I recently read an article published by McCrindle titled:
“The great teacher exodus: tackling burnout in the education sector.”
There were some alarming statistics in this article, but based on the teacher workforce crisis that the federal government considers to be the biggest threat currently facing the education sector in Australia, I’m sure these statistics are not new to us nor should they surprise us.
In these challenging times, where weariness and burdens often find their way into our lives, I am drawn to the words of Jesus: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30)
“... the role that educators have often blurs the lines between work and rest”
In a world that seems to be getting busier with the demands upon us in many aspects of our lives, including our work lives, seemingly increasing year on year, it's evident that the weight we carry can sometimes feel overwhelming. While various professions may have their stopping points, the role that educators have often blurs the lines between work and rest. As we continue to navigate the ongoing impact of the pandemic, I am convinced that our teachers have faced some of the greatest challenges during recent times. The strains of substitute shortages, increasing (and oftentimes unrealistic) parent expectations, higher numbers of students with needs and increasing legislative requirements have stretched us beyond measure, making the already demanding task of teaching even more formidable.
In this moment, allow me to clarify what I won't suggest: a life of ease through faith. Our journey with Christ doesn’t promise a life without toil or tribulation. To merely encourage you to find rest in Jesus as a remedy for all challenges would not only be inadequate but also contrary to the principles of our faith. Rather, let us focus on what Christ truly assures us: the strength to persevere, particularly when we engage in purposeful endeavours. Having now worked for CST for nearly 7 years, I can’t think of any more ‘purposeful endeavour’ than Christian education!
When Jesus beckons, "Come to me, all who are weary and burdened," He also invites us to "Take my yoke upon you and learn from me." Consider the symbolism of the yoke, a wooden instrument used to guide and steer animals in labour. Jesus doesn't promise an escape from work, but rather a shift in perspective. He bids us to exchange the burdens of the world, which may feel onerous and unyielding, for His yoke – one that empowers us, one that guides us. Embracing this yoke doesn't mean the cessation of our efforts; instead, it offers a different approach, one where we channel our actions and emotions through Him.
“... work undertaken within the realm of His intentions feels lighter and more gratifying”
Finding alignment with God's purpose for us transforms the very nature of our work. The difficulties persist, yet their weight is lifted when infused with the purpose of advancing His Kingdom. While it might seem paradoxical at first, this concept holds profound truth: work undertaken within the realm of His intentions feels lighter and more gratifying. Even when faced with the challenges of teaching, the daily grind becomes a canvas for us to spread His joy.
So, how does one find this joy amidst exhaustion? Firstly, let us turn to prayer – for our students, colleagues, community, and ourselves. The Bible tells us to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3: 5-6) When we trust in God and spend time in prayer, He will give us guidance. When we acknowledge Him in everything we do, He will show us the path to take. Secondly, let us reshape our inner dialogue, replacing doubt with affirmation. Replacing anxiety with hope. Replacing fear with courage. And let’s remember that the precious students in our care are made in God’s image; unique, and endowed with divine gifts. Our Vision is “To be a transformational Christian learning community”. I believe this transformation begins with our thoughts. We need to look beyond behavioural issues, perceiving each child as a potential recipient of God's transformative love. By adopting the mind of Christ, our actions inevitably align. Is this an effortless endeavour? No, yet it mirrors the promise Jesus made. His path is not devoid of labour; there is a yoke. However, this labour is a beacon of light, a beacon that outshines the world's distractions – the dramas, stresses, and politics.
“Continue to engage wholeheartedly in crafting beautiful Christ-centred lessons ....”
As we press on with the term, I encourage you to direct your focus toward the vocation that Christ entrusted to you, a vocation that I know many of you feel called to, not the burdens the world imposes. Continue to engage wholeheartedly in crafting beautiful Christ-centred lessons, shaping and nurturing the wonderful young lives that God has entrusted us with. Crafting our interactions with each other, our correspondence, our actions and our words – all through the prism of advancing His divine purpose. By nurturing a world enriched by lives touched by His grace, we fulfil our true calling, a calling that holds unparalleled worth.
David Gillman — CEO Christian Schools Tasmania