In the hustle and bustle of each school day, it’s easy to get caught up in the demands of lesson planning, writing and grading assessments, completing paperwork, making phone calls, checking emails, and the myriad of tasks that come with shaping and developing the next generation. But I want to take a moment and reflect on some things that Paul has to say about the work we do and the life we live.

In the third chapter of Colossians, Paul offers a rich exhortation about the transformative power of Christ in the lives of believers. He urges them to set their minds on heavenly things, to live their lives in a manner consistent with their new identity in Jesus, and to embody Christ-like virtues in their relationships and daily life.

These verses remind us that our work is not merely a service to our school, our students, their parents, or our community; it is a service unto the Lord Himself. Every spoken word, every act of encouragement, every deed done can be an offering to Jesus. We should continually give thanks to God, through Christ Jesus, for every opportunity we’re given to be His witness, to shine His light, and to speak truth to those in our daily circles, whether students or coworkers.

In your classroom, as you stand before your students, imagine you are standing in front of Jesus Himself. Imagine He is sitting in one of the seats in your classroom or sitting with you in your office. Can you imagine your classroom or your office as a sanctuary and the teaching and hard work that you do are an offering to Him?

Personally, this imagery has made an incredible impact on my own classroom presence, keeping me mindful of how I view, interact, and speak with my students. While I’m far from perfect, my perspective is softened and more focused so I can view my students and coworkers with a Christ-like vision, with love and compassion, while maintaining high standards and excellence. My actions are driven by a daily desire to enrich each student’s experience in my classroom, guiding their learning and growth, instead of being driven by wavering emotions which tend to change from period to period based on circumstances. My words are chosen more carefully and my messages crafted meticulously so I communicate kindly and more effectively in each situation.

As a teacher, as a paraprofessional, or as an office worker, whatever you do in your school is an act of worship; with all your heart, be devoted to the task at hand. The love, care, and dedication you pour into your work and your students are not in vain; they are seen and treasured by the One who called you to your profession.

I encourage you to stand firm and give yourself fully to the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain. In the challenges, in the victories, and in the everyday moments of our profession, there is purpose and there is eternal significance.

I know it’s easy to be swayed by the opinions of others, the pressures of expectations, and the challenges of the education system; however, when we shift our perspective to see our work as a direct service to Christ, a profound transformation occurs. Suddenly, the mundane becomes sacred, the routine becomes purposeful, and the challenges become opportunities for growth. Your work is not in vain. The impact that you are making in your students’ lives extends well beyond the classroom and into eternity.

I encourage you to embrace each moment with a heart full of worship. Approach your work not as a duty or a paycheck, but as a divine calling.