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“Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ.” 1 Corinthians 12:12

There is nothing like a case of food poisoning for the Lord to make clear His command to “Be Still” and/or “Rest”. Typically, my immune system is remarkably resilient, thanks to my constant exposure to children. However, last Saturday, my healthy streak came to an abrupt end. I was completely down for the count, spending most of the day sleeping as my body worked to recover.  

The television became my constant companion, and, somehow, the channel that remained on throughout the day was broadcasting the Little League World Series. Throughout the day, I watched an inning here and an inning there as I kept drifting to sleep and waking again. However, it became rather confusing at times, especially when I would wake up to discover that the uniforms had changed, leaving me to figure out which new teams were playing and what I had missed.

Yet, one thing I noticed again and again was the impressive and touching collection of commercials emphasizing the importance of “teamwork.” This year’s Little League campaign, “One Team. One Little League.,” is built around the powerful ideas of teamwork, unity, and togetherness.

The commercials emphasized that a great team doesn't happen by accident. Players practice together. Coaches teach and encourage. Parents support from the stands. Teammates learn to trust one another. And when everyone understands that they are working toward the same goal, something special happens.

And it got me thinking; the same is true of our children's education at St. Matthew!

Our children need a team—and that team is home, school, and God working together for the same goal of raising and equipping students “who grow deeper in their relationship with Jesus through strong academics, discipleship, and sharing His love with others." (St. Matthew Lutheran School Mission Statement)

When home, school and the Lord work together, our children receive a consistent message: You are loved. You are forgiven. You are capable. You are responsible. And most importantly, you’re a child of the almighty God.

The goal of St. Matthew Lutheran School is not merely to produce successful students. We want to help raise children who know Christ, love others, seek truth, demonstrate character, and understand that their gifts are ultimately gifts from God and are to be used for His glory.

As parents and educators, we may sometimes see things differently. We may have different perspectives, expectations, and experiences. However, we need to remember that we are on the same team working towards the same goal, and if conflict should arise, it is the Lord’s heart for us to work together towards seeking a Godly resolution.

This weekend, there were some amazing plays that occurred during the Little League World Series. There were also some significant challenges, especially when the winning team had a 12 year old pitcher that could throw the ball at 77 MPH!

In the same sense, I confident that this school year will have some significant milestones where we are going to watch God’s hand work powerfully. There also is a very good chance that there will be difficult days where homework is forgotten, or a misunderstanding may occur, or mistakes will be made. However, through it all, may God use these opportunities to teach us, grow us, forgive us, and strengthen our sense of team.

This year, let’s learn from the Little League campaign but with a little moderation.

One team. One school. One Awesome God in charge!

Looking forward to an amazing year!

In Jesus’ Love,

Mrs. Palka