See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven. Matthew 18:10, NIV
Sitting amongst a large group of students, I asked them to talk to me about school. I wanted to know what they liked and did not like about their schools and their teachers. As you can imagine, it was a fun and lively discussion. Some answers were not a surprise. For example, no one liked homework. However, I also gained a lot of new insights that day. I was shocked to find that all but two students felt their teacher did not want them to ask questions if they did not understand the instructions or assignments. Student after student chimed in and said that their teacher would rather they mess up and receive a bad grade than have them raise their hand and “bother” them for help. The word “bother” came up over and over again.
I said, “You cannot be serious!” But they were.
Today’s verse has reminded me to reflect on the way I treat my own students. If their angels in Heaven always see the face of the Father, who am I to be too busy or unapproachable? Sure, there are times that they should not interrupt or need to wait to ask a question, but I should always try to remember to follow up with them.
We all have the opportunity to boldly approach our heavenly Father any time, night or day, without having to wait our turn or wait for Him to have time to listen. How wonderful to know I can approach Him like that. Yet, we often hesitate or wait to talk to God. We may go to a friend, or just suffer alone for days, months, and sometimes years before we approach God.
Educators, I encourage you to make sure your students know that you welcome them and their needs just as we know God desires for us to come to Him. Even if you feel your students know you can ask questions anytime, consider reminding them again.
Think of some other ways besides words that we can make ourselves approachable. These may include your body language or your position in the classroom. I encourage you to imagine your classroom filled with not only your students, but also their angels, and I challenge you to remain approachable.
Oh Lord, help me be truly available to listen to my students and to listen to You. Please draw each one to know that You are in Heaven and to accept Jesus as their Savior. Thank You. Amen.
Copyright Kathy Branzell.
Kathy has a heart for encouraging Christian educators and currently serves as the President of the National Day of Prayer Task Force. Prior to this role, she was the founder and president of Fellowship and Christian Encouragement (FACE) for Educators.
