Have you ever said to yourself in the midst of something, this is what I was designed to do? Or, this is what I was made for?! If you have ever experienced that deep sense of enjoyment and purpose in the midst of an activity, work or hobby, then perhaps you might know what I’m talking about!
Anyone who knows me at all could probably guess where I might experience that deep sense of enjoyment and purpose; fly fishing a remote stream in the Snowies and playing my guitar would be right up there!
Over this past week I have spent time in classes asking students where they feel a deep sense of enjoyment and purpose. I’ve heard a huge range of responses ranging from baking with mum, playing sport, fishing and even sleeping! I think we can all agree with sleeping! I’ve watched my own boys, including my 20 month old (Joey) take the greatest enjoyment in discovering something new and exciting that becomes the focus of all his efforts for a few days or weeks at a time. Who knew that spotting a bird, or kicking a ball over and over could bring such joy!
Have you ever wondered why different people enjoy different things? Why is it that some love fishing and some don’t? Why are some sporty and some not? Why are some able to play instruments, paint or even enjoy public speaking while others find those things incredibly difficult or confronting?
These differences in abilities, gifts and talents are just another example of the evidence of God. Our memory verse this fortnight is Ephesians 2:10 which says we are God’s ‘handiwork’ or ‘masterpiece’. How amazing is that! We weren’t made by God by accident and we certainly didn’t disappoint God when we were made. God looks at us as his finest creation, made unique and for a purpose. God makes us each with different talents and interests to motivate, inspire and drive us into a life of purpose and enjoyment. But it doesn’t stop there.
In Ephesians, Paul goes on in verse 10 to say that God has prepared ‘good works’ for us to do. There’s a lot to explore there, but essentially, those good works are our response to God’s gift of salvation. We can’t earn salvation, but we can certainly live a life of purpose as a result of salvation! All those acts of kindness, care, compassion and generosity are just a few examples of what that might look like.
Whatever your thoughts about God, know that he made you, he did not make a mistake! You are his masterpiece, and not only that, He also made you for a purpose. You are made on purpose and for a purpose!
The great opportunity we have at this point in time is to work together as a school and families to raise these amazing young people to believe that about themselves. With so many pressures and unhelpful influences being placed on our young people, it is so critical that we work together to instill in them these key biblical principles. They too are made on purpose and for a purpose!
As you head into another term, be encouraged that the work we are doing together is valuable. Let’s continue to see our young people grow into confident, equipped and passionate men and women who are ready to make an incredible impact on all those they encounter.
Have a great week PCS.
Glen