Teacher Devotion for the Week of August 29, 2010

                                   SERVANT LEADERS ARE SHEPHERDS

Matthew 20:26-28 “. . . Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, [27] and whoever wants to be first must be your slave-- [28] just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."

Too often teachers figuratively stand at the top of their educational pinnacle looking down on students, saying “Climb up to my level. Stretch yourself, grab hold and climb the mountain.  I will reward those of you who can reach the top.  Those of you who don't master climbing will just have to try harder next time or you will be labeled a failure.  It’s up to you.”

Jesus said that the greatest teacher would be a servant.  A servant-teacher shepherds students.  The teacher encourages each one, allows those who can, to climb independently, and assists those who are unable to do it alone.  A servant-teacher never allows any student to feel alone or unsupported in the climb.  These shepherds realize that some students will climb more naturally than others will.   In fact, the servant teacher may need to climb down the mountain to meet a failing student where he/she is.  The teacher willingly gives extra time to review the basics of mountain climbing with each faltering student in hopes that he/she will learn the skills to begin to successfully climb toward the top.  A servant-teacher considers the growth and development of every student.  The teacher understands that not all students will reach the top at the same time, but desires to see them all become proficient in climbing.  The servant-leader supports students according to their personal needs.  The teacher carefully considers how the needs of each students can be met as they seek to be God's hand extended. 
 

Only God can give you the creativity and sensitivity to be a servant-leader that shepherds your students.  Ask Him for guidance and a willing heart to serve.

DEAR GOD, I DO CARE ABOUT ALL OF MY STUDENTS.  GIVE ME THE SENSITIVITY AND CREATIVITY TO SEE THE NEEDS OF MY STUDENTS AND THE COURAGE AND FORTITUDE TO MINISTER TO EACH INDIVIDUAL IN MY CLASSES.

  Copyright © 2002-2010 by Elderine Wyrick, e-mail-- mawyrick@sbcglobal.net

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