Shine!

Another school year is beginning. I am always amazed at how I feel this time of year. I hear friends talking about the apprehension of dropping their kids off at school for the first time, students excited to go back and see their friends, other homeschool moms, like myself trying to get it all together. It is a bittersweet time of year.You mourn the loss of freedom that summer brings, yet you're excited about the new adventures before you. I think as a mom, it is much like when my kids have birthdays-it's a reminder that time is moving rapidly and my children are growing (and a tiny part of you mourns that!), yet you are so proud and so thankful to be a part of that process.

One of my visions as a photographer is to one day make a coffee table book full of photos of God's creation, mixed with His Holy Word. His creation is so powerful. And so is His word. If I can strap the two together, maybe I can reach someone out there who is lost. Maybe the next time someone sees a beautiful sunrise or hears a thunderstorm-they will think of Him.

So why do I start off talking about school and then end with photography? Because I felt inspired this day as children go back to the hustle and bustle of the classroom. I thought of this picture that I took just a few weeks ago at the beach and was reminded of this verse.

As beautiful as God's sunrise is-His light that shines from you is more powerful and more radient. If you are a teacher greeting a new class-show those kids His light. If you are a student making new friends, trying to fit in and find your place in this world-never forget what a difference you can make on your campus. Be HIS light this school year. As the old saying goes, "You may be the only Bible a person ever sees".

So go! Let your light shine before others and watch to see what heavenly opportunities He brings your way! Now that sounds like my kind of adventure! Happy 2010-2011 school year everyone-let the fun begin!