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I’m not sure if each semester is harder than the previous, or if I just repress the memories of past burnout. But, this semester was one of the most tedious yet, and I didn’t even have any language classes!
I have been to the depths of burnout this semester and today it finally comes to a close. Throughout this year I have examined no less than 27 books of the Bible, completed over a total of 3,000 extra-biblical pages to read, and handed in dozens of papers, along with 13 hours of credits.
Now that I’m free of the deadlines, and finished with my semester’s requirements, I can look back and honestly say that I’m thankful for the training. It is an honorable discipline to set yourself to the study of the Word of God.
If you do a search in a concordance under teaching or training, you’ll see that scripture has high priority on proper Christian instruction. “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others,” – 2 Timothy 2:2.
Two weeks ago I had the wonderful surprise of seeing one of my old professors from Cedarville on the campus of DTS. It was completely by surprise that I saw Dr. Blumenstock walking across the street on my way to go pick up some dinner. I stopped right there in the street and he gave me a big hug while the rest of traffic had to wait!
Later that night some other CU graduates and Emily and I met with Dr. B at Starbucks to catch-up. I took every class I could from Dr. B while at Cedarville, and seeing all those students there that night showed me that he had such an impact on the lives of so many students.
As we were leaving, I asked him if he had any of the professors that I had at seminary. Amazingly, some of the men who have trained me here at DTS also trained him while he was at seminary in Dallas. Men like Dwight Pentecost and Howard Hendricks had such an impact on Dr. B’s life and ministry goals, that he reflects their values in his teaching. I have been privileged to study under all three of them.
Our brief reunion reminded me of the worth of furthering Christian education and training. It was an encouragement for both Emily and I as we have devoted all of our energy and future to the teaching and training of Bahamian students.
Although the semester can be taxing, I have to remember our mission and the privilege it is to be trained at such a prestigious institution. Quality Christian Education is not to be taken for granted, for as Paul wrote to Titus, “You must teach what is in accord with sound doctrine,” – Titus 2:1. Praise the Lord that I’m finished with this semester, and praise the Lord that it was not easy.