Ready for tomorrow?

Once I had graduated high school, I took the time to drive over to Supai Elementary School in Tempe, Arizona. There was someone I wanted to thank.

The place hadn’t changed much since I had attended third, fourth, and part of fifth grade there. And neither had the person I had come to see, Mrs. Avery, my third grade teacher. I came to thank her for helping me develop a love of learning.

Years earlier, when I first walked into her classroom, I was in awe of the brilliant, shimmering stars made of construction paper and glitter that hung over each desk with the name of a student. It was obvious the teacher had done extensive preparation for the first day with her new flock of students. Mrs. Avery was, literally, a “little old lady” and so I thought this class should be safe. Little did I know that any students not paying strict attention to her would (also literally) get their knuckles cracked by her ruler!

But her demand that we stay with her as she guided us soon became an adventure. And when I found myself making a faux Indian blanket out of cheap yarn on a miniature loom while studying Southwest history, I realized I was really enjoying something … learning! Mrs. Avery taught me how to love learning.

I’m so glad I made that trip!

Developing a love of learning has helped me through life in profound ways, most of all in my spiritual life. What I discovered as I grew up was this: Every day, life springs a pop quiz on your faith and values. Study accordingly!

A pastor I know tells the story of his first ministry. He was green, just out of Bible college, but ready to convert the world. Shortly into his time working with the church, a young man asked to meet with him. Sitting in his office, the fellow explained to the pastor that he was gay and was quite attracted to the minister. The pastor said nothing he had studied in Bible college had prepared him for that meeting, or many of the experiences he faced early on as a pastor.

Every day, life springs a pop quiz on your faith and values. Study accordingly!

The late Billy Graham was one of the most well-known preachers in American history. Once he was asked what he would do differently if he could go back and re-do his ministry “career.” He had a simple answer when he responded, “I would study more.”

Scotty