A Prayer for a Child Starting School

Father, the backpack is by the door, bigger than they are, and tomorrow I walk them to a classroom and then walk away. They are so brave and so small, and I am the one secretly trying not to cry.

I confess my fear of the world I cannot screen anymore, the hands I cannot hold once that door closes, the words others might say that could shrink their bright little spirit.

So I lift my child to You, who will be in that room when I cannot be, who knows every teacher's name and every lonely lunch table before they ever happen.

Give them courage at the door and a friend by recess. Let them be kind to the child no one else sees. Help them learn, help them belong, and help them carry home the joy they walked in with.

Your word says, be strong and courageous, do not be afraid, for the Lord goes with you wherever you go. Let that promise walk them right through those big front doors.

I send them out tomorrow with a kiss and a prayer, trusting that You are already there waiting. Watch my little one in the wide new world. Bring them home to me full of stories. Amen.