As I watch the Kindy Concert each year I delight in the story of Jesus’ birth as it comes to life. We see a cast of adorable angels, shepherds, wisemen, Mary and Joseph and many more sharing the news that Jesus came to rescue His people. I love the surprise of the shepherds as angels share the news that Jesus, the one they had longed for, has arrived. The excited shepherds are told they will find Him in a manger; a feed trough for animals. This is a very unexpected place to find the Messiah.
I wonder how many times the things we hope and pray for are in unexpected places. I often have preconceived ideas about how God should answer my prayers. I have very fixed ideas about what life should look like. This story challenges me to consider that God’s solutions, the answers to my prayers, may be located in places I hadn’t considered. The blessings God wants to pour out in my life may be hiding in plain sight. If we are willing to look, God’s blessings can be found in conflict, hard relationships, unexpected people, failure and loneliness. As I learn to look for blessings in my everyday life, I am surprised at God’s provision and grace.
When the shepherds went to the stable they found the longed for Messiah in a manger, surrounded by animals. They delighted in the opportunity to see God’s greatest blessing, just as the angels had told them. But the story doesn’t stop there. After finding this great blessing, the shepherds returned to their flocks, praising God.
I pray that during the Christmas Season you have time to see God’s blessings amidst the chaos and calm, in plenty and in scarcity, in connection with others and in solitude. I challenge you to look for blessings over problems. And when you see His blessings, take a moment to praise Him.
We thank you for being part of our school community and wish you a happy and restful Christmas Season.
Mrs Deb Cooper
Principal
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