The R's of Mentoring

Recently my 3 year old son prayed the grace before meals without being told to do so. Normally I would always remind Him and reluctantly he would oblige. But this time, while Sev was taking a snack as I was watching TV, on his own he made the sign of the cross and prayed. Soon he'll be teaching his little sister how to pray. I was happy that we as young parents were able to share the value of prayer.

How do we share to others what we value? First is through Role modeling. Teaching others by example is one of the most effective way of influencing. Second is by Repetition. By consistently practicing, it soon becomes second nature. Third is Replication. Encourage the one your teaching to teach others or to replicate the learning. Fourth is through showing Relevance. Real life application of what you are trying to teach will give better retention. Just recall all the formula you had to memorize in school without realizing what to do with it after you passed your course. We forget them. Expressing relevance will greatly motivate others of the values we want to impart. It allows them to see the significance of what you are teaching in the context of a bigger picture.

Those were the R's of mentoring. The Lord is the best teacher and mentor of all. He was a role model of servant leadership. In many occasions he repeated his good works and was consistent through and through. He empowered others by letting them replicate His miraculous deeds through the Holy Spirit. And lastly all He taught was relevant to our salvation.