Page 7 - Microsoft Word - The Parable of the Sower.docx

I spent considerable time talking to staff, parents and students trying to
identify what they perceived to be the strengths and weaknesses of the
school. I also asked what they would like to see implemented.

Surprisingly the most frequently identified things in all categories dealt
not with bricks and mortar, not with academics, but with relationships. I

focused on delegating responsibility, treating others as valuable assets,
and letting others know that I believed in them. The school flourished

and above all student behaviour disappeared as an issue as the children
responded to care, safety, and love.

The Apostle Paul, even though he moved between many communities,
created groups of people who gathered together in a supportive and

encouraging community. How did he prepare the soil to ensure the
bountiful harvest?

Slide 8

He acknowledged our God-given need for others in 1 Corinthians 12:20-

22, 20 As it is, there are many parts, but one body. The eye cannot
say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” And the head cannot say to the

feet, “I don’t need you!” On the contrary, those parts of the body
that seem to be weaker are indispensable.

Paul cultivated deep relationships creating strong, supportive
relationships, He secret was to care, share and love.

Slide 9

1 Thessalonians 2:7-8

Instead, we were like young children among you. Just as a nursing

mother cares for her children, so we cared for you. Because we
loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the
gospel of God but our lives as well.