Mentor Men

It’s so easy to get jaded about men. Especially those men who don’t live up to our expectations for leadership, commitment, fairness or doctrine. I just learned about accusations against one of the Christian author/speakers that I have enjoyed and admired. Throughout human history we have many examples of males behaving badly. Bible stories, movies, religion and politics are littered with men committing powerful moves toward other people—frequently women, children and those most vulnerable. Just because they could or can. Men whose hearts are not tuned to God’s ways and methods—even though they may have been in positions to represent God. Other men who have been addicted to mind-and-character-altering substances. And men who have turned the course of a human life, or the destiny of nations.

As much as I have been wounded by some men, my purpose at this time is to remember the healing blessing of some non-family men in my life. I can think of at least three Christian men who were bosses to me in my capacity as an employee. They treated me with respect, protection and care—possibly as the younger sister they might have had. And I can think of at least three pastors during my life that left an impression upon me of their care and unique shepherding abilities. No one is perfect in all their capacities, yet they allowed God to use them for great good. (I realize another person might have had a different experience.)

A Positive Memory

Until a few weeks ago, I had the privilege of maintaining contact with several mentor men for the past 50 years. These men helped shape my young concept of a good boss or good teacher—but mostly of the characteristics of a good Christian man. I first met one as the instructor of my college journalism class. His energy and creative assignments helped fuel my desire to become a Christian author. A few years later I was chosen to be part of his editorial team at a youth magazine—my first dream job straight out of college. We didn’t have very long to work together but we continued to stay in touch during my life. I am so thankful that I was able to work on a personal writing/editing project for him before he died. His deepest desire always seemed to be that people learn to trust Jesus and enjoy the Scriptures.*

So for all those men who think they are just “doing their job,” I hope they might understand that they can stand in the gap for other people. One of God’s men can help redefine the meaning of boss, teacher, pastor, plumber, doctor, lawyer, church member, etc. There are so many people who are waiting for someone to show them a man after God’s own heart.

Questions for personal journaling or group discussion:

1. Has any man stood in the gap for you, redefining a role, or helping to heal a wound?
2. Read Matthew 5:14-16 and respond.

*With appreciation for the life of Mike Jones (1939-2020).

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Karen Spruill writes from Florida.

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