To say this past spring and summer have required a lot of grace would be an understatement. The rise of COVID-19 led to a worldwide pandemic, keeping most of the experts guessing about the best course of action. Contradictory information and controversial decisions forced us to show grace to our government and medical leaders guiding us through this stressful situation. 

Then, in the midst of fear for our health and the health of our most vulnerable friends, family, and students, we were tasked with educating our students using online tools, many of which we were forced to learn in days.

And we did it. We overcame the obstacles. I heard countless stories of educators visiting students, dropping off care packages, passing out food, and participating in parades for students. Even still, none of us performed perfectly. We had to extend grace to our school administrators, other educators, our students, their parents, and even ourselves. 

But, even after the school year ended, we realized that this COVID-19 ordeal was not over. We spent most of our summer in limbo. Some of us worried about making it through yet another pandemic-ridden school year.

And, again, we did it. We made it through the summer. We prepped for the unknown, trained in online platforms, and rested in order to recharge for this next school year. 

As this new school year begins, some of us still feel unsure about how this school year will unfold. Some don’t agree with the plans already rolled out. Some may not be excited about working with our bosses or our assignments and duties this school year. Some worry that our own health will be at risk. 

Since so much of this is out of our control, what can Christian educators do?

Through the power of His Spirit, we can show grace in each of our interactions during this time, and, in turn, glorify God.

Paul and Peter say it this way: 

“Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace” (Colossians 4:5-6, NIV).

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms . . . If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 4:10-11).