But seek first the kingdom [of God] and his righteousness,
and all these things will be given you besides.” – Matthew 6:33
Though still in the core of summer heat, this time of year signals the end of summer. School demands will begin for families around the country. Personally, I have been steeped in homeschool lesson planning and wrapping up my children’s summer sports and camps. My computer is cluttered with open website tabs in an attempt to decide which larger-sized kids clothes I should buy this tax-free weekend. But something is stirring in my heart…not just a start of a new school year but a calling through God’s eyes to seek anew.
This season like many of the liturgical seasons is another chance for a fresh new start. A chance to seek new priorities, adjust schedules, and explore new ideas.
What does God really want new for you this year?
I know that I must seek first God’s wisdom and plans for my family and my children’s education. I have been praying daily about it. God has slowly been revealing some aspects. His grace has given me permission to let go of some unnecessary expectations I had placed on myself and my family schedule, as well as revealing to me what has been lacking.
I encourage you to set aside time to spend prayer time with God seeking His will for your family under these possible considerations:
- Schedule – Is there something you need to get rid of in your family’s lives, such as schedule demands that are draining you of life and energy or taking you away from focusing on God?
- Faith – Is there something new that you should add to enrich your discipling such as reading the Bible more, setting up a dedicated prayer time, committing to Sunday Mass, attending Youth Faith Formation/CCE or Adult Faith Formation opportunities, etc.?
- Family – Are there things that God wants you to teach your children to do better at home, such as how to forgive, how to communicate with love, how to do important parts of family life (cooking, cleaning, laundry) to increase their essential life skills and alleviate parental demands?
Only God and you know what your family needs. Please remember that God does not expect perfection but rather faithfully seeking Him first above all else. Maybe at this time, you are called to only tackle one area of the possible considerations from above. Allow God to reveal in His time when it is time for another area to make anew.
Whatever you hear in prayer will be richly blessed because you sought God’s guidance. God faithfully showers His love, graces, and blessings on you. God is always on your side; and, with His guiding hand, you will make it through the start of this new school year with renewed strength!
I invite you to pray this prayer for your children as they begin a new school year:
“Lord, Our God, in your wisdom and love you surround us with the mysteries of the universe. Send your spirit upon these students and fill them with your wisdom and blessings. Grant that they may devote themselves to their studies and draw ever closer to You, the source of all knowledge. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.” (Prayers)
Lastly, let us pray for their teachers as well to be guided by God’s will and love:
“Lord God, your spirit of wisdom fills the earth and teaches us in your ways. Look upon these teachers. Let them strive to share their knowledge with gentle patience and endeavor always to bring the truth to eager minds. Grant that we may follow Jesus Christ, the Way, the Truth, and the Life, forever and ever.” Amen” (Prayers)
May you and your children have a blessed and fruitful school year!
References:
Prayers quote retrieved from https://www.catholiccompany.com/magazine/prayers-for-children-new-school-year-6116
Author: Laura Stephens, FF Sacrament Preparation Catechist
