The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.
Colossians 1:15-20
Today we had a Christian education refresher course/professional development day at our school. I teach at a Christian school, and many people, often Christians challenge me about the need for Christian schools.
The text above encapsulates the need. We are directed to recognise that “all things”, which includes what we often (mistakenly) call the sacred and secular, are under Christ’s authority. Mathematics, history, character development, art, music, sport, worship, prayer, Bible and etc. are all under the rulership of the King of creation. Paul reminds us that as the very Word of creation, Christ, is the upholder of every aspect of it.
In the words of the Dutch theologian and Prime Minister Abraham Kuyper:
“In the total expanse of human life there is not a single square inch of which the Christ, who alone is sovereign,does not declare,’That is mine!
To suggest that education is neutral denies both Christ’s claims but also fails to see the humanistic foundations of public education; an education in which humanity is (an idolatrous) king.
We had a great day. All the staff – teachers, administration, bus drivers and gardeners, as well as board members – came together to be reminded of their part in important Kingdom work.
Disparate souls
wandering.
Hearts seeking
relationship.
Beings made
to relate and join and
celebrate community,
un-warmed,
un-connected,
un- celebrated
Connections bound
by rigid rules,
by unconsidered traditions,
and lifeless patterns.
“Insanity” it is said,
“Is doing the same thing
Over and over again.
Expecting different results.”
The spark of God,
the frisson of Spirit
and life enhancing
bonds
ached for
so that soul meets soul,
spirit, spirit
and being, being.
Hence the Divine
may shine
brighter
clearer
and eternally
for the un- generation.
Travels from Ur 