Observation: Paul opens his letter to Timothy, his protégé, by urging him to remain in Ephesus to teach sound Christian doctrine, and to combat some off-the-wall claims and teachings of less experienced teachers. Paul says "The aim of [good] instruction is love that comes from a pure heart, a good conscience, and sincere faith."
Application: I had a really fruitful, enlightening discussion on Facebook a few weeks back (yes, I'm as surprised as you are!) about the role of higher education in our society. With the recent refocusing on trade schools as a viable option for young adults who don't feel called to attend college, there's been more discussion on the "return on investment" for higher education. Is the degree worth the money, especially if you're not assured of a job to pay down your debts? Is a degree still a "ticket to success", and how do we define success anyway?
When I read Paul's words to Timothy about the purpose of Christian teaching, I realize his standards of success are quite different. Christians don't just learn in order to earn. We don't drop our kids off at Sunday school hoping they'll be more hardworking, more efficient employees or better citizens. We teach our faith to build up love. Knowing God's story, and our place in it, reminds us every day that we are not alone: we are loved and treasured by the creator of the universe. That helps us love others. That's the goal. If Christian teachers do our jobs right, learners may not have better jobs or bigger houses, but they'll know how to be grateful for them, to use them for the benefit of others, and they'll know who to turn to if they should lose them.
Prayer: God, redefine success for me, for my family, and for our society. Help us look up to those who love. Amen.
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