Where’s the Discipleship!

​​by Molly Dillon / Keizer Campus Principal

“WHERE’S THE DISCIPLESHIP!” – It wasn’t a question. It was an accusation hurled at me like a dagger from the desperate mother standing before me. I’m not sure how long I stared at her in disbelief, unable to answer. All I could think about were the events of the school year that raced through my mind: the extreme challenges, the intense intercession, the tears, the strategies, the joyous victories, the spiritual growth. In that moment those three words broke my heart, and forever changed me.   

The Bible says “we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Claiming that promise, we have the opportunity to create a Romans 8:28 testimony out of our painful experiences. Mine took a lot of prayer, but truly blesses me each day. For in nearly every situation, challenge, and interaction with students, I now ask myself (and the Lord) “where’s the discipleship?” 

I’ve learned that discipleship thrives in the everyday moments. It patiently waits for the chance to change hearts and guide through encouragement. It can be messy, and easy to mess up. It’s often overlooked and overshadowed, yet it stands ready to restore and build character. Oftentimes it simply meets a need, shows love, or quietly listens. It never manipulates, condemns, never strives for conformity or a performance. It’s not a quick fix, but a grace-based process to lead the disciple back to God’s word, and presses into Jesus for authentic transformation.    

Those three words drive me, challenge me, and keep me focused on the school’s mission and vision for our students. They whisper into my own life, whereas the ability to effectively disciple is directly correlated to, and is an outpouring of our own discipleship. God is faithful to reveal discipleship opportunities in every situation, may He give us eyes to see them and equip us as we raise up this generation of world changers.
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– Molly Dillon / Keizer Campus Principal