All In
"But she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on." Mark 12:44b ESV
The story of the widow's mite reminds me of some Lutheran teachers I have known. Despite salaries that make it tough to thrive on, they still quietly buy supplies, classroom prizes, curriculum, and sometimes even coats and clothes for their students. Beyond money, Lutheran teachers often give sacrificially of their time and talents, faithfully serving where many others will not. You've probably experienced teachers who are "all in" to their vocation of serving God's children.

Yet, on our own merits of giving we cannot raise our head before the Lord and declare righteousness. No quantity of classroom supplies will earn the approval of God. The reason to serve with the kind of commitment role modeled by widow is not because we can be proud of our pious service. That would be like those Sadducee's earlier in the story. No, we serve because One gave much more than money or time to help others. Jesus Christ gave His very life to save sinners like you, me, the widow and your children and families.

As you serve where God has planted you, may you be regularly refreshed in the Grace He has provided in the body and blood of His very Son. May you serve the children with the same willingness and joy that the widow had as she quietly brought forward her mite. And may you look upon the children and families you serve with the same love that God has for you.

God's peace,
Mike Zimmer, Mission Facilitator for Schools

Discussion Questions

1. What are the qualities of someone who serves God by being "all in?"
2. How does Christ's death and resurrection affect your understanding of Grace?
3. Who around you is hurting, lowly or seemingly outcast yet still needs encouragement?

For use in staff meetings,  print devotion and discussion questions.

Send Rep for Legislative Meetings
Your presence is immensely valuable. You are able to present the entire picture of Lutheran schools. Region specific meetings are being held this month with Illinois State legislators in the Chicagoland area. Thanks to Illinois Advocates for Educational Choice (IAEC) for this region specific help. Print flyer

Where Will the Next Group of Principals Come From?
The Northern Illinois District is partnering with five other district to host a future leaders training for new or potential principals June 28-30 at Concordia University Ann Arbor. Print flyer for more information about the three day training and logistics. Contact Mike Zimmer to nominate someone.

Save The Date 2017 Teachers Conference
The District Teachers Conference for 2017-18 will be held at NIU De Kalb on Friday, October 6, 2017 from 8:30-4:00 p.m. Details on registration to follow in early 2017.

What About That New Lead Testing Law?
Print fact sheet on the new law impacting lead testing requirements in your school's drinking water.

Please help the District School Support Fund
This fund helps offset the increasing costs of services provided by the District especially in the areas of accreditation and curriculum. Any fees collected in these areas help to supplement a small portion of those services. Please consider supporting the Office of School ministry of the NID.  For more information, print form

Take Heart Scholarship
The Take Heart Scholarship Program is live and accepting essays! This program invites high school seniors to complete an essay in 1,000 words or fewer on the assigned topic. Top selections will win scholarships for $3,000, $1,000 and $500. To apply and for information, visit LCEF.org