Mar
30
Written by:
Different Voice
3/30/2009 7:00 AM
Ask a group of Sunday School teachers why they first began teaching, and you are likely to get a variety of responses. “My child’s class needed a teacher.” “The Christian Education Director talked me into it.” “I enjoy working with children/youth/adults.” “I don’t remember.”
Here’s a reminder that Sunday School teachers need to hear on a regular basis: “You have been called by God to the ministry of teaching. Thank you for answering God’s call.” God’s call takes many forms, sometimes even arriving in the guise of gentle arm-twisting. (Not to suggest that churches ever use this technique…)
Christianity is a religion based on education. Jesus taught about God’s love and what it means to live sharing that love with others. Those who teach Sunday School are continuing a tradition of using education to transform lives and make disciples.
“Following God’s call” sounds like more responsibility than “filling a spot on a sign-up sheet.” It also serves as a reminder that we are about more than occupying an hour of time on Sunday morning. God is using us in ways we can only begin to imagine!
Just as important is the reminder that it’s okay to feel not quite qualified for the task. Moses didn’t feel qualified when God called him to lead the Israelites out of Egypt either. (Exodus 3:11) God’s reassurance to Moses extends to everyone called to the ministry of teaching Sunday School, too. “I will be with you.” (Exodus 3:12)
~Sally Hoelscher