This is a day that parents look forward to and children dread—the end of summer break. There are those out there that would disagree, but in general, this is true. With the beginning of school, there are a lot of changes as the family sets into a new routine. This is a good time to make some other changes that you may have been putting off or would like to practice this school year. It is a also a time of fresh starts and regrouping.
Starting new habits is never easy, but it can be easier if you incorporate them during a time of transition. For instance, right now children are changing sleep patterns and daily routines. Use this time to start some other spiritually healthy habits. Some of those things could be praying before school or reading the Bible for after school reading. There are many things that could be put into practice. Choose the ones that are going to help your family grow closer and closer to God.
A healthy practice during large shifts in the family routine is reaffirming expectations and responsibilities. As a family unit, everyone plays a role in how the family operates. Children should know what is expected of them. Their chores should be mapped out. The “when you get home” list of things that need to be accomplished should be communicated. Also, conduct expectations should be clearly stated. Using inclusive words like “we” and “us” make it more about how we as the family should act and not just another lecture about their behavior. Parents should include what can be expected of them. Children need to know that they can expect help and guidance through these changes. Making the home a safe place with structure, guidance and clear expectations will help children to be productive in school.
Looking at how God has guided His people, we can see these things in His communication to us. I think specifically of when the Israelites were poised to go into the Promised Land the second time. On the doorstep of that promise, just across the Jordan River, Moses delivered the message of Deuteronomy. The whole letter shows that God is preparing them for what they will face and warning against forgetting Him. Chapter 6 highlights those points very clearly. Read this short chapter and see for yourself.
Verses 1-3: The reason to be obedient. Verses 4-6: Individual responsibility for spiritual maturity. Verses 7-9, 20-25: Teach it to the family. Verses 10-19: Don’t forget God.
We live, love, labor and die to go to that promised rest, that better country. Take this time as the school year starts to instill in you, your children and your family habits that will see you all safely to the other side of the Jordan.