​Philippians 4:6-7
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Distractions here, distractions there, finding a peaceful time and place to talk to and listen to God can be challenging, but when we find it we can find solace and strength through prayer which can be a transformative experience. Through prayer we are empowered to connect with the divine and seek guidance, comfort, and clarity.

Hebrews 4:16                                                                                                                                     
 “Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”

To be prayerful means to cultivate a spirit of openness and receptivity to God. It involves more than just reciting words; it’s about fostering a deep relationship with Christ. This relationship is nurtured through the act of prayer, where we can express our thoughts, fears, hopes, and gratitude.
Prayer should be seen as one of the most important aspects of our lives. Setting aside time to be alone with our heavenly Father brings us closer to Him. Below are four reasons why prayer is so important.

1. Connection with God: Prayer is our direct line to God. It allows us to communicate our thoughts and feelings, creating a personal bond that can deepen our faith. In moments of joy or sorrow, turning to prayer can provide the comfort of knowing we are never alone.
2. Guidance and Wisdom: In Christ, prayer becomes a source of wisdom. When we seek His guidance, we open ourselves to receive direction and clarity in our decisions. Whether facing uncertainty in personal or professional matters, prayer can illuminate the path forward.
3. Strength in Difficult Times: Life is filled with challenges, but through prayer, we can find strength. In moments of despair, turning to Christ gives us the courage to face our difficulties, reminding us that we are supported by a higher power.
4. Gratitude and Reflection: Prayer is also an opportunity to reflect on our blessings. Recognizing the good in our lives fosters a sense of gratitude and keeps us grounded, reminding us of the love and grace that surrounds us.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18                                                                                                    
 Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
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Knowing why prayer is important is good, but knowing how to pray is even better. Prayer is nothing more than sitting, standing, or kneeling and talking to your best friend. It is part of sharing life together. God desires for us to talk to Him, relate to Him, worship Him and adore Him. Here are a few ideas to make prayer a regular part of you day.

1. Set Aside Time: Just as we schedule important meetings or events, setting aside dedicated time for prayer can help make it a priority in our lives. Whether it's early morning or late at night, find a time that works best for you.
2. Create a Sacred Space: Designate a space in your home or community where you can pray without distractions. This could be a corner of a room, a quiet park, or anywhere you feel comfortable and at peace.
3. Use Scripture: Incorporating Bible verses into your prayers can enhance your connection to Christ. Reflecting on His words can help guide your thoughts and deepen your understanding.
4. Be Authentic: Approach prayer with an open heart. Speak honestly about your feelings and needs. God desires a genuine relationship with us, and authenticity is key to that connection.
5. Practice Listening: Prayer is a two-way conversation. While it’s essential to voice our thoughts, it’s equally important to listen for God’s response. Take time to sit in silence and be receptive to His guidance.

In Christ, being prayerful is not merely a routine; it is a way of life. It allows us to nurture our faith, seek guidance, and find peace amidst life’s challenges. As we cultivate a prayerful spirit, we become more attuned to the divine presence that surrounds us and empowers us to live fully in His love. Embrace the power of prayer and discover the profound impact it can have on your life. 

In a world filled with misinformation, half-truths, and outright deception, the value of truth has never been more crucial. As believers, we are called to embody truthfulness, not just as a moral guideline, but as a reflection of our identity in Christ. The statement “In Christ, I am truthful” is not just a declaration; it is a profound commitment to live authentically and transparently, grounded in our faith.

Understanding Truth in Christ
Truth is a central theme in Christianity. Jesus declared, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6, NIV). This assertion establishes Him as the embodiment of truth itself. When we say, “In Christ, I am truthful,” we are acknowledging that our understanding of truth comes from our relationship with Him. It means aligning our words and actions with His teachings and character.

Being truthful is a way of life. It is who we are called to be. Living lives of integrity shows who we are in character. Integrity is doing the right thing because it is the right thing to do. David tells us in Psalm 15 who can dwell in the sacred tent and on God’s Holy mountain.

Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent?
    Who may live on your holy mountain?
2 The one whose walk is blameless,
    who does what is righteous,
    who speaks the truth from their heart;
3 whose tongue utters no slander,
    who does no wrong to a neighbor,
    and casts no slur on others;
4 who despises a vile person
    but honors those who fear the Lord;
who keeps an oath even when it hurts,
    and does not change their mind;
5 who lends money to the poor without interest;
    who does not accept a bribe against the innocent.
Whoever does these things
    will never be shaken.

Here are two reasons why being truthful is important.
1.Reflecting Christ’s Character: As followers of Christ, our lives should reflect His character. God is inherently truthful, and as His image-bearers, we are called to emulate that truthfulness in our daily lives. This means being honest in our interactions, fulfilling our commitments, and being transparent in our relationships.
2.Building Trust: Truthfulness fosters trust. In our personal relationships, communities, and workplaces, being truthful lays the foundation for strong bonds. When we consistently speak and act with integrity, we create an environment where others feel safe and valued. This trust is essential for healthy relationships.

In order to embrace this idea of truthfulness we must take action. We need to:
1.Seek God’s Guidance: Pray for wisdom and strength to be truthful in all aspects of your life. Ask God to help you align your thoughts and actions with His truth.
2.Practice Self-Reflection: Take time to evaluate your words and actions. Are there areas where you might be tempted to bend the truth? Reflecting on these situations can help you make conscious choices to act with integrity.
3.Encourage Others: Create a culture of truthfulness within your community. Encourage friends, family, and colleagues to embrace honesty, and support each other in being accountable.
4.Stand Firm in Your Values: In situations where truth may be challenged, be bold in standing up for what is right. Remember that your commitment to truth reflects your commitment to Christ.
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In Christ, we find the ultimate example of truthfulness. As we strive to embody this truth in our lives, we not only honor our faith but also create a ripple effect of honesty and integrity in our communities. Let us embrace the declaration, “In Christ, I am truthful,” and live out this commitment daily, shining His light in a world that desperately needs it.

This month we are we are looking at ways to be friendly.

It seems like it is getting harder and harder to just get along with other people. This makes the call to be friendly and kind more important than ever. Anger and hatred are too prevalent in our society right now, which goes contrary to everything that Christ teaches us in the Bible. Ephesians 4:32 says, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”  James 1:19 says, “This you know, my beloved brethren. But everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger.”  When we are in Christ, we are encouraged to reflect His love and grace in our interactions with others. The phrase "In Christ, I am Friendly" encapsulates a vital aspect of the Christian walk - the commitment to embody the spirit of friendliness and warmth, drawing inspiration from our relationship with Jesus.

Friendliness is not merely about being polite or saying hello; it is a deeper expression of love, compassion, and understanding. When we say, "In Christ, I am Friendly," we acknowledge that our ability to be truly friendly comes from our connection with Him. The Bible teaches us that Jesus exemplified perfect friendliness - He reached out to the marginalized, engaged with those who were different, and showed kindness to everyone He encountered.

The Biblical Basis for Friendliness

1. The Example of Jesus: Throughout the Gospels, we see Jesus embracing those around Him with open arms. Whether it was the tax collectors, the sick, or the sinners, He treated everyone with dignity and respect. As His followers, we are called to do the same.
2. Scripture Encouragement: Verses like Proverbs 18:24 remind us that "a man who has friends must himself be friendly." This is a beautiful reminder that friendliness is not just a one-way street; it involves actively reaching out, engaging, and building relationships.
3. The Power of Kindness: Ephesians 4:32 encourages us to "be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." Kindness is a reflection of Christ's love for us and serves as a powerful tool to bridge gaps between individuals and communities.

Practical Ways to Be Friendly

1. Smile and Greet Others: A simple smile can go a long way. When you greet someone warmly, you create an inviting atmosphere that encourages connection.
2. Listen Actively: Friendliness involves being present in conversations. Show genuine interest in what others have to say, and listen without interrupting.
3. Offer Help: Last month we looked at how we are to be helpful to those around us. We see that helping people shows friendliness. Look for opportunities to lend a hand, whether it’s assisting a colleague, helping a neighbor, or volunteering in your community. Acts of service are powerful expressions of friendliness.
4. Practice Empathy: Try to understand things from others' perspectives. Empathy fosters connection and builds trust, allowing friendships to flourish.
5. Encourage Others: Take the time to uplift and encourage those around you. A kind word or compliment can brighten someone’s day.

When we embody friendliness, we not only enrich our own lives but also the lives of those around us. Being friendly creates a ripple effect, inspiring others to reciprocate kindness. In a world that can often feel cold and unwelcoming, our friendliness can be a beacon of hope and love.

As we strive to live out the principle of "In Christ, I am Friendly," let us remember that our friendliness is a reflection of the love that God has shown us. By embracing this spirit, we can create a community that mirrors Christ's love and grace. Let us commit to being the hands and feet of Jesus in our everyday interactions, spreading warmth and kindness wherever we go. Together, we can make a difference, one friendly act at a time.

In today's fast-paced world, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed, lost, or even disconnected from those around us. However, as believers, we are reminded that in Christ, we have the power to be a source of help and encouragement to others. This month we are exploring the importance of embodying a helpful spirit through our faith and how it can make a significant impact in the lives of those around us.

As we have mentioned previously, as Christians our identity is rooted in our relationship with Christ. The apostle Paul tells us in 2 Corinthians 5:17, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" When we enter into this relationship not only are our lives changed, but we are also called to serve others. When we embrace our identity in Christ, we begin to see ourselves as vessels of His love and grace, called to extend that same kindness to those around us.

Jesus Christ exemplified a life of service during His time on earth. In Mark 10:45, we read, "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many."  This is King Jesus! If anyone deserves to be served it would be Him, but that is not why he came to earth. That is not why He left His rightful place in heaven. He came to teach us by example, and when we follow His example, we are called to serve our communities, families, and friends. Whether it’s through acts of kindness, volunteering our time, or simply being present for someone in need, our willingness to help and serve reflects the heart of Christ.

When Jesus was in the upper room with the 12 disciples, and after they had finished what we know as the “Last Supper,” He washed their feet. A strange way to end a meal, but it was His teaching moment prior to His arrest and crucifixion. In John 13:12-17 it said this, “When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. 13 “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. 14 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. 15 I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. 16 Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17 Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them. This was an example of serving at the lowest level, but a lesson for all on how to serve at any level.

Being helpful goes beyond physical acts; it also includes emotional and spiritual support. Encouragement can be a powerful tool in lifting others up during challenging times. In 1 Thessalonians 5:11, we are instructed to "encourage one another and build each other up." When we take the time to listen, offer words of affirmation, or pray for others, we embody the helpful spirit that Christ wants us to share, who Christ desires us to be. What we see as little things, to those we are helping, it may be the biggest thing at that moment. Never underestimate how God can use us.

Here are some practical ways to embody a helpful attitude in your daily life:

• Volunteer: Look for opportunities in your community to serve, whether at a local shelter, food bank, or church activity. MVCA is always looking for parents to come in and volunteer time in the classrooms, the office, sporting events, or during special events.
• Listen Actively: Sometimes, people just need someone to listen. Offer your time and attention to those who may feel isolated or unheard.
• Share Your Knowledge: If you have skills or expertise, consider mentoring or tutoring someone who could benefit from your experience.
• Show Kindness: Simple gestures, like holding the door open or offering a compliment, can brighten someone's day and inspire a ripple effect of kindness.

When we choose to be helpful, we not only uplift others but also cultivate an environment of love and compassion. Our actions can inspire those around us to do the same, creating a community that reflects the love of Christ. Additionally, being helpful can lead to personal growth and fulfillment, as we witness the positive effects of our contributions.
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In Christ, we are called to be helpful, not just in our words but also in our actions. Embracing this calling allows us to reflect His love and grace in our daily lives. As we strive to serve others, we become instruments of hope and encouragement, making a lasting impact in our communities. Let us remember that our identity in Christ equips us to be helpful, and together, we can create a world that mirrors His compassion and kindness.

As we come out of the holiday season, Thanksgiving, Christmas and the beginning of a New Year, and we get back to what we call the “Norm” of life, it can be hard to hold onto the joy that we felt during the past month. In the midst of challenges, and sometimes overwhelming negativity, finding joy can seem like a daunting task. However, for those who believe in Christ, joy is not just a fleeting emotion; it is a profound state of being rooted in faith and the promises of God. James 1:2 tells us, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds.”
Joy is often misunderstood as just being happy, which is often dependent on circumstances. Happiness can be fleeting—tied to temporary situations, events, or achievements. The time we have spent with family and friends, going to Christmas and New Year celebrations brings us happiness. In contrast, joy is a deep-seated sense of peace and contentment that persists even in difficult times. When we sang “Joy to the World,” we felt the happiness as we heard the music, and sang the words, but we realize that the joy is deeply seated in the coming of Jesus Christ into the world, and the promises that accompanied His arrival. This joy is anchored in our relationship with Christ, who brings peace, hope, love, and redemption.
The Bible beautifully illustrates this idea in Philippians 4:4, which states, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” This verse reminds us that our joy is not contingent on our surroundings, or circumstances, but rather on our connection with God. The apostle Paul wrote that verse while he sat in a Roman prison cell. Not many of us would find joy in that circumstance, but if Paul can find joy in that circumstance, certainly we can find joy in ours.
Finding Joy in Faith
1.Trusting God's Plan: One of the keys to experiencing joy in Christ is trusting in God's plan for our lives. Jeremiah 29:11 tells us, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” When we lean into this promise, we can find joy in the assurance that God is in control, even when life gets tough.
2.Gratitude: Cultivating an attitude of gratitude is another way to embrace joy. By recognizing and appreciating the blessings, big and small, we can shift our focus from what we lack to what we have. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 encourages us to “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Gratitude opens our hearts to joy and helps us see God's hand in our lives.
3.Community and Fellowship: Sharing our lives with fellow believers can also enhance our joy. Hebrews 10:24-25 reminds us to “consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another.” Being part of a faith community allows us to share our struggles and joys, creating an environment where joy can flourish.
4.Serving Others: Often, joy is found in serving those around us. Acts of kindness and service not only bless others but also fill our hearts with joy. In Galatians 5:13, we are reminded, “Serve one another humbly in love.” When we focus on the needs of others, we can experience the joy of making a difference in their lives.
The Joy of Salvation
Above all, the ultimate source of our joy is the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. Knowing that we are loved, forgiven, and accepted by God is a profound joy that transcends any earthly pleasure. Romans 15:13 says, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him.” This joy springs from our identity in Christ and the assurance of eternal life.
In Christ we have access to a joy that is unshakeable and everlasting. While life may present challenges and hardships, we can find joy in our faith, our relationships, our service to others, and the promise of salvation. Let us embrace this gift of joy, allowing it to shine brightly in our lives and positively impact those around us. Remember, joy is not just an emotion; it is a way of life rooted in the love and grace of our Savior.
As we begin a New Year, I pray that you will resolve to find joy in all circumstances. May you find the joy that will be contagious to those we come into contact with. Whether it be at home, at work, at school, or when we are out and about around town, spreading joy can be as simple as smiling and saying hello.
As we navigate our daily lives, let us continually remind ourselves: In Christ, I am joyful!

In today's fast-paced world, where chaos often reigns and uncertainty looms around every corner, finding peace can feel like a daunting task. However, for many Christians, the source of true peace is found in their relationship with Christ. The phrase "In Christ, I am peaceful" embodies the profound truth that through faith, we can experience a tranquility that transcends our circumstances.

Understanding Peace in Christ
Peace, as defined in the Bible, is not merely the absence of conflict or turmoil; rather, it is a deep-seated assurance and calmness that comes from trusting God. Philippians 4:7 reminds us

“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

This peace is a gift from God that enables us to remain steadfast and secure, even in the face of life's challenges. In fact, Jesus tells us in John 16:33,  

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

The Role of Faith
Faith plays a crucial role in cultivating peace. When we place our trust in Christ, we acknowledge that He is in control of all things. This understanding allows us to release our worries and anxieties, replacing them with confidence in God's plan for our lives. (See Jeremiah 29:11) In moments of stress, we can turn to prayer, seeking His guidance and comfort. As we align our thoughts with His truth, we are reminded that we are not alone; God walks with us through every storm.

Finding Peace Through Scripture
The Bible is filled with verses that speak to the peace we find in Christ. Here are a few key passages to meditate on:

• John 14:27: "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid."
• Isaiah 26:3: "You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you."
• Romans 15:13: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope."

Each of these verses serves as a reminder that peace is not found in external circumstances, but in the unwavering presence of Christ.

Practical Steps to Embrace Peace

1. Prayer and Meditation: Set aside time each day to pray and meditate on Scripture. This practice allows you to reconnect with God and invite His peace into your life.
2. Gratitude: Cultivating an attitude of gratitude can shift your focus from what is wrong to what is good. Reflect on the blessings in your life and thank God for them.
3. Community: Surround yourself with fellow believers who encourage and uplift you. Sharing your struggles and victories with others can foster a sense of peace and belonging.
4. Worship: Engage in worship through music, art, or other forms of expression. Worship can be a powerful way to experience God's presence and peace.
5. Limit Distractions: In a world filled with noise, it’s essential to create space for quietness. Limit distractions from technology and social media to focus on what truly matters.

In Christ, I am peaceful. Christ came to the earth to bring peace. It is only in Him that we will find the peace that we truly desire. No earthly person, place or thing will truly bring us peace. As we focus on the reason for the season, Christmas, remember that when the birth of the coming messiah was prophesied in Isaiah, he was proclaimed the Prince of Peace.

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.  (Isaiah 9:6)

From all of us at Mountain View Christian Academy, have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year!

“Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”  1 Corinthians 15:57

Being grateful is a powerful emotion that can transform our lives. So powerful that it affects the giver and the receiver. When we give something to someone, even just a friendly hello and a smile we receive in return the same and a thank you. Everyone feels good inside because of what we have said or done. For many, the source of this gratitude is their faith in Christ. Reflecting on the blessings and grace received through Him can fill our hearts with profound thankfulness to the Father for what he has done and continues to do for us and through us. Here’s a personal reflection on why, in Christ, I am grateful.

The Gift of Salvation
First and foremost, I am grateful for the gift of salvation. The Apostle Peter tells us in the book of Acts chapter 4 verse 12 that, “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” Through Christ’s sacrifice, I have been given the promise of eternal life. This assurance brings immense peace and joy, knowing that my sins are forgiven, (see Acts 2:38) and that I am loved unconditionally. Paul, in Romans 5:8 tells us, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” The depth of Christ’s love, demonstrated on the cross, is a constant reminder of the grace that I have received.

Strength in Times of Trouble
Life is filled with challenges and hardships, but in Christ, I find strength and comfort. When I face difficulties, I am reminded of Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This verse empowers me to persevere, knowing that I am not alone. Christ’s presence in my life provides a source of unwavering support and resilience. One other scripture that reminds me constantly about the strength and courage needed to keep moving forward is Jesus’ own words in John 16:33, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

A Community of Believers
Another reason for my gratitude is the community of believers that I am part of. The fellowship and support from my church family are invaluable. The support I receive from the staff and parents of Mountain View Christian Academy is overwhelming. Most importantly, and what I am most thankful for is the love and support from my family both near and far. We are a community. We are a family. We share our joys and sorrows, pray for one another, and grow together in faith. This sense of belonging and mutual encouragement is a precious gift that enriches my spiritual journey.
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” Hebrews 10:24-25

Daily Blessings
In Christ, I am also grateful for the daily blessings that often go unnoticed. From the beauty of creation to the simple joys of life, I see God’s hand in everything. Each day is an opportunity to experience His love and grace in new ways. Whether it’s through a kind word from a friend, a beautiful sunset, or a moment of quiet reflection, these blessings remind me of God’s goodness.

Purpose and Direction
Finally, I am grateful for the purpose and direction that Christ gives my life. Knowing that I am part of God’s plan fills me with a sense of purpose. I am called to love, serve, and make a difference in the world. This calling gives my life meaning and motivates me to live in a way that honors Christ. Jeremiah 29:11 tells us, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Conclusion
In Christ, I am grateful for the gift of salvation, the strength to face challenges, the community of believers, the daily blessings, and the purpose and direction in my life. This gratitude shapes my perspective, fills my heart with joy, and inspires me to live a life of thankfulness. May we all take a moment to reflect on the reasons we are grateful in Christ and let that gratitude transform our lives.
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From all of us at Mountain View Christian Academy, may you and your family be blessed during this season of Thanksgiving.

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." - Philippians 4:13

The above verse is the overarching theme for this school year. We all need strength to make it from day to day, but there are times that we don’t feel so strong. It is in those times that we need to be able to lean on someone else for the strength we need.

More often than not it can feel like we are facing an endless list of challenges and obstacles. From managing things at work, to relationships with friends and family, to juggling our own personal responsibilities. The demands on our time and energy can be overwhelming at times.

Strength doesn’t come overnight. Physical strength can take months, even years to achieve. Spiritual strength can take a lifetime to truly achieve. But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t pursue both. It has been said, “slow and steady wins the race.” That is how it is with strength. There will be strong days and there will be not so strong days, but we must persevere.

Eleanor Roosevelt once said, "We do not have to become heroes overnight. Just a step at a time, meeting each thing that comes up, seeing it is not as dreadful as it appeared, discovering we have the strength to stare it down."

However, as Christians, we have access to a source of strength that transcends our own human limitations. The apostle Paul reminds us in Philippians 4:13 that "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." This powerful verse is a testament to the truth that when we put our faith in Jesus, we are empowered with divine strength to face even the most daunting circumstances.

When we are weak, Christ is strong. His power is made perfect in our weakness (see 2 Corinthians 12:9). It is not our own abilities or talents that sustain us, but the unfailing, supernatural power of God working through us. As we surrender our fears, anxieties, and limitations to Him, we unlock access to a wellspring of courage, wisdom, and resilience that goes beyond our own human capacity.

Regardless of what you may be struggling with, what trials you are having to endure, what struggles are keeping you from finding success, remember that you do not have to rely on your own strength. In Christ, you are strong. His grace is sufficient, and His power is made perfect even in your weakness.

"But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me." - 2 Corinthians 12:9

So take heart, when you feel weary, remember to turn to the source of true, unending strength - the power of Christ working in and through you. With Him by your side, you can face each day with confidence, knowing that you are equipped to handle whatever comes your way.
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"But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." - Isaiah 40:31

During the month of September we have been focusing on Forgiveness.

Forgiveness is a foundational principal of Christian faith, deeply rooted in the teachings and example of Jesus Christ. For many, understanding that "In Christ I am forgiving" is both a profound and transformative realization. This belief not only shapes our relationship with others but also redefines our self-perception and spiritual journey.

The Biblical Foundation of Forgiveness
At the heart of Christianity is the message of forgiveness. The New Testament reveals that Jesus came to offer redemption and reconciliation through His sacrificial death and resurrection.

Ephesians 1:7 says, “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace.”
 Ephesians 4:32 says, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” 

Jesus’ teachings on forgiveness have been seen as radical and countercultural by many. Many people find it difficult to forgive, and we live in a world where forgiveness is not always the norm. But, In the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus instructs us to ask for forgiveness as we forgive others: “Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors” (Matthew 6:12). This reciprocal nature of forgiveness highlights its central role in the Christian life.

The Transformative Power of Forgiveness
Forgiveness is more than a religious idea; it is a transformative experience. When we embrace the truth that we are forgiven, we are empowered, even commanded, to extend that same grace to others. Jesus speaking in Matthew 6:14-15 tells us, “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” This process begins with acknowledging our own need to be forgiven, and then recognizing that Jesus has paid the price for our sins helps us cultivate a spirit of humility and gratitude.

The Apostle Paul writes in Colossians 3:13, “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” This directive underscores the importance of imitating Christ’s forgiveness. We are called to let go of grievances and offer grace, just as we have been granted grace by God.

Practical Implications of Being Forgiving
Living out forgiveness involves more than simply letting go of past wrongs. It requires us to shift our perspective. Here are some practical ways to embody the forgiving nature of Christ:

1. Seek Reconciliation: Forgiveness is not just about releasing negative feelings; it’s also about striving for reconciliation. Where possible, seek to restore relationships and make amends.
2. Practice Empathy: Understanding the motives and struggles of others can make it easier to forgive. Empathy allows us to view others through a lens of grace and compassion.
3. Release Resentment: Holding onto grudges can be spiritually, emotionally, and physically draining. Forgiveness involves actively choosing to release resentment and trust God with the outcome.
4. Pray for Strength: Forgiving others, especially when it is challenging, requires divine assistance. Prayer can empower your spirit and align your heart with Christ’s example.
5. Live in Grace: Embracing forgiveness means living with an awareness of God’s ongoing grace in our lives. It encourages a posture of humility and gratitude, affecting how we interact with others.

The Ripple Effect of Forgiveness
When we embody forgiveness, we become beacons of hope and reconciliation. Our actions can inspire others to seek peace and understanding, creating a ripple effect of grace that extends beyond personal relationships.

In Christ, forgiveness becomes a dynamic force that reshapes lives and communities. By embracing this truth, believers reflect the transformative love of God, fostering environments of healing and unity.

The affirmation “In Christ I am forgiving” is a declaration of both identity and action. It is an acknowledgment of the grace we have received and a commitment to extend that grace to others. As we walk in the truth of our own forgiveness, we are empowered to live out the love and compassion of Christ, influencing the world around us with the powerful message of divine grace.

By Heather Harbin, MVCA  Secondary Math/Science Teacher

“I don’t know how to do this.” 
“I need help.” 
“I tried it already.” 
“I give up.” 

Have you ever heard your child utter these words? Perhaps while working on a school project or homework assignment? What about these phrases: 
“I can figure this out.” 
“Let me think about it for a minute.” 
“What if I try this? Does this work?” 

My guess is that in most households, the first set of phrases is heard far more than the second set of phrases.  Sadly, this is true not only at home, but also in the classroom.  In a generation defined by speed, convenience, entertainment, and entitlement, it can be difficult for students to embrace the opposite: slow down, exert effort, tackle boredom, and work hard. Too often, parents and teachers fall into the trap of seeing students stuck on a problem and stepping in to help them before they’ve really labored on their own. Just as much as the students, we sometimes take the quick, easy, and efficient route instead of allowing students to engage in productive struggle. In doing so, we have to ask, are we really helping our students in the way they need it most? 

A new book titled Building Thinking Classrooms by educator Peter Liljedahl is making waves throughout the educational scene. Based on over 30 years of research, Liljedahl challenges the notion that traditional classroom practices are as effective as they may seem.  He posits that many classrooms produce excellent students – students who are organized, diligent, and attentive – but not necessarily excellent thinkers. Traditional methods of instruction can often encourage mimicking instead of problem solving while gradebooks reward student behaviors rather than assess student mastery. Is that what we want? Well-behaved mimickers? Or do we truly want students who can identify problems, think through problems, and create solutions?  

​This summer, we teachers at MVCA are studying Liljedahl’s book and reflecting on our classroom practices. We’re closely analyzing what we’ve done in the past and what we can do in our upcoming school year to encourage thinking in our students. You may hear your student come home this fall and talk about some of these different practices that Liljedahl’s thorough research has found to be effective in encouraging deeper thinking. I want to introduce you to three of these practices today. 

Visibly Randomized Grouping 
While individual problem solving is necessary, there are also times where students need to collaborate. Visibly randomizing students into groups of 3 encourages the most discussion, collaboration, and risk-taking in problem solving activities.  Students learn to contribute and encourage their group mates and are less likely to fall into pre-conceived roles of “the talker”, “the writer”, “the smart one”, etc. In addition, students learn important social skills such as disagreeing amicably, taking turns, and valuing others’ contributions. You might hear your child talk about their groups and the grouping system your child’s teacher uses. 

Vertical Surfaces 
We think better on our feet! Problem solving on our feet at vertical surfaces (e.g., marker boards) encourages quicker start times before beginning to solve a problem and longer time on task.  Students know they can take a lot of space and erase what they don’t need which reduces the pressure to only write the correct and/or final answer. You might hear your child talk more about working at the whiteboards, writing on a window, or even writing on the wall (via a special wall covering).  
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Keep Thinking Questions 
Students love to ask questions.  Teachers love to answer questions.  Sometimes, however, we do a disservice to students by answering questions too quickly.  Some questions are “stop thinking questions” – questions the student wants answered so they don’t have to think any more.  Some questions are “proximity questions” – questions students answer simply because the teacher walks by them. Other questions are “keep thinking questions” – questions students ask because they want to keep thinking about the problem! Teachers are learning to recognize the different question types and the best way to respond to each type of question. Students may feel like they’re not being answered right away because they’re not getting the answer they want.  Trust that the teacher is guiding them through the thinking process, challenging them to look at things in new ways, and encouraging them not to give up too easily. Your child isn’t being ignored if they don’t get the answer they want right away – they’re being challenged in a way that might be new for them. 

I love the quote, “Problem solving is what we do when we don’t know what to do.” As adults, we have to problem solve all the time. Many of us have used our problem-solving skills to balance budgets, meal plan with rising grocery prices, fix the leaky sink or toilet, identify what kind of pest is eating our garden, and more. We want our students to grow and become problem solvers in their own right – people who are not afraid to think, to try, and to tackle whatever life may throw at them. We look forward to a new year full of thinking classrooms!