Principal's Ponderings

Love & Light

1 John 4:9–10 • John 8:12

Christmas tells the story of Love stepping down into the world and Light breaking through the darkness. John writes, “This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him… He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” (1 John 4:9–10).

This is the heart of Christmas. God’s love is not simply a feeling or a kind thought. It is action, sacrifice, and compassion. It is a love that steps into the mess of humanity, takes on flesh, and chooses the cross so that we may live. And with that love came light, a light that no darkness can overcome. Jesus declared, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12).

In our school community, we see this love and light in countless everyday moments. Love appears in the patience of a teacher walking alongside a struggling student. Light shines when a student chooses kindness instead of unkindness. Love speaks in friendships that welcome, include, and forgive. Light glows when a family prays for one another or chooses generosity even when it costs them something. These small moments echo the greater love of Christ and reflect His light into places that need it most.

Christmas reminds us that God’s love is not something to admire from a distance. It is something to receive and then share. If love truly came down in Jesus, and we are called to serve and worship Him, His love can be poured out through us; 'We love, because He first loved us.' (1 John 4:19) 

The world is longing for kindness, gentleness, humility, and compassion, especially in a season that can so easily be filled with busyness, pressure, and stress. Every act of kindness becomes a reflection of Christ’s love. Every encouraging word becomes a spark of light in someone’s darkness. Even in our classrooms, grounds and homes.

And the beauty of God’s love is that it meets us right where we are. We do not earn it. We do not have to be perfect to receive it. We simply open our hearts. When we truly know that we are loved by the God who created us, our lives change. His love moves us to forgive, to walk humbly, to serve joyfully, and to see others with compassion.

As we draw closer to Christmas, the Christmas lights around us will remind us of an even greater truth: the ‘Light of the World’ has come. His birth is God’s declaration that darkness will not win. His presence brings hope in uncertainty, courage in fear, strength in weakness, and joy in sorrow. And now, as His people, we carry that same light into our classrooms, our homes, and our community.

As we slowly start seeing each Christmas light being setup across our city, as you see them shine, may they point you to the One who shines forever. May His love warm your heart, His light guide your steps, and His presence shine through you so powerfully that others glimpse Jesus in you.

Where can you reflect the love and light of Jesus this week, at school, at home, or in your local community, in a way that helps push back darkness and points someone to Him?

Lord Jesus, thank You for coming as love in the flesh and light for the world. Help us to walk in Your light and share Your love generously. May our attitudes, words, and actions shine brightly this Christmas so others are drawn to You. Amen.

Chad Smit