TERM 2 VALUE – Striving for Excellence

Winter is certainly here! It’s part of the cycle of life. The dying of the old in preparation for the new (in Spring). A time for rest and renewal. A time of contemplation.

 Our school value for this term has been STRIVING for EXCELLENCE (‘striving to be Jesus’ mind – persevering and striving for excellence’). Our students’ school reports and work sample folders reflect their striving to do their best no matter what stage they are at in their learning journey.

Scripture tells us that we should strive for excellence in everything we do in our lives.  

 “And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgement; That you may approve things that are excellent;” Philippians 1:9-11

For many today, living the Christian life is summed up in the words: “God is still working on me.” Jesus wants us to keep striving for excellence in reflecting His own goodness… holiness, love, compassion, mercy, forgiveness, perseverance, courage etc.

The winter school break is a good time to reflect on how we are striving to live an excellent life that reflects these values and is pleasing to God. Of course, we must first open our hearts to Jesus’ love for us.

Lord,

From the rising of the winter sun to its setting, on these short winter days…

Make me short on mindless activity, long on reflecting on your love for me.

Make me short on being driven, long on paying attention.

Make me short on rushing and tiring, long on walking and wondering.

Make me short on focusing only on myself, long on looking beyond.

Make me short on mean thoughts, long on offers of words of comfort.

Make me short of obsessive lists, long on spontaneous acts of kindness,

Make me short on tradition as a habit, long on rediscovery and re-owning.

Make me short on false jollity, long on stilling and rooted joy.

Make me short on guilt, long on being merciful to myself.

Make me short on being overwhelmed, long on peacefulness.

AMEN

Kindergarten Prayer Celebration

Kindergarten held their class prayer service to celebrate their faith and learning in Religious Education lessons last week. Thank you to all who joined us for this.