Jesus as Teacher: Lessons for Life at Merion Mercy Academy

In the main hallway on the first floor of Merion Mercy Academy hangs a striking image of Jesus. The title: Icon of Christ the Teacher by Bro. Mickey McGrath. This portrayal serves as a daily reminder of the kind of teacher we are called to follow—one whose lessons transcend the classroom and shape our hearts, minds, and actions. (McGrath’s distinct icons also grace our second floor student chapel.)

According to Christianity.com, of the 90 times Jesus is addressed in the Gospels, he is called "Teacher" 60 times. We don’t know if he ever entered a traditional classroom, or earned an educational degree, yet there has never been a better teacher. His wisdom was not confined to textbooks or syllabi; instead, he taught through example, storytelling, and service—methods that continue to inspire the mission of education at Merion Mercy Academy.

Our Mission: Merion Mercy Academy, an independent Catholic, college preparatory school sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy, empowers young women to lead, learn, and serve through an education grounded in spiritual development and academic and personal excellence.

Learning by Example

Jesus lived the lessons he taught. When he preached about love, he embraced the marginalized. When he spoke of forgiveness, he pardoned those who wronged him. His life was a model of integrity, compassion, and mercy. At Merion Mercy, we strive to follow this example, encouraging students to live out their values in everyday interactions—whether through acts of kindness in the hallways, service projects in the community, or standing up for what is right. 

The Power of Storytelling

Parables were one of Jesus’ most effective teaching tools. From the Good Samaritan to the Prodigal Son, his stories made profound truths accessible to all. These lessons remain relevant today, challenging us to reflect on our own choices and perspectives. In our classrooms, we too embrace the power of storytelling—whether in literature, history, theology, or the arts—as a means of understanding the world and our place within it.

Servant Leadership in Action

Jesus did not lead from a throne; he led by washing the feet of his disciples. His model of servant leadership calls us to put others first, to lead with humility, and to use our gifts for the good of all. At Merion Mercy, this spirit is at the heart of our mission. Whether through student leadership roles or service initiatives, we encourage our students in the ways of “principled leadership,” leadership not for recognition, but for the betterment of their communities. 

Lessons for Today’s Students

As young women “inspired by faith,” Merion Mercy students are invited to embrace Jesus as their teacher in the way they approach academics, relationships, and personal growth. His lessons challenge us with “educational courage,” to be “compelled by mercy,” and to cultivate a spirit of lifelong learning.

Every day, as students pass by the image of Jesus as Teacher in our hallway, may they be reminded that true education is more than acquiring knowledge—it is about becoming people of integrity, compassion, and service. Because, in the end, the greatest teachers are not those who simply impart facts, but those who inspire transformation. And while our teachers are the best of the best, no teacher has ever done that better than Jesus.