|
|
|
December 12 I read today an amazing story of a Czech man whose hope did not die in the face of pain. Jan Amos Komensky was born in the Czech Lands in the 16th century. Though pain and suffering surrounded Komensky, he epitomized hope. Komensky was a strong proponent for ‘hands-on’ education for boys and girls alike. During his day, education was very strict and formal, reserved primarily for males who were from rich and noble families. Komensky not only dreamed of change, he worked diligently to make it happen. He also believed, and was a strong advocate, that girls should be given the right to formal education. Though unknown to many in the US, he is referred to by educators as the “Father of Modern Education.” Komensky lived during tumultuous times, a painful season when Protestants and Catholics fought over religious freedom. Komensky argued to friend and foe alike that no one has the right to dictate what to believe or how to worship. His convictions were costly. Not only were a great deal of his original works burned on more than one occasion, he was eventually forced out of his own country into Poland where he died in exile. While Komensky was humbled time and time again, he help fast in hope. On the day he was forced to flee to neighboring Poland he knelt down with a handful of faithful followers and prayed: “Lord, preserve a seed of my hope that will one day bear fruit in this dark land.” How amazing that, despite the wars and despots and false ideologies that have trampled their way across the Czech Lands, God has been faithful in answering Komensky’s prayer. Though I don’t want to be presumptuous, could it be that we are an answer to Komensky’s plea, sent to help restore hope to this land? |
|
