This document contains the notes from a presentation given to teachers. It discusses finding passion in teaching, using teaching as an opportunity to share Jesus with children, and maintaining a positive attitude despite challenges. The key points are that teachers should focus on using their role to do ministry, share the gospel message, and let children experience knowing Jesus. They are reminded to keep their eyes on Christ and that he has everything under control, despite any trials they may face.

1. SMILES & TRIALS:
ACCOMPLISHING GOD’S WORK
A Special Presentation
For My Friends In The
MNS/MNN LCMS District
Drew D. Gerdes

2. GOD’S BLESSINGS TO YOU!!!
Conference Time is a time for relaxation,
refreshing, and rejuvenation. Happy Summer!
God created a time to rest and reflect.
God provides opportunities for us to grow.
These opportunities lead to expanded ministry to
others!

3. MONDAY MORNING…
You are here today because…
Why?
Passion
What is it?
Do you have Passion for Teaching?
Children? Families? Ministry?
Think about this! We’ll come back to these questions!

4. God’s Ways…
…are always better
than our
ways…thankfully!
God uses us for the
good of His kingdom!
Early Childhood?

5. BEING A TEACHER…
Is not always easy…
Does not pay the
best…
Often has little or no
recognition…
Takes a toll…

6. FRAZZLED TEACHER’S WELLNESS
PLAN
Some may say it’s
chocolate and
margaritas…
As Christians, we
know it’s following
Jesus!!
Set your eyes on
Him!!

7. BE THE LIGHT!
Every word, action, and thought we have should be
a light – a witness – to Jesus and His love!
No matter where we are – we are a Light of Jesus –
a light to shine forth brightly!
You may be “the only Jesus” a child ever sees.
Today this child will experience what it’s like to know
Jesus!

8. FOR ALL CHILDREN
No matter what age we work with, no matter how
long we are in the building each day, we are there to
share.
What do we share?
How do we share?
Jesus spent time with others and build relationships.
We need to do the same! Be intentional!
Parents need YOU just as much as the kids do!

9. SMILES & TRIALS…
We all know of those children who push our limits day in
and out…and they are never absent!
We all know of those children who have never used a
whispering voice – or likely ever well!
We all know of those children who climb the walls…and
our legs!
Kids who try our patience every minute of the day !!!

10. DO YOU KNOW ANY OF THESE
KIDS?

11. WHY DO YOU TEACH?
For the kids!
For Jesus!
Because we want to be disciples and let others
know the very same Gospel Message we know!
It’s our duty – our calling – The Great Commission!

12. PASSION!!!
What is passion?
How do you know if
you have passion for
teaching?
Teaching is not easy!

13. EQUIPPING
In order to teach, one must have the right supplies &
equipment.
We have the best equipment – Jesus!
The Holy Spirit equips us to serve Jesus!
We equip children and families on their journey to
the Savior! We want everyone to know Jesus!

14. FAITH
Because we have faith…Because we believe…
The Lord’s Timing…
Planting the seed…
The Holy Spirit has it under control…
But this is not an excuse for us to sit back!

15. A VERY TRUE STORY
Char Tuescher, Teacher Darold, Student

16. THE KEY POINT

17. MINISTRY
Keep the focus on ministry.
It’s not a job…
For the kids…
Do everything for others – do everything for
Jesus!

18. BLESSINGS TO YOU!
You are a disciple of Christ!
There will be troubles and trials…
Keep a smile on your face!!!
Because of what Jesus has already done for
us…