A very wise man once stated, “You cannot love children to low expectations.” A very devoted woman once stated, “Children need compassionate, unconditional love”. The common words in these two very profound statements are “children” and “love”. However, the manifestation of each statement presents itself very differently. As educational disciples, we are tasked with making shrewd decisions and sometimes, split-second judgment calls. The connection allows us to provide for students and to thrive as leaders. 

The mission of a disciple in education is absolutely transparent – to provide children with equitable opportunities to learn, grow, and ultimately realize their dreams. However, the means by which the mission is fulfilled can become extremely complicated to the point of a compromised impact upon the mission and resultantly, students’ success or lack thereof. A true balance of mindsets can allow educational disciples to provide the approach needed for the individual student, the particular educational experience, and the specific environmental factors. 

Jesus Christ provided the most beautiful model for us to follow. He was a healer, our savior, and a teacher. Christ had compassion for the poor, invalid, and rejected members of society. He often went against the grain of the power structure and gave his attention and love to those who needed it the most. To his followers (disciples), he often placed them into situations in which they were uncomfortable, confused, and even frustrated. However, the intended impact or lesson for his followers always manifested into their growth and development as disciples.

“I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves. Be on your guard…”

Matthew 10:15-17

As disciples in education, we strive to be like Jesus. We seek to make the greatest impact upon student learning, development, and well-being. We compassionately love children with our gentleness and patience when they are hurt and weary. We provide tough love to students in the form of discipline and high academic expectations. As leaders, we fervently lead the charge for continuously improving our instructional planning and execution, operational strategies, and overall school climate. Above all, we pray.

“Pray without ceasing…”

1 Thessalonians 5:17

To achieve the proper balance of compassionate and tough love, an educational disciple must establish and maintain fortified connections with God, students, staff, and community. Connection, upward and outward, is what allows us to maneuver through difficult circumstances. When we are securely connected with Jesus and those around us, we are able to distinguish the nuances of the situation vividly and to provide the most suitable tool from our belt of strict management and solicitude. Jesus Christ showed us how to love one another. He provided compassion and empathy to the outcasts of society. He demonstrated to his followers, lessons for living and loving one another through the means of sacrifice and austerity. As disciples in education, we have the commitment to love our children with the compassion  of God and His tough love.