In December of 2020, I was in full-on “nesting mode”. I was nine months pregnant and we were expecting our daughter to make her arrival any day. Her nursery was all decked out – from the stuffed animals to her ever-growing collection of books, she had it all. My husband always said he hoped our daughter would have his athletic abilities and my love for learning. Fast forward a year and her love for books has already surpassed mine when I was a kid (her athletic abilities are still up in the air – she’s only one after all). Her favorite book is Goodnight, Gorilla by Peggy Rathmann, and while I don’t necessarily enjoy reading the same book 14 times in a row, her squeals of excitement when we turn each page warm my heart and excite me about her future.

Becoming a mom for the first time, I have learned I want to be the type of parent who spurs on my child’s interests. I want to be their biggest cheerleader and move every rock out of their path. I want to be delighted in what delights my children. For me, school was a flurry of endless possibilities and I was always excited to share this with my own mom. I often think about the day when it will be my turn to take my little girl to school. I wonder what subject will be her favorite, who will be her friends, and what fun facts she will share at the dinner table. Even though I tell her not to grow up too fast, I can’t wait for her to experience all the fun that school has to offer.

Having worked in the school system for several years, I know the importance of a well-rounded education. I was able to witness, on several occasions, that spark a child has when they finally understand a concept that had once been difficult to comprehend. Children yearn to expand their minds, learn new things, and gain new friends.

Unfortunately, some never get the opportunity to do so. In many areas of the world, the barriers that keep children from the classroom are ever growing. Whether it is distance, a lack of supplies, or not enough teachers, the cons of going to school are stacked up. On top of this, girls, children with disabilities, and those in minority groups often get left out.

These roadblocks are keeping our children from their fullest potential. Who is to say that the child kept from school wouldn’t cure cancer later in life? Or discover a new planet in outer space? Or develop a love for teaching and teach the next generation? The possibilities are endless, IF they are first given the chance to learn.

Small changes are taking place all over the world as more people understand the importance of education for children. I am encouraged when I read stories from our partner churches and see how the hearts and minds of many are being transformed:

Will you pause and take a few minutes to watch and pray along with this prayer video?

Not displaying correctly? Watch the full video here: https://vimeo.com/656505454

Please pray with us…

  • That children around the world would be given equal opportunities, no matter their circumstances, to be educated and reach their fullest potential.
  • That a surplus of food, supplies, and compassionate teachers would be provided so children can focus on learning and expanding their minds.
  • That parents, teachers, and societies would know and understand the importance of children in the eyes of God, and act on this knowledge.

For more ideas to guide your prayers, check out our prayer card or subscribe to our monthly prayer mailings.