Growing up my dad would often tell me that he had a surprise for me, whether it be a trip or a gift. Years later he shared that he would wait until the “day of” to reveal the gift or trip because he was worried if he told us early, and for some reason what he planned didn't work out, we as kids would be extremely disappointed. He wanted to protect us from the disappointment of false expectations.

Teach My People had many expectations at the beginning of 2020. Simple ones! Seeing our students face to face each day, swimming with our kids during summer program and attending award ceremonies at our kid's schools. If we compare 2020 to our expectations we will be greatly disappointed.

God has been working on my heart during the year of the pandemic in the area of expectations. Usually we see the most growth during trials and when normalcy is stripped away… welcome to last year!!! Before the end of 2020 many churches entered the Advent Season. Advent is a church practice that helps Christians prepare their hearts and minds for Christmas and Jesus’ arrival. Some Christians call it “The Season of Anticipation (or Expectation)”.

I was extremely disappointed because of what COVID-19 brought. Expectations have failed but God’s truth has been revealed. The past advent season reminded me that Christ is the only sure thing. Our HOPE (anticipation and expectation) in Christ is the only thing that will not disappoint. This HOPE brings us comfort, joy, peace and purpose.

1 Peter 1:3 “He has caused us to be born again to a living HOPE through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation… you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”

The past two weeks have felt the most normal in a very long time.  Full summer program for our students is in full force: academics, swimming, field trips, hot lunches and so many smiles and laughter.  I feel the old expectations slipping back in.  While goals and programs are not wrong, my continued prayer for myself, staff, students and families is that Christ will remain our only HOPE (just like He was when everything was stripped away) as things go back to normal.