Image Bearers: Part 3 of 4

“Then God said, ‘Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.’  So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” 

--Genesis 1:26-27

If you think I'm harping on this verse, you're right.  I need to remember this truth daily.  It arms me with the knowledge of who I am and reminds me of who others were created to be as well.  With the knowledge of who you and each of your students were created to emulate, you can change the atmosphere of your classroom.  The idea of self-fulfilling prophesies and setting high expectations for students is one that is often preached to teachers.  “Set the bar high and be amazed at what your students can do.”  Of course.  We know this to be true.  Let the idea of your students being created in the image of our King help you set expectations.  No humans are perfect, but they do reflect someone who is.  Isn’t that an encouraging thought?  Use what you know to call out the best in your students.  Recognize the good that they are capable of and ask for it.  When you see those positive traits or behaviors that lighten your spirit and remind you of Who created them, call out these positive things.  Maybe you’re already doing this as part of your daily classroom management: “I really like how Sarah followed instructions right away.”  “Wasn’t it kind of Jack to help his friend clean up?”  Isn’t the mood in your classroom so much better when you point out and praise the positives, as opposed to when you’ve spent the day correcting and punishing?  When you see these examples of God’s mercy, of His goodness, His love, humor or perseverance, call out and encourage these qualities in your students.  Know that you’re not merely reinforcing positive behavior, you’re acknowledging and praising God’s image reflected in them.

My students shared more than just a glimpse into who God is...
We are all imperfect, human image bearers.