You Have not, Because you Ask Not – Superintendent’s Blog August 14, 2015
“You Have Not, Because You Ask Not” – James 4:2
This is a powerful phrase that James uttered as he instructed the people of his day. Sometimes we forget the Majesty and Power of God and we fail to dream big and ask for great things. While I hate to see the last days of summer go, I get so excited about the first day of school, especially when all of the staff comes back. Our back to school in-service meetings have been uplifting and encouraging this year as we have a great group of committed and caring teachers. One of the things I like most are the worship and large group times we share before the students come back. It is during those gatherings that I am reminded of the great group of people around me and the awesome responsibility of our ministry of Christian Education.
I cannot express how encouraging our Prayer Walk last Wednesday was to me. It was a great feeling to see so many staff members stay for the meeting after they had worked at the school starting early in the morning. I was also encouraged by the showing we had from our parents who represented every area of our school. I feel like there isn’t anything we could not accomplish with this great group pulling for the school.
I appreciate how Pastor Michael, Senior Pastor at Parkview Baptist Church, gave a whole Wednesday night service to bring the church and school together. His leadership in reaching out to the school and embracing this ministry comes out of a genuine love for people and the Kingdom of God. A new school year can be daunting, but calling on God’s provision and protection, gives all the encouragement needed to dive in with total abandon.
I appreciate all of the pastors from other churches that came to the prayer meeting. Parkview represents 95 local churches in its student population. We covet the prayers and partnerships that come from our community churches. Although other pastors were in the crowd, I am especially appreciative to Pastor David Goza of Jefferson Baptist, Pastor Jeff Ginn of Istrouma Baptist, Rich Mayfield of Parkview, and Frank Friedman of Grace Life Fellowship. Each of these area pastors took time away from their churches to join our prayer service for our school year. I can’t express the encouragement and strength it gave me to have these men come and represent different prayer needs. I truly felt we could take on the forces of evil and accomplish anything with this much support. It was a true ministry team and I am so glad to be a part of it.
After the prayer meeting, everyone split up into groups and covered the entire campus with prayer. Every building and athletic field received a prayer covering and God was called upon to bless each student, staff member and parent. I can’t think of a better way to start a year.
We are expecting great things this year. We are asking God for great things. I encourage all of you to be BOLD in asking God for great things. We are looking forward to an incredible 15-16 school year.
Parkview Strong,
Dr. Don R. Mayes, Superintendent