One of the books I assigned to my 10th & 11th graders for summer reading is Do Hard Things, by Alex and Brett Harris. The book challenges teenagers to go against the low expectations that our culture has for teens. As I was reading this morning, I was thinking about how I, as a teacher and mature Christian, can support and encourage my students to be involved in ministry and to be active members of the the body of Christ. Later, when I checked my Facebook, I saw a post about the Portland Walk to Defeat ALS from the mom of one of my students. See this student's dad was diagnosed with ALS a few years ago. This family amazes me. They freely share their struggles, yet they are such an example of walking out your faith through difficult times.
When I saw this mom's post, God laid it on my heart to not only participate in the walk myself, but to try to get 100% participation from our high school in the walk. What a perfect opportunity for my students to minister to one of their own! I have signed up to walk and I am raising money. My goal is $210. I'm hoping that my students will not only walk, but will try to raise money as well.
I've been trying to get more disciplined in my exercise. The walk is 3.5 miles, and I want to be in shape for it! I have two months to get ready! Every time I don't feel like going for a walk I'm going to remember that those who have ALS loose that simple freedom of taking a walk, and I'm going to make myself do the thing that I don't want to do. I want to be ready on September 8!
If you are interested in participating or supporting, just click on the link:
Walk to Defeat ALS®: Portland Walk
Woah Natalee, you just became one of my favorite teachers -- I love that book. Can I go back in time and attend your HS?
ReplyDeleteSeriously, keep up the great work, and may Christ continue blessing your work at your school.