Reflections on the Joy of Learning

One of the first things that God reveals about himself is his creativity and workmanship. In the opening words of Genesis we meet a God who creates. His work of creation was active, purposeful and productive. This truth has implications for how we view ourselves as His image bearers.

In his children’s picture book, The Creator in You, author Jordan Raynor spends the first half of the book describing God’s acts of creation before writing:

 'And now you might think that our story is ending, but in fact this is just the beginning. God made you to look like Him to act and work and create with Him.'

In the second half of the book, Raynor unpacks some of the things that God “simply did not” create and argues that the command in Genesis 1 to “fill the earth and subdue it” is an invitation for humanity to continue creating and developing God’s world. Children are encouraged to “roll up your sleeves and build epic tree forts, and someday build cities and towers and ports…with just a few words, write a book or a song……create new businesses, movies, medicine and hope. Makes laws or computers or a new telescope.”

The book concludes with these words.

"When you work, you are doing what God has made you to do, and when you show others the Creator in you, you bring joy to the world and to your Father too."

Our theme this year is being Anchored in Faith and Courageously Wise. Being wise involves understanding our calling and purpose and finding joy in the work God has given us to do. Yet wisdom also invites us to approach learning with curiosity, wonder, and creativity. As image bearers of a creative God, we are called not only to be productive but also to delight in discovering, imagining, and creating. Purpose and joy are found not only in what we accomplish, but also in the process of learning, growing, and exploring the gifts God has entrusted to us.

As I reflect on my first 8 months at Donvale Christian College, I have been struck by the many moments of joy I have observed as both students and staff engage in meaningful work, learning and creative pursuits.

I have seen these in classrooms where students wrestle with complex problems and finding solutions. One student even told me of the delight he experiences when he is given extra mathematical equations to solve.  I have seen it in strategic working groups as staff have grappled with developing ethical and responsible guidelines for the use of AI, strengthening service learning and faith formation programs, and creating a college-wide language for learning.

Small groups of staff have commenced postgraduate study together, while others have generously led professional learning for their colleagues. It is a privilege to be part of such rich conversations about learning and growth.

There have also been many opportunities this year for students to use their gifts and participate in meaningful and enjoyable learning experiences beyond the classroom. I have delighted in the worship sessions led by students at assemblies, rejoiced in the success of our musicians, and will never forget the first time I heard the Altonatives sing. 

It has been a privilege to listen to the critical thinking, and sometimes creative arguments, of our debaters, to admire the student artwork displayed in my office, and to be inspired by the talent showcased in the musical, the Celebration of Sound and Song concerts, and the outstanding Creative Arts and DOT Weeks. Despite the disappointing result for staff, it was also a joy to cheer from the sidelines at the Year 12 Students versus Staff basketball match. Together, these experiences form part of the rich tapestry that is a Donvale education.

At Donvale we prioritise holistic student growth. Nurturing each student’s academic, spiritual, personal and creative growth as they pursue excellence, honour God and serve others. In many ways, this is exactly what courageous wisdom looks like. It is creating spaces where young people are free to grow, take risks, and learn from failure. It is providing opportunities for students to explore possibilities and discover the unique gifts and talents God has given them. It is equipping them to honour God by developing those gifts and striving to do their best.

Wisdom isn’t only about knowing the right answers—it’s about having the courage to wonder, to ask questions, and to respond joyfully to the world God has made.

Yet if we are not careful, we can begin to think that purpose is found only in productivity, achievement, or measurable outcomes. Scripture paints a richer picture. The God who calls us to meaningful work is also the God who delights in beauty, wonder, and creativity. Joyful learning happens when children are free not only to work diligently, but also to explore, imagine, experiment, and create. 

My office is ideally positioned to hear the sounds of joy and laughter from the younger children during break times as they form friendships and learn through play. These moments are a reminder that play is not separate from the discovery of purpose; it is often one of the ways purpose is revealed. Through play and creativity, children develop confidence, curiosity, and wisdom as they discover more about God's world, their gifts, and the unique contribution they are called to make.

American Christian educator, Doug Blomberg argues for the role of play as integral to learning. Play is a way of learning that engages the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. When children play, they explore God’s world with curiosity. They imagine, create, take risks, and learn from their mistakes. They are not afraid to try something new or to see things differently. Play helps our children make sense of what they’re learning. It allows them to make connections, solve problems, and see the bigger picture. Whether through music, art, storytelling, or imaginative games, play opens the door to deeper learning—and deeper living.

In a world that often rushes children toward performance and perfection, let’s not forget the gifts of play and creativity. Let’s protect time for it, honour its role in our homes, and join our children in it whenever we can. Because in these joyful, imaginative moments, our children are being shaped—heart, mind, and soul—by the gentle, abundant wisdom of God.