Grace changed my life. Before I was born, God knew me, my story and what would happen to me. He knows the impact of grace. Grace changes everything. Grace pours forth light into darkness. Grace showers joy upon deep sorrow and sadness. Grace fills in all the empty crevices no one ever sees. Grace allows freedom to those enslaved by impossible situations.
It is by no accident that this school has “Grace” for its name. And I count it a momentous gift to say I had the privilege of attending Grace Community Christian Academy from preschool through 8th grade. Additionally, I attended Sunday services with the Church and weekly youth events for many many years. This school, and the people who have steadily invested their lives, is permeated by the Spirit of God has been a leading factor in my personal spiritual, social, and educational nourishment. I am grateful for the many years of experiences I have had at this school. From playing sports (and winning championships), dissecting objects with Mr. Saunders, attending chapel services, field trips, making new friends (not often can people say they’re STILL great friends with 15+ people from their kindergarten class!), running with Mrs. DV, going to science camp, class Disneyland trip, all these memories are what we as students take with us when we graduate and move forward. But what some people probably don’t talk about first are the little things… Like the smell of a classroom on the first day back from summer break, running to recess with your friends, reading books on the amphitheater and listening to the leaves in the trees overhead, or the excitement of competing with your teammates and hearing Mr. DeJonge’s voice bellowing over the cheers and the gym floor squeaks. These types of experiences are what make life rich and full. Abundant life is what God came to give us and I am joyfully confident that I have had such a full life thus far. Grace has been a steadfast piece in my life.
I avoided writing this letter for a long time because I did not know how to begin. At the end of a long day, I find myself simply reflecting on where I’ve come from. And Grace Community Christian Academy was there from the start. I thank God because of His great goodness to allow me to have such a beginning.
How beautiful a picture that I am one of MANY to have been so touched by Grace. Blessings to you who read these words, may the freedom and joy of the Gospel be with you today.
