Finally launched: The Teacher in Me

CSM Publishing invited me to write a devotional for teachers because I have been teaching part-time in college (and MBA) for almost two decades. "A book such as this will help bring comfort and peace to teachers."  

A dream project, I thought.  

To my shock and the world's, one month later, the pandemic suddenly upended every teacher's life. Classroom teaching abruptly went online. 

While writing this book amidst the turmoil caused by the Covid-19 lockdown, and reading the Scriptures, I realized that teaching is not limited to a classroom. Anyone who imparts knowledge and values IS a teacher—a mentor, private tutor, Sunday school teacher and VBS volunteer, parent, trainor, supervisor, etc. 

In fact, Jesus never taught inside a classroom, but He was addressed over 60 times as Teacher by the multitudes and His disciples. Bar none, He was the greatest Teacher Who ever lived; His teaching ministry revolutionized the world. 

The title, "The Teacher in Me,” therefore, is not about me; it is about Him. 

It was He Who called me to teach, and Who inspires me to carry through. 

My becoming a teacher was no accident. Neither is it an accident for every person who imparts knowledge and values learned through sweat and tears. 

I like to believe that my long teaching stint is a testament to the Teacher’s provision of energy to model my faith, so that my students may likewise welcome the Teacher to live in their heart.  

Writing each devotion, based on my and many other teachers’ narratives culled from countless interviews, has left no doubt in my mind that Jesus is in every learning locale, in fine or foul weather. He builds bridges where there are gaps, shines light where there is darkness, gives patience where it runs thin—a complete teach-and-reach kit!    

Our world is in disarray these difficult days. But as sure as the sun will rise again tomorrow, even if this crisis will take a turn for the worse, if we focus on our all-knowing God who commissioned us, we will sail through. 

Nobody called to teach should quit.  

He promised us: “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.” (Psalm 32:8) 

ooo

The book was finally launched online (Zoom with FB live) on 23 October, 20 long months after that blessed day CSM Publishing gave me the privilege of writing it. 

It was attended by faith brethren, friends, family, and those called to teach. 

Without having read the book yet, one encouraging message in the chat box read: "That's a nice line . . . the teacher in you. I was always told I am not a teacher, because I do not teach in a classroom setup. But I do teach communication to junior writers in the office. What a confirmation!" 

By sheer grace, despite problems in book publishing during the relentness quarantine with strict health protocols that dog us till today, "The Teacher in Me" saw print. 

May it honor and glorify the Teacher Who guides you and me where we should go.