Pictured above: Alise Aguilar making her own stained glass window.

By Rebecca Little, Lower Elementary Principal

We had no idea that two and a half months into the year 2020 we would all be practicing social distancing, sheltering in place, searching for toilet paper, and attending school online. But here we are, and God is right here with us!

First, I want to commend you for what you are doing to carry on your children’s education. We have all had to adjust to a temporary new way of life so quickly, and I am very impressed by what I’m hearing and seeing.

It has been difficult for me to find a new rhythm and routine, so I can imagine how it has been in your homes. You are amazing parents! But I’m sure that it has not been easy and that you have experienced some stressful days, tears, arguments, and all that comes with lots of togetherness.

Our faculty and staff are praying for you and your students and want to support and encourage you as we are on this journey together.

In preparation for writing this blog, many things swirled around in my head as to what to write. What I landed on is just to share with you what God has reminded me during this time of uncertainty and uncharted territory. 

HIS GRACE WILL CARRY US THROUGH

As a senior in high school, I was given a cassette tape of a sermon (yes, I’m old), and one statement from the sermon has stuck with me for all these years. God brings it to my mind when times are tough:

“The will of God will never lead you where the grace of God cannot keep you.”

How comforting it is to know that His grace will carry us through this season. He will give us what we need for such a time as this. We must lean into Him.

HIS SPIRIT WILL GUIDE US

Just this morning, God reminded me of the importance of appropriating the power of the Holy Spirit. Every morning I need to ask to be filled with the Holy Spirit to guide and strengthen me throughout the day.

HIS WORD WILL COMBAT FEAR

Reflecting on God’s Word and the scripture that He has hidden in my heart helps me to combat the fearful and questioning thoughts that pop into my mind. Continuing to speak the Truth to myself and others around me is critical.

ReCognizing HIS BLESSINGS WILL HELP US COPE

Lastly, thinking of the silver linings from this very unexpected time also helps me to cope. Here are few that have come to my mind:

• Experiencing a less hectic lifestyle

• Learning and implementing new (to some of us) technology

• Growing in our faith and trust in Jesus

• Cultivating a stronger prayer life

• Being reminded that we are not in control and He is sovereign over all

• Appreciating community and fellowship with one another

• Completing a few projects around the house

• Building character and perseverance through a difficult situation

Maybe as a family you can add to this list. How have you been able to take this big lemon and make lots of lemonade? What ways have you shared that lemonade for God’s greater glory?

My Prayer

It is my prayer that when looking back on the pandemic of 2020, we will remember how our trust in the sovereignty of God grew exponentially, how God used the pandemic to bring revival in our world, the special memories that were made with family, and to be continually grateful for the things we so often take for granted.

In closing I leave you with this verse -

“If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14

May we be in prayer for both the spiritual and physical healing of our land.