The winter weather has arrived and Christmas is just around the corner. Before we celebrate Christmas, let us continue to rejoice in this wonderful Advent season as we prepare for the birth of Christ. Advent, or "coming" of the Lord, is a time of preparation. The students and staff have been preparing for the coming of Jesus. Please remember to take time during this wonderful season to pause for a moment and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas, the birth of Christ.
Let us recall how important it is in the Christian life to give thanks. Scripture is full of passages about gratitude. Here are a few of my favorite Scripture passages abut being thankful:
"I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds." (Psalm 9:1)
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." (Philippians 4:6)
"Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." (Colossians 3:17)
Virtue to remember this season: Generosity
If someone is selfish, stingy, or gives just the socially acceptable minimum, are they a true disciple of the God who gave His very life for us? Generosity is God-like. It means throwing open the doors of one's heart and pouring out all our love on everyone. It means looking out for everyone else instead of looking out for ourselves. It means giving not only because we have extra or leftovers, but giving when there is a true cost to us - and expecting nothing in return. It means giving not only where we have a duty to give, but giving to the undeserving: to those we don't like, or to those we do not know at all.
As we begin the New Year, it's a great time for a fresh start. Many people make resolutions, because they want to improve themselves. That is a noble goal, but studies indicate that most people give up on their resolutions within a few weeks. In my experience, the most effective years have been when I made one resolution that focused on making myself a better person. I could review that resolution each day to see how I was doing. If I messed up one day, it was just an opportunity to do better the next day. Let's all resolve this year to be the best examples we can be for our kids and think of specific ways we can work on that each day.
Thank you for all your thoughts, prayers, generosity, and support throughout this year. It has definitely been an unprecedented year, but I am so thankful for all of you and what you continue to do for Holy Trinity School.
I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year!
Love, Mrs. Longden
