All my children

I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth. (III John 4)

Because I'm a Mom, I have three children; because I'm a teacher, I have had hundreds of children over the last 15 years. And John's words in his third epistle ring so true to me: Nothing brings me greater joy than to see and hear of my "children" who are walking in the Truth.

The "children" I taught back in the early years are now adults -- some have even hit the "30 something" milestone. Many are married and have children of their own. One of my students has become a teacher to my kids -- she's their drama coach. Another taught at the same Christian school with me up until last year. She was always one of my best students and went on to become an awesome teacher. Another attended my church for many years and now is in leadership in another church. She's going through a tough time with a sick little guy, but her faith is growing deeper. I've been finding others through Facebook and Blogs. Some of my "kids" are now pastors and teachers, businessmen and women, some are moms. One of my "kids" is getting ready to go on to the mission field to Thailand. Her blog (http://jacquelinelambert.blogspot.com/) has been a tremendous encouragement. Another is starting a ministry in the inner city. I get "pumped" hearing that "my children" are walking in truth.

I know I can't claim any of the credit for the successes of my "kids" -- except for this one thing: Throughout the years I have prayed that the students who came into my classroom would gain a foundation that would lead them to a passionate walk with the Lord.

Sometimes teaching can be discouraging. Sometimes it seems like the kids just aren't "getting it." And at times like that I wonder, is it really worth it? No surprises here, but teaching in a Christian school is NOT the most financially lucrative position! And the demands on teachers in a small school (that is really trying to be a big school) are sometimes pretty intense. Sometimes I wonder if I am making an impact that will last. But when I see the stories of "my children" who are walking in the truth, I know that it is worth it -- and I can't imagine doing anything else. It is a joy to see the answers to my prayers throughout the years as I see and hear that my kids are walking in the truth.

And it makes me even more excited to see where my new "children" will end up: my friend's son who just graduated from Bible college and is looking for ministry; my high school students who are making life long decisions now; my middle school students who are on the brink of greatness in so many ways; and all who will come up through the years. And the greatest joy of all is that my OWN kids are part of the mix now. I already see God at work in their lives and look forward to seeing them grow!