxious for today at all. I still can't believe that my granddaughter is in 2nd grade!

I'm praying today for students, teachers and parents. My prayer is that they will have a special year this year. But my prayer is also that those who are Christians will wear the name well. What great opportunities to be the hands and feet and voice of Jesus in this world!
____________________

Today is also my father-in-law's birthday. Today he turns 80! I have learned so much from Mr. Jones. His devotion to God. His love for his family. His almost obsession with being a man of integrity. If he says he will do something, you don't need a contract. He will keep his word -- even if it hurts. And I have also learned a lot about forgiveness by watching the way he interacts with people who have done him wrong.

He would not have a clue how to find a blog, so he will never read this. But I still want to say Happy Birthday!

3 comments:

Bev Ross said...

I consider the first day of school to be a new beginning in a variety of ways. I love this time of year! and, Happy Birthday, Dad!

Anonymous said...

Your in-laws sit right behind Linda and I on Sunday mornings and never fail to have a smile and cheery word. What a blessing it is to have them here to worship with us.

Melanie said...

I dread the start of school and the time I'll miss with Ashlyn. Happy Birtday Papa!