It’s summertime. It is also the season of year that every
elementary and high school student looks forward to with excitement. It is
often anticipated as a time to “rest, relax, and refresh.” It provides an
opportunity to sleep later, swim more, and get away from the “busyness” that
often impacts our lives. It is a
welcomed season for many.
Often times I am asked the question, “What do y’all do in the summer at school?” The short answer is we close down the previous school year and make final preparations for the next. Believe it or not, it continues to be a busy time. The school campus is full of activities with various camp opportunities for students, workouts and practices for different school groups, our enrichment center summer camp, our admissions department enrolling new students and our teachers working in rooms and participating in professional growth activities. The summer also provides a window of time for our building staff to be able to complete some projects that further enhance our campus and school facilities. These are just some examples of the summer activity at Northpoint Christian School. Though the halls are somewhat quieter, it remains a busy place.
One special event that Northpoint Christian is privileged to take part in during the summer is the Pre-field Orientation or “PFO” training for over 150 missionaries and family members. For the past several years the Network of International Christian Schools (NICS) has conducted its training for their new missionaries who will leave the United States days after their PFO experience to teach in international schools located throughout the world. During this two week time many of the missionaries attend training sessions, enjoy three wonderfully prepared meals each day and even sleep in classrooms on campus. It is a wonderful opportunity for us to be able to play a small part in their preparation as they make plans to fulfill God’s calling on their lives.
As I write this I have come to the conclusion when it is all said and done it seems like no matter what time of year it is, life is busy. Let me encourage all of us with two truths that in the midst of the busy world we live in can provide seasons of rest in our spirits. Psalm 46:10 tells us to “Be still, and know that I am God.” When we get caught up in activities, we often fail to see all that God has done and continues to do in our lives. Take time this summer to “be still” and to focus on His goodness, grace, and glory. Second, in Matthew 11:28 He encourages us to “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Let’s be intentional about spending time with our Lord Jesus Christ and taking Him at His word by laying those things at His feet that often rob us of His rest. The old saying “Let go and let God” has merit. May each of us experience God this summer in such a way that we become overwhelmed with His rest.
David Manley, President
