Tuesday, March 31, 2015

A resurrected Christian school

“How deep the Father’s love for us, 
how vast beyond all measure,
that He should give his only Son, 
to make a wretch his treasure.”

No doubt that many of our families and our churches have already begun reflection and observance
of the narratives and faith rituals of Easter. The above words sung this morning by the staff and
students pulled us out of our Monday morning rhythm of routine and challenged us to think deeply
about the events of this Holy Week. Walking out I was left with this question in my mind: What does
the resurrection mean for the Christian School?

The gift of grace in our educational setting means that all of our students need not be defined by their
weakness, shortcomings, or failures. God promises that “he who began a good work in you will carry
it on to completion” (Philippians 1:6) which for us and our students is a source of great encouragement to remain steadfast in our pursuit of faithful living and learning – even when success is not immediately apparent. We are dearly loved people, all of us, and even in our brokenness God promises to do great things with us. He is our God, we are His people.

Riding a donkey, washing feet, and serving the Last Supper to his disciples – these are images for us
today that ought to cause us to reflect. For us and our students, Jesus’ death and resurrection plants
a vision in our minds and hearts of a radically different kingdom where power is not equated with
wealth, power, or prestige – but rather a place of power derived in service, humility, and love as
Christ modeled it for us.

The Christian school is a place where we look to help plant and ignite that longing to follow Christ in all areas of life, capturing the “first love” of our students and orienting it toward their creator.

In the hope of the resurrection, SJ

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