Wait! Did You Say Thanks to That Leader?

I’ve taught a lot of kids … preschoolers through high school.

But one class I remember in particular – not because of the kids, but because of the parents.

Every week, when those parents came to pick up their children, they would always make sure to catch my attention and say, “Thanks for teaching my child.” How different from the often harried parent, grabbing their child and hurrying out the door with a quick “bye” or nothing at all.

I haven’t forgotten that class or those parents. I put a lot of time into preparation and it felt good to be thanked, that my love and passion for teaching those kids was acknowledged and appreciated.

Which made me think about those who have taught me. I appreciate them, but have I thanked them? How about those who had taught my children?

As leaders, you might be the one putting in the time and preparation … but where are you getting your spiritual nourishment? Has your club director or the Awana ministry director helped and guided you spiritually? (Or maybe he’s shared a devotional at a leader’s meeting that meant a lot to you.) Or maybe it’s your pastor? Or your parent? Who first encouraged you to teach or to become an Awana leader? When was the last time you said thanks?

We have a good example of that in God’s Word. Paul was constantly telling the people in the churches he mentored “thanks” for their faith and testimony. (See: Romans 1:8; 1 Corinthians 1:4; Ephesians 1:15-16; Philippians 1:3; Colossians 1:3-5; 1 Thessalonians 1:2)

During this time of year when we think about thankfulness and gift-giving –  let’s take time to thank and give the gift of appreciative words to those whose faith has made an impression on our own lives.

And the lives of our children.