As courageous learners we transform thinking
In the Bible (NIV, Romans 12:2) it says: ‘Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind’. As courageous learners we are constantly called to transform our thinking. What do we mean by this? To transform means that we need to undergo a complete change from the inside out, shifting our core perspective and habits. Here is one little example of how we can practise this at Channel.
Many of us are familiar with photo ‘filters’ that change how an image looks—adding colour, sparkle, or a vintage feel. In a similar way, the world often encourages a particular ‘filter’ for how we see ourselves and others. I am sure we will all agree it is very much a ‘Me First’ way of thinking.
When children (and adults) view the world through this lens, mistakes can feel like failure, new classmates may be overlooked rather than welcomed, and having less than others can feel like not being good enough.
Romans 12 reminds us that God invites us to think differently, not to copy the world’s way of thinking, but to be transformed. It is helpful to imagine God giving us a new pair of ‘Kingdom Glasses’. Through these glasses, a mistake becomes an opportunity to learn, a new student becomes a friend to welcome, and our worth is no longer measured by what we have, but by who we are in Christ.
As parents and educators, we have a shared opportunity to help our children practise this way of thinking. When children feel frustrated, left out, or disappointed, we can gently ask, ‘How might Jesus see this person or this situation?’ When children say or do things that is hurtful to others, we may ask them ‘what would Jesus do?’ This simple question helps shape hearts that are gracious, inclusive, and resilient. It transforms how we see the world. It takes courage and prayer.
Thank you for partnering with us as we encourage our children to see themselves and others through Jesus’ loving lens and so learn to transform their thinking.
Margaret Louw – Principal
