How do we define discipleship? Images of mentors and coaches come to mind but neither quite fully encompass the role of one who disciples. To be a disciple means to be a learner.

So, to disciple someone else puts you in the role of teacher. But is that all?

As parents we often think of teaching and training as synonymous. Both are important parts of the discipleship process, yet are very distinct. To teach means to show or explain. However, to train means to teach a particular skill or behavior through practice and instruction over the course of time.

Discipleship involves walking with someone over the course of time ensuring that they practice, understand and embrace what is being taught as a part of their own life and responsibility. It takes time and attention and patience. A baton in a relay cannot be passed by tossing it forward, but instead by running a bit of the race holding on with the person coming behind us.

Discipleship invites us to "walk with" those we teach and train and to demonstrate Jesus, Emmanuel, God With Us. Discipleship is one way we can be Jesus with skin on to our children!