He wanted to work with me, individually. Private Bible Study with a retired minister. Wow... I was honored. And I jumped at the chance to be taught by this man. I was writing curriculum materials for a couple of Christian publishing companies at this time, and he felt the private Bible instruction could benefit my writing. What a wonderful opportunity.
Since it was difficult for him to get around, he suggested we meet in his home for our lessons. This was fine with me, and I looked forward to beginning our studies together.
Over time, we studied the Old Testament books of Amos, Jeremiah, and Micah, as well as some theme-related studies. My writing was fast and furious during this period, producing songs, children's presentations, and a series of poetry books:
Amos Among Us
Sunday Songs for Everyday
Poems from Jeremiah
To The Potter
Psalms and Sayings
Growing
Follow the Star
Micah and Me
He encouraged me, and praised my efforts. He lifted me up when I was down. He challenged me to learn and dig deep. He made me think, and I really liked that.
We ate together, and talked about many things. He seemed lonely and needy and my company was good for him.
We became close... more than student and teacher. And I think I relied on his approval in my life more than I ever realized. I did not see what was happening in our relationship... how influenced I was by what he thought, what he wanted, what he decided. I did not see that he had a plan... that he was blurring the boundaries... that he was grooming me...
No comments:
Post a Comment