We’re studying through the gospel of Matthew this Sunday school quarter. As we begin each new book of the Bible I have a fresh appreciation for both the author and his writings. But even more, my appreciation includes God’s use of different personalities. As the Holy Spirit inspired these writers, He used the distinct individualism God graced us all with. For instance, at first reading Matthew’s account of Jesus’ life on earth might seem dry and boring. Not so! He was a tax collector – a record-keeper. His account gives facts with an eye to detail. Mark, a young man, roars through his account like a biker on the open road. You’ll notice frequent use of the word “immediately”. Luke, a physician, tells the story from a caregiver’s point of view, offering more of the human factor – more of what people felt. John’s account soars with the deity of Jesus. All four gospels state clearly, and in so many ways, Jesus’ Messiahship and divinity. As John the disciple tells us, if all Jesus did during His time here was written down, th earth would not hold all the books.

But we do have the treasure of God’s words to us – a tiny glimpse of all the many things He did from the beginning to the establishment of the church. And it is a joy, a privilege and an awesome responsibility to be called to lead others in a study of His word. This year I’m staying a week ahead of the lessons. Each week I hand out a study guide with questions and scriptures that are not in their Learner books. Some use these guides; some don’t. A few actually “study” and some just read the lesson on Sunday mornings before they come to class. Whatever the case, I want to at least provide them with some extra material to use if they so desire.

A teacher knows she’s called when she has the burning desire to share all she learns with everyone around her. That’s how I feel. And it’s not just about teaching. The whole process is a learning experience for me: I learn from my studies and I learn from my ladies. And there’s always a surprise, a nugget of something valuable that God has hidden for us to find. He graces me with more than my heart can hold and He is worthy of my praise.