Do you ever say "yes" to something or agree to help in some way, only to get into it and think, "what in the world have I done? I can't do this! I can't even come remotely close to pulling this off!" Well, let's just say that's where I am at today. I have agreed to help by teaching a class at a college level for Phil's Living and Learning Semester Abroad Program in Quito (good grief, I should have to have some kind of training in teaching to pull off writing course outcomes, and objectives and homework that will all match up as well as be accurate and based in reality! right?!) I am in that completely overwhelmed stage (thus the waterlevel being at eye level image--as I am a human that means I am holding my breath or doing without, or drowning!). I actually love teaching, in general, but somehow the pressure to pull of a legit college class complete with rigorous academic standards and homework and seat hours that are all on the up and up just overwhelms me because of all the unknowns. However, I am thinking back to three years ago right now as I began my ISF program at Talbot School of Theology, and as I read syllabi and looked at required reading lists, and course objectives and homework schedules, I remember thinking the same thing, "I can't do this, I got myself in too deep!" And you know what, it was deep waters at times, but God kept my head afloat, and breathed air into my lungs when I sank, and here I am finished with course work. So, I have that and a zillion other ebenezer stones (thus far I have come) examples in my past, so I will choose to trust, that by God's grace, wisdom, discernment, energy and strength, His creative powers at work in me, once again, in my weakness His strength will shine. Let it shine! Let it shine! And if you would take a moment and just pray for me to be still, and able to listen and hear Him guide and direct me as I put this class together!
Be encouraged! You can do it! I would have LOVED to take a class from a professor like you- who takes it seriously, carries the "weight" of designing a Spiritually significant class while maintaining rigorous academic expectations- all with grace and love involved! Again- you.can.do.it!!
ReplyDeleteYes! You can do it. With God's help. I am encouraged to hear that you are taking this responsibility so seriously. Reminds of the times when I would lead a group of 12 students into the wilderness on bushwacks. If I we didn't take these things seriously and go to God for help, that's when we get into real trouble. I will be praying for you sister!
ReplyDeleteLove you.
These students are oh so blessed to have you!! I would have loved to have you for my professor! My prayer for you will be to let go of the raft and actually breathe in His ocean of sweet water and presence of wisdom and guidance and supernaturally let go of doing it all "just right." Excellence is not equivalent to perfection. Love you!
ReplyDeleteI want to take your class!! Si se...? Si se? SI SE!?!? PUEDO!! ;) you've been one of my greatest teachers. And now others will have the opportunity to enjoy what I've had my whole life. Thank you. And I believe in you.
ReplyDelete