Day 23: 1 Peter 5:1-5
To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ’s sufferings who also will share in the glory to be revealed: 2 Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; 3 not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. 4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.
5 In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because,
“God opposes the proud
but shows favor to the humble.”
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As I read through this passage, I can’t help but read it through the eyes of a teacher. Teachers are entrusted with young minds that are so easily molded by what we say and do. I wondered to myself, “How am I tending His children?” When I walk into the classroom, am I there because I have something to gain, or am I there to serve these students? When I wake up in the morning, am I eager to serve? Service is doing for others and not expecting anything in return, even in those discouraging moments when those around you are not appreciative of your hard work for them.
When Peter was writing this, I am sure he was thinking of Jesus who gave of himself for his disciples, serving them and washing their feet. He took care of those around him even when it could have been revolting and seemingly disgraceful. Peter was passing on what he saw lived out by his Master in his final days.
As a leader in a classroom, I know each child who walks through my door will be watching me and following whatever I say and do. It is so important to have the same attitude as Christ, “who gave up his privileges and took on the humble position of a servant.” Humbling myself in front of my students can be a hard thing at times. When I admit I’m wrong, I run the risk that they will be critical of me. The beautiful thing about children is they can also be forgiving. I think this is what Peter meant when he said “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” God blesses those with humble hearts because they put others above themselves.
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Jacob Brunk | Teacher, Bath Local Schools/Facilities Department, Lima Community Church