New back packs filled with school supplies are hoisted over the shoulders of tens of thousands of children at this time of year. The ‘first day of school’ rite of passage for the young ones is an especially bitter/sweet time for parents. Unlike many children globally, Canadians even have options as to the form of schooling that may be chosen: private schooling, public schooling, home schooling, faith-based schooling. How privileged we are to be able to access such opportunities.
While we appreciate opportunities from pre-school to post-graduate, we must never forget the influence of parents on the wholesome formation of their children. As parents, we are primary instructors in the lives of those that have come into our sphere of influence.
The most brilliant of instructors know somewhat about a segment of all that there is to know. Yet, the Bible says that Jesus knows all about all that there is to know!
The Scriptures have a considerable amount to say to families as to learning. “The fear of the LORD is the foundation of true knowledge.” (Proverbs 1:7). “In Him (Christ) lie hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” (Colossians 2:3). The most brilliant of instructors know somewhat about a segment of all that there is to know. Yet, the Bible says that Jesus knows all about all that there is to know! When Peter, the first century follower of Christ, was being “schooled” by Christ, he wisely submitted to the Greater when he responded with “Lord, you know everything.” (John 21:17). Then there is the classic: “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” (Proverbs 22:6).
Perhaps we all need to have a new “first day of school” by looking to God with the request “Teach me, Lord, then I may teach others.” The Bible, the world’s best seller, remains the textbook that is to be included in our ‘school’ of lifelong learning. So, back to school we go!