From today's first reading: "But the wise shall shine brightly like the splendor of the firmament, and those who lead the many to justice shall be like the stars forever."
De La Salle (Med. 208.2): "They will shine, indeed, in the midst of those whom they have instructed, who will eternally bear witness to the great gratitude they have for so many instructions they received from their teachers, whom they will regard as the cause, after God, of their salvation."
As teachers, we are the cause, with God and through our instruction, of the salvation of every one of the students listed on our rosters. Why else would we have been called to work with young people at a Lasallian Catholic school dedicated to the education of those who are economically disadvantaged and socially marginalized? Is this in the forefront of our thinking, planning, instruction, and interactions with those entrusted to us? On Wednesday, as we begin the celebration of the Lasallian Jubilee year, every member of our community will be challenged to consider how we use a spirit of faith and of zeal in the heart, commitment, and life of the Lasallian mission. Is our faith and zeal directed to the salvation of our students?
De La Salle (Med. 208.3): "Oh, what glory there will be for those people who have instructed youth, when their zeal and devotion to procure the salvation of children will be made public before all people! All heaven will resound with the thanksgiving that these blessed children will render to those who have taught them the road to heaven!"
Live, Jesus, in our hearts!
De La Salle, 1719-2019: One Heart. One Commitment. One Life.