The semester is over in a few hours when the students get on a plane for America. That means it’s somewhat of an emotional and sentimental time here. I will try to resist. This semester was characterized by questions. Sometimes there were more than 30 questions in a two-hour lecture, and if you know me, my lecture style doesn’t exactly invite them. (For those who don’t know, my style is: I know a ton of facts and I’m going to give them to you so shut up and write everything down. With lots of pictures thrown in :-)). Besides lecture times, there were many, many other times of questions, including “Tuesdays at Todd’s,” which was essentially a question time.
But looking back over it all, I’m still surprised at the questions that weren’t asked. This is always true, but it strikes me now because of the many questions that were asked. Some of that is owing to a lack of time, some to a lack of courage, and some to not wanting to hear the answer. On the last, I see semester after semester how those who don’t really need feedback on their lives come and ask for it; those who do don’t. It’s something too that in ten years of working with college students I’ve never done pre-marital counseling, yet I know that I’ve known many couples better than anyone else. I understand why this is, but I note that they rarely come and ask even for simple feedback (like, hey, you’ve observed the two of us for the last three months; do you see any big red flags? :-)). It could be thought that students don’t trust me, but I’m not sure that that is the reason. In many ways, life at IBEX is an ideal mentoring and discipleship time. One of the main reasons this is so is because so much of life is spent together, so there is much time for “observation.” I don’t know too many pastors in America who get to see their people (pre-marital or otherwise) on a daily basis and in a variety of situations. In any case, I think I would just suggest that any of my readers, especially the younger set, look for opportunities when they can get feedback from an older person on observations on their life. The more they see you live (and not just hear you talk), the better.
Todd-
This is so very true. I would concur and encourage anyone going to IBEX to pursue a professor, pursue one of their wives – someone or anyone to meet with you and spend time with you. The semester at IBEX is more than simply a “semester studying abroad,” but rather it can (and ought) to be a time of discipleship and immense spiritual growth. I am thankful for the blessing and privilege to have pursued them and for the opportunity to get involved in their lives. Thanks! :-)
Yes, very true. I regret not asking for more input of what my life was characterized by while in IBEX, but am thankful that since then the Lord has brought people in my life that I can seek counsel from them. This all reminds me of Stuart Scott’s “From Pride to Humility” manifestations of pride: being unteachable, seeking independence or control, and not having close relationships. Thank you for your faithfulness in living out 1 Thessalonians 2!
Are there specific questions that you would suggest? I really want to learn from all the people that God has placed around me, but many times i don’t know what to ask!
Todd – I’m so sad that the students had to leave (I remember how I felt), but I’m glad that you will get a short break and some time with your family. Do you have any new pictures of them? Tell them all that I said “hi.”
Rachel Israel
No joke. I know I should have asked more questions of all of you (Profs and wives). I am praying that the Lord will allow me another chance at asking and another chance to be “observed” by some of the most precious people in my life. As always, you are all in my prayers. Hodu le Adonai key tov.