One of my professors said this the other day:
“I do not know of a Duke graduate who was denied ordination because he got a 3.0 rather than a 3.8. I do however know certain Duke honor graduates who were denied ordination because they came across as too arrogant. . . . Your grades are not a test, not a measure of our spirituality, not a measure of our calling, not a measure of whether you are fit for ministry . . . when you ascend and come before the throne of jdugment, our Lord’s not gonna ask ‘what’d you make on the CH 13 final?’ But he well may ask, “Did you do it for my glory our your pride?’ he may say, “Did you do it to honor the gifts I gave you or did you do just enough to squeak by?” That’s the real question.”
a) I am so blessed to have such professors
b) such a good reminder in the midst of feelings of “swampedness”
Isaiah 43: 2
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you;
when you walk through fire you shall not be burned,
and the flame shall not consume you.
I wish I could say the exact same thing to my kids! It’s a good reminder for me too though. I may not be seeking a grade- but still placing my worth and identity in my ability to teach. God will not ask me if my students passed or if I had the best assignment every day- but he will ask if I did it all for his glory. Such a good reminder! Thanks.
Emily,
Just found your blog today and look forward to reading it. I think I’m going to cross post this entry at my blog if that’s okay. Dr. Smith’s message came at the perfect time and is always something good to reflect on.
For sure!
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