b'Providing Hope A Prayer for the New School YearAs we move forward, our students are bound to carry theirby Julie Micklerfears and anxiety from the past months with them. We need to be a voice of hope at every turn. This does not mean being overly optimistic or Polyanna-ish. Rather, weCreator God,must provide the hope that is so central to our faithhope that death and fear are conquered by love and that deathWe ask you to bless each of us as we continueto make sense of is overcome in the Resurrection. Many Bible verses andour experiences of beingawayfromschool, church, and one another.stories speak of hope (a quick online search will providePlease give us the wisdomtocontinueto grow from these experiences. many) and can be used in group prayer and shared with children and parents virtually. There are also many age- Let us give thanks for all those whosacrificed so much for the wellness appropriate stories that speak of suffering and hope (suchof others.as the caterpillar becoming the butterfly) that we can incorporate into our educational materials.Let us pray for those who suffered and died during this pandemic.This year has undoubtedly been a time of significant traumaLet us lift up those in our communities, nation, and world who gave us hope.for all of us. As we slowly return to our previous patterns and seek to establish new ones, we will quickly realize thatLet us remember we are a global family, united in love.we need to embrace a new normal. Children will likely struggle, but by being intentional, we can guide them to aBless each of us with your gracious love. May we never new reality that is realistic and, ultimately, to a good place.take for granted the blessing of being together.Amen.36 Inspire! Summer 2021 smp.org800.533.8095 37'