Dear God,

“Remember, tomorrow’s school.”

It’s been a while since we’ve had to say that.

And honestly, I think both kids are parents are excited.

So before the folders and lunches and sports and schedules, a few words upward. To you.

Please…

Keep our children safe.

May their classes and schools and communities be places of peace. Free from violence and headlines. Where evil things are confused and kindness is caught and embraced.

Hold them as we let go. Protect them when we can’t. If they’re scared, calm their hearts. May the necessary drills be unused.

Their bodies, their minds. All of them. Daily. Safe.

Please.

Keep our children healthy.

We’ve said this one before, remember? In 2020 and every year since? Help their bodies to stay strong.

As they play and eat and ride and learn, keep them whole. If sickness comes, let it leave quickly.

If they’re older, help them view their worth as more than their weight, wardrobe, or likes.

Help us and others help them to like themselves.

Physically and mentally, may our kids be well.

Help our children learn.

You gave them to us. So you know how they work. Give wisdom to their teachers to understand this, too.

Unlock their learning.

Please, grow their confidence. Encourage them when they’re stuck.

And help them believe they can.

Grant insight and clear thinking. Courage and confidence. Progress and improvement, at their pace.

Thanks in advance for all of them. For them.

As parents, we can’t forecast the future. But we can believe someone’s there already. We’re trusting that’s you.

So as they walk through a new door tomorrow, walk with them.

Love through them.

Show them the way.

And grip them good.

Thank you.

Amen.