Although I was a brand-new teacher, I thoroughly
enjoyed my job. Towards the end of the school year, however, I was warned that I
might become redundant. My first thought was: "What did I do wrong?" I would
scratch my head because I couldn't identify glaring errors.
Those were moments where I found myself wondering what
I should do next.
One month later, I was told that I could remain at my
school. No other explanation was given; but the next year, I was again told that
I might possibly be redundant in the upcoming school year.
You can imagine how confused this left me, and my
principal recognized my fear: "Every year new teachers are made 'redundant'
towards the end of each school year," she explained. "This is just in case the
following year brings fewer students than anticipated. Don't worry about it. You
will have a position next year. After all, there aren't that many French
teachers out there."
She was right!
Nonetheless, I received the same, "You are redundant"
message every year for my first 10 years. Fortunately after that, I had a secure
position until I retired.
So many people face trials, yet there is hardly anyone
who will give them comfort and encouragement. That principal was the only one
who cared about her teachers. She took her time to explain the school board
policy, and her words were welcome confirmation that I had nothing to worry
about.
May we, too, focus on those who face dilemmas. Our
attitude of, "Oh! He will get by!" is our way of ignoring their stress, and it
will not help them at all. What they need instead is someone who will listen and
provide encouragement and reassurance that she or he is not alone.
This is what Jesus did. When a follower was confused,
He took the time so that he could understand that he had nothing to worry about
it. After all, Jesus knew that He would always be there for the hurting
individual: "I'll be with you as you do this, day after day after day, right up
to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:20, MSG).
He is always there for us as well, encouraging us and
guiding us. Wow! A worry-free life is within our grasp!
Rob Chaffart
The Illustrator: This daily newsletter is dedicated to encouraging
everyone to look towards Jesus as the source of all the solutions to our
problems. It contains a daily inspirational story, a Bible verse and encouraging
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The Nugget: Published three times a week, this newsletter features inspirational devotionals and mini-sermons dedicated to drawing mankind closer to each other and to Christ.