Mentoring in serving others
The goal of the Mission Service Committee of LWML-Canada is seeking ways to encourage you in serving God and your fellow man. Mission Service is not good works, but an expression of love and gratitude to God for what He has done for us. It is about serving others in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. We follow in Jesus' steps by helping meet the needs of all people, young or old, or of another culture and religion.
Scripture shows Jesus with young children (Mark 10:13-16). In John 4, Jesus spoke to the Samaritan woman at the well and gave her Living water. Matthew 8:14-15 tells us of Jesus healing Peter's mother-in-law.
One way of serving others is becoming a mentor. The older, more experienced person helps or equips someone, usually younger, to face future challenges.
The dictionary defines a mentor as a wise and trusted advisor. Mentoring is not a new concept. St. Paul writes in Titus chapter two that older women should be good examples and teach the younger women.
Recently, in my community, I saw a good example of mentoring.
Five women, three mothers of teenagers and two grandmothers, held a workshop
entitled "Helping the stay-at-home mom." It was not a workshop
to pressure young mothers to stay at home. Rather, it was a sharing of
how and what worked for them in situations where financial resources are
stretched, especially in one-income families. They discussed "Feeding
and clothing your family in a cost-effective manner," and "Organization
- being more productive, but having time to do the things you also want
to do."
Plans blossomed to include tables with used toys, clothes, linens and
other household items for anyone who could use them to take home. Door
prizes were also given out. These were items made by the organizers themselves.
These ladies were a blessing to all those who attended. Remember, you are unique and God has given you unique experiences and insights.
How can you become a mentor to someone else? By being willing and ready to share your experiences in the spiritual and/or physical realm with whomever the Lord may send your way. You will both be blessed in the process.
Judy Hertlein
