No Student Left Behind

Growing Daily

No Student Left Behind

The beginning of another school year reminds me of when our daughter started 8th grade.  The school suggested she skip Pre-Algebra and take Algebra I.  It felt risky.  She was by no means a math prodigy, and we worried she couldn’t make the leap.

But her teacher was confident, saying, "I understand her situation.  If she comes to class and does the homework, I'll make sure she learns what she needs.”

I was surprised and a little doubtful.  It sounded like the teacher was taking on all the responsibility.  All Callie had to do was show up willing to learn?

It reminds me of Jesus' promise to transform us.  We cannot produce Christlikeness on our own.  But each day that we sit down in front of the Teacher, He fills in the gaps in our understanding, slowly renewing our minds (Romans 12:2).  Our responsibility is to remain connected.  His responsibility is to produce the fruit (John 15:4-5).

That year Callie showed up.  She did the homework, asked questions, and stopped in for extra help.  But it wasn’t through grit and determination alone that she mastered algebra.  Rather, she put herself in a position where her teacher could teach her—and she finished the year with an A.

Today, as you once again put yourself in the hands of the Teacher, be encouraged. You can be “certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work…” (Philippians 1:6).


- Catherine Reid