Advent Reflections for Lutheran Leaders
As another school year draws to a close, we pause to give thanks for you—leaders who have served faithfully in LESNW Learning Communities. Amidst the endless commotion that is associated with finishing the school year, well, please take a moment to stop and notice your impact. Your dedication has shaped lives, nurtured faith, and created spaces where Jesus’ love is known. Advent calls us to slow down and to prepare our hearts for the coming of Jesus.
The four candles of the Advent wreath remind us of four gifts that Jesus brings into our world.
Hope – The Prophecy Candle
Hope is the confident expectation that God keeps His promises. The prophets spoke of a Messiah who would bring light into darkness. In your leadership this year, you have carried hope, nurtured by the promises of God’s word, love and forgiveness which empower staff and students to embrace the future with confidence. This season, rest in the promise that Jesus is our sure and certain hope.
Peace – The Bethlehem Candle
Peace is more than the absence of conflict; it is the wholeness found in Jesus. In Bethlehem, the Prince of Peace entered a world longing for restoration. Your leadership this year has fostered peace, in classrooms, staff teams, and communities. May you also experience God’s peace as you reflect on the year past and prepare for what lies ahead.
Joy – The Shepherd Candle
Joy broke out on a hillside when shepherds heard the good news: “A Saviour is born!” Joy is not dependent on circumstances but springs from God’s presence. As you finish this year, take time to celebrate the moments of joy, big and small, that have marked your journey. Please recognise too, the things you didn’t see coming, the things that really hurt, the things that helped make and shape you. Joy reminds us that God is at work, even in ordinary and challenging places.
Love – The Angel Candle
Love is the heartbeat of Advent. The angels proclaimed a message of love that changed the world: “Glory to God… peace on earth.” In Jesus, love became flesh and lived among us. Your vocation and leadership are an expression of the unconditional love of the Father, through your connection and care for students and families, and support for colleagues.
Gracious God, we thank you for the leaders who serve in Lutheran learning communities. Bless them with renewed hope, deep peace, contagious joy, and steadfast love as they finish this year. May Your presence guide their decisions, refresh their spirits, and remind them that their service is valued and valuable. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
