Nuggets 14: Third Generation
Grace
When Karyn was working on her math degree, she was in several classes with a particular student who stood out. He was autistic to some level, (no social skills but extremely smart). Some of the professors were annoyed by his questions and they showed it. But one professor was polite and patient with him. She would always acknowledge him in class and take as much time as needed for his questions. Karyn was so impressed by the teacher's attitude that she began to feel ashamed about her own annoyance with the student.
Karyn is now teaching math in high school. She herself has a student with autism and emotional problems. Karyn says, "All the students are rude to him and I’ve noticed the teachers aren’t any better. I even had a Christian co-worker tell me how annoying in class he was with her. But I had no trouble at all being polite and patient with him because I had already seen such a wonderful example. In fact my heart really went out to him. Numerous students have asked me why he doesn’t get on my nerves, why I spend so much time with him. Inside my heart just smiles. But I have also noticed some students being a little more thoughtful--taking time to talk to him or just not cutting him off when he talks."
Third generation grace! Grace in our life affects others, who affect others, who affect others... (the same goes for bad attitudes). Want the world to get better? Seriously live out the grace and truth of Jesus and you will change more people than you can imagine.
John 1:14; 7:37-39; Matthew 5:13-16; Acts 4:13; Philippians 2:14-16; 2 Timothy 1:5; 2:2
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Copyright 2006 by G.B. Shelburne, III. May be freely reproduced or forwarded for non-commercial purposes provided content is unchanged and this copyright notice is included. These shepherding messages are sent to members and friends of New Beginnings Church (www.nbchurch.com), to students and alumni of South Houston Bible Institute (www.shbi.org), and to other interested persons.
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