Letter to Family and Friends

A Gift Freely Given

Dear Families,

We were privileged on Monday to have a special guest, Dan Warlow, entertain our students together with students from Emmaus Christian College. It was a really fun time and the children enjoyed moving to the music and the many opportunities to laugh.

We often speak at school about the power of grace, love, and second chances; and Dan shared a story that beautifully captured these themes – a modern-day parable that reminded us of the heart of the Christian message.

It was the story of two childhood friends. One grew up to become a judge; the other took a very different path and ended up in a life of crime. One day, that criminal stood in the courtroom, facing his old friend – now the judge – having been found guilty and unable to pay the $100,000 fine that could spare him from a prison sentence.

The judge, bound by duty, did what was right – he upheld the law and announced the sentence.

But then, to the bewilderment of those in the courtroom, he left the bench, changed out of his robes and returned with a bag of money. He handed it to his friend – the full amount of the fine. “I know the crime is yours,” he said, “and the punishment is just, but I want to pay the price for you so you don’t have to suffer – not because you deserve it, but because I care.”

What a powerful image of the Gospel. Jesus, despite our flaws and failings, willingly paid the price we could never afford – the cost of our sin – so that we might walk free.

He doesn’t force us, guilt us, or manipulate us. He offers us a gift: forgiveness, grace, and the chance to start again.

Like the man in the story, each of us has a choice - to accept the gift, or reject it.

As we move through this term, may we reflect on this incredible truth. May our school community be a place where grace is shown, second chances are offered, and we respond to God’s love – not because we’ve earned it, but because He’s given it freely.

Blessings,

Michael Denholm

Business Manager