Assessment as a management tool has become a hot topic of discussion, not only in businesses but in academic circles. Creating a climate of assessment is intended to give individuals a clearer sense of institutional goals and their own progress in meeting them. While we may not have responsibility for assessment in an institution, most of us need to give or receive evaluations at some time or another. What should be the spirit of such encounters?
If we genuinely want to support the progress of individuals and their worthwhile activities, we can find no better approach than Christ Jesus'. His motive in assessment was never to cast down, but rather to lift up and reveal more of God's nature everywhere, even though some people did not receive his message in this spirit. Through his words and deeds, he proved that God and His perfect creation are present here, and this understanding transformed lives, healing sin, sickness, and death.
The thirteenth chapter of John's Gospel describes a dramatic event that illustrates Jesus' approach. One night shortly before his trial and crucifixion, after he and his disciples had eaten dinner, he washed his disciples' feet. This action represented a remarkable reversal of human expectations. Even some slaves were not expected to perform such a menial and distasteful service. Yet Christ Jesus, the Master, was humble enough to undertake this duty for his students.
