Principal's Ponderings

The Real Jesus – Who Do You Say He Is?

Easter is a time to pause, reflect and remember. It is not just a holiday or a time of traditions, it is the most powerful reminder of love, sacrifice and hope. In a world searching for truth, the real Jesus stands before us, not as a distant figure of history but as our living Lord, the One who willingly gave His life to reconcile us with God.

“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” – Romans 5:8.

The real Jesus is not just an idea or a feel-good story. He is alive, present and personal. He walked this earth, healed the broken and embraced those in society whom are rejected. He knew the pain of betrayal, the weight of suffering and the sting of death, yet He chose the cross because He knew that we were separated from God. His resurrection is the ultimate declaration that sin and death do not have the final say.

"He is not here; he has risen, just as he said." – Matthew 28:6.

At Devonport Christian School, we cherish the journey of faith formation, character growth and identity transformation. Easter is an invitation to deepen that journey, not just for our students but for every parent, teacher and community member. It is a time to come close to Jesus, to know Him personally and to receive His grace.

Billy Graham once said, “God proved His love on the Cross. When Christ hung, and bled, and died, it was God saying to the world, ‘I love you.’” This love calls us to respond, not just with words, but with our hearts and lives.

Too often, Easter can become about the celebrations, the chocolate, the meals and the family gatherings, without truly encountering the One who made this season meaningful. But the cross is not just a symbol of sacrifice, it is a symbol of victory. Jesus did not remain in the tomb. His resurrection declares that death is defeated, sin is overcome, and hope is alive.  “Thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”– 1 Corinthians 15:57.

But victory does not come without a response. Jesus asks us, “Who do you say I am?” - Matthew 16:15. That question remains today. Who is Jesus to you? Is He a distant, historical figure, or is He your living Saviour? Easter is an opportunity to answer that question afresh, to surrender our burdens, our doubts and our fears, and to accept the grace that only He can offer.

As a school, we are committed to nurturing not only academic excellence but also deep, personal faith. That is why we encourage you to pause this Easter, step into the presence of Jesus and visit a local church. Surround yourself with the truth of the resurrection, with the power of worship and with the community of believers who gather to give thanks.

C.S. Lewis once wrote, “Christianity, if false, is of no importance, and if true, is of infinite importance.” Easter is a reminder that Jesus is of infinite importance. He is not just a figure from the past, He is the living Christ who calls us into relationship with Him today.

This Easter, do not let the moment pass without drawing near to the One who gave everything for you. He is real. He is alive. And He is waiting to meet you.

May we be a community that embraces the true meaning of Easter, lifting our voices in gratitude for the love that changed everything.

Who do you say Jesus is? I say He is Lord of all, Lord of me, and Lord of our school. 

Who do you say Jesus is?

Shalom,

Chad Smit