In honor of National Teacher Appreciation Week, we wanted to share an “Educator” version of 1 Corinthians 13:1–8. This section of Scripture is known by many as the Love Chapter. The educators across the Michigan District share the love of Jesus with their students every day, and we are eternally grateful for their ministry.
THANK YOU, teachers! May these adapted verses provide a little nugget of encouragement as you continue to be a blessing in the lives of students and families.
If I speak so that all my students can understand the lesson, but do not have love, I am only a relentless notification or an obnoxious ringtone.
If I have the gift of teaching and knowledge on every subject imaginable, and if I have a faith that can move any obstacle during the school day, but do not have love, I am nothing.
If I spend all I have on Amazon buying things for my classroom and brag about being able to eat my lunch in three minutes, but do not have love, I gain nothing.
Love is patient with the second grader who left their boots at home for the third time this week.
Love is kind to the teenager who rolled their eyes when reminded about their late assignment.
It does not envy your colleague walking to their car with zero papers to grade.
It does not boast about having an extra hour of prep time today at the staff lunch table.
It is not proud of their new ‘recess coat’ that can withstand -35 degrees wind chill.
It does not dishonor others by talking with staff members about their favorite principal, who still hasn’t responded to their email from last week.
It is not self-seeking but instead offers to cover the car line for a colleague who needs to leave early for an appointment.
It is not easily angered when the staff meeting goes slightly longer than expected.
It keeps no record of wrongs, even if you have been the one to refill the copy machine the last twelve times.
Love does not delight in the parking lot gossip but rejoices when parents speak the truth in love with one another.
It always protects the student struggling with challenges at home.
Always trusts that the Good Lord works for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.
Always hopes on the promises of His Word.
Always perseveres because the students in their classroom need their best every day.
Love never fails the educators who keep their eyes fixed on Jesus!
The LCMS Set Apart to Serve has designated three different dates throughout this year to honor different church worker roles:
April 28 – Director of Parish Music
May 5–9 – Teacher Appreciation Week
June 26 – Director of Christian Education
Photo © Hannah Merritt
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