Thoughtfully Entering the New Year

by Jamie Bonnema

On a snowy day, I sit at the computer to write. The kids are quietly playing after a morning of sleeping in. The brightness from the snow defeats the overcast sky, and I feel perfectly cozy in my sweats on the couch. In these moments I can do some quiet thinking, continual praying, and flush out a few ideas roaming in my head. I’m very thankful God gives us moments like this to just sit still and catch our breath.

I had a visit with family over the break. A question caught me a bit off-guard as I forgot a new year, even a new decade, was sneaking up on me. I was just enjoying the Christmas season, making it through each event without a catastrophe, and aiming for a joyful spirit despite some challenges. But there the question was, and I had not yet solidified my answer.

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O Come, Let Us Adore

Last Thursday evening our Genesis Classical Academy students presented their Christmas concert, “O Come, Let Us Adore.” The final number in the program was a rousing rendition of “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” complete with the nativity scene presented by the kindergarten class.

One of our parents captured this heartwarming (and hilarious) photo of the manger scene. This photo was not staged, folks. It represents “real life” in the world of kindergartners.

Mary was covering her ears, trying to block out the noise and chaos of the stable. Joseph was exhausted after the long trip to Bethlehem. The shepherds dutifully kept watch over their sheep, while the wise men searched for the star.

And the angels – oh, those angels! They were rockin’ it out above the manger. Dancing. For. Joy.

Consider this photo our Christmas card to all of you, because it represents so many of our wishes for you during this blessed season.

We pray that you will find rest in the midst of the busyness of the season, and that you will be able to block out the noise and keep your focus on the One who is the true gift, Jesus.

We hope that you will keep careful watch over the hearts and minds of those whom God has entrusted to your care, and that you will continue to search for the Guiding Light, in the presence of the Holy Spirit.

And we wish you joy! We pray that you will take time to dance for joy.

And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:10-11

Merry Christmas from Genesis Classical Academy! May God shower you with His richest blessings today, and throughout the coming year.

Fighting the Battle Alone

by Jamie Bonnema

Awhile ago, I was disheartened by many issues going on around me. I was frustrated and overwhelmed. I felt torn and divided, not knowing which battles to fight and understood that I can’t fight them all. I backed away a bit from the things I had been working on, realizing that I felt like my wheels were spinning, I was out of the fiery enthusiasm that I had started with, and felt at a loss for the role I am to play. I was burdened by the thought that I have to do more, but questioned what I can really do that would make a bit of difference. The joy had seemingly been stolen from me. And with a wonderful holiday season approaching, I did not want that heaviness to linger much longer.

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