old school, june 2021

     “To the youth knowledge and discretion, A wise person will hear and increase in learning.”  —Proverbs 1:14
 
     The book of Proverbs has some of my favorite verses.  There are many that are like staring right in the mirror.  They are not always very flattering……
     When you read chapters 1 & 2 and understand what Solomon is doing, a good Lutheran can easily compare the purpose of Proverbs with the purpose of Luther’s catechism(s).  Proverbs is set up to be instructional in the foundational Truth of Jesus and Scripture.  The Small Catechism is set up to be instructional at the foundational level in the Truth of Jesus and Scripture. 
     As an instructional institution, Martin Luther High School, should take note of the points of emphasis that are foundational in this instructional process.  Reading Proverbs 1-2 and doing the math, one can literally count the points.  Redundancies need to be recognized as “things not to miss, or overlook.”  The more mentions the more we should take note.  Discernment is undoubtedly the strongest point of emphasis in chapters 1 & 2.  What is discernment?  It is the ability to choose between right and wrong as defined by Jesus Himself.  With Jesus at the core of our lives, we need to choose the right things to do for the right reasons and NOT the alternative, no matter how enticing, “enjoyable,” or even rewarding.  Proverbs makes it quite clear that the discernment process has real strong opposition.  We, Martin Luther High School, need to strongly consider how we employ this into our instructional process.  This process is a  L O N G  process, 35+ year at a minimum (and i’m still learning). MLHS has young people for only four years, and they are critical years.  We need to be diligent.  The opposition for young people to make the right decisions for the right reasons is very, VERY tough!  We need to be real in our approach, honest in the consequences (pro and con), and balanced in discipline.  Forgiveness and repentance have to promote a return to the fundamentals and not embitter the young people –Col 3:21—to completely turn their back to the Truth.  This may be the most important job we have.  According to the repetition of Proverbs 1 & 2, it certainly is!  Come along side and be part of this vital mission. 
 
Come Lord Jesus, Amen!
Paul Steinhaus, Principal