Relating: Loving Your Learners

I am task-oriented. I take on a job and I want to see it to its completion. Therefore, when I teach, I want to complete my lesson plan, . . . just as I planned it, . . . every time . . . amen. And, I can often do just that. And then later that day, I wonder if my learners really understood that part of the reason I teach is because I love them. Some sessions they would have to dig deep to see my love, I must confess.  I know that I can get people to recite facts to me when I teach. Little relationship between teacher and learner is needed if that is the only goal in the session. But, if life transformation is to occur, what is transmitted between teacher and learner must cross a bridge called relationship. The bridge of relationship is supported by the unconditional love and acceptance the leader communicates to the learner. To be transformative in my teaching, I must love my learners. How will they know I love them? 1. I know and use their names.
2. I have recorded and frequently use their personal contact information outside of class.
3. I ask questions about their personal well-being and I listen to them intently.
4. I spend time with them outside of class.
5. I remember important facts about them.
6. I pray for them and with them.
7. I picture each one of them as I study and prepare to teach them.
8. I know something about each one’s struggles and challenges.
9. I try to know where each is in his or her spiritual journey.
10. I lovingly challenge them to new levels of growth.
11. I model what I want them to know, do, and be.
12. I express to them my appreciation for being a part of their lives.
13. I ________________________________________________.

 How would you finish that last one? When was the last time you did any of these things? How do your learners know you love them?

 Scripture:

“When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” Matthew 9:36 (ESV)

Prayer:

Ask God to help you see every learner and potential learner in your group as He sees them.

Dig Deeper:

Read Chapter 4: “Principles Underlying His Work” in JM Price’s classic work, Jesus the Teacher, to learn more about how Jesus loved those He taught. This is a classic book and worth the search to find a copy.