The Difference Between Making a Difference and Being the Difference by Lane

The Difference Between Making a Difference and Being the Difference by Lane - August 2017 Scholarship Essay

When asking what college course someone would like to teach, one will often hear answers such as "calculus" or "English composition," and from the crazier ones of the bunch, "theoretical physics." What is their reasoning for these choices, though? Many would simply say they want to make a difference, saying they want to influence the pioneers and groundbreakers of tomorrow. When you ask me this question, however, my answer is different. Rather than simply wanting to make a difference, I want to help be the difference. If I were to be a college professor, I would want to teach Bible classes.
While it may not seem so, making a difference and being the difference are two very different notions. When one says they want to "make a difference," they are usually talking about the third dictionary definition for this phrase which reads, "Be important, matter." One who wants to make a difference only wants to be important. While their actions may have positive influences and outcomes, the motivation for their actions is often purely selfish. Everything they do is done for their own glory. Being the difference is a different element entirely. If making a difference is motivated by love of self, being the difference is motivated by love of others. I recognize I am not worthy of any glory. God is the one worthy of the glory, and any glory I can bring to him is worth every effort. I want to be the difference in the lives of others by helping them draw closer to God.
Bible college professors aren't recognized near enough for the good they do. Helping the next generation draw close to God and daily live for Him is the noblest of pursuits. Even a Godless world cannot deny the joy and hope spread by Christians wherever they go. Being a light to a darkened world is a wonderful thing, and helping light the lamps of others is even more praise-worthy. While God deserves the most credit for the transformation of lives, the teachers who serve as a link in his plan are not to be overlooked as they are daily faithful to His calling. If I were to teach at a college, I would want this to be my lot: to daily help the younger generation draw closer to God through His Word.