Mentoring matrix

Gandalf and Frodo. Mr. Myagi and the karate kid. Obi-Wan Kenobi and Luke Skywalker. The mentor-mentee relationship is fascinating to observe. Who wouldn’t want someone’s support and guidance as they work through the challenges of life?
 
Mentoring seems to be in vogue. If you want to sell a book these days, include the word “mentoring” or “coaching” in the title. This interest is a good thing; it’s reflective of people’s longing for spiritual direction and encouragement. But it is also reflective of a Biblical principle that people intuitively know to be true.
 
How fortunate Joshua was to have a Moses in his life. Likewise, how privileged was Timothy. Imagine having the Apostle Paul for a mentor! This pattern is helpful for everyone, not just leaders. In the book of Titus, Paul encourages older women to mentor younger women. The Biblical precedent is clear: mentoring is important.
 
Few pastors would disagree with this. Yet I wonder how many pastors can clearly identify mentoring relationships in their life and ministry.