Today’s word for the Lenten picture of the day and devotional is fear.

As I went about my day today, I had fear in the back of my mind. What am I afraid of? Spiders, heights, small spaces, public speaking, failure, death of my loved ones, not being enough, … the list goes on. But, as my list went on, I found myself getting deeper and deeper into what I truly am afraid of.

Then, my list turned to my kids. I am afraid for them. I am afraid of something happening to them. I am afraid of them being picked on. I am afraid to see them hurting. I am afraid I can’t always protect them. I am afraid.

As I let myself wallow in my thoughts, I started thinking, man, what am I not afraid of?! I am a mom. I am a teacher. I worry all day long!

But, as I thought about being a teacher, I was reminded of a saying I have always found strength, peace, and comfort in. “When you are going through hard times, and wonder where God is, remember the teacher is always quiet during the test.”

So, my photo today to reflect my thoughts on fear is this…

This photo represents many things for me…. Where I find solace….The fact that God is our teacher and is quiet during our tests, but also all that I fear as a teacher and a mom in our society. School Shootings. Violence. Texting and driving. Losing kids is a strong fear I have. My kids. My students. Kids. I am afraid that our society is missing out on a critical part – protecting our kids. That scares me to my core.

PRAYER today is: Holy Lord, in the midst of my fear, open my ears so that I may hear where you are calling me to go and empower me with the gifts to live out this calling. In your name, I pray. Amen