Learning . . . Teaching . . . Teaching . . . Learning
“These words which I command you this day shall be upon your heart; teach them to your children and talk about them when you are at home and when you are away . . .”
– Deuteronomy 6:6-7
Everyone is uncomfortable with or downright afraid of something — generally, several somethings. I’m not talking about poisonous snakes or volcanos; rather, the fear of being called upon to do something for which we feel unqualified and inexperienced. It’s pretty unsettling to step out of your comfort zone, to try doing something new and different, even if deep inside you kind of want to do it. There was a survey conducted some time ago, and it was found that the greatest fear of a large majority of people was speaking in public. There are those of us who feel comfortable making an announcement or giving a short talk in front of our fellow members at church, but the thought of making a speech to a huge crowd (maybe also on TV!) strikes terror in our hearts.
I have an idea that not far behind a fear of public speaking would be that of teaching. After all, teachers are educated, licensed professionals, and we have high expectations of the individuals to whom we entrust the education of our children. How, then, can we presume to teach one another? We may well be afraid that the reaction would be, “Who are you and why do you think you can teach me?” No one would be willing to step into that situation!
We at St. Andrew have been and will continue to engage in conversations about education in the faith in new and refreshing ways. The above quote from Deuteronomy is found in the chapter following the story of Moses delivering the Ten Commandments to the people of Israel. These words carry the weight of God’s own commands, and are no less important in this day and age. Teaching and learning together has been and continues to be that which we are called upon
Teaching is an everyday occurrence in family life, but is equally important in our church, our neighborhoods, and/or community groups. We don’t have to create a lesson plan, distribute a syllabus or plan a lecture series. Our willingness to ask questions, work together on a project or activity, and to share a little something of ourselves can be part of a learning and teaching environment that encompasses everyone, with no need for categories or titles. We are all students and teachers simultaneously, and spending time together as unique, valuable individuals is a gift and an opportunity for which we can be grateful.
We are called and empowered to carry out the challenges and responsibilities of being part of a Christian community. When Jesus sent his disciples out to spread the Gospel, he assured them,
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, to the close of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20
Your friend in Christ,
Mary Rogers