Christian Education-- A Good Investment

Dave and I grew up in a Christian School. I have always taught in Christian Schools. We've sat in committee meetings and interviews and tossed around terms like "Christian Worldview" or "3-Legged-Stool" or "Faith Based Education." I think it was around Easter when my preschooler asked me, "Mommy did you know that if we don't sing 'Hallelujah' to Jesus then the stones are going to have to sing it?" that I really got it, though. This is something I had never mentioned to her and when asked where she heard it, she simply replied, "School." The Bible is jam-packed with commands to "instruct" and "bring up" and "impress upon" our children the way of the Lord. What a daunting challenge! As a parent, I discovered that Christian education is the necessary supplement to what we teach our girls at home. How could I alone possibly teach Ella and Delia everything about the Bible? Children in Worship and Awanas and Christian School teach our kids the things we are sure to miss. What a blessing that we are not in this alone and can rely on these resources!

Having said all that, last night we celebrated the completion of Ella's first year of Christian Preschool with her Kid's Praise Program. At the end of this year we see so much growth and maturity in Ella. She can cut beautifully and draw people with all their attributes. She is strong and can balance, do jumping jacks, climb and hang upside-down. She can say and recognize all her letter sounds and numbers and write them. She can tell us all about Jesus and heaven. She is confident, helpful and has a heart full of love for God. It's been a great year and she's so excited to go back and be a "Star" (in the 4 year old class) in the fall.

These are Ella's two best school friends. The other night she got a little teary when she thought about not seeing them all summer. Above, Avery. Below, Anna.

PROUD Daddy and Mommy. Once again, the program was adorable and we couldn't take our eyes off of Ella standing so still, hands clasped, singing her heart out!