"For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others…"
Mark 10:45
When we think of our principals, administrators, assistants, counselors, teachers, aides, school staff and coaches—all those who make education possible—we recognize that they have chosen a path of service. They didn’t merely take jobs; they stepped into the opportunity to make a difference. A calling to invest in the formation of young minds who will one day shape the future of our communities, cities, nations and even the world.
This is sacred work.
Those who choose a career in education often do so because they care deeply. They see the potential in young people. They believe in it. And they desire to help nurture it. They invest their energy, creativity, and patience into shaping lives—sometimes without ever knowing the full impact of what they’ve planted. But those seeds grow. And because of their faithfulness, a better future begins to take shape, one student at a time.
This kind of work—the quiet, consistent work of serving others—reminds us of Jesus. He came not to be served, but to serve. He humbled himself, taking the very nature of a servant, in order to bring life, freedom, and hope to a world in need. Our educators follow in that same spirit when they give of themselves for the sake of others.
Practice: Make this your own
Spend time praying for kids who are students Pre-K through college by name (if you don’t know any school-age kids, ask friends, family, neighbors). Below is a list of things that are true of those who know Jesus. Pray that students would believe these things about themselves and live differently as a result.
Pray This:
Lord, we lift up our principals, administrators, assistants, counselors, teachers, aides, cafeteria and janitorial staff, and coaches—every member of our school staff—those who make education possible.
Encourage them. Remind them that their work matters. That they are seen. That their labor is of great significance in your eyes.
Inspire them with fresh vision. Renew their strength. Give them the courage to continue showing up with love, creativity, and excellence. May they teach with passion, lead with grace, and serve with joy.
And Lord, would you grant them the gift of seeing the fruit of their labor? Even just a glimpse—a conversation, a thank-you, a moment of breakthrough—that reveals how they’ve made a difference in the life of a student. Bless them, Lord. Strengthen them. And let them know they are helping to shape the world—one child at a time. Amen.