Just A Thought

 I was just a kid really. At thirteen years of age, I was not wise or experienced. I had not been formally trained. Like all teenagers, I had my struggles. I was not a likely candidate, but I was willing, and I did care about people. So, my pastor arranged for me to begin assisting in the Sunday School class primary children. 

For the next six years some experienced and patient teachers guided me, encouraged me and modeled how young souls should be loved and instructed. They taught me to be gentle in spirit while firm with classroom structure. They showed me how to be creative and how to connect with children on their level. They were patient with me when I was not well-prepared and they were longsuffering when I got frustrated. As a result, they helped set a course for my life. When I reached college I majored in education, but I was already a veteran teacher.

It was not until I was the person in charge of staffing Children’s Ministries that I realized what a big deal it was for someone to trust a teenage with helping in a class. My mentors’ example inspired me to carry on the tradition. Throughout the years, I have been able to give many young people the opportunity to take on responsibilities under my supervision. There have been some who did not do well, but there have been others who have become very proficient in their area of ministry.

That reminds me of another chance I was graciously given. It was my second year of Bible School, and I was visiting the church pastored by the man who become my father-in-law. My holiday assignment was to find a place to preach. My future father-in-law was kind enough to make room for me in his pulpit on a Sunday morning. I had heard thousands of sermons and had prepared many notes. I did my best not to disappoint. But my sermon was over in ten minutes. He covered the rest of the allotted time and thanked me for doing my part. Surprisingly, years later he asked me to serve as his assistant.

Each time I see a newbie on their maiden voyage, I am reminded that many caring people gave me opportunities when I was not fully qualified. It makes me want to give someone else an opportunity.

# posted by John W. Hanson @ Friday, January 26, 2024