Let’s consider Paul’s words, in particular verses 22 and 23 in the first reading for today’s liturgy: To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all that I might by all means save some.
Throughout the world the teaching corps has returned to the classroom. Education continues. One of the greatest teachers in history is St. Paul, author of one great history in his letters.
In proclaiming he has become all things to all people, Paul sets himself up to be a failure. Being all things to all could raise a question about his sincerity. Changing to meet the circumstances has become a concern in the current political campaign — some call it flip-flopping! Many back away from someone who lacks definitive positions, especially those who teach us through leadership. So, what is with our tent maker, Paul. Is he for real? Is he genuine?
Another sentence in a different letter helps us understand this teacher who says he is all things to all for the sake of the gospel. In Galatians 2:20, Paul wrote "I live, no longer I, but Christ lives in me." Here we discover the power that drives Paul, a genuine apostle although not one of the Twelve. Paul’s conversion and coming to know Jesus through what He taught became the impetus for his apostolic strength.
What makes a good teacher? First, being on fire with a subject matter. Also a memorable teacher strives to help students share wisdom, to catch the same fire. Paul was all of this not because he was Paul the teacher but because he was Paul afire with all that Jesus was. Paul did all that he could to bring all to know and understand his Savior. Throughout his life he became more like Jesus Christ, his Teacher.
Many attribute their being on fire to a teacher. Paul was no different. His fire was Jesus Christ. And this is the challenge Paul, our teacher, puts before us: be Christie. Be Christie and you attract others not to yourself but to the Jesus Christ who energizes you and all you do.
