The Miracle of Blessings

Editorial by Elaine Lopez

I hear the beeping of machines, distant chatter and a grumpy voice calling for attention. These are the sounds of the Emergency Department where I currently find myself just two weeks before school begins.

For the past two years, these sounds have become familiar, as I’ve navigated challenges in every area of my life—particularly with my health and family. However, I have also experienced miracles that have left me in awe, reinforcing my belief that I serve a very real God.

As a single mother to three sons who have faced learning disabilities, mental health illness, autism, substance abuse and homelessness, the miracles I’ve witnessed in their lives are beyond words. Today, they are sober, seeking God and finding their way in life. I’ve also witnessed miracles in my professional life. When I became a teaching principal at Tranquility Adventist School six years ago, the enrollment had dropped to nine students, and the school was on the verge of closing. Today, we are at 50 students and increasing each year.

Another miracle occurred this summer, when I had the privilege of working with students from Korea who didn’t know Jesus. When asked, “Do you want to know Him?” they responded with a desire to learn about this Jesus whom I refer to as “the most important person in my life.” I can’t do anything without Him. He is my advisor, my strength, my peace, and when battles come my way, I fight them on my knees so He can fight for me. I praise God daily for each and every miracle. Whether big or small, each one is significant and life-changing.

As we begin the 2025–26 school year, educators may face doubts and challenges, but God’s promises remind us we are not alone. Through our faith and His presence, we can make a difference in the lives of our students as we encourage them to develop a tangible, growing relationship with Him.

I see how God has been aligning things in my life—even as I lie in a hospital bed awaiting yet another miracle—and I’m preparing for what’s next, whether it comes in the form of a blessing or a challenge.

The provisions and miracles He has in store for us this school year will exceed our expectations—we just need to be ready to receive them.

Elaine Lopez is the principal and grades 6–8 teacher at New Jersey Conference’s Tranquility Adventist School in Andover.