Economic Stresses
For over a quarter of a century I have been governor of a school in one of the most deprived parts of England. Many of the children at the age of 5 come into the school way below the levels of 5 year old’s across the country. Why is this? If you have no employment, or if you don’t know how long your going to keep your job, and struggling to keep your house, you have less energy to invest in your children. Our parents are trying to survive, it is hard (not impossible) to parent in difficult circumstances. I know one parent who ignored all her debt and conserved her energy for her children and let her debts piled up, thus causing a financial disaster. We are generation where stress is impacting every strata of society. But it is particularly impacting the educational development of the children of poor families. What might Christianity offer to these families? I would suggest the calming presence of God, through Christian befriending, coaching and mentoring. fear not for I am with you. For God says Stress not for I am with you. The circumstances might not change, but God’s hope brings peace. Invite someone to take a closer look at Christ and his church.
