learning what true strength is

Over and over again, God is reminding me never to underestimate my students.
Since January, one of the most faithful attendants in our youth group is "Jessica," a sweet, caring, spunky, senior who just graduated from high school. Her mental handicap does not slow her down, as she is now living independently in her own apartment and walking to church regularly. Over the past semester I have seen her grow and ask intelligent questions during our studies. She is brave to hang out with a group predominantly populated by middle-school boys, but she and I always have a fun time.
Last night she called me with an "important question" concerning her boyfriend; an issue involving all the drama of the average middle-school relationship. "Oh God, please give me wisdom!" How do I give relationship advice to a high school student when my own experience is fairly limited? As I sought to empathize and guide her the best I could, though, the conversation quickly delved into surprising depths. Jess opened up on issues I never guessed she even thought about. Our conversation lasted an hour. All I could do was offer a listening ear as she re-opened wounds from years past. I was struck by her sensitivity, her sincerity, and her courage to face each day with the cards that had been dealt her. Beyond what I imagined, Jess recognizes her sin and is broken by it, striving to do better each day. She's so often written off because of her handicap, but she has more gusto in her than anyone might anticipate.
I couldn't give Jess any answers or advice to the issues she's dealing with. I couldn't wave my hand or fix her problem. I can't be her best friend and be by her side whenever she wants to talk. But for a little while, I can give her the opportunity to be listened to. In this world of information-sharing, there's not enough listening. For a moment, I could validate her feelings and frustrations. I could act out the truth that God suffers with her in her suffering.

When I stop and think about it, I find it frightening to bear the responsibility of shepherding His sheep. "Not many should presume to be teachers, because those who teach will be judged more harshly. If any man can tame the tongue, he is perfect; able to keep his whole body in check." But they are God's sheep. He holds them in his Hands, I can only try to be an expression of His love in their lives.

 " ¹⁰ We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. ¹¹ For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that his life may also be revealed in our mortal body. ¹² So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you. " 1 Cor 4:10-12

Sharing life with someone, loving someone, means suffering with them. Every time. We cannot love fully unless we share in their sufferings. It's not easy, but it's a price worth paying, because for those who follow Christ, death always gives way to New Life.