As I reflect on the 2024 Paris Olympics, I note that it often feels like life is a race to be won. I mean, who doesn't want to be first? The smartest, the most attractive, the most powerful or the richest. From the moment we step into the classroom, or our workplaces as employees, employers, teachers or students, the pressures of performance weigh heavily on our hearts and minds. But is life really meant to be a race? Are we really here to outpace others, or is there something deeper, more meaningful, that God calls us to?

The Bible offers us profound wisdom on this concept In the book of Ecclesiastes, Solomon reflects on the meaning of life and the futility of pursuing worldly success. He writes, "Better one handful with tranquillity than two handfuls with toil and chasing after the wind" (Ecclesiastes 4:6). He challenges us to consider the cost of our relentless pursuit of more— more achievements, more recognition and more material possessions. Solomon reminds us that a life consumed by the race for more can leave us feeling empty and exhausted.

Instead of racing through life, we are called to live it fully, intentionally, and with purpose. The Christian life is not a sprint to the finish line but a journey where every step and interaction matters. It is about cultivating relationships, growing in our faith, and serving others. Jesus set this example in a profound counter-cultural way. He did not rush through His ministry; He walked among the people, took time to rest, and sought solitude in prayer. He understood that the most important things in life cannot be hurried.

Mother Teresa, who dedicated her life to serving the poorest of the poor, once stated, "Not all of us can do great things, but we can do small things with great love." This reminds me that it is not the magnitude of our achievements that matters but the love and intention with which we purposefully live our lives. As a Christian school, we have a unique opportunity to instil eternal values in our students. To actively promote that their worth is not determined by their grades, athletic achievements, or social status. Instead, their value comes from being children of God, called to live out His love in every aspect of their lives.

I challenge you to consider your current trajectory. Are you living out of love and service or for the attention of others? Only God will satisfy your deepest desires. Don't waste another moment in pursuit of anything but Him.

Mr Trent J Martin

Head of Secondary

Photo by Jah Nomad on Unsplash