Principal's Ponderings

Do You Have A Filter?

As we navigate the day-in-day-out of the world, teeming with its constant clamour for our attention—emails, messages, news, social media and the endless buzz of daily life—it is crucial we ask ourselves: Do we have a filter?

In Matthew 6:33, Jesus teaches us, ‘But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.‘ This profound scripture urges us to seek Jesus, to prioritise our lives, placing God at the forefront. Just as a filter sifts through substances, separating the essential from the non-essential, we too must discern what warrants our focus in the barrage of life's demands.

Reflecting on my journey from a fresh graduate teacher, I recall the necessity of filtering distractions to concentrate on the task at hand. Initially, every mobile phone call and message seemed urgent, when the mobile phone buzzed, you answered it. However, stepping into the role of an educator taught me the importance of prioritisation—turning off the phone and setting boundaries to focus on nurturing the young minds entrusted to my care.

Fast forward to parenthood and the filter needed adjusting yet again. The arrival of our children, blessings from above, demanded a reshuffling of priorities (every parent knows this - less me time, less shopping for me, less is more in this instance). Family time became paramount, teaching me to say 'no' to less important engagements.

Now I come to this season, how is my filter? I am not meaning being careful what I say to others, I am focusing here on the importance of growing who I am. In my recent times of pondering, I have been wondering how my filter is protecting my growth and allowing my own children to see how I focus on developing who God wants me to be. What are my core priorities? How am I growing? 

For me, as I immerse myself in articles, books and in digital spheres: podcasts and audio books, the question of filtration emerges anew. Not everything that demands our attention deserves it. Sometimes we need to replace our device that distracts, and use it to stay-on-track. What truly matters in the grand scheme of our lives?

Consider this: if we were to list our priorities, what would top that list? And does our daily life reflect this hierarchy? As for me, my filter prioritises:

1. Faith: Jesus, worship and devotion—nurturing my spiritual health.

2. Family: cherishing and dedicating time to my loved ones.

3. Work: committing to the vocation God has called me to.

4. Continuous learning: staying informed and growing intellectually.

Recreation, sports and entertainment find their place, too, but they do not overshadow the essentials.

Let's remember the wisdom of Philippians 4:8, "Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." This scripture is a divine filter, guiding us to focus on what truly enriches our lives.

To be unshakeable when things come to shake us, we need to be prepared, be ready, be standing firm. I encourage each one of you to develop your filter, grounded in faith and aligned with God's will. Let us prioritise wisely, ensuring that our attention and efforts resonate with the values of His kingdom.

May our lives reflect the clarity and purpose of a well-filtered heart, dedicated to what truly matters. 

God bless you all!

Chad Smit | Principal