LEAven Blog

It is a bustling middle school hallway. There sits the principal of this Lutheran community—with a ready smile and looking for opportunities to connect with students. He is sitting on a 70-plus year old beat-up wooden bench, large enough to hold about ten kids! Just to his left on the bench one can see a typed out, laminated message with the words, “The Answer Bench.” As the passing bell has just rung, three students sit beside him, readied with their questions. The principal simply says, “Hi, guys. Who is first today? Let’s get you some answers.” Then…the conversation begins.

When guests tour the building, in many cases they will ask about “the bench.” What is it? Why is there a label that says what is says? Almost inevitably, there is intrigue. Intrigue can lead to engagement, engagement to excitement. I basically share that putting these three simple words was a deliberate experiment in reaching students in a new, creative, and fun way. It has, in essence, become a gathering place.

The story behind this unique piece of furniture was born from a class called Innovation and Design Thinking. Within the learning from the professor and fellow cohort students, each was prompted to design spaces that drew others to them. In doing so, there became a realization of value-added benefits to an organization as well as innovative (albeit sometimes remarkably simple) efforts to engage people. In this scenario, which is true and continues to evolve, a single conversation prompted an opportunity that was life-changing for both the principal and his students.

During a recent school year, three fifth graders came by and sat by the school leader. They asked him if he would teach them a class. “Why, he asked?” The response was “We just like talking to you!” How can one not take such a request seriously? So, the following year, he led the sixth grade class in a daily life skills class. Teaching the content was fun and meaningful and getting to know this great class was unforgettable. From a simple request on The Answer Bench to realizing the potential for God to bless conversations like this one— made for an unforgettable year. Relationships were strengthened. Faith formation was a daily event, as the Holy Spirit worked among each person, child, and adult.

.

“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect” 1 Peter 3:15 (NIV).

The Answer Bench allows one to be bold in providing answers. This can mean honoring God in words and deeds. Correction can occur as well. It provides a listening ear and a platform to speak one’s mind. It provides possibilities. Some finer points are included here, upon reflection from the many and varied conversations on this bench:

• It presents an opportunity.
• It is all about relationships.
• Every moment in a Lutheran school is one where Jesus can be shared.
• Always seek out ways to add value, and this is certainly one.
• Being innovative can catch on with your entire staff.
• Design thinking allows one to look at the world in a different light, using empathy to also create a culture of uniqueness and freshness.

The Bench was meant for students and the principal. It has evolved into much more. Parishioners will stop him on Sundays and ask what new conversations had popped up. Dozens of projects have been accomplished from Q & A time. And prayer—wow! It happens often, right in front of others. Students boldly pray. This witness in itself seems to prompt others to do the same. God answers. He does! Consider your own, unique ways to bless and to be blessed. The Answer Bench is just one example of simplicity, innovation, and opportunities to engage God’s people. In our schools, as the writer from 1 Peter 3:15 promises, we can revere Christ as Lord, share the hope of salvation, and be gentle and respectful in all things—seeking to do His will.